The Arcata Theatre Lounge, on H Street a block north of the Plaza, is one of the best small venues on the North Coast. The 1938 Art Deco building has been repurposed as a live-music hall and repertory film space — you might catch a touring indie band, a touring DJ night, or a screening of a cult classic on the same weekend. The interior retains its original balcony and painted ceiling, and there's a full bar.
Locals treat it as the anchor of Arcata's modest nightlife scene. It hosts Humboldt State student events, the occasional comedy show, and community film series. Check the calendar before you arrive — it's not open every night, but when something is on, it's worth going.