What to expect from Clemson’s downtown

For those new to Clemson and above the legal drinking age, the downtown social scene can be daunting to navigate. Over a dozen bars and restaurants present a myriad of choices to the discerning Clemson student. However, not all Clemson institutions are created equal, and some establishments have certainly cemented themselves as downtown mainstays over others.

For those looking for a clubbing experience: Study Hall, ROAR and 356 Sushi are popular choices. Study Hall and ROAR are known for DJs and house music, with Study Hall gaining additional notoriety for their signature drink, Jet Fuel, a frozen orange beverage with a weekly $2 special. ROAR is known for its private vault room on the main floor, as well as a spacious rooftop bar. Finally, 356 is the best for those who want to pack in and dance. The entire restaurant is transformed into one large dance floor at night, with pop hits playing throughout the evening.

If you’re looking for a more hometown bar vibe, Clemson has you covered with Loose Change, TD’s, Backstreet’s or Nick’s Tavern. While these bars are just as popular and busy as any other in Clemson, they eschew house music for live bands and open dance floors for more ample seating. Loose Change is known for its bill-covered walls, with students signing $1 bills and fixing them on the establishment. TD’s standout is their Clemson Goodnight pitcher, which won The Tiger’s Best Pitcher last year.

Backstreets’ standout characteristic is its food, with the chicken wings being touted by many as the best in Clemson. Finally, Nick’s Tavern is one of the oldest bars in Clemson, famous for its small space, national flags on the ceiling and beer of the week bottle collection.

ITSURWIENER, on Keith Street, is a favorite for many students looking for the best of both worlds. The Home of the Litcher, a plastic pitcher filled with a mixed drink of your choice, has drawn crowds for its lively atmosphere, ample room and frequent themed nights, including weekly karaoke. Wien, as it’s known by students and locals alike, is also known for its split levels, with the main bar upstairs and an offshoot, The Basement, downstairs.

Finally, many would agree that the undisputed king of the Clemson downtown scene is the Tiger Town Tavern. Triple, as it’s commonly called, is a bar well known among Clemson students for its mass appeal. From being one of the few bars still with pool tables to their $2 PBR deal, Triple has gained a following among Clemson students and locals. And for those who want to escape the busier aspects of downtown, a members-only bar, the Top of the Tavern, exists above the main institution.