How to Bar Hop: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy a night out with friends and explore different bars and pubs, bar hopping might be just the thing for you. Bar hopping involves visiting several bars or pubs in a single night, enjoying a few drinks at each one, and moving on to the next. But if you’re new to bar hopping, it can be overwhelming to plan and execute a successful night out. This guide will take you through the steps of how to bar hop and make the most of your experience.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination

Before you embark on a bar hopping adventure, it’s essential to decide where you want to go. You might choose a specific neighborhood, like SoHo or the Upper West Side, or decide to hop between bars in different parts of the city. Spend some time researching different bars in your chosen location, taking into account the type of atmosphere you’re looking for, the dress code, the music selection, and the drink specials.

Step 2: Plan Your Route

Once you have chosen your destination, it’s time to plan your route. Map out the bars you want to visit and the order in which you want to visit them. Consider factors like distance, traffic, and peak hours when planning your route to avoid wasting time traveling between bars. You can also use apps like Yelp or Foursquare to help you discover new bars in your area or read reviews from other bar hoppers.

Step 3: Arrange Transportation

If you plan to visit multiple bars, it’s crucial to organize transportation before you start drinking. You don’t want to put yourself or others at risk by driving under the influence. Instead, consider using public transportation, hailing a taxi, or using a ride-sharing app to get around. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a limo or party bus to travel between bars in style.

Step 4: Pace Yourself

One of the biggest mistakes that bar hoppers make is drinking too much too quickly. Drinking at a comfortable pace will keep you from getting too drunk, which can ruin your night and lead to dangerous situations. It’s important to hydrate between drinks and eat something substantial before you start drinking to minimize the effects of alcohol.

Step 5: Be Social

Bar hopping is a social activity, so don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with other bar hoppers or locals. You never know who you might meet or what fun adventures might come your way. If you’re looking to meet new people, join a pub crawl or sign up for a bar hopping tour, which is a guided experience that takes you to different bars and introduces you to other bar hoppers.

Step 6: Have Fun and Stay Safe

The most important aspect of bar hopping is to have fun, but it’s also crucial to stay safe. Always keep an eye on your belongings, be aware of your surroundings, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, leave the bar immediately and seek help from a bouncer, bartender, or friend.

Conclusion

Bar hopping can be a thrilling, fun-filled adventure as you explore different bars and meet new people. By using the tips in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to plan, execute, and enjoy a successful night of bar hopping. Remember always to drink responsibly, stay safe, and have fun!

Insider’s Guide to Bar Hopping in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its lively nightlife, with countless bars and clubs throughout the city. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot or a tourist on the hunt for the perfect drink, this comprehensive guide to bar hopping in New Orleans will help you make the most of your night out.

Famous Bars in the French Quarter

No visit to New Orleans is complete without a visit to the French Quarter, the heart of the city’s nightlife. Famous bars in this area include Pat O’Brien’s, known for its Hurricane cocktail, and the iconic Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone, which is renowned for its revolving bar.

Other notable bars in the French Quarter include Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of the oldest bars in the country, and The Old Absinthe House, where patrons can sample the legendary spirit.

Off the Beaten Path Venues

For a more eclectic bar-hopping experience, venture outside the French Quarter to other neighborhoods in the city. The Bywater neighborhood is home to Bacchanal, a wine shop with a backyard featuring live music and a regular rotation of food trucks.

The Marigny area is also a great choice for bar-hoppers, with venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club, known for its jazz music and intimate vibe, and Mimi’s in the Marigny, which offers a wide range of cocktails, live music, and burlesque shows.

Unique Drinks and Dining Spots

New Orleans is famous for its cuisine, and many bars offer food along with drinks. For a unique experience, visit the Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel, which is known for its classic Sazerac cocktail and signature bar bites like truffle popcorn.

Cane & Table in the French Quarter offers creative cocktails made with tropical ingredients, as well as a menu of Caribbean-inspired small plates. At the French 75 Bar in Arnaud’s, patrons can sip on classic cocktails in a classy, elegant setting.

Cultural Experiences

New Orleans is a city steeped in history and culture, and many bars offer a glimpse into this rich heritage. At the Funky Pirate on Bourbon Street, catch a live performance by blues legend Big Al Carson. At Tipitina’s in the Uptown area, patrons can enjoy live music and support the local music scene.

For a taste of the city’s literary legacy, visit the famous Napoleon House on Chartres Street, which was once home to an exiled Napoleon Bonaparte and is now a bar and restaurant. Finally, the famous Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is said to have been the hideout for notorious pirate Jean Lafitte.

Whether you choose to explore the famous bars in the French Quarter or venture off the beaten path, New Orleans offers a unique and unforgettable bar-hopping experience.