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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Cool bars in University District

A bar that feels genuinely cool because of the people inside, not because of the decor.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated May 2026
01
Alley Cat Lounge image 1
Alley Cat Lounge image 2
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Cozy modern speakeasy with mid-century decor and intimate lighting creates a cool sexy vibe. Music and lighting balance perfectly to support a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Creative cocktails and inviting seating attract a crowd looking for a stylish, comfortable night out.

Cocktails here are bespoke and complex, crafted with unique ingredients and techniques. The bar offers a cozy modern speakeasy vibe with lighting and music that enhance the drink experience.

Atmosphere feels sexy and cool with a fresh vibe near the light rail station. The lounge keeps a laid-back yet stylish energy throughout.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be amazing and creative."

"The Thai food here is amazing and authentic."

"The cocktails here are creative and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be limited during peak hours.

02
Blue Moon Tavern image 1
Live music bar

Classic dive bar with live music and a dance floor offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere filled with warm lighting and historic charm. Regulars create a laid-back vibe that feels like a well-loved gathering spot. Sound quality stays outstanding during performances, supporting a strong local music scene.

Dive bar with deep cultural roots and a wraparound bar creates a classic vibe. Offers cheap tasty drinks, live music, and lets you bring your own food.

Historic venue with a really cool vibe and a cool crowd creates a unique atmosphere. Style stands out as very cool throughout the space.

People are saying

"This place has so much history, it felt like a museum."

"I found the vibe and crowd here to be really cool."

"It's the best dive bar in Seattle with real history."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features cheap Rainier beer, perfect for budget-friendly drinks.

2

The Wednesday night open mic showcases local talent and has a lively atmosphere.

3

Monday nights feature free Grateful Dead music performed by the Andy Coe Band.

03
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop with weed-themed decor and a full bar creates a lively atmosphere with loud music and bright lights. The space feels like a home away from home and suits both solo visits and groups. Unique features include a cotton mouth cure drink corner and themed merchandise like frisbees and stickers.

A pretty nice bar offers plenty of seating. Staff provide friendly service, like giving kids lemons for their water when lemonade isn't available.

Atmosphere feels cool and chill with lots of art and a great vibe to hang out.

People are saying

"I thought this sandwich was the best I've ever had."

"The bar staff here is incredibly friendly and helpful."

"These toasted subs are amazing and have been great for 20 years."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during lunch hours due to high demand from walk-ins and online orders.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby street parking.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with sandwiches averaging around $13.

04
Earl's on the Ave image 1

Bar with three pool tables and sports on all TVs offers a loud, crowded atmosphere filled mostly with college-age crowd. Busy on weekends and game days, it has a classic college sports bar vibe with reasonable drink prices and casual hangout energy.

Crowded with a local vibe, this bar feels like a college sports spot. Food comes from a separate business but gets delivered right to your table.

Crowded local bar with a sports bar vibe offers a fun hangout spot. The atmosphere feels cool and lively.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the bacon cheese fries."

"It's a classic college sports bar, perfect for watching the Huskies."

"It's a cool place to hang out, like a local crowded bar."

Good to know

1

You need quarters to play pool.

2

They accept food orders until shortly before closing.

3

Food is sold through a separate business inside the bar.

05
The Mountaineering Club image 1

Bar offers 360-degree city views with a heated patio and occasional live DJs. Atmosphere ranges from loud college crowds to a more relaxed vibe depending on time. Valet parking is available, and reservations are recommended due to busy periods.

Rooftop bar offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city with a family friendly atmosphere before 6pm. Cocktails are fantastic and inventive, paired with simple tavern fare.

The atmosphere feels cool and eclectic with a strong mountaineering theme. Decorations around the room add to the unique vibe for hanging out and drinks.

People are saying

"You can enjoy the amazing city views from the rooftop."

"This bar has a cool vibe and stunning city views."

"The views of the city from the terrace are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 4-6 pm with three drinks for $10.

2

A 20% cover charge is compulsory at the venue.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating with views.

06
Graduate by Hilton Seattle image 1

Hotel features an old building with a collegiate, dorm-like vibe and thin walls that let in noise from neighbors and the street. Lobby offers a relaxing atmosphere with places to sit and work, while the rooftop bar provides stunning city views and craft cocktails in a fun, funky setting.

Rooftop bar offers 360-degree city views with both indoor and outdoor seating. Craft cocktails and small plates come with great service and a fun, funky vibe.

Unique, funky decor and a cool art deco vibe define the rooms and lobby. The rooftop bar adds a trendy atmosphere to the overall cool feel.

People are saying

"The rooftop bar has amazing city views."

"The decor is so cool, funky, and retro."

"The valet parking here is really convenient."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $50, which is higher than expected.

2

The hotel has only one operational elevator, which can lead to delays.

3

Rooms lack fridges and microwaves, which may be inconvenient for guests.

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University District, Seattle

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