Looking back over all of the places that I’ve been in NYC, there have definitely been a few standouts that were not just fun for my friends and I, but seemed to be full of other college students as well. This list represents a wide variety of locations and styles and is in no particular order.

1. Durden NYC

Located at: 213 2nd Avenue

Why it’s Great for College Students: This sporty bar is not overly expensive. There is space to get air or meet friends out front, and a good amount of space inside. It’s extremely social, so even with the good amount of space, it gets pretty full and doesn’t die until late. The music is fun too, all in all a great place to meet people.

Cons: If you don’t like crowds, and a bit more of a ‘frat’ atmosphere than you may be you used to in NYC, it might not be your scene.

2. Varadero Cuban Cuisine

Located at: 214 East 9th Street

Why it’s Great for College Students: This Cuban restaurant has some great cocktails, along with fun apps that aren’t necessarily on every menu (really good sweet fried plantains, for example.) There is a basement level and an upper level, with lots of tables if you’re looking to go out with a medium sized group and don’t want to be in a super intense bar scene.

Cons: Okay, one time I had a pretty terrible time here, but it was actually because I accidentally ripped the chain of my necklace and there was some social tension at the time with the group that went-yes, I know, how childish,-but still it is a fun place to spend an evening, especially if you are having a more chill night.

3. Le Souk

Located at:510 La Guardia Place

Why it’s Great for College Students: Once you’re in and have a table this hookah lounge is a really cool spot. There’s a variety of music and the decor is cool. There are dancers sometimes, DJs who have up-and-coming rappers perform live, or drummers on the dance floor. Overall, there are just a lot of different things going on and you can get a different vibe every time you go.

Cons: I think it’s best to have a promoter here so that your group will be on the list. Not always the most youthful scene, and not great if you don’t like hookah.

4. Molloy’s Irish Pub

Located at: 737 9th Avenue

Why it’s Great for College Students: I won’t lie, I haven’t been in a while, but this has always been a popular hangout at my school for a lot of reasons. One reason is that popularity breeds popularity, as long as it stays popular, people keep going. For us, it’s the bar where everybody knows our name and we’re guaranteed to see a friend. The bartenders are super nice too. Fridays and Saturdays they have karaoke-a great conversation starter. Another plus, it’s near a ton of dollar pizza spots and other delicious Hell’s Kitchen food.

Cons: Maybe it wouldn’t be as fun for people who are not in our area and don’t have a guaranteed big group, but still, I don’t think you can go wrong with a karaoke bar.

5. Bar None

Located at: 98 3rd Avenue

Why it’s Great for College Students: I know people from just about every social circle who have hit Bar None, and, most importantly, we’ve all had a good time. You can get good, cheap drinks, plus they sometimes have other attractions, such as karaoke. There’s space to dance and everyone is super friendly.

Cons: It’s considered a dive bar for a reason, it’s not the place to go when you’re all glammed up, but it’s a good time, which I think is what a bar should strive for.

Drink Responsibly!