Stillwater is a quintessential college town and home to the Red Dirt genre of music that comes to life when the sun goes down! The mix of college kids, locals, alumni, and musicians in the making creates an unbeatable atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a dance floor to tear up or a relaxed space to chat, America’s Friendliest College Town has just the right place for you.
The Strip
The Strip is an iconic Stillwater district that offers a unique experience to its visitors. Also known as Washington Street, it is located just steps from campus and is home to numerous hangouts within 350 yards of one another. Every bar on The Strip stays open until 2 a.m., so if you’re looking for a late night, it’s the place for you! It is only fair that when visiting The Strip you go inside each bar for at least a drink, but if you prefer to settle down in one or two, we have a few suggestions.
J.R. Murphy’s is a classic spot on The Strip with 3 bars, one of which is outside. They have plenty of pool tables, darts, great seating, and efficient bartenders. The outdoor area is home to their famous neon palm trees that light up the area. Be sure to order their Jello shots when you get there!
Outlaws is the largest western bar on the strip with an upper level and a stage. It is the perfect place for movers and shakers! If you stop by on a Thursday night, you can participate in their weekly line dance lessons. Their massive dance floor has plenty of room for everybody to cut a rug. If you’re not into country music, don’t worry, Outlaws’ DJ has great taste and plays a variety of music that everyone can enjoy. There are plenty of fun things to do in Outlaws with pool tables on both levels, a punching bag, and cornhole. Outlaws serves the best Dirty Shirley on The Strip, so be sure to give it a try!
Willie's Saloon is a Stillwater favorite because it is where Garth Brooks started his country music career! It is on the smaller side, but it packs a punch with live music four days a week. When you walk in you may notice that the floor is wet, but don’t be alarmed. Willie’s is famous for their ice shots. And you guessed it! An ice shot is served in a shot glass made out of ice. The reason the floor is wet is because after you take an ice shot it is expected that you throw the ice shot glass on the floor. It’s one of the best ways to get your night started on The Strip!
Salty Bronc Saloon is known for hosting great musicians on the weekends that will absolutely rock your socks off! The live music is typically a Red Dirt artist who plays a mix of original music and covers. Salty Bronc is slightly more upscale than the other bars on The Strip, so if you prefer to drink top-shelf liquor this is the place for you!
Downtown Stillwater
Downtown Stillwater is a beautiful area with plenty of shopping, excellent restaurants, and great bars! Each bar in Downtown Stillwater has its own concept, unique to them. With a more relaxed atmosphere and mature drink options, Downtown Stillwater’s bars are worth a visit!
Zannotti’s Wine Bar is a great option for wine connoisseurs, but they also have cocktail and beer options. If you like white wine, Richter Zeppelin Semi-Sweet Riesling is a great choice. Zannotti’s also serves amazing food including flatbread pizzas, shareables, and desserts that are full of flavor! They have live music periodically, so be sure to check the calendar at VisitStillwater.org for upcoming live performances.
Finnegan’s Fighting Goat recently completely renovated and moved 5 doors down but kept the same great vibe! With a foosball table, lots of seating, pool tables, and one of the only shuffleboard tables in Stillwater you’ll be in for an exciting night. Finnegan’s stays open until 2 a.m. for those who like to keep the party going late into the night. They have over a dozen unique beer options on tap, so you’re sure to find a new favorite at Finnegan’s Fighting Goat.
STAG Lounge is a whiskey and cigar bar that is home to a massive selection of cigars. You won’t find another bar like this in Stillwater with a notable variety of top-shelf whiskeys and lounging couches. They have great specials most nights! Don’t forget to ask your bartender what the special is for the evening.
EM is short for Everyman which recently moved into a new, larger building. The massive space is home to many things, but most importantly, a brand-new bar that stays open until midnight, and serves food until 10. Not only is the space stunning, but the craft cocktails are outstanding. They make their own syrups and mixers from scratch and take pride in their unique concoctions at EM.
Outliers
There are a few bars worth mentioning that don’t necessarily fall into a certain area. However, you’ll have a great time hanging out there all night.
The Great White Buffalo Tavern is located on Perkin’s Road, on the North side of town. They have a covered outdoor area, pool tables, and a great bar. The bartenders are fast and the crowd is extremely friendly-most of them being regulars. If you’re lucky they might have live music, but regardless, two-stepping is guaranteed! GWB has weekly bingo, Karaoke, and open mic nights. So, if you love a good dive bar, be sure to check them out!
George's Stables is the oldest bar in Stillwater, opening their doors in 1960! Located across the street from Eskimo Joes, Georges Stables often has live music, sports on the TVs, pool tournaments, and they host a great home football game tailgate party! They have a great mix of beer on tap and cocktail options, so everyone can find something they’d like to sip.
