After a long week of work and classes, what better way to relax than to watch the game, grab a cocktail with a friend or go out downtown?
While Sweetwater has a full suite of amenities for entertaining, including a stunning pool deck with a hot tub, outdoor bar and kitchen, and killer views, there are a ton of bars just a short walk or Uber from your front door for UF students.
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For this reason, we have put together a list of what we consider to be the eight best bars for UF students.
8 Best Bars for UF Undergraduates
1. Social
Neighborhood: Midtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 11-minute walk
Address: 1728 W University Ave
The Social, a restaurant and rooftop bar, is the perfect spot for college students to grab a drink and a bite to eat. You can watch the next Gators game at one of their watch parties and split a $5 pitcher with your friends! Or, spend your Wednesday night singing karaoke!
2. White Buffalo
Neighborhood: Downtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 3-minute drive
Address: 111 S Main St
If you’re looking for a long night out with friends, White Buffalo is the place to be! With great music and affordable cocktails, your GNO is guaranteed a great time. Plus, stop by on Twisted Tuesday for a fun weekday special! This place is a must-go among UF students.
3. Downtown Fats
Neighborhood: Downtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 3-minute drive
Address: 112 S Main St
Also known as “DTF,” Downtown Fats is a speakeasy-inspired club located off Main Street. It’s always packed with awesome music. If you’re looking for that city-type clubbing experience, DTF is the place to be!
4. The Range
Neighborhood: Downtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 3-minute drive
Address: 10 SE 2nd Ave
Whether you’re going to enjoy Techno Tuesday, Latin nights, or throwback Friday, The Range never fails to offer a good time any night of the week.
5. JJ’s Tavern
Neighborhood: Midtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 10-minute walk
Address: 1702 W University Ave Suite G
This small but always busy dive bar is the perfect for your next night out. JJ’s is known for its rum buckets and delicious take-out pizza. Plus, the newly added back bar offers seating to hang out with friends while you eat.
6. Grog House Grill
Neighborhood: Midtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 10-minute walk
Address: 1718 W University Ave
Grog is the only 18+ club in Midtown, so college students of any year can come enjoy the club life in Gainesville. The take-out grill food and all-you-can-drink Saturdays make for the perfect night out! For all the ladies, stop by Grog on Wednesday for ladies night!
7. Fat Daddy’s
Neighborhood: Midtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 10-minute walk
Address: 1702 W University Ave Suite A1
Better known around UF students as “Fats,” Fat Daddy’s plays dance and house music for the ultimate clubbing experience. If you’re looking for a good time around Midtown, this is the go-to.
8. Salty Dog
Neighborhood: Midtown
Distance From Sweetwater: 10-minute walk
Address: 1712 W University Ave
The saloon style dive bar, Salty Dog, is a great place to go if you’re looking for a chill night out. Even after its opening over 30 years ago, this is still a go-to place among UF students. This casual bar offers bar games like pool and ping-pong tables so you can enjoy a drink and quality time with friends.
We hope this article helped you learn about the best bars near UF. Next time you’re planning your night out, we hope we’ve inspired you to try one of our favorite spots!
