As a student at the University of South Carolina, Five Points is a popular place to seek out the nightlife. The bars are college-priced, the scene is college-aged and the music is typically to our liking. However, there are several reasons one might want to go elsewhere. Five Points, as we all know, has its fair share of risks when it comes to a night on the town. It can also get very crowded on the weekends, and you might end up waiting for an hour to get into a bar. Or maybe you are just tired of the same old thing and want to try something new. Some might feel that Five Points is their only option for a good time Columbia actually offers a very strong nightlife for almost any kind of mood you’re in. Here are some of my favorite spots in addition to bars and restaurants I’ve been meaning to try out. Each place has something unique to offer, depending on what you’re feeling.
*Mixing Alcohol with Activities
Arts and Draughts*
Coming to Columbia, I had no idea the city had so many unique events. Arts and Draughts is just one, but I love the entire idea and event. Once every few months, the Columbia Museum of Art hosts this event and partners with a relatively local brewery. You can drink the beer while walking around the art museum. They also have a band and tons of activities like a scavenger hunt and figure drawing. Bring out your artistic side and make sure to check out Arts and Draughts.
Brew at the Zoo
I can’t think of anyone who would say no to an event combining great beer and adorable zoo animals. Here, you’ll get that experience and more. They feature a variety of beer, live music, food and, of course, animals. Make sure to keep up with when the next Brew at the Zoo will be taking place.
*Underground Hot Spot
The Whig*
Looking for that hidden gem of a bar? Some random taxidermy? Well, The Whig has all that and more. Great pizza, craft beer and possibly the best bourbon and coke you can find in a 100 mile radius. I don’t know what they do that makes that drink so special, but I hope they keep doing it. All you’ve got to do is walk down the seemingly “sketchy” stairs and open the unmarked door, and you’ve found yourself in a one-of-a-kind place. They’ve also got some cool specials like Taco Tuesday, at which they serve nothing but delicious tacos for your feasting pleasure. You haven’t lived until you’ve spent some time soaking in all that is The Whig.
*Classic Atmosphere
The Oak Table*
This place is a little more formal and offers excellent dinner and brunch. However, it’s also a great place to stop in for a drink. The Oak Table prides itself on its craft cocktails, so if you’re like me and want something classic that you might not be able to find at a bar in Five Points, The Oak Table is a great spot.
*Eclectic Crowd
Art Bar*
Located in the vista, marked by year-round Christmas lights, Art Bar is an exciting scene. This place has a real retro feel with a U shape bar and arcade games. They’ve also got a dance floor, lounge area and outdoor seating. I’ve always had a great experience at this bar. The scene is very eclectic, hosting people of all genres. Have your card ready at the entrance.
*Live Music and Dancing
The Red Door Tavern*
This place is great for live music. Located in West Columbia, The Red Door Tavern is a very casual scene. They’ve got a great selection of wine and beer, pool and even a pinball league if you’re into that kind of thing. Make sure to check their website because they post about all upcoming shows and events.
Tin Roof
Here is another great place for music. Last time I went here they even had shagging. Tin Roof is really fun. It has a good mix of people and a nice outdoor area. The drink selection is typical. You’re sure to find your go-to’s and enjoy some music and dancing. Tin Roof has locations in multiple cities so you never have to live without it!
New Brookland Tavern
This is the place to go for live, local music on a nightly basis. Recently, I saw a concert here and fell in love with the atmosphere. The bar is divided into two sections. In one is the long bar area with seating scattered around. In the other, bands play almost every night. I loved it because I could sit at the bar and still see and hear the music. New Brookland Tavern has all kinds of music from alternative rock to folk to heavy metal to pop. Just check their website to see what’s playing. They feature a lot of local music so go out and show them some support!
*Clearing Your Mind
Sheraton Rooftop*
Enjoy a beautiful view of the city while sipping perfect cocktails with your friends. This bar seems to be a bit of a secret for the college crowd, but it is one of the best bars in Columbia. In the summer, it’s perfect. The weather is cool, and you can gaze at Capstone and the Adluh from a new perspective. And in the winter months, they’ve got heat lamps strategically placed around the bar. The Sheraton Rooftop is ideal for chill nights full of great conversation.
*Young Professionals
(You’re going to be one eventually, right?)
Pearlz*
This place definitely has a yo-pro feel, if you know what I mean. It’s a little more pricy, but the cocktails are delicious. If you like gourmet seafood, this is the place for you.. They also have an upstairs bar area. Pearlz is great for happy hour, and they also have a special, late-night menu.
Publick House
I recently visited Publick House for trivia and had a great time. The atmosphere is very casual and quiet. They’ve got a pretty good beer selection and delicious bar food. The trivia was awesome. This is a great place to visit with a small group of friends.
*Home-Brew
Hunter Gatherer*
This place is for the nights you are willing to spend a little more, but I promise it’s worth it. Hunter Gatherer will take you by surprise. From the outside it looks like a quaint little rustic restaurant. But you walk inside, and you are blown away by the high ceilings and unique set up. They’ve got fantastic food (I recommend the mac n’ cheese) and they brew their own beer. Make sure to stop by on a Thursday for jazz night. Maybe drop the hint to your parents next time they’re in town. This is definitely a place you must visit.
*Wide Beer Selection
Flying Saucer*
Calling all beer connoisseurs – Flying Saucer has an incredible selection. You name the brew, and they’ve got it. And if you’re really dedicated, you can drink all of them (over an extended period of time) and earn yourself a plate on the wall. I’ve been here for trivia night and had a fantastic time. Like Tin Roof, Flying Saucer also has multiple locations. When I go home to Raleigh, I always make an effort to stop by so I don’t get too Columbia-sick.
World of Beer
World of Beer has endless possibilities when it comes to drinks. You may know it as the place where you had to bring your own food, but food has now been introduced to the menu. Like Flying Saucer, they have hundreds of beers, but WOB seems to have more of a sports bar feel. This is a large franchise so you can find them in nearby states as well.
*Cheap Nightly Deals
Pizza Joint*
On Tuesday’s nights, this place is my go to. $2 pints and $2 pizza slices. What more could you ask for? There’s plenty of seating, indoor and outdoor, but you’d be amazed how packed it can get. Pizza Joint has televisions scattered around and huge booths that can seat around 10 people. It’s a great place for some dinner and drinks with a group of friends.
Underage-friendly.
Photo credit— Delta Sky Mag
