Are you looking for the best bars in Gainesville?
Being a college town, it’s common knowledge that Gainesville, FL has a booming nightlife. It’s a very popular destination for college students and even adults. And because of this, there are some of the best bars in Gainesville that you must visit!
From fun-themed arcade bars to upscale and classy, nights of endless dancing or chilled-out jazz sessions you can easily find it all here in this Florida town.
So, I take it as my great pleasure to review the top bars in Gainesville (for research purposes of course) just for you! And as always, prices and offerings are subject to change at any time so double-check each bar’s official website for the most up-to-date selections.
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Best Bars in Gainesville At a Glance
- Arcade Bar: It’s a blast of fun and a hit of nostalgia with classic arcade games, drinks and dancing
- Keys Grill & Piano Bar: This is the place to go for Key West vibes and 5 O’clock Somewhere happy hour savings
- White Buffalo: Here the weekends start on Thursday and you can dance your way into the weekend
- The Social at Midtown: With 60 flat-screen TVs this is the best place for Gator Fans to catch a game and brew
- Covey Kitchen & Cocktails: The best place to unwind to the sounds of jazz and chill with an Old Fashioned in hand
Keep reading to find out why I love these Gainesville bars.
1. Fluid Lounge
Fluid Lounge has become one of the most popular bars for its dark and loungey classy vibes that set the tone for a fabulous night.
Here you can expect to find a hip, upscale, and modern atmosphere which is perfect for a Florida Hipster who loves to go out and have a good time out.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
You’ll also be treated to some DELICIOUS drinks with a handcrafted cocktail menu that’s out-of-this-world.
Fluid Lounge is one of the best bars in Gainesville that’s perfect for a date night or a night with friends.
Beyond the cool atmosphere are the events they have going on throughout the week. With half-off Tequila, Whiskey Wednesdays, Happy Hour Thursdays, DJ, and dancing it’s going to be hard not to have a night out in Gainesville every night of the week.
Weekly Events:
- Monday Night Trivia at 7 p.m. with prizes for the winning team
- Tequila Tuesdays: Half-off tequila all night
- Whiskey Wednesdays: Half-off whiskey special all night
- Thursday Happy Hour ALL NIGHT and DJ Sunshine from 8 p.m. until closing
- DJ Nelson Live on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. until closing
- Happy Hour Monday through Friday: Half off classic cocktails and single mixers (from opening until 7 p.m.)
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar:
- Old Fashion: Old Forester Bourbon, Old Overholt Bottled in Bond Rye, Simple Syrup, Angostura, and Orange Bitters
- Blood and Sand: Monkey Shoulder Scotch, Luxardo Cherry Liqueur, Antica Sweet Vermouth, and Orange Juice
- Bramble: Gin with Fresh Muddled Blackberries served over crushed ice with Creme de Mure
Address: 140 SW 128th Suite C Newberry, FL 32669
2. Arcade Bar
If you’re like me and you are into old-school games at the same time as having a great bar life, then you MUST visit the Arcade Bar.
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Not only are the drinks cheap, but the games are free with unlimited play!
Yes, I did just say FREE!
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
This game bar is a great place to gather with your friends as you enjoy the Gainesville nightlife.
It has easy parking (which is an absolute plus) and features a 3 story Arcade Bar with arcade games on all the levels and two buildings of excitement.
It’s a blast of fun with their old-school stand-up classic arcade and drinks with all your retro gaming favorites. You can also take a spin on the current-gen Mario Cart drivers, try your hand on their brand-new skeeball machines, and sign up for their Brewskee-Ball.
You can enjoy a wide range of classic games as you vibe to the DJ while sipping on one of their monthly drink specials in hand.
So, be sure to enjoy classic games such as:
- Skeeball
- Pinball
- PAC Man
Address: 6 E University Ave Gainesville, FL 32601
Hipster Power Tip: Weekend nights can get busy, so come right with the Arcade Bar opens or during the weekdays.
3. Cry Baby’s
There’s no need to cry here, folks! This downtown bar has become quite popular in Gainesville for its high-class dive bar vibes.
Not only does it have intoxicating cocktails and delicious food, but you can choose from perfectly crafted mocktails that are robust and refreshing.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
Pop in for their High Five Happy Hour from 5 pm to 7 pm where you can find some of your favorites for only $5, Saturday night specials, or one of their tasty new menu items.
There is always something going on at Crybaby’s, it’s perfect for a date night in Gainesville or just a night out with friends
In addition, the big room can accommodate large gatherings with Cry Baby’s having a Tiki-like feel about it. I guarantee you’ll be one happy baby after your time here.
High Five Happy Hour
- $5 Little Baby Burger
- $Fried Fish Bits
- $5 Mini Nacho
- $5 Six Wings
- $5 Yuca Fries
- $1 Off Draft Beer
- $8 Old Fashioned
- $7 Rose
- $7 Mai Tai
- $7 Pretty Ricky
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar:
- Bad Bunny: Puerto Rican Gold Rum, Banana Liqueur, Cinnamon, Orgeat, & Lime
- Clover Boy: London Dry Gin, Alpine Amaro, Spiced Pear, Ginger, Lime, Clove Bitters
- Midnite Cruiser: Irish Whiskey, Corn Whiskey, Peated Scotch, Maple Syrup, & House Bitters
Address: 1 West University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
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4. Sidecar
If you’re searching for specially crafted cocktails, delicious food, and live music, Sidecar Gainesville is the place to go.
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They also have a yummy selection of non-alcoholic drinks on their cocktail menu.
Sidecar’s happy hour starts at 3:00 p.m. with extraordinary beverages available every day at a low cost and ALL day on Sunday.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
Are you a trivia lover? Sidecar hosts FREE trivia every Thursday
YES, it’s FREE!
So, form a team, have a cocktail, and enjoy a great night with your friends. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the lucky winner of a $100 gift card.
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar:
- New York Sour: Four Roses Bourbon, fresh Lemon, sugar, and red wine
- Ricky Steamboat: Cap’n Crunch infused rum, Licor 43, pineapple, Crème de coconut, and bitters
- Kona Crush: New Amsterdam vodka, Bianco vermouth, lemon, in house-made strawberry syrup, apricot, and, just a splash of Ango
Address: 115 SE 1st Street Gainesville, Florida
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5. White Buffalo
The rarest of the rare. Stay for the meal and come for the shots.
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The White Buffalo is located close to downtown making it one of the top bars in Gainesville, FL to visit that is easy to get to with its great location.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
Here the weekends start on Thursday!
This unique bar style not only serves liquor and craft beer from local distilleries, it also fosters a feeling of community, and is just an outright fun club vibe!
Throwback techno nights, country nights, free cover nights, it’s all nights of dancing, partying, and crazy fun.
Address: 111 South Main Street, Gainesville, Florida.
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6. The Bull
The Bull is an excellent spot to unwind and relax after a long day at work or a stressful week because of its mellow, peaceful, and relaxing ambiance.
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It’s the TRUE Florida Hipster spot!
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
The Bull is the spot to go when you want to feel a “Vibe” and chill while enjoying a delicious drink with plenty of seating options and booths to choose from.
The music is also wonderful and calming, and you can listen to it while sipping one of their handmade brews.
They also feature an extensive wine selection and while you’re there, why not do some fun things with your friends?
You may play board games with your pals while sipping cocktails and listening to live jazz music or come for a fun night of Show and Tell.
Events at This Gainesville Bar
- Open Mic Night at The Bull
- Karaoke Nights
- Sip ‘N’ Swing/ Salsa in the Street
- Jazzology
- Show and Tell
Address: 18 SW 1st Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
7. Boca Fiesta
Visit Boca Fiesta, one of Gainesville’s only Mexican-style restaurants, to get out of your comfort zone.
Whether you’re a meat-eater or a vegetarian, Boca Fiesta’s menu has something for everyone.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
It’s a fiesta every day of the week here with specials all week long. There isn’t any wrong day to go!
The menu is insanely delicious with so many mouthwatering dishes and great appetizers too to go alongside a drink.
But you must try the Fried Mac and Cheese along with a Boca Margarita. Trust me, you’ll be happy you did!
Daily Specials
- Mondays: Bogo Margaritas: Buy one margarita, get one free. You’ll get a Boca Fiesta button valid for a margarita on any Monday if you don’t want both at the same time.
- Tuesdays: 2 For $6 Tacos: Choose from chicken, beef, pork, chorizo, TVP, or black beans; you can mix and match.
- Wednesdays: $7 Burritos/Bowls: For $6, you can get a burrito or a bowl packed with chicken, beef, pork, chorizo, TVP, or black beans.
- Thursdays: $3 Tequila, $3 Whiskey, $3 PBR (Pabst Blue Ribbon): If you wish to have a few beers after work, this is the night for you without breaking the wallet!
- Fridays And Saturdays: Weekend Happy Hour 4–6 p.m.: $7 House Margaritas $4 Wells $5 Tully $1 Off Drafts $3 PBR
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar
- Mexican Mule: Tequila Espolon Reposado, lemon juice, agave néctar, grapefruit bitters, ginger beer
- Cadillac Margarita: Double shot of Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila, agave nectar, fresh juices, Grand Marnier floater
- Kool Breeze: Cucumber gin, grapefruit, lemon, agave nectar, soda water
Address: 232 SE 1st Street Gainesville, Florida
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8. Dragon Fly
Dragonfly Sushi is a modern Japanese restaurant that is a true Gainesville staple that serves fresh sushi and delicious cocktails.
The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining areas and a covered bar and lounge area!
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
When you enter Dragonfly, there is never a dull moment.
The staff is kind, and the service is quick; all of these factors are enough to make Dragonfly your new favorite bar.
If you’re still hesitant, note that you get a discount every weekday at happy hour.
Just know that if you visit on the weekends, be prepared to wait to find a good seat at the bar.
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It’s become super popular with some of the best sushi rolls being the Smoky Dragon, Cobra Kai, Mango Tango, The Bomb, and the Volcano Roll.
Happy Hour Menu
- Cocktails: Saké Blossom, Ginger Ninja, Cucumber Compulsion, Musashi’s Paddle, Old Fashioned
- Sushi Bar: Salmon Skin Roll, Ultimate Roll, Crunch Roll, Uramaki
Best Dishes at This Gainesville Bar:
- Beef Tataki
- Braised Short Ribs
- Miso Black Cod
- Short Rib Miso Ramen
- Steamed Buns
Address: 201 SE 2nd Ave #104, Gainesville, FL 32601
9. Boxcar Wine & Beer Garden
The Boxcar Wine and Beer Garden will be one of your favorites! Wonderful beverages (I prefer their sangria), great environment, friendly staff, and great pizza from the local Humble Woodfire Grill Pizza spot.
The location here is perfect being that it’s right next to the Depot Park and the Cade Museum. It is one of the best places to visit in Gainesville for free!
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
There are lots and lots of craft beers to choose from and wines from all over the country here.
They also have a small menu that’s accommodating with vegan hotdogs topped with vegan queso, if that’s more in your foodie lane.
Plus why not try something a little different from the menu? Go for the loaded totchos (tater tots). They are fantastic!
The Boxcar Wine and Beer Garden also hosts weekly and monthly events such as karaoke, stand-up comedy, and live performances. Just double-check their Facebook to see when the next events will take place.
Overall, this spot is also excellent if you want to hang out with your friends after work or school as Gainesville transitions to nighttime.
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar:
- Swamp Head Midnight Oil
- Steigler Grapefruit Radler
- Original Sin Black Widow
Address: 201 SE Depot Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
10. Gather: Social Lounge
This hidden Gainesville gem is located inside Hotel Indigo in Celebration Pointe.
Don’t let its chic, modern, and sophisticated atmosphere make you think that you won’t have a fun drinking and dining experience.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
The Gather: Social Lounge mission is to provide you an outstanding nightlife with ingredients locally sourced for their chef-driven kitchen.
With the goal of providing “Global Comfort Food” with a fine dining experience, you can see this mission reflected in the deliciously tantalizing cocktails.
With its ideal location, top-notch drinks, and laid-back atmosphere, this place has become one of my new go-to Happy Hour spots in Gainesville, Florida.
Best Food and Drinks at This Gainesville Hotel
- Tuna Tartare
- Chicken N’ Waffles
- Chef-Inspired Charcuterie Board
- Crispy Fried Chicken and Mofongo
- Classic Margarita
- Cosmo Martini
Address: 5020 SW 30th Ln, Gainesville, FL 32608
11. The Keys Grill & Piano Bar
Get ready to head to the keys as this is home to the best piano show in Gainesville!
The Keys Grill and Piano Bar piano entertainment is fueled by crowd requests with a solo show and dueling piano shows throughout the week.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
Not only does this place offer some of the best entertainment in Gainesville, but it also serves delicious Florida seafood and affordable cocktails with its daily happy hour.
The Keys weekly special 5 O’clock Somewhere runs Sunday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with 50 percent off drinks and appetizers.
So be sure to get a reservation before you get there, unwind with an amazing beverage, and sing along to piano renditions of your favorite tunes.
Best Food and Drinks at This Gainesville Hotel
- Conch Fritters
- Southern Fried Pickles
- Frozen Mango Margarita
- Keys Pain Killer
- Gator Spicy Margarita
12. Covey Kitchen + Cocktails
This is THE place to be in Gainesville and is by far the best bar/lounge for anyone looking for an upscale dining and drinking experience.
With an exquisite cocktail list, jazz nights, a laid-back hipster vibe, and handpicked ingredients from local growers, Covey Kitchen + Bar combines all of the required elements of a top-notch restaurant and bar located inside Hotel Eleo.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
The menu changes seasonally so you are always getting to try new and fresh Florida-inspired dishes and signature drinks.
It’s a great place to come and chill especially on Sunday and Wednesday evenings for their jazz nights of live music.
Hit me up once you visit this place and let me know what your cocktail adventure was like. I’m pretty sure it will not disappoint you. Check out the full menu here.
Best Dishes at Covey Kitchen + Bar
- Hot Fresh Crispy Pork Rinds with Pimento Cheese
- French Onion Gratin Soup
- Ribeye Pintxos
- Onion-Crusted Scottish Salmon
- Grilled Vegetable Ravioli
- Smoked Fish Pate
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar:
- Night Audit: Tito’s, Double shot espresso, Frangelico, Kahlua whipped cream, Lavender and cocoa shavings
- La Nacional: brugal 1888, St. Elizabeth All Spice Dram, Lemon, Pineapple, Mint
- Covey Old Fashioned: Buffalo Trace, Angostura, and orange bitters, Sugar cube, Smoked to order
- Mile Marker: Hangar 1 Lime Vodka, Coconut puree, Pineapple, Lime, Agave, Biscoff rim
Address: 1514 SW 14th Street Gainesville, Florida 32608
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13. The Social at Midtown
The Social at Midtown’s big attraction is its open rooftop lounge with over 30 craft beers on tap along with intoxicating drinks.
You’ll love this spot as a place to enjoy a date night or a place to entertain your visiting friends and family.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
It’s a great place for savings especially if you dive into their happy social hour.
With $3 Margaritas and Lemon Drop Shots, $4 First Magnitude Drafts, and live DJs you can’t go wrong with Gainesville bar. Their draft list is overflowing with so many choices, pitcher night, and live acoustic music to go along with the flowing drinks.
Don’t forget to watch the Florida Gators in action with the 60 flat-screen TVs making this the best place in town to watch football.
Please don’t put it off any longer! Go to Midtown Social and enjoy. You can thank me later!
Best Dishes at The Social at Midtown
- Buffalo Chicken Wontons
- Torts & Salsa Trio
- Sweet & Meaty Poutine
- Spinach, Kale & Artichoke Dip
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar
- Golden Road Mango Cart
- Wicked Weed Watermelon Dragonfruit Burst
- Swamp Head Berry Jelly
- Goose Island Beer Hazy Beer Hug
- Victory Sour Monkey
Address: 1728 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32603
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14. The Dime
The Dime is an intimate bar in Gainesville that’s close to the Matheson History Museum and delivers some of the BEST handcrafted cocktails in town!
You’ll want more than your standard wine and beer as this place will engulf many of your senses with its eclectic drink menu that is CONSTANTLY changing. It will keep you coming back for more.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
Be sure to check out their $10 Tuesdays at the Dime! They have some delicious cocktails on the menu like The American Ruse” what they call a bubblegum pop Manhattan with a bite, it’s simply siptastic.
You can also choose from both indoor and outdoor seating if you want a change of scenery.
The majority of cocktails cost between $8 and $13 and it’s within walking distance to other downtown bars and lounges.
Must Try Drinks at This Gainesville Bar:
- The Hustler: Espolon Blanco Tequila, Lime Juice, Orange Juice, Giffard Orgeat, Tempus Fugit Liqueur de Violettes, and Bittercube Corazon Bitters
- Glycerine Queen: Deep Eddy Vodka, Lime Juice, Giffard Crème du Banane, Simple Syrup, Bigallet Thym Liqueur, Peychaud’s Bitters and Salt
- New York Sour: Four Roses Bourbon, Lemon Juice, and Simple Syrup with Malbec Floater
Address: 4 E University Ave, Gainesville, Florida
15. Loosey’s
In Gainesville, Loosey’s has two bars both being known for their beer, burgers, live music, and well-crafted drinks!
It’s one of the town’s staples and one of the best bars in Gainesville that also offers mocktails (non-alcoholic mix drinks) for only $7 so no one is left out.
Why We Love This as One of the Best Bars in Gainesville
With 25 taps just dedicated to American microbreweries across along with all the seasonal selections they bring in, Loosey’s downtown is definitely one of the best bars in Gainesville for beer lovers.
Their happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and ALL DAY Sunday. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect way to end a weekend in Gainesville!
Happy Hour Menu
- $1 off Florida-brewed drafts
- $2.75 Macro domestic pints
- $2 off Speciality cocktails and wells
- $1 off High Noon and White Claw
- $5 Classic fries
- $ Mac ‘n’ cheese
- $5 Small Brussel sprouts
Address: 120 SW 1st Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601
Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to try out one of the beers on the menu. Loosey’s offers some of the best burgers in Gainesville!
Final Thoughts on the Best Bars in Gainesville, Florida
These are just a few of the best bars in Gainesville, FL. It was definitely a lot of fun “researching” this guide for you. I took one for the team trying as many bars in Gainesville as I could.
But before you go, I wanted to list out a few of my FAVORITE lounges in Gainesville that are hip, modern, and sophisticated!
8 Best Lounges in Gainesville, Florida
- Covey Kitchen and Cocktails
- Fluid Lounge
- The Social at MidTown
- The Dime
- The AC Lounge
- Gather: The Social Lounge
- Havana’s Wine and Cigar Lounge
- Original American Kitchen
Did your favorite bar make the list? Let us know in the comments section below!
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
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(Original Article Date: September 17, 2021/Updated January 24, 2024)