9 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Santa Cruz

EXIT Santa Cruz is an escape room that's great for team and relationship building, developing puzzle-solving skills and, of course, a fun time. The rooms are designed by an avid gamer and a psychology professor. 

As a result, the challenges you’ll face will be rather difficult, unusual, and entertaining with twists and turns you never saw coming. EXIT Santa Cruz is in Pacifc Avenue, around a 15-minute walk of Cowell Beach. 

The Catalyst is, in many ways, the heart and soul of Santa Cruz’ nightlife, live music, and party scene. Over the years, the nightclub has hosted notable artists such as Neil Young, The Beach Boys, Janis Joplin, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, Tom Petty, Nirvana, and Iggy Pop. 

The Catalyst has a massive 5,000-sq-ft main hall that can hold up to 800 people. Resident DJs spin the latest tracks on nights when no major acts are playing in the venue. 

Penny Ice Creamery is a walk-up store that offers organic ice creams made from scratch and sourced using local ingredients. The treats come in small batches and seasonal flavors, so what you’re getting is always fresh and always artisanal. 

All of the ingredients are sustainably grown and produced, as the owners are truly passionate about what they do. Penny Ice Creamery has a rather rustic setting, while the staff is very friendly and casual. 

Neptune’s Kingdom is a family-friendly entertainment center that’s all decked out with a nautical theme. The Buccaneer Bay Miniature Golf is a major draw, consisting of a 2-story, 18-hole course. You can hit the Smuggler’s Arcade for classic arcade games. 

Head for the Captain’s Game Deck to enjoy ping-pong, air hockey, and foosball, or the Cannonball Fun & Games area for skee ball and carnival-style games. Neptune’s Kingdom is located in the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

Hidden Peak Teahouse is where you can reconnect in a way that too many of us have forgotten: in person. This traditional Asian-style teahouse doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, making it a great option for when you want to have a digital detox. 

You can opt for a pot of tea or take part in a full, 3-hour traditional tea ceremony to help reset your body and mind. Hidden Peak Teahouse is in Pacific Avenue, about 1.2 miles northwest of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Landmark's Nickelodeon Theatre dates back to 1969, making it one of the oldest cinemas in California. It showcases foreign and indie films, as well as the latest releases. You can also catch special events, such as filmed versions of the Globe, Royal Opera House, National Theatre Live, and Royal Shakespeare Company. 

For something a bit more eclectic, stop by Landmark's Nickelodeon Theatre to enjoy a classic cult film during its Midnight Movie series on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Santa Cruz Wharf is renowned for boat tours and fishing excursions, as well as shopping, dining, and nightlife options. One of the most popular attractions is the chance to see sea lions in their native habitat. 

You'll hardly run out of things to do in and around the pier, from enjoying a round of bocce to renting a kayak. The Santa Cruz Wharf is right between the vibrant Santa Cruz Boardwalk and Steamer Lane, the city's prominent surf spot. 

Moe’s Alley is a prominent live music bar in Santa Cruz. It houses a music hall with a full dancefloor, a bar, patio, along with a regular lineup of local and national musicians. From country to rock, funk and soul, and eclectic electronica, this club has hosted it all. 

If you're feeling peckish, Moe’s Alley has a food truck selling light fare right by its entrance. The venue is adults only, so it's great for those looking to enjoy a night away from the kids. 

Kuumbwa Jazz Center is a performing arts hall that hosts modern jazz acts in a traditional atmosphere. It aims to provide locals and travelers the opportunity to appreciate the full range of jazz music. 

The venue is decked out in earth tones and period decor, resulting in a relaxing vibe that'll make you feel like you're back in the 1920s. Kuumbwa Jazz Center has been a Santa Cruz landmark since 1975. It hosts over 130 concerts every year and supports over 1,000 students with its extensive programs.