Let’s face it – Tuscaloosa is pretty red already. But if you’re looking to add your own shade to the mix, painting T-town red is easy thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene. From true college bars to cool microbreweries to quirky pubs and lively taverns, there’s no shortage of local spots for nighttime entertainment. Whether you’re looking to drink, dance, catch a show, or just hang out with good company, you’re sure to find a place to keep the fun flowing with your fellow night owls.
Best of all, many nightlife hotspots are located right on The Strip or a short jaunt downtown, so it’s easy to walk from your WestGate condo for a night of responsible revelry!
Rounders
If you wore your dancing shoes, this popular spot offers a true nightclub experience. You’ll want to visit the “Boom Boom Room”, a spacious back area that boasts a large open dance floor, live DJs and pulsing music, flashing lights, fog machines, and other party features. They also have great daily drink specials and other, more low-key areas in case you need a break from the noise.
Catch 22
If you’re a connoisseur of fine cocktails, you’ll feel right at home in Catch 22. There’s no slinging of well drinks here – from spiked coffees to Moscow mules and martinis, every cocktail is carefully crafted with an expert hand and upscale spirits. But it’s the gallon jars lining the bar that really take their cocktails to the next level. They’re filled with Finlandia vodka and various combinations of fruits, vegetables, and other flavors, creating fresh and unique infusions that add something special to every sip.
Gallettes
You can’t end the night without stopping by Gallettes. This insanely popular “dive bar” has been a Tuscaloosa tradition since 1976, and it remains a staple party place for U of A students and gameday guests. They are also home to the famous Yellow Hammer, a strong vodka cocktail that’s deceptively fruity and served in their signature yellow cup. They’re usually packed on weekends and Wine Wednesdays, when full bottles are only $5 and students get in free, but it’s worth stopping by to grab a drink, shoot some pool, and enjoy a rowdy bar-wide rendition of “Dixieland Delight”.
Rhythm & Brews
If you’re looking for live music, look no further than Rhythm & Brews. This downtown bar is known for having the best live bands in town, and they have live shows on stage all weekend long. With big-name artists and talented local bands singing everything from country to folk to rock n’ roll, it’s a great place for those who can appreciate a good tune and a good time.
Alcove International Tavern
This cozy, upscale tavern is unlike any other in town. The inside is completely smoke-free, and the walls are adorned with fine artwork patrons can buy to support local artists. They also offer one of the largest beer selections in town and a host of signature cocktails made with only top-shelf liquors. But it’s their live entertainment that keeps Alcove really exciting. They have live music every Friday night and host live comedy shows multiple times per month. They even have an Open Mic night on select Wednesday nights, so be sure to bring your funny bone!
When you’re done painting the town, walk (or uber) back to your WestGate condo for a night of peaceful rest. And if you wake up paying the price for your night of fun, sleep in a bit and hit one of the town’s great brunch spots for a delicious pick-me-up!
