Top College Bars in Orlando Area

Most “Big City” colleges are located on the outskirts of downtown, and on the opposite end of the uptown. The college area is like the middle sibling, beating to the sound of their own drum and tooting their own beer bottles.

Orlando is no exception; also known as Central Florida, the college area surrounding the University of Central Florida, Rollins College, Barry University and Valencia (which are all within 15 min. of each other) brings in students from every end of Florida, and all over the country. The bars in this area also reflect the eclectic nature; from the local pub with 5 cent wing specials to uber posh martini bars spilling fifteen dollar martinis down Park Ave., Winter Park. The students and residents have many bars to choose from, but there are a few bars that strain to define the area and bring in the more loyal and local crowds.

“The Knight Library” is anything but a place to study for your upcoming calculus quiz. Cleverly named, the legend is that students swiping the credit cards their parents allowed strictly for books and tuition can catch no flack for their purchases reading “Knight Library” on the bill statement. By no means am I condoning such behavior, let’s please strike that from the recordâÂ?¦

The spacious one story Sports Bar and Grill houses over 7 TV’s, a projector screen, D.J. booth, and even a small V.I.P. area. Not the type of bar you would take your mother to, but definitely a fun, relaxing, time with great music, games, pool tables, and people in the background. That must be why Johnny Knoxville, Wee man, Ryan Dunn and other lesser known, but still famous skate boarders decided to make a cameoâÂ?¦TWICE! In January of 2006. But please, don’t let this fact mislead you into assuming that the prices reflect the celebrity attendance, their prices are more than reasonable; they’re downright cheap. Though the prices are cheap, they still manage to house a varietal potpourri of liquors and beers, leaving you with a full wallet, a palatable taste in your mouth, and a slap stick happy smile on your face.

Don’t miss out on this website, it is by far the most entertaining and professionally constructed of any bar I’ve seen. Also, you can view their specials, and see pictures of the locals partying down at the scene.

www.knightlibrary.com

If you’re looking for something low key and unique with an urban edge, check out “Underground Bluz.” There are two locations in the Orlando area, and one is about 2 minutes from the UCF campus. The main theme surrounding Underground Bluz is music, and if you consider yourself someone who likes good music, you owe it to yourself to check it out. They have two open mic nights a week, jazz nights, blues nights, and make a great venue for local celebrity musicians.

It is a one of a kind bar that clearly focuses on their loyal customers. Definitely not the MTV of 2006, Underground Bluz has a “homey” kind of classic feel to it with an atmosphere of friendly, open minded individuals to match. Local art and band posters montage the walls, while the bar advertises their over 100 different beer options lining the back. Most of the regular customers enjoy a Pabst Blue Ribbon special, with a possible intermission of a nice tall Tucher; but, at Underground Bluz, the sky is the limit for beer options. If you’re not sure what to order, but willing to try something different, ask one of the approachable bartenders, who are always eager to offer interesting selections. Don’t trust a bartender? Not to worry, every night there are at least 4 intriguing specials that highlight new, seldom heard of, great tasting beers.

Underground Bluz is the kind of place where you’ll hear an intense philosophical conversation brewing to your right, between two forty something year old men; but turn just ninety degrees to your left and you’ll notice a local musician tuning his guitar, while his sorority girlfriend watches admiringly. This is not the type of place that profiles, as long as you can appreciate good beer, good people, and a laid back atmosphere, it’s for you.

Live and let live seems to be the attitude, and expect to be welcomed by a diverse crowd and soulful music. At any old bar, you’re likely to witness an obliterated drunk guy, trying to start a bar fight over a spilled beer; while, at Underground Bluz, you’d more likely see some drunk guy spill his drink on someone, and then see that someone laugh and lick the beer right off his shirt.

A place as unique and inspiring as Underground Bluz is best described by example, therefore best appreciated by experiencing it for yourself. Check out their website for upcoming events and to view their famous beer menu.

http://ucf.undergroundbluz.com

Last but not least, “Friendly Confines.”

They really have it all, sports, bar, games, atmosphere. This is the kind of place you could take your mom if you wanted to show her a nice time while quenching your infallible thirst for fun and brew.

The place to watch any sports game if you want to be surrounded by those who share your passion and determination for a good game, a good beer, and good food. Saying the food is good is actually an understatement, because everything there is absolutely delicious. Granted, it is bar food, but that is the genre I’m covering here, and even if you do try and stray away from the typical fries and burger, Friendly Confines will always happily surprise your taste buds with tantalizing flavors and quality rations.

Not only do they offer great food and sport atmosphere, say you’re that girlfriend who doesn’t care much for sports, but would still like to spend some time with your beau? They have electronic trivia & poker going full time there, and you’re sure to keep yourself busy with some fun competition while enjoying your bar feast and quality service.

Please visit their website for more information.

http://friendlyconfinesorlando.com

College area Orlando is a diverse community, and no matter who you are, there is sure to be a place that entertains you.