The Majestic
The Majestic is one of Madison’s few nightclubs; it is close to Capital Square, and many go there for the lush atmosphere and pricey drinks. The music is incredible, and the patrons are usually upperclassmen.
115 King St.
(608) 251-2582
Club Inferno
Club Inferno features many live acts, as well as DJs who spin all sorts of music, from house and jungle, to hip-hop and goth.
Nitty Gritty Restaurant and Bar
This place is essential for birthdays. Customers on their special day receive free drinks, a nitty gritty mug, and obnoxious waiters. If it’s your 21st though, be prepared for excessive treatment and attention. Students must go for at least one birthday.
223 N Frances St.
(608) 251-2521
The Kollege Klub
Known as “the KK,” this large bar is a magnet for frat boys, freshmen, and athletes. Drinks aren’t all that expensive, and the crowd is pretty decent. Students say you have to go there at least once to truly complete the UW undergrad experience.
529 N Lake St.
(608) 257-3611
State Street Brats
Founded in 1932, State Street Brats is the original creator of the red (smoked) brat. The second floor has stadium seating and two 10 foot screens for watching the game on weekends.
Paul’s Club
This is one of State Street’s nicer bars. Inside, there is comfortable seating, attractive lighting, jukeboxes, and a large fake tree. There can sometimes be a line, but for this place it is worth it.
212 State St.
(608) 257-5250
Frida Mexican Grill
Based on the works of revolutionary Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, this bar and restaurant by the capitol is a huge draw for students and the Madison community. Known for their margaritas, Fridas serves great Mexican food at reasonable prices.
117 State St.
(608) 256-4000
Blue Velvet Lounge
Voted for “best cocktails” by UW’s student paper, this lounge creates a trendy atmosphere with cushy seats and low lighting. Friday and Saturday nights are the busiest for this up-scale lounge. Drop in and try their famous cosmopolitan and strawberry champagne cocktail.
430 W Gilman St.
(608) 250-9900
Angelic Brewing Company
Located minutes from State Street, this heaven-themed restaurant is perfect for an evening with friends or visiting family. Inside there is a bar, jukebox, pool tables, and dart boards.
Bull Feathers
Bull Feathers is suitable for any night and any occasion. Many seek refuge after a long day or just to catch up with friends. The drinks are reasonable and there’s a welcoming crowd. If you’re heading here on a weekend, be prepared for a long wait.
303 N Henry St.
(608) 257-6444
Brothers
Brothers is a typical college bar with lots of fashionably-clad students grinding to the latest hits. If that’s your sort of scene, then you should feel right at home.
704 University Ave.
(608) 251-9550
What to Do if You're Not 21What's This?
If you aren’t of age, or simply don’t want to go to the bars, check out “Today at the Union.” This is a listing of all the day’s events at both unions, and you are sure to find a show or free event occurring. One of the more popular union events is “Free Art Nights.” On the weekends students have complete access to pottery wheels, loose clay, and collage materials. There is no fee for this event, and students can even get their pottery pieces glazed and fired. Open mic nights are also frequent in Madison, and the local coffee houses or lounges will usually host them. Also add- Residential halls hold events for students throughout the week and on weekends. Movie nights, dances, speakers, and pizza parties are all fun ways to meet other students and relax with friends.