Written by Tue Tran
The Metroplex’s way of geographically distributing bars and clubs is a little peculiar: Some streets in Addison, downtown Dallas, and Plano are packed with bars, while the Richardson area lacks both quality and quantity when it comes to drinking locations. Nonetheless, if you have someone drive you 15 minutes to a decent bar, you probably won’t regret it. The bars usually cook good food, mix interesting drinks, and house attractive crowds, while the clubs and dance halls can really liven up your night with their music. Prices vary per location, and there are places for a cheap drink, but most of the time, you will spend more than you would normally—meaning, soberly—do. Students, thus, prefer going to house parties to crawling bars, since these parties are more affordable, more fun, and much less risky if you personally know the hosting individual or group.
Underage students do drink, but mostly only with people they trust and rarely too much. Various nightlife options exist for those not reliant on alcohol. Staying in to study is one of them, albeit not a very good one. One can also explore fun places around the Metroplex, from the whirlyball court to the malls and amusement centers. In the end, taking your date to race at SpeedZone or ice skate in Galleria can make a more fun and meaningful night out than swallowing glasses of alcohol in a loud, crowded apartment—not to mention the hangover that follows.