Whether you’re unwinding after a long day of classes or toasting to a special occasion, Cortland, New York has the perfect spot to suit your needs. Among SUNY Cortland students, the debate is endless; are you a devoted Red Jug Pub regular, or do you prefer the lively dance floor at Dark Horse Tavern? While naming a single ‘best’ bar is challenging, pinpointing the right one for each occasion is much simpler. Each venue brings something distinct to the table, from the laid-back vibes of a chill hangout to the high energy of a place to dance the night away. In Cortland, the best bar is all about the mood, the company, and what kind of experience you’re craving. So, let’s dive in:
Best Dance Bar
The clear winner in this category is The Dark Horse Tavern. With two floors and a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, it stands out as the busiest and loudest bar on the list. Regulars fondly refer to it as ‘The Horse,’ and it’s the perfect place to let loose and dance the night away.
The venue strikes a great balance, with the main floor providing a more relaxed setting for conversation and bar games, while the second floor caters to those looking to party. However, it’s not the best spot for quiet conversations or a laid-back hangout; if you’re not ready to hit the dance floor, this might not be the bar for you.
Best Pub/‘Local’ Hangout
For those who enjoy a laid-back vibe, where you can play darts and catch up with friends, The Red Jug Pub is the perfect spot. A local favorite for socializing with great music, this bar offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can truly relax and connect. With a range of fun promotional events and activities, like their iconic t-shirts, it creates an engaging, personal experience for everyone.
If you’re celebrating a birthday, you’re in for a treat: you’ll receive a free drink, a birthday shot, and a pair of devil horns, followed by the clang of a gong and an announcement of your name. The entire bar will cheer you on, making you feel celebrated. With such a welcoming atmosphere and a staff that quickly becomes familiar, it’s easy to see why The Red Jug Pub has a true sense of community.
Best Sports Bar
The Rock Sports Bar and Grill offers more than just great drinks and big-screen TVs for watching your favorite games, it also serves up some truly delicious food. Whether you’re there to catch the game or enjoy some time with friends, The Rock provides the perfect setting.
With a menu featuring a variety of options like wraps, wings, and crispy waffle fries, you can easily pair your meal with a drink or one of their signature cocktails, elevating your entire game-watching experience. It’s a place where great food, drinks, and sports come together for a great night.
Best Date Night Spot
For a more peaceful and intimate experience, look no further than the often-overlooked Brix Brick Oven Pub. True to its name, this pub specializes in mouthwatering brick oven pizzas and features a striking brick bar that serves as the focal point of the restaurant. The staff is exceptionally friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Known for its high-quality, delicious pizzas, Brix is the perfect place for a first date or a relaxed night out with friends.
Here, you can unwind over great food and drinks, enjoy a friendly game of darts, and easily engage in conversation with mellow music playing softly in the background. It’s the ideal setting for those seeking a low-key evening, where the focus is on good food, great company, and a comfortable, laid-back vibe.
Best Bar Aesthetic
Cortland Beer Company stands out as the top choice when it comes to ambiance. With its beautiful outdoor patio featuring cozy fire pits, it offers the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.
Inside, the main room boasts a welcoming bar area, while an additional space with a stage for live music and a lively dance floor ensures there’s always something exciting happening. The blend of inviting spaces makes it a standout destination for both laid-back evenings and energetic nights out.
Author’s Pick
Among all the bars in Cortland, Brix is by far my favorite. It excels at creating a balanced, inviting atmosphere where you can genuinely connect and socialize. As a busy college student, I’m not always in the mood for a crowded, noisy bar. What I love about Brix is the soft background music that allows for meaningful conversations and quality time with the people who matter most.
That being said, every bar in town offers something unique, and the best one for you depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, catch a game, or just enjoy a quiet evening, Cortland has a bar for every occasion. So next time you’re out, take a moment to explore and find your favorite spot!