Entering into the heart of Ohio State University’s campus, there are so many things to explore.
College students love to let loose and have fun when they are not buried in their textbooks and studying for that next exam. One of the favorite pastimes is going to a lively bar with friends to unwind and blow off some steam.
Campus bars near Ohio State University are a dime a dozen so finding the right spot can be a bit overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for a place to dance the night away, catch a game, or just relax with a drink, the article will guide you through the best options near campus.
Classic Campus Hangouts
The Varsity Club
- Vibes: Sports bar with a lively atmosphere
- Signature Drink: “The Varsity Bucket” – A mix of Coors Light, Fireball, and orange juice
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
The Big Bar
- Vibes: Spacious bar with a dance floor and outdoor patio
- Signature Drink: “The Big Punch” – A mix of vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, and fruit juices
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-6 pm
Out-R-Inn
- Vibes: Dive bar with a laid-back atmosphere
- Signature Drink: “The Out-R-Rita” – A frozen margarita made with fresh lime juice
- Happy Hour: Daily from 4 pm-6 pm
Live Music Venues
Skully’s Music-Diner
- Vibes: Intimate music venue with a diner-style atmosphere
- Signature Drink: “The Skully’s Paloma” – A mix of tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
Ace of Cups
- Vibes: Live music venue with a focus on indie and alternative music
- Signature Drink: “The Ace Mojito” – A classic mojito made with fresh mint and lime juice
- Happy Hour: Monday-Thursday from 4 pm-7 pm
Newport Music Hall
- Vibes: Large music venue with a variety of shows and events
- Signature Drink: “The Newport Old Fashioned” – A classic old fashioned made with bourbon, sugar, and bitters
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
Sports Bars
Buckeye Room
- Vibes: Sports bar with a large screen TV and a dedicated Ohio State University fan base
- Signature Drink: “The Buckeye Rita” – A frozen margarita made with blue curacao
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
Union Cafe
- Vibes: Sports bar with a casual atmosphere and a wide selection of beers on tap
- Signature Drink: “The Union Pale Ale” – A house-brewed pale ale
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
The Pint Room
- Vibes: Sports bar with a focus on craft beer and a rotating tap list
- Signature Drink: “The Pint Room IPA” – A house-brewed IPA
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
Chill Spots
The Wine Bar on Lane
- Vibes: Cozy wine bar with a focus on local and international wines
- Signature Drink: “The Lane Pinot Noir” – A glass of local Pinot Noir
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
The Tavern of Clintonville
- Vibes: Gastropub with a warm and inviting atmosphere
- Signature Drink: “The Clintonville Sour” – A house-made sour beer
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-6 pm
Bodega
- Vibes: Coffee shop and bar with a focus on local craft beers and coffee
- Signature Drink: “The Bodega Nitro Cold Brew” – A glass of house-made nitro cold brew
- Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 4 pm-7 pm
Tips and Tricks
- Arrive early: Bars tend to get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Take advantage of happy hour: Most bars offer happy hour specials on drinks and food.
- Dress comfortably: You’ll be doing a lot of standing and dancing, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Be respectful: Bar staff and other patrons are there to have a good time. Be polite and respectful to everyone.
- Pace yourself: It’s easy to get carried away when you’re having fun. Drink responsibly and pace yourself to avoid getting too intoxicated.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overspend: Set a budget for yourself and stick to it.
- Don’t drink and drive: Always have a designated driver or call a ride-sharing service.
- Don’t get into fights: No one wants to start or be involved in a fight. If you see a disagreement brewing, walk away.
- Don’t be disrespectful: Treat everyone with respect, regardless of their age, race, gender, or sexual orientation.
- Don’t leave your drink unattended: Never leave your drink unattended. Someone could spike it or steal it.
FAQs
Q: What is the legal drinking age in Ohio?
A: 21 years old
Q: Can I bring my ID from out-of-state to a bar in Ohio?
A: Yes, as long as it is a valid government-issued ID.
Q: Do I need to be a student to get into a bar near Ohio State University?
A: No, but some bars may have age restrictions or cover charges.
Q: What are the hours of operation for bars near Ohio State University?
A: Most bars are open from 4 pm to 2 am, but some may have extended hours on weekends.
Q: Can I smoke in bars near Ohio State University?
A: No, smoking is not allowed in any indoor public places in Ohio.
Q: Do I need to make reservations for a table at a bar near Ohio State University?
A: It’s not necessary for most bars, but it is recommended for large groups or special events.
Q: What is the dress code for bars near Ohio State University?
A: Most bars have a casual dress code, but some may have a more formal dress code for special events.
Q: Are there any bars near Ohio State University that are open 24 hours?
A: No, there are no bars near Ohio State University that are open 24 hours.
