Gainesville, Florida’s incredible selection of bars!
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your tastes in this vibrant city.
Gainesville, one of the most stunning cities in northern Florida.
Here, you’ll find the prestigious University of Florida, a range of world-class museums, and some of the best bars in the state.
Sipping on a frosty beer is a feeling like no other, sending a chill down your throat and stirring up a variety of emotions.
When you’re surrounded by the right atmosphere and good company, there’s nothing quite like it.
It’s no wonder that Gainesville is a fantastic place to live – with so many incredible bars to choose from, there’s always a new adventure waiting just around the corner.
Gainesville, Florida’s top-notch bars, perfect for singles, couples, and members of the LGBTQ community.
This city is the hub of entertainment, offering a range of experiences that are sure to make your heart sing.
Whether you’re looking for a fancy cocktail lounge, a place to catch the game, or a dance floor to let loose and forget your worries, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re in the mood for a show, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes in this vibrant city.
Best Bars in Gainesville, Florid
Salty Dog Saloon
| 1712 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32603 Phone: 123-456-7890 Visit Website |
Looking for the ultimate spot to cap off a perfect day in Gainesville? Look no further than the Salty Dog Saloon, located at 1712 W University Ave.
This classic hangout has been a favorite of University of Florida students and locals of all ages for 30 years, and it’s not hard to see why.
Whether you’re in the mood for a funky Buddha Floridian Hefe or a Motorworks Pulp Friction grapefruit IPA, you’ll find something to suit your tastes here.
With pool and ping pong tables, as well as affordable food options like pizza and sandwiches, you’ll have everything you need for a great night out.
But that’s not all – the Salty Dog Saloon also offers exciting challenges and drinking games, with prizes like T-shirts up for grabs.
Also, with a wide selection of imported bottles from countries like Australia, Austria, and China, you’re sure to find something new and exciting to try.
So why wait? Head over to the Salty Dog Saloon and enjoy a casual, budget-friendly night out with friends – you won’t regret it!
Arcade Bar
| 6 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601 Visit Website |
Arcade Bar is a popular and unique bar located in Gainesville, Florida.
The bar is known for its fun and quirky atmosphere, which features a variety of old-school arcade games and pinball machines.
It’s an ideal place to spend time with friends while enjoying delicious drinks.
They offer a vast selection of craft beers on draft and in cans, as well as an extensive list of cocktails.
While the bartenders and staff may come across as a bit sassy, this is often seen as part of the experience and adds to the bar’s overall charm.
Additionally, the bar has indoor and outdoor seating, making it a perfect spot to enjoy Florida’s warm weather.
Overall, Arcade Bar is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable bar experience in Gainesville.
Whether you’re a gamer or just looking for a fun night out, this bar is sure to impress.
Dragon Fly
| Address: 201 SE 2nd Ave #104, Gainesville, FL 32601, USA |
Dragon Fly is an exquisite whiskey bar in Gainesville that seamlessly blends a unique Japanese pub theme with a love for Asian cuisine.
The decor will leave you awestruck, while their happy hour menu offers refreshing drinks like Sake Spritz, Sumo Smash, and Old Fashioned cocktails.
Their extensive list of Japanese whiskey, such as Hibiki Harmony, Yamazaki, St. George Baller, Hakushu, as well as Irish whiskey, Scotch, Vodka, and Tequila will leave you spoiled for choice.
Dragon Fly’s casual yet classy atmosphere, friendly staff, and impeccably dressed bartenders are some of the most striking features of this bar.
It boasts both indoor and outdoor lounge and bar areas.
Vegetable dumplings, seasonal vegetable tempura, Maitake mushroom fritters, garlic sautéed bok choy are just some of the delicious options to try.
If you’re a sushi fan, don’t worry – new dishes like Mango Tango, The Bomb, Volcano Roll, Cobra Kai, and more are available.
Silver Q Billiards & Sports Bar
| Address: 225 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, USA |
According to the homepage of Silver Q Billiards & Sports Bar, downtown Gainesville bars always have something going on.
Since 1992, students and alumni have been coming here to enjoy 13 free pool tables, basketball, pop-a-shot, cornhole, arcade games, free darts, and video gaming.
This iconic sports bar in Gainesville, Florida boasts 30 TVs, making it the perfect spot to watch sports with friends on game day.
They have a full-service bar with 20 different beers to choose from.
Luckily, Silver Q Billiards & Sports Bar is open until 2 am every day, so you can enjoy the fun and games for as long as you want.
The Dime
| Address: 4 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601 |
Imagine sitting in a cozy bar, sipping on handcrafted cocktails made just for you.
The Dime, located near the Matheson History Museum on University Ave, is known as the best bar in Gainesville for its exceptional service. The staff here knows how to make your night unforgettable.
The Dime offers an exciting and unique menu of drinks, including the popular New York Sour, Glycerine Queen, and The Hustler.
What sets this bar apart is the use of rare ingredients like cardamom, saffron, myrrh, and Fernet Branca, which add a unique flavor to the drinks.
The funky art decor and retro soundtrack create a fantastic ambiance, drawing in a steady crowd of locals and students.
The dimly lit hall offers an air of intimacy and joy, making The Dime one of the best upscale cocktail bars in Gainesville. Don’t miss out on this phenomenal experience!
That Bar and Table
| Address: 2725 SW 91st St, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA |
When you step into That Bar and Table, the friendly staff greets you with a smile, making you feel awesome.
This spot is perfect for drinks and tasty food on their great patio.
That Bar and Table is one of the top bars in Gainesville, Florida where you can bring your friends, family, and even your furry friend to enjoy delicious meals like burgers and wings.
Jay and Pat have put together a menu that will tantalize your taste buds, with plenty of vegetarian options available for those on a diet.
From the tacos and nachos to the flat iron steak and the six-layer carrot cake, the ingredients are of high quality, and the balance of heat and spices is perfect. You will surely love it.
Don’t forget to try the must-order drinks like the Guava Margarita, Blackberry Lemondrop, Moscow Mule, and a wide range of reds and whites while you’re here.
The TBT is the perfect place to drink in Gainesville.
World of Beer
| Address: 3265 SW 34th St, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA |
World of Beer is a Craft Tavern that offers an incredible variety of over 550 beers, making it a must-visit spot for beer aficionados and casual beer fans alike.
Located just 15 minutes away from Sweetwater Branch Inn, this pub in Gainesville offers authentic drinks that keep guests and locals happy.
The dog-friendly environment and game-friendly atmosphere make World of Beer one of the best bars in Gainesville.
Their menu features a variety of bar food options such as salads, wings, soups, tacos, burgers, seafood, pork, sausages, and more.
For a delicious experience, try the Tater Tot Poutine, Zombie Apocalypse, or crispy tater tots loaded with mozzarella.
You can also indulge in shrimp tacos or corn salad, among other limitless options.
| Also Read: 17 Best Places For Snorkeling In Florida |
Loosey’s Downtown Gainesville
| Address: 120 SW 1ST Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, USA |
Loosey’s in Gainesville shines with its iconic drink list, featuring American craft beers and premium wells, along with a lively atmosphere, burgers, and live music.
It’s no wonder it’s considered the best bar in town.
Don’t miss out on their unique concoctions like Irish Wristwatch and Cats Hate Cucumber.
And for those looking for a plant-based option, Loosey’s has you covered with classic fast food burgers made with meat alternatives.
The rotating tap list ensures that each visit to Loosey’s is a new experience, with 25 draught beers to choose from.
Tourists seeking an extraordinary Gainesville nightlife should definitely put Loosey’s on their list.
The Tipsy Gamer
| Address: 224 Main St SW, Gainesville, GA 30501 |
With a focus on trading cards and video games, The Tipsy Gamer is the brainchild of childhood friends Ethan Moore and Kyle Dillard.
The bar is divided into two sections: one for trading cards and arcade games like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat, and the other for enjoying a virtual reality headset and a cold beer.
The goal of Tipsy Gamer is to bring the world of Nerd Culture to Central Gainesville and create a space for expanding friendships.
Whether you’re into comic books, tabletop games, or just looking for a new way to connect with friends, Tipsy Gamer has something for everyone.
Come check out this exciting new addition to the Gainesville bar scene!
University Club
| Address: 18 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, USA |
Looking for a lively gay bar in Gainesville, Florida? Look no further than University Club, a fun and welcoming spot for the LGBTQ community.
I recently visited on graduation weekend with my friend Soniya and we had a blast.
The club was packed with people enjoying the music and lively drag shows.
The dance floor is a real standout, with a unique mirror design that adds to the fun atmosphere.
Plus, with an age requirement of 18 to enter and 21 to drink, it’s a great spot for young adults to let loose.
University Club stays open until 2am, giving party-goers plenty of time to dance the night away.
If you’re a fan of piano bars, be sure to check out their Friday night events with cheap drinks and plenty of opportunities to let loose.
Covey Kitchen + Cocktails
| Address: 1514 SW 14 St, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA |
Step into the world of elegance and sophistication at Covey Kitchen + Cocktails, a top-rated restaurant and wine bar in Gainesville.
Located at the University of Florida’s Hotel ELEO, the menu offers globally influenced cuisine with a modern twist.
Don’t miss out on the delectable buttermilk fried chicken with braised savoy cabbage and Key West Pink Shrimp.
The dining space is exquisite with floor-to-ceiling windows, a private alcove, and outdoor terrace overlooking a scenic lake.
Make a reservation and enjoy live music on Sundays while sipping hand-crafted cocktails.
Covey Kitchen + Cocktails has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Restaurants in the USA.
The beer selection has earned rave reviews, along with a wide variety of wine and local beers.
I highly recommend trying the Coco Pirinha, Blueberry Lemonade, Pineapple Apex, and Elderflower Margarita.
This wine bar in Gainesville is the perfect place to elevate your dining and drinking experience, and create unforgettable memories.
High Drive
| Address: 210 SW 2nd Ave Ste A, Gainesville, FL 32601 |
High Drive tops the list of bars in Gainesville with live music, providing non-stop entertainment that will keep you moving.
Since its inception in 2011, High Drive has attracted visitors from across the country to enjoy the best live sound system with a bar on the side.
From Bone Thugs in Harmony to Horton Heat and Orchestra, and even comedians like Jay Chandrasekar, this place has hosted a variety of musical acts and performances.
High Drive’s stage is larger, sound system is top-notch, and there’s plenty of seating available for a comfortable night out.
In addition to their amazing sound and atmosphere, they also serve up delicious custom cocktails and crafted beers that are sure to impress.
Don’t forget to try their famous Jello Shots and double liquor fresh fruit drinks for an extra memorable night!
That 80s Bar Gainesville
| Address: 19 West University Gainesville, FL 32601 |
That 80s Bar, also known as Holy Pipe, is the perfect place to dance the night away while traveling back in time to the 80s.
The neon-colored walls and playful murals featuring your favorite 80s cartoons like Pac-Man and The Smurfs will transport you to a different era.
Lawrence Clay, the mastermind behind this unique nightclub, has created a space that attracts not only college students but also older crowds.
With affordable drinks and a cozy dance floor, it’s the ideal spot for a date or a fun night out with friends.
On Fridays, you can dance to all the classic 80s hits, while Saturdays feature music from iconic 70s movies.
If you’re feeling down, That 80s Bar is the perfect place to lift your spirits.
Make sure to check it out on Wednesdays too for a surprise that we won’t reveal here.
Come experience the fun for yourself and let us know how you feel!
The Social at Midtown
| Address: 1728 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA |
The Social, a rooftop bar in midtown Gainesville, offers a charming ambiance with live acoustic music that will captivate your heart.
On Thursdays at 7 pm, ladies can enjoy a night out.
Located just after the university, The Social is the perfect place to play Gator games, watch parties, and enjoy 32 different craft beers on tap.
The sports restaurant is a popular destination for guys with a wide range of tempting drink options.
Whether it’s for a date or happy hour, The Social at Midtown is an excellent choice.
The happy hour from 4 pm to 7 pm offers a delectable menu of pork rinds, torts & salsa, nachos, Jack Daniels, margaritas, chicken tenders, and more.
The “All Day Everyday Happy Hour” serves Social Awk-Red, Social Bombs Loaded Coronas, and Gator Guinness Shots.
Downstairs, you can also find a full menu with tasty ring toss and cornhole games. The Social is the ultimate fun spot!
The Key Grill & Piano Bar
| Address: 4860 Celebration Pointe Ave #30, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA |
The Key Grill & Piano Bar is a top-notch brewing company in town where you can enjoy great music, drinks, and seafood.
Join their Beer Bingo Trivia every Tuesday at 7 pm to try out their delicious Intercostal Amber and Wellyz Lager.
Their solo show on Thursdays and dueling piano shows on Fridays and Saturdays are truly impressive.
Plus, their seafood restaurant offers delightful dishes like Mango-Pineapple Salmon and the most romantic Santiago’s Mojito cocktail.
Come and experience a memorable evening at The Key Grill & Piano Bar.
Madrina’s
| Address: 9 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601 Visit Website |
Madrina’s bar is a popular nightlife destination located in Gainesville, Florida.
Known for its elegant atmosphere, the bar features dim lighting and plush seating, as well as skilled bartenders who expertly craft high-quality drinks.
The bartenders are also known for being incredibly friendly and helpful, making for a welcoming environment.
Madrina’s also offers a happy hour that is widely regarded as one of the best in Gainesville, making it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
The Bull
| Address: 18 SW 1st Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601 Phone: (352) 672-6266 Visit Website |
Nestled in the heart of downtown Gainesville lies The Bull, a chic and vibrant spot that exudes a lively and trendy vibe.
The interior is adorned with a collection of eccentric decorations, making for a unique and eclectic atmosphere.
What’s more, there’s always something exciting happening, with live music performances taking place several times a week.
If you’re a beer lover, then The Bull is your paradise!
The impressive menu boasts a vast selection of draft beers from all corners of the United States, along with canned beers and wines.
With so many options, there’s bound to be a beer that perfectly matches your taste and preferences.
Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or enjoy a night out with friends, The Bull is the ideal destination.
Be sure to visit their website to keep up with the latest schedule of performers.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the buzzing energy of this incredible hangout.
Conclusion
Weekends are all about having a great time with friends, and what better way to do that than by dancing the night away at one of Gainesville’s top bars?
Whether you’re looking to meet new people, belt out some karaoke tunes, go on a first date, or just enjoy some alone time, these 17 bars are sure to deliver.
Just make sure to check their event calendars first so you don’t miss out on any special shows or events, like drag shows.
If you’re looking for other hot spots, be sure to check out the Arcade Bar and Madrina as well.
No matter where you go, you can rest assured that these bars are both safe and fun places to visit.
So, let loose, have a great time, and don’t forget to tell me all about it!
| Also Read: 17 Best Places For Snorkeling In Florida 15 Insane Abandoned Places In Florida You Must Visit 11 Safest Place In Tampa To Live In 2023 |
FAQ On Bars in Gainesville
Yes, Gainesville is a city that truly comes alive after dark. From trendy clubs and lively bars to top-rated restaurants (till 2 am), there’s no shortage of things to do in this bustling city.
Located between Eighth Avenue on the south and 16th Avenue on the north, Grove Street is the hipster hub of Gainesville, and it is full of vibrant energy.
Yes, Gainesville is a vibrant college town, known for being the home of the prestigious University of Florida. It is recognized as one of the best college towns in the United States. The University of Florida campus is also noteworthy, being the fourth largest in the country.
Gainesville is a hub for upscale bars that offer top-quality beer, wine, and liquor, perfect for a night out with friends. These bars offer an inviting atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails and an inviting dance floor, making for a classy and enjoyable evening
Shally Watson is a seasoned News Writer with over 12 years of experience in the dynamic world of journalism. Her impressive career has seen her work with some of the top news agencies in the industry, where she has consistently demonstrated her exceptional talent for crafting compelling news stories that captivate readers worldwide.