Hey guys! Looking for the best college bars in Houston? Whether you're a student at Rice, U of H, or just kicking around this awesome city, finding the perfect spot to unwind after classes or celebrate a big win is crucial. Houston has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of options, but knowing where the real college crowds gather can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through some of the most popular and highly-rated college bars in Houston, giving you the lowdown on what makes each place special. From dive bars with unbeatable drink specials to lively sports bars with tons of TVs, there's something for everyone. So, grab your friends, and let's explore the best college bars Houston has to offer!

Top College Bars Near the University of Houston

When you're near the University of Houston, you're in the heart of a buzzing area with tons of great options. Let's dive into some of the top college bars near the University of Houston that every student should know about. These spots are perfect for everything from a casual weeknight hangout to a weekend celebration.

The Den

The Den is a classic college bar that's super close to campus, making it a go-to spot for UH students. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, cheap drinks, and awesome daily specials, The Den is always packed with students looking to unwind. They've got a great selection of beers on tap, and their mixed drinks are surprisingly good for the price. Plus, they often host themed nights and events, so there's always something new happening. Whether you're looking to catch a game on TV, play some pool, or just hang out with friends, The Den is a solid choice. Its proximity to campus means you'll always run into someone you know, adding to the friendly and familiar vibe. The bartenders are known for being friendly and efficient, even when the place is packed. Overall, The Den provides an authentic college bar experience that's hard to beat. Don't miss out on their happy hour deals – they're legendary!

Calhoun's Rooftop Bar & Grill

For a slightly more upscale experience without breaking the bank, Calhoun's Rooftop Bar & Grill is an excellent option. Located near the University of Houston, this spot offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it a great place to impress a date or just enjoy a night out with friends. They have a wide range of drinks, including craft beers and signature cocktails, as well as a menu of tasty bar snacks and entrees. The rooftop setting is perfect for enjoying the Houston weather, and they often have live music or DJs playing in the evenings. While it might be a bit pricier than some of the other college bars in the area, the ambiance and quality of the drinks and food make it worth the splurge. Calhoun's is particularly popular on weekends, so be sure to get there early to snag a good spot. The combination of great views, good music, and a lively atmosphere makes it a favorite among UH students looking for a memorable night out.

Pub Fiction

Pub Fiction is another popular spot near the University of Houston, known for its extensive beer selection and lively atmosphere. This bar boasts a huge number of beers on tap, including many local and craft brews, making it a haven for beer lovers. They also have a full menu of pub fare, with everything from burgers and sandwiches to salads and appetizers. Pub Fiction is a great place to watch sports, with plenty of TVs throughout the bar, and they often host trivia nights and other events. The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the staff is friendly and attentive. While it can get crowded, especially on weekends, the energy is always high, and it's a great place to meet new people. The central location and diverse offerings make Pub Fiction a reliable choice for a fun night out. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just looking for a lively spot to hang out with friends, Pub Fiction has something for everyone.

Best Bars Near Rice University

Rice University students also have some fantastic options when it comes to college bars near Rice University. Here are a few favorites that are always buzzing with activity.

Valhalla

Valhalla is not your typical college bar – it's actually run by Rice graduate students! Located on campus, this quirky spot is known for its incredibly cheap drinks and its unique atmosphere. The bar is decorated with all sorts of oddities and memorabilia, giving it a distinct and memorable vibe. Valhalla is a great place to unwind after a long day of classes or research, and it's a popular spot for grad students to socialize and network. The drink selection is limited but the prices are unbeatable, making it a great option for those on a budget. Valhalla is open to all Rice students and faculty, and it's a great place to experience the unique culture of Rice University. Don't expect anything fancy, but do expect a good time and some great conversation. This is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Rice experience.

The Ginger Man

For a more traditional pub experience, The Ginger Man is a great choice near Rice University. This cozy spot offers a wide selection of beers on tap, including many local and craft brews, as well as a menu of tasty pub fare. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with comfortable seating and a friendly staff. The Ginger Man is a great place to relax and unwind, whether you're catching up with friends or just enjoying a quiet pint. They also have a nice outdoor patio, which is perfect for enjoying the Houston weather. While it might be a bit pricier than some of the other college bars in the area, the quality of the drinks and the ambiance make it worth the splurge. The Ginger Man is a popular spot for both Rice students and locals, and it's a great place to experience the Houston beer scene.

Under the Volcano

Under the Volcano is a funky, eclectic bar that's a bit further from campus but well worth the trip. Known for its strong margaritas and its unique decor, this spot is a favorite among Rice students looking for something a little different. The bar is decorated with all sorts of quirky art and memorabilia, giving it a distinct and memorable vibe. They also have a great outdoor patio, which is perfect for enjoying the Houston weather. Under the Volcano is a great place to dance the night away. It's a popular spot for both Rice students and locals, and it's a great place to experience the more alternative side of Houston nightlife. Whether you're looking for a strong drink, good music, or just a unique atmosphere, Under the Volcano is sure to impress.

Other Great College Bars in Houston

Beyond the areas immediately surrounding UH and Rice, Houston has many other great college bars worth checking out. Here are a few more recommendations:

Little Woodrow's

Little Woodrow's is a popular chain of sports bars in Houston, and they have several locations throughout the city. These bars are known for their lively atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and their love of all things sports. They have plenty of TVs throughout the bar, making it a great place to watch the game, and they often host trivia nights and other events. Little Woodrow's is a popular spot for college students, and it's a great place to meet new people. The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The various locations make it easy to find one that's convenient for you, and the consistent quality makes it a reliable choice for a fun night out. Whether you're a sports fan or just looking for a lively spot to hang out with friends, Little Woodrow's has something for everyone.

Christian's Tailgate Bar & Grill

Christian's Tailgate Bar & Grill is another Houston staple, known for its amazing burgers and its fun, laid-back atmosphere. With several locations throughout the city, it's a convenient option for students from different colleges. They have a wide range of burgers, sandwiches, and other pub fare, as well as a full bar with plenty of beers on tap. Christian's Tailgate is a great place to watch sports, with plenty of TVs throughout the bar, and they often host live music and other events. The atmosphere is always lively, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The combination of great food, good drinks, and a fun atmosphere makes Christian's Tailgate a popular choice among college students.

Lucky's Pub

Lucky's Pub is a lively Irish pub in the heart of downtown Houston, known for its great selection of beers and its fun, festive atmosphere. This spot is a popular choice for college students looking to celebrate St. Patrick's Day or just enjoy a night out with friends. They have a wide range of beers on tap, including many Irish and imported brews, as well as a menu of traditional Irish pub fare. Lucky's Pub is a great place to watch sports, with plenty of TVs throughout the bar, and they often host live music and other events. The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The central location and diverse offerings make Lucky's Pub a reliable choice for a fun night out. Whether you're looking for a pint of Guinness, a plate of fish and chips, or just a lively spot to hang out with friends, Lucky's Pub has something for everyone.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a rundown of some of the best college bars in Houston! Whether you're looking for a cheap dive bar, a rooftop lounge, or a lively sports bar, Houston has something to offer every college student. Remember to drink responsibly, have fun, and explore all the amazing nightlife that Houston has to offer. Cheers!