With several colleges and universities in the 727area (Stetson University College of Law, St. Petersburg College, and  USF St. Petersburg), there's no shortage of college students looking for the perfect place to grab a drink.

Whether you're a 20-something who's new to the area, someone who just started at one of these schools, or a seasoned student looking to find a new local watering hole, read on to get the scoop on some of the best college bars in St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

The Bends

This little hole-in-the-wall bar in Downtown St. Petersburg is the best hangout for any hipster college students. Wherever you look, you'll probably be able to spot someone in a pair of thrifted mom jeans or a beanie with a long beard. 

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Park & Rec

While there's not much Greek life in the area's schools, Park & Rec will certainly give you the same feel if that's what you're seeking out in a college bar. They have an adult playground stocked full with nostalgic arcade games, giant beer pong and Jenga, cornhole, and more. Youth has no age at this DTSP spot!

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Five Bucks Drinkery

Between tuition, textbooks, and housing, college can be expensive! If you want to go out without breaking the bank, Five Bucks is the spot for you. They've been a staple of Central's 200 Block since 2010, offer some killer daily specials throughout the week, and keep the party going on weekends with a live DJ every Friday and Saturday night. 

Shephard's Beach Resort

Shephard's on Clearwater Beach has a couple of cool spots for college kids to grab a drink and enjoy some music. Their Backyard Tiki Bar has a diverse range of performers throughout the year and overlooks the white sand beach and Gulf of Mexico.

Wave Nightclub at Shephard's features local and nationally known DJs in a high energy, indoor atmosphere. Whether you wanna sit back and relax to some reggae or dance the night away to electronic music, Shephard's has something for you. 

No Vacancy

For students who want to live their life like it's an everyday vacation, No Vacancy is the perfect place to grab a drink. They serve up the most colorful, tropic-inspired cocktails and have a food menu with some delicious Florida-themed bar bites to pair with your insta-worthy drinks. 

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The Tavern at Bayboro

This little gem is located right in the middle of USFSP's campus. This laidback tavern has local craft brews, live music, open mic nights, and daily specials. You're not truly a USFSP student until you've grabbed a bite and a pint from the Tavern. 

Blur Nightclub

College students in the northern part of Pinellas can flock to Blur to grab a drink on the weekend and party. This upbeat nightclub has live music, DJ sets, karaoke nights, and themed events... there's a little something for everyone here!


Whether you're a college student or just someone who wants to stay young at heart, these college bars throughout St. Petersburg and Clearwater are great hangouts for your inner 20-something-year-old.

Find even more bars in St. Petersburg and Clearwater by registering on 727area, your free local guide to this side of the bay.

 

Cover photo courtesy of Adobe Stock Images