Strolling, Venice

While in Venice, I was drawn into the Piazza San Marco scene like any other tourist. It's part of the charm of visiting Italy and doing all the touristy things you will not admit to later when you've become a seasoned traveler (i.e. "I am holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa" snapshot).
Yes, the music is great and the drinks are divine, but the price is sky high as well. If you haven't been in Italy before, you may be unfamiliar with the concept of the coperto (cover charge to sit at a table, yes, just to sit, it's part of the experience so don't complain, just enjoy it), but either way, if you want a quick drink and a bit of a stroll, just go into a bar or cafe and order your drink to go. Yes, it can be done.
If there is one place I would recommend, it would be an incredible night spot I came upon in the vecinity of the Accademmia. It doesn't have a name, at least what I recall of it, but it looks just like any other Venice entry way into a house. Once in, you see a bar, some arcade games, the loo, and a dancefloor. I was quite surprised that there was a discotheque hidden away in the calles by the Accademmia. I was lucky to have a local as my "guide" and we had an absolutely great time.
Another place I simply loved to visit was "Baccaro Jazz Club" (I don't know if I spelled it correctly) for their bruschetta and Bellinis. I loved the music, service, ambiance, and everything this great little joint has to offer. It's really close to the Rialto bridge and really accessible from San Marco as well. I had a jolly good time in this great spot that often times goes unnoticed.