Galette’s

1021 University Blvd.

Have to try: The Yellowhammer

If Galette’s was given a senior class superlative, it would win “Most School Spirit.” Located under the Campus Party Store awning on the Strip, Galette’s is inconspicuous to the everyday passersby. Come gameday, the building can’t contain all of the people who flock there. More than 5,000 custom Galette’s gameday cups – filled with their signature drink, the Yellowhammer – are served every home game. The ingredients are a secret, but many have tried to replicate it (175 results appear on Google for “Yellowhammer recipe.” The general consensus involves vodka, Malibu rum, dark rum, pineapple juice and orange juice).

Alcove International Tavern

730 22nd Ave.

Have to try: one of their 100 plus varieties of beer, featuring domestics, imports and more than 30 high-gravity craft beers

Affectionately known by patrons as simply, “the Alcove,” this place is something of a rarity in the Tuscaloosa bar scene. The Alcove is a small and hip downtown bar and caters to a slightly older crowd than bars along the Strip. Drinks are a little more expensive at the Alcove than at other bars, but the selection is larger. Smoking isn’t allowed inside.

4th and 23rd

401 23rd Ave.

Have to try: Karaoke Night on Wednesdays

Located in Temerson Square, 4th and 23rd is a fun scene. Its karaoke nights have a small following of its own. 4th and 23rd is constantly updating patrons on performance schedules via Facebook. Fly By Radio will be playing this Saturday. Drink specials vary but have included $3 wells and $1.50 domestics in the past.

Innisfree Irish Pub

1925 University Blvd.

Have to try: Trivia on Wednesday nights

Since its founding in 1998, Innisfree has grown into a Tuscaloosa staple. Owners even opened a Birmingham, Ala., location based off Innisfree Tuscaloosa’s success. Larger than most bars in the area, Innisfree is divided into sections and offers a generous amount of outdoor seating. The menu includes typical Southern bar fare like fried pickles and appetizers with quirky names like the “Mmmm… Shrimp and Crab Dip.” If you’re in the mood for something a little more Irish-inspired, there’s the shepherd’s pie. Trivia Night is held every Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. Round winners can receive free drinks and pitchers as prizes.

The Jupiter

1307 University Blvd.

Have to try: a live show

Few bars have gone through as much of a face lift in recent years as The Jupiter has. Since 2012, The Jupiter has undergone a name change (it was formerly known as The Dixie) and renovations. The Jupiter draws in large music crowds thanks to its constant rotation of artists. This September, Mother Funk (Sept. 5), GRiZ (6), Dank Sinatra (19), Cody Canada and the Departed (25), and the Revivalists (26) will all be hitting The Jupiter stage. You can purchase tickets at jupiterbar.com.