Illinois State University - Nightlife

A classic sports bar, Elroy’s has big screen televisions surrounding the bar. The rectangular layout of the bar tends to be inconvenient and causes the bar to get crowded easily. However, this is the place to be when a big game is broadcast. You can be certain that this bar will be packed on game day.

As one of the more classy bars, the Loft has a dress code. This martini bar usually has a jazz band playing, but there is also a DJ on certain nights. While the image of an upscale bar may seem to push students away, this bar is extremely popular on Thursday nights. One of the drawbacks is the location, as it is not on the same street as the majority of other bars.

Fat Jack’s is one of the bigger bars at ISU, but what makes this bar unique is that it is known for its cigar room. The quantity of space also allows bar-goers to roam the bar to check out who is in attendance. Students are able to play pool, sit at the bar, lounge on one of the many couches, or get down on the dance floor, where a DJ is usually playing hit music. While there may not be a band every night, there is always a cover charge.

Many students are attracted to Daddios because of the bands that perform there. Maggie Speaks, Hairbanger’s Ball, and Bottle of Justus are just a few that perform there on a regular basis. Daddios has also become known for its Thursday night special, “$2 You Call It.” For students who like to dance, there is a dance floor, but come early because it tends to get crowded. If you are one to just listen to music, there are also areas to sit or play pool. A $5 cover fee is paid at the door.

Mulligans is known for its Long Island Iced Tea served in a mason jar. It’s a drink that is sure to leave you feeling good. This bar has a homey feel to it, and it’s a great place to stand around and drink with friends. They recently added on an outdoor beer garden that is equipped with outdoor TVs, so the local sports fanatics can enjoy the game. Over the years, this bar has gained popularity and has become a staple in any bar-goer’s weekend activities.

Rhino’s is a new bar in town that has received a reputation for strict carding. Be wary if you are using a fake ID—the bouncers will call the cops. One of the perks is that the bar generally has a band playing, which also means there is a cover that is generally $5. Classic ‘80s songs play throughout the night as well, so the dance floor is usually full of students.

The atmosphere is what makes Pub II one of the most popular bars at ISU. The dress code can be as causal as a sweatshirt and jeans to black pants and a nice shirt. The most popular night to be here is Wednesday for $3 pitchers of Miller Lite or Bud Light. Sports are usually broadcast on the TVs throughout the bar, and students can even be found playing Flip Cup at the island tables.

The Coffeehouse is a great place to hang out with friends and listen to the nightly entertainment. Local musicians, poets, and storytellers can be found displaying their works on certain days of the week.