Crawl till you fall

Turning 21 is more than a birthday, it’s an initiation. Once you graduate from sweaty house parties and move on to the thrilling Bozeman bar scene, you need to have a formal bar crawl to get the full experience of downtown. 

You can’t just pick one bar to settle in because you won’t get the unique feel that each bar has to offer. A good ‘ole bar crawl will not only be a night to remember, but it’ll help you narrow down your favorite spot for the next time you go out.

I’d recommend starting off your night right up at the rooftop of the Crystal Bar. The vibes are chill and the drinks are cheap. Enjoy the outdoor seating and warm weather while you still can because as we all know, winter is right around the corner. Don’t forget to bring cash if you plan to buy drinks at the rooftop.

Once the rooftop starts getting crowded, head over to the American Legion to get the party started. If you go on a Thursday, you will even get to participate in karaoke. Bring one-dollar bills so you and your friends can get a couple games of pool in while you're still only a few drinks in. If you don’t want to play pool, use your cash to play your song of choice. Before leaving the Legion, make sure to try their green tea shot to prepare for your next stop.

Once you're feeling good, make your way over to The Rockin’ R Bar. They may not have the cheapest drinks but they always have upbeat tunes and a poppin’ dance floor. So put on your dancin’ boots and once you break out into a sweat, you’ll know it's time to check out the next place.

Walk on down to Pub 317 to cool off and collect yourself by grabbing some water before putting your drinking face back on. Once you're ready to keep the party going, get a round of Irish car bombs, aka an Irish slammer. This one-of-a-kind drink is a glass of Guinness beer with a shot of whiskey and Irish cream. After you regain your energy, head out for your next stop before it gets too late.

Make your way to Pour House for more dancing, good vibes and maybe even some gambling if you're feeling lucky. Make some new friends, have a few more drinks and don’t forget to hydrate.

If you're still going strong, mosey downstairs to the Zebra to end your bar night at an underground nightclub. The lights are dimmed and they even have comfy sofas if you need a quick pick-me-up nap.

If you need a snack before you end your night, head back upstairs for a slice or two of pizza to slow your alcohol absorption before you walk back home or catch a safe ride. Not only will it be extra delicious, but you’ll be thanking yourself in the morning when you don’t wake up with an empty stomach.

Bar crawling can be an exhausting yet exhilarating college experience, so if you choose to make a night out of it, bring a buddy because nobody wants to party alone. Remember to drink responsibly so you’re not literally crawling out of the bar, and always secure a sober ride home.