Although the Caribbean is known for its laid-back attitude, the party never seems to stop in Aruba. Many of Aruba’s top resorts feature live entertainment and casinos, while the local dance clubs are packed with partygoers all night long. In Oranjestad, Aruba’s bustling capital, the bars don’t start to fill up until 10 or 11 pm and stay open until 2 am. Meanwhile, Aruba’s dance clubs typically peak around 2 a.m. and the dancing can continue into the early hours. Combine this with a live show, a tour bus that runs through the night, and a 24-hour casino and you have the perfect way to spend an exciting night out in Aruba.
Aruba has 11 casinos, all of which accept US currency for slots and tables. Since the first casino opened in 1959, every casino that has sprung up along the beach has been outfitted with the casual elegance you expect from the Caribbean. Most casinos open in stages throughout the day, with slot machines generally accessible at 10am and card tables accepting bets later in the afternoon. For those who prefer to try their luck before sleeping, the elegant Crystal Casino at the Renaissance Aruba Resort is open 24/7. Whichever casino you choose to visit, try your luck at Caribbean Stud Poker, the now famous game invented in Aruba in 1988.
If you want to experience what the bar and nightclub scene has to offer, hop on one of Aruba’s many party buses. These tours, most of which take place in converted 1957 Chevy buses, visit several of the island’s points of interest each night. Although each tour offers different benefits, most party bus packages include dinner at the start of the night and the first drink at three separate nightclubs. If you choose to visit any of Aruba’s bars or nightclubs on your own, taxis are easy to find and are on duty throughout the night.
However, not all visitors have party in mind. For travelers who enjoy going out but want to avoid rowdy revelers, Aruba also has plenty of relaxing spots to sip cocktails and enjoy entertainment. The Caribbean brand of laid-back entertainment usually starts on the beach during the afternoon happy hour. From there, most visitors retire to one of Aruba’s world-class restaurants for a candlelit dinner or board one of the island’s luxurious dinner cruises.
However you choose to experience Aruba’s dining and nightlife, all visitors can enjoy the famous shows at local resorts and casinos. The best ticket in Aruba is Let’s Go Latin! – the largest stage production in the Caribbean. Featuring 26 artists from Cuba’s world-renowned dance studios and more than 180 distinctive costumes, this dazzling show has enchanted guests of all ages. Combining upbeat Latin attitude and Broadway production quality, this witty, modern production isn’t going out of style anytime soon. As the show is very popular, book your tickets at least a few days in advance. For the best price and a taste of Aruba’s best cuisine, purchase a dinner and show package that includes a three-course meal at the celebrated L’Escale.
When you arrive in Aruba, try to check local publications and special offer brochures available at your hotel. Local magazines like Aruba Nights, K-Pasa and Aruba Experience highlight all the events on the island every week. These publications, as well as local English-language newspapers, should be available at your resort free of charge. Lastly, if you intend to spend a night or two in the city, ask your concierge about possible discounts on food, drinks, and transportation.
