When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
ManRay
Why ManRay is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
ManRay offers a vibrant and welcoming environment perfect for meeting up with friends. Known for its blend of sports bar excitement and cocktail lounge sophistication, this venue caters to diverse tastes and social moods. The establishment features an extensive selection of drinks, including craft cocktails, beers, and wines, making it an ideal spot for casual hangouts or celebratory gatherings. One of ManRay's highlights is its friendly and attentive staff, particularly the bouncers and bartenders, who foster a warm and safe atmosphere that encourages patrons to relax and enjoy. The bar also caters to enthusiasts of various nightlife activities, including dance clubs, karaoke, and live music venues, adding layers of entertainment to any visit. Its reputation as a favored spot among those who appreciate genres like jazz, blues, Cajun/Creole cuisine, and German nightlife makes ManRay uniquely appealing to a wide social circle. Overall, ManRay combines lively sports bar energy with refined cocktail offerings and engaging entertainment options, making it a versatile destination for friends looking to connect and unwind.
Here's what people think of ManRay
As of recent, ManRay holds a 3.9-star rating based on 174 reviews.
Customer reviews of ManRay show mixed but generally positive feedback, with a current rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 174 reviews. Many users praise the exceptional and friendly service provided by the staff, especially highlighting the approachable bouncers and skilled bartenders who contribute significantly to the inviting atmosphere. This attentive and personable service is cited as a major factor that enhances guests' overall experience. On the positive side, patrons appreciate the diverse entertainment offerings such as karaoke nights, live music, and a variety of bar types, including cocktail and beer bars, which contribute to ManRay's dynamic social scene. However, some negative reviews point at inconsistencies in service or occasional overcrowding, which can detract from comfort and the overall enjoyment during peak hours. Few complaints mention noise levels and occasional issues with seating availability. In conclusion, while some visitors encounter minor drawbacks typical of popular nightlife venues, the favorable staff demeanor and broad entertainment options generally earn ManRay commendations as a social hub. The reviews indicate that prospective guests seeking a lively yet welcoming place to meet friends will likely find ManRay a satisfying choice.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Charles Bates
We are so glad this place has reopened. The first Thursday night of every month is “HouseBoi”, a queer house music night for humans and their friends. Body positive and consent oriented. Radical self expression encouraged, and a drag show full of local talent at midnight.
Walter Calderon
I traveled a long distance to visit this bar during my trip to Boston, only to be turned away at the door due to an “all-black” dress code that was never mentioned online. It was incredibly frustrating and disappointing, especially after making the effort to get there. If you’re going to enforce a specific dress code, it should be clearly stated on your website or social media. Visitors deserve to know in advance so they can plan accordingly
Sunny Lai
Cool spot that is very unfortunately filled with the most rude, condescending and unhelpful staff. I showed up with a very simple request of looking for a lost jacket, and somehow the staff is able to make it as difficult as possible. I first showed up at 8:30pm, to which a staff member told me to come back at 9pm because the staff that would be able to help me isn't here yet. Came back at 9pm, door person told me the club is already open and I should have came earlier. Said they're too busy to help me unless I already called and confirmed with someone that they have my jacket. Not a single person in the line by the way. I called their number and explained the situation, to which the person who answered told me I have to come to the club to look for it. I said I'm already here but the door person wouldn't let me in. And of course after 15 minutes wasted, they default to the most logical solution... letting me in to look for my damn jacket. I show them a picture of the jacket, and after spending 15 seconds looking for it the coat check staff told me there are a lot of jackets and that they couldn't find it. Said maybe the cleaning staff just threw it away. I showed the picture to another staff member who was asking about the situation, to which she simply says "cool jacket" condescendingly, offering precisely no help at all. Door person who is desperately trying to shoo me away tells me to check back in a few days because the lost and found "might still be in circulation". What circulation??? The 10 steps from the dance floor to coat check? I am 100% certain I left my jacket inside the club- went home after coming all the way with no jacket. Wow. What an amazing team. Non-existent protocol, no communication between staff, everyone clearly feeling secure with their jobs and have no concern nor empathy towards club attendees. I hope the owner sees this because not only is their staff proudly doing LESS than bare minimum, but more importantly this is the type of thing that makes the club truly awful and I will absolutely tell everyone I know to avoid this place. Plenty of other clubs in the area with owners who seem to have no trouble finding even just barely competent staff members.
Yev Chornenkyy
Went to see Oscar Mulero play here on a Thursday a week back. Awesome set. Great to see him again. Saw him back in Chicago few years back. He’s dope. Good techno.
Rowan
The vibe seemed very cool and I loved the atmosphere. I say SEEMED because my friend and I were kicked out by a blonde lady with blue eyes and a beanie (no shade but. girl) not even ten minutes after coming in because she saw me hand my friend's drink back to her (I'd held it while she was on her phone for a sec) She was extremely rude and hostile, and honestly seemed like it was a personal issue or she was having a bad night. She came over and said "you need to leave, I just saw you hand that to her" and I said "Yeah??" (Im not 21, my friend is.) Again she says "you need to leave, you handed that to her" My friend says they're so sorry, trying to be nice but obviously caught off guard, and the lady is like out, you need to leave and starts talking on a little radio and death staring at us. It wasn't cheap to get in ($17 for admission and coat check), I didn't attempt to buy alcohol, the drink wasn't for me. ALSO she took my friend's drink OUT OF HER HAND, which I feel was just so rude given she paid 15 bucks for it. She followed us out and rushed me to pull off my bracelet. But the kind person at the coat check apologized which was sweet, thank you to them :•) the people at the front when we came in also seemed friendly. Reading other reviews some people say they felt racially profiled or discriminated against, or at least had problems with the staff. I have no reason to believe this woman's hostility was from anything other than something inside her. You wanna kick us out, whatever dude, but it's frustrating and depressing when people are incapable of treating others with human decency or baseline respect when approaching them. We just wanted to dance, was the mean attitude here really necessary?
Charles Bates
We are so glad this place has reopened. The first Thursday night of every month is “HouseBoi”, a queer house music night for humans and their friends. Body positive and consent oriented. Radical self expression encouraged, and a drag show full of local talent at midnight.
Walter Calderon
I traveled a long distance to visit this bar during my trip to Boston, only to be turned away at the door due to an “all-black” dress code that was never mentioned online. It was incredibly frustrating and disappointing, especially after making the effort to get there. If you’re going to enforce a specific dress code, it should be clearly stated on your website or social media. Visitors deserve to know in advance so they can plan accordingly
Sunny Lai
Cool spot that is very unfortunately filled with the most rude, condescending and unhelpful staff. I showed up with a very simple request of looking for a lost jacket, and somehow the staff is able to make it as difficult as possible. I first showed up at 8:30pm, to which a staff member told me to come back at 9pm because the staff that would be able to help me isn't here yet. Came back at 9pm, door person told me the club is already open and I should have came earlier. Said they're too busy to help me unless I already called and confirmed with someone that they have my jacket. Not a single person in the line by the way. I called their number and explained the situation, to which the person who answered told me I have to come to the club to look for it. I said I'm already here but the door person wouldn't let me in. And of course after 15 minutes wasted, they default to the most logical solution... letting me in to look for my damn jacket. I show them a picture of the jacket, and after spending 15 seconds looking for it the coat check staff told me there are a lot of jackets and that they couldn't find it. Said maybe the cleaning staff just threw it away. I showed the picture to another staff member who was asking about the situation, to which she simply says "cool jacket" condescendingly, offering precisely no help at all. Door person who is desperately trying to shoo me away tells me to check back in a few days because the lost and found "might still be in circulation". What circulation??? The 10 steps from the dance floor to coat check? I am 100% certain I left my jacket inside the club- went home after coming all the way with no jacket. Wow. What an amazing team. Non-existent protocol, no communication between staff, everyone clearly feeling secure with their jobs and have no concern nor empathy towards club attendees. I hope the owner sees this because not only is their staff proudly doing LESS than bare minimum, but more importantly this is the type of thing that makes the club truly awful and I will absolutely tell everyone I know to avoid this place. Plenty of other clubs in the area with owners who seem to have no trouble finding even just barely competent staff members.
Yev Chornenkyy
Went to see Oscar Mulero play here on a Thursday a week back. Awesome set. Great to see him again. Saw him back in Chicago few years back. He’s dope. Good techno.
Rowan
The vibe seemed very cool and I loved the atmosphere. I say SEEMED because my friend and I were kicked out by a blonde lady with blue eyes and a beanie (no shade but. girl) not even ten minutes after coming in because she saw me hand my friend's drink back to her (I'd held it while she was on her phone for a sec) She was extremely rude and hostile, and honestly seemed like it was a personal issue or she was having a bad night. She came over and said "you need to leave, I just saw you hand that to her" and I said "Yeah??" (Im not 21, my friend is.) Again she says "you need to leave, you handed that to her" My friend says they're so sorry, trying to be nice but obviously caught off guard, and the lady is like out, you need to leave and starts talking on a little radio and death staring at us. It wasn't cheap to get in ($17 for admission and coat check), I didn't attempt to buy alcohol, the drink wasn't for me. ALSO she took my friend's drink OUT OF HER HAND, which I feel was just so rude given she paid 15 bucks for it. She followed us out and rushed me to pull off my bracelet. But the kind person at the coat check apologized which was sweet, thank you to them :•) the people at the front when we came in also seemed friendly. Reading other reviews some people say they felt racially profiled or discriminated against, or at least had problems with the staff. I have no reason to believe this woman's hostility was from anything other than something inside her. You wanna kick us out, whatever dude, but it's frustrating and depressing when people are incapable of treating others with human decency or baseline respect when approaching them. We just wanted to dance, was the mean attitude here really necessary?
How to reach ManRay
None
Website: None
Why rally at ManRay with your friends?
When seeking a vibrant and dynamic spot to gather with friends for an unforgettable night out, ManRay in Cambridge, MA, stands out as a compelling choice. This venue is much more than just a nightclub—it provides an atmosphere that blends energizing music, welcoming staff, and an inclusive community vibe that caters to diverse groups. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, unwind after a busy week, or simply enjoy quality time with your close circle, ManRay offers an environment designed to amplify those shared moments. The venue’s reputation for exceptional music curated by skilled DJs and a crowd that is both lively and respectful makes it an inviting hub where social bonds can deepen. Additionally, its location in the heart of Central Square provides easy accessibility, making it convenient for groups traveling from various parts of Cambridge or Boston. The combination of well-crafted drinks, a dedicated team of bartenders known for excellent service, and a dance floor that encourages mingling creates a setting that feels tailor-made for group festivities. At ManRay, every night holds the promise of memorable connections and joyous celebrations with friends.
What are the key activities offered at ManRay that make it perfect for group meetups?
ManRay excels as a nightlife venue where music and socialization take center stage, making it ideal for group gatherings. The club hosts regular DJ nights that span genres appealing to a broad audience, from electronic beats to disco and house music. This wide musical variety ensures that every group can find a rhythm they enjoy, creating a natural space for dancing and collective fun. Beyond music, ManRay’s design caters to social interaction with ample floor space for dancing as well as comfortable seating areas where friends can relax and chat. The bartenders play an essential role—they are renowned for crafting drinks that maintain just the right balance, making it easy to enjoy the night without overindulgence. Furthermore, staff kindness and an inclusive attitude enhance the overall vibe, making every group feel welcomed regardless of size or background. ManRay also features gender-neutral restrooms and designated smoking areas, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and comfort. These comprehensive amenities mean that whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy intimate conversations, the venue supports all forms of social engagement within a single night.
How does the atmosphere at ManRay contribute to a good group experience?
The atmosphere at ManRay is a defining element that elevates the group meetup experience. Customers frequently commend the venue for its warm and inviting environment created by both the staff and the patrons themselves. The doorman, notably praised for his friendly and professional demeanor, sets a positive tone right at the entrance, welcoming guests with a smile and maintaining an enjoyable ambiance inside. This kind of first impression matters a lot when attending a place in a group, as it helps everyone feel safe, valued, and at ease from the moment they arrive. Inside, the music’s energy combined with the diverse but respectful clientele fosters a communal sense of excitement without overwhelming the senses. The bartenders’ respectful service style adds to this by providing attentive yet unobtrusive care, allowing groups to focus on their social interactions. Accessibility features such as wheelchair access ensure that all friends, regardless of physical ability, can participate fully in the night’s fun. Together, these factors create an environment in which group dynamics flourish, helping friends connect through shared experiences in a space sensitive to varied needs.
What makes ManRay a convenient spot for hosting events and meetups?
ManRay’s location, hours, and payment flexibility all contribute to making it an easy and convenient venue choice for group meetups. Situated at 40 Prospect Street in Central Square, Cambridge, it lies at a transportation crossroads with accessible street parking and public transit options nearby, facilitating easy arrival for everyone in the group. The venue’s operating hours—usually starting from around 9:00 PM and extending past midnight on weekends—fit well with typical social schedules, allowing groups to start relatively late and enjoy the full nightlife experience without needing to rush. The ability to pay with Apple Pay and other contactless methods streamlines transactions; this is particularly helpful for groups who prefer to avoid the hassle of handling cash or splitting complicated bills. ManRay’s commitment to being wheelchair accessible and offering gender-neutral restrooms also demonstrates careful consideration of guest needs, reducing logistical concerns for diverse groups planning their outings. In general, these conveniences remove common barriers to group enjoyment, making ManRay a practical as well as exciting meet-up location.
Why do reviews and ratings underline ManRay’s suitability for group gatherings?
With a respectable rating around 3.9 out of 5 based on over 170 reviews, ManRay attracts a variety of opinions, yet many highlight features that specifically benefit group visits. Positive comments frequently emphasize the quality of the music, the professionalism of the door staff and bartenders, and a generally friendly crowd—all crucial for a good group vibe. Some customers have noted the exceptional mix and volume of music that keeps the energy lively and consistent, creating a dance-friendly setting where friends can bond over shared musical preferences. Furthermore, several reviewers appreciate the venue’s respectful environment, which avoids the negative pitfalls of rudeness or overcrowding that sometimes plague nightlife spots. However, a minority critique points to occasional empty nights or higher cover charges, which might influence group planning depending on the day chosen. Nevertheless, the overall consensus is that ManRay provides a balanced experience with reliable social and entertainment elements conducive to group celebrations. The glowing remarks about the welcoming staff reinforce confidence that groups are treated as valued guests, enhancing the overall reliability of the venue for meetups.
How do inclusivity and diversity at ManRay enhance the group meetup experience?
ManRay is known for fostering an inclusive and diverse atmosphere, which can greatly enhance the experience when meeting with friends or family from different backgrounds. The venue’s infrastructure includes gender-neutral restrooms and policies that actively support a welcoming environment for all gender identities and sexual orientations. This approach helps groups feel comfortable bringing diverse members without concerns about exclusion or discomfort. Moreover, the clientele is noted to be varied, attracting a wide range of individuals who share mutual respect and enthusiasm for the space. Such inclusivity encourages authentic social interaction and helps break down typical social barriers that can inhibit group dynamics in less progressive venues. The staff reinforces this by providing respectful and friendly service to everyone, ensuring that the inclusive ethos is not merely symbolic but experienced in practice. For groups that value social openness and the celebration of diversity, ManRay presents a space where everyone can participate equally and enjoy the night on their own terms.
What practical tips can help groups get the most out of a night at ManRay?
To maximize a group’s experience at ManRay, some practical tips can make a meaningful difference. First, consider arriving early or choosing nights known for higher attendance to ensure the best crowd energy, since some reviews mention empty nights which might reduce the enthusiasm. Checking the schedule and calling ahead to confirm special DJ nights or events can also add excitement. It’s wise to plan transportation logistics in advance, taking advantage of the venue’s central location and nearby parking, to avoid delays. Booking a table or informing the staff in advance about your group size might improve seating arrangements and ensure everyone’s comfort. Lastly, taking advantage of the bar’s well-balanced drink options, and pacing consumption among friends helps maintain a pleasant mood throughout the evening. Being mindful of the club’s policies, such as cover charges and accessibility features, also guarantees smoother entry and less hassle. By preparing thoughtfully, groups can create and capture the best possible memories at ManRay.
In summary, ManRay offers a thoughtfully crafted nightlife experience that suits groups looking to enjoy lively music, inclusive social settings, and attentive service in a convenient and accessible venue. Its reputation for combining fun, safety, and respect with a pulsating dance floor and friendly staff makes it a standout choice for anyone planning a group night out in Cambridge.