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Local picks

Fun bar activities in Downtown

A night out is better when there is something to do besides just sitting and talking.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Gay bar

Upscale lounge with Miami-style atmosphere and state-of-the-art renovation creates a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Spotlights on drag shows and live DJs keep energy lively, drawing a mixed crowd for dancing and socializing. Design features include warm, trendy interiors with art and lighting that enhance the experience.

An upscale cocktail bar with a classy vibe caters to the LGBTQ+ community and allies. It stands out with a high-end old school feel, offering a more refined alternative to typical dive bars.

Something fun every night keeps the energy high. The spot acts as a community hub where people gather to celebrate and enjoy a modern vibe.

People are saying

"This gay bar makes you feel accepted and safe."

"The bartenders here make top-notch craft cocktails."

"It's a great hangout spot with fun activities and a lively crowd."

Good to know

1

Happy hour cocktails are available on Wednesday afternoons.

2

Drag shows happen every Friday night at Hardwicks.

3

Karaoke takes place every Tuesday night with local hosts.

02
Sherwood's image 1

Dive bar under the highway with a cozy hometown feel and clean, remodeled space. Offers pool tables, darts, and beer pong alongside an outdoor patio with a food truck and smoking area. Atmosphere stays peaceful and social, attracting locals and college crowds alike.

A spotless clean dive bar with a cozy, hometown vibe sits under the highway. It offers full-service with a non-smoking atmosphere and a fun, college bar feel.

Lots of games and pool tables create a lively atmosphere. Karaoke Saturdays add extra fun to the evenings.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, hometown dive bar with a great atmosphere."

"It's a full-service dive bar under the highway."

"It's a fun stop with karaoke and games."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Saturday night starting at 9pm.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The bar has a backyard area with a food truck.

03
THAT BAR AT THE ARENA image 1

Sports bar combines indoor and outdoor spaces with two patios featuring bars. Atmosphere stays lively yet comfortable, with numerous TV screens and a festive vibe that draws energetic crowds before and after events.

Offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with a lively vibe for pre and post event gatherings. Staff are friendly and professional, providing attentive service and quick communication. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid spot for happy hour or pregaming near stadiums.

That Bar at the Arena offers a lively spot to have fun even when no game is on. Great food and a fun atmosphere make it a solid choice for activities before or after events.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and hustling."

"I loved the outdoor seating and the festive vibe."

"I found it a fun place to hang out and watch the game."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time to visit for discounted drinks.

2

Parking is available but can be crowded on game days.

3

Food ordering can be slow due to no designated seating area.

04
Pour Taproom - Jacksonville image 1

Self-pour taps with over 80 beer options create an interactive drinking experience. The space combines retro arcade games, multiple seating levels, and a wine wall, blending a dive bar feel with a modern twist. Live music and multiple screens support a lively atmosphere suited for games and socializing.

A wide selection of beers and cocktails fills the full bar, supported by solid service. The space mixes pub-friendly vibes with a small stage for live music and retro arcade games, creating a unique atmosphere.

Self-pour setup offers a fun and easy way to enjoy drinks. The self-serve concept adds an innovative twist that keeps the night engaging and enjoyable.

People are saying

"It's a cool concept to pour your own beer after a learning curve."

"The bar's pour-it-yourself option made tracking my spending easy."

"The self-pour taps made trying lots of beers a fun activity."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Self-service ordering is required; download the app to place your order.

3

Parking is available in a nearby garage, making access convenient.

05
Underbelly image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers intimate live music with great sound quality and phenomenal BBQ. Crowd is diverse and lively, creating an amazing atmosphere close to the bands. Setup ensures no bad views and includes thoughtful touches like a water cooler near the soundboard.

A full bar serves a variety of drinks with professional staff managing large crowds smoothly. The bar area is accessible and even features a second bar to handle busy times.

Fans create a lively atmosphere that adds to the overall fun. The venue offers a consistently enjoyable experience with a vibe that keeps things upbeat.

People are saying

"You've got to try their smoked turkey; it's moist and full of smoky flavor."

"The bar here is full and the bartenders are accommodating."

"I found the experience here to be really fun."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $30 when purchased in advance and $48 at the door.

2

Parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging during events.

3

The venue serves a full bar and hot BBQ made to order.

06
The Southern Grill image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant offers a laid back atmosphere with live music and both indoor and outdoor seating. The space includes a spacious patio and multiple large TVs, creating a casual spot for food and games. The vibe is family-owned and community-focused, blending comfort with entertainment.

A full bar offers a wide selection of drinks with a friendly bartender who highlights happy hour specials. The bar features a spacious outdoor area with picnic tables and heaters for cooler weather.

Live music with an awesome band creates a fun atmosphere. Staff serve good food, drinks, and keep the energy lively for groups of friends and family.

People are saying

"I found the food to be tasty and prepared perfectly."

"The food at this bar was so good and varied."

"The food here is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 PM.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday with a lively atmosphere.

3

Live music features rotating bands on Friday nights.

07
Myth Nightclub | Element Bistro image 1

A nightclub with state-of-the-art lighting and LED ceiling creates a visually stunning, concert-like atmosphere. The energy stays high with bass-heavy music and top DJs spinning house and hip-hop beats, while an outdoor stage and bar offer a lively alternative space. The venue blends upscale design with a relaxed vibe, attracting a diverse crowd ready to dance all night.

Friendly and attentive bar staff provide good service. Multiple bars exist, including one in the smoking area with a DJ playing great mixes. Events sometimes feature open bar options and favors.

Dancing takes center stage with a lively, diverse crowd focused on fun. The spot combines a nightclub vibe with a bistro setting, making it great for Saturday night outings with friends.

People are saying

"The nightclub's DJ kept the bass-heavy music rocking all night."

"The crowd here is so diverse and fun-loving; it's a great place to have fun."

"The bar staff were so nice and attentive during my visit."

Good to know

1

Free cover before 11pm on weekends is available.

2

Expect a steep cover charge for renowned performers.

3

Myth Nightclub hosts electronic Thursdays with big name headliners.

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Downtown, Jacksonville

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