Stone Tavern
Stone Tavern is a relatively new addition to Kent's bar scene, and it's ambitious in its attempts to bring a new dimension to the local music scene. It has an artistic flavor, with local art blanketing the walls and a mix of genres performing several nights a week, with some comedy shows sprinkled in for good measure.
110 E. Main St.
Kent
(330) 677-7320
Ray’s Place
Ray's is by far the most renowned place in Kent. It's been around for a long time, and when former Kent State student Drew Carey comes to Kent, this is the bar he visits. It's a classic American place, with big portions of food and drafts to boot. Students, alumni, and locals head to Ray's to catch up with friends and cheer on their teams. On certain nights, the bar is standing room only.
Zephyr Pub & Spirits
Zephyr is Kent's indie bar. The music is achingly hip, the liquor hard, and the jeans slim. It has three floors and one of the best patios in town. The patrons are generally more mature than in other places—this isn't a place for frat boys or sports fans. This is where the artistic crowd congregates, in an atmosphere that drips cool. Drink specials change monthly, but there's always a $1 special.
106 W. Main St.
Kent
(330) 678-4848
Water Street Tavern
Water Street Tavern (formerly "Glory Days") caters to Kent's fraternity scene. While the Greeks love it, the art crowd avoids it like a name brand. Typical dress includes anything with Greek letters, popped collars, and ripped designer jeans. The highlight of the bar is the jukebox, playing anything from Weezer to Neil Diamond to Kanye West. Water Street Tavern plays host to official Kent State athletic post-game events, too. It also has $5 pitchers, and the service is somewhat less than legendary.
Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar
Buffalo Wild Wings is an excellent place to get good drinks and great food. It's a chain, so most will already know that this is a great place to watch a game and eat some great wings. The outdoor patio is very spacious, and it's a great place for a relaxing night with friends.
157 Lounge
157 leans toward the upscale, being more reminiscent of a NYC club than a college-town bar. The interior is starkly modern, and it's one of the few bars in town to have a dance floor (and a pretty good one at that). Its beer selection is limited, since the atmosphere lends itself more to cocktails and mixed drinks.
Mugs Brew Pub & Sports Grill
Mugs is a two-story indoor and outdoor bar with large televisions for catching the game with some friends. On the weekends, it's packed with a wide assortment of people. There are bars on both levels, with a dance floor and pool tables on the top level.
The Loft
The Loft used to be known for its gritty mix of townies and students, but cheap drinks have made it attract a large variety of crowds. Some nights, the overflow from Ray's makes it nearly impossible to get in. Oh yeah, and there are $5 pitchers.
112 W. Main St.
Kent
(330) 678-0391