How to Prepare for a Bar Crawl: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning to go on a bar crawl, there are essential preparations that you need to make to have a memorable and safe experience. While a bar crawl can be a fun way to explore the nightlife scene of a city, it can also be dangerous without proper planning. Besides, a bar crawl requires a considerable amount of stamina, and you need to stay hydrated all through the night. With that in mind, here’s how to prepare for a bar crawl.

1. Research the Bar Scene

Before you embark on a bar crawl, research the bar scene of the city you plan to visit. You can ask for recommendations from friends, search for information and reviews online, or check travel guides. You can also check the locations of the bars and choose a route that makes sense. Make sure you choose bars that are reputable, well-maintained, and have a good atmosphere.

2. Plan the Route

With the knowledge you’ve gathered from your research, plan the bar crawl route. Choose a route that includes a good mix of bars that offer a variety of drinks and music. You don’t want to visit bars that only serve beer or have a limited menu. Plan the route in such a way that you can walk to the bars to avoid drinking and driving. Ideally, visit bars that are within the same neighborhood.

3. Choose an Appropriate Dress Code

Different bars have varying dress codes, and if you want to have a successful bar crawl, you need to adhere to the dress code of each bar. For instance, some bars require patrons to wear dress shoes, while others are lenient with sneakers. You don’t want to be turned away at a bar because of your attire, so choose your outfit wisely. Also, choose comfortable shoes that you can walk in for hours.

4. Hydrate

To avoid dehydration during your bar crawl, stay hydrated by drinking water before and after each bar. While alcohol can be dehydrating, water replenishes fluids, and it helps curb hangovers. Make sure to carry a bottle of water with you and take sips in between drinks. You can also order non-alcoholic drinks such as a soda or a juice to break the drinking cycle.

5. Eat Well

Before your bar crawl, eat a well-balanced meal to help absorb the alcohol and keep your energy levels up. Make sure to choose foods that are easy to digest, such as proteins, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Avoid greasy or high-fat snacks, as they can hinder your digestion and increase the likelihood of nausea and vomiting.

6. Appoint a Designated Driver or Use a Ride-Sharing App

If you’re planning to drink alcohol during your bar crawl, avoid drinking and driving by appointing a designated driver. Choose someone who understands the responsibility that comes with the role and is willing to stay sober throughout the night. Alternatively, use a ride-sharing app such as Uber or Lyft to take you home safely. While a ride-sharing app may be costly, it’s cheaper than getting a DUI or causing an accident.

7. Pace Yourself

While a bar crawl is an exciting experience, it’s easy to drink too much too quickly. Pace yourself by taking your time with each drink and avoiding shots, which are high in alcohol content. Also, avoid drinking on an empty stomach, as it can increase your alcohol tolerance levels. Finally, know your limits and stop drinking when you feel intoxicated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a successful bar crawl requires proper planning and preparation. Researching the bar scene, planning the route, choosing an appropriate dress code, staying hydrated, eating well, appointing a designated driver, and pacing yourself are essential preparations that you need to make. With these measures in place, you can explore the nightlife of a city safely and have a memorable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Preparing for a Bar Crawl in Austin

If you’re looking for a city that’s perfect for bar hopping, look no further than the city of Austin. Home to some of the best bars and live music venues in America, Austin is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. With so many options available, it’s important to have a plan before heading out on a bar crawl. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you through the must-see attractions and the best dining spots in Austin. We’ll also share some cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your bar crawl an unforgettable adventure.

Local Attractions

While Austin has a lot of well-known tourist spots like the Texas State Capitol and the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail, there are many hidden gems that only locals know about. Start your bar crawl with a visit to the Graffiti Park at Castle Hill where you can admire colorful street art and enjoy a beautiful view of the city. Another unique attraction is the Cathedral of Junk, a three-story structure made entirely of recycled materials. One of the best ways to explore the city is by renting a bike and going for a ride on the Butler Hike and Bike Trail.

Dining Spots

Austin is known for its cuisine, and local dishes like breakfast tacos and barbecue are must-tries. One of the best barbecue spots in town is Franklin Barbecue where the mouthwatering brisket is worth the long wait in line. For a more upscale dining experience, head over to Uchi, an award-winning sushi restaurant that serves some of the best seafood in town. If you’re in the mood for some Tex-Mex, El Naranjo is a great spot to try authentic Mexican cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Austin is known for its music scene, so catching a live show is a must-do when you’re bar crawling in the city. Venues like the Mohawk and Stubb’s Bar-B-Q offer a diverse mix of music, from indie rock to country. Another cultural experience that you won’t want to miss is visiting the Mexic-Arte Museum which showcases contemporary Mexican and Latino art. If you’re visiting in March, make sure to check out the South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival where you can catch some of the biggest names in music and discover new talent.

Local History

Austin has a rich history, and there are many captivating stories that are often overlooked by visitors. Take a trip back in time by visiting the Bullock Texas State History Museum which explores the history and culture of Texas. For a more unconventional history lesson, visit the Museum of the Weird which features oddities like shrunken heads and two-headed animals. If you want to learn about Austin’s political history, take a tour of the Governor’s Mansion which is the oldest continually inhabited governor’s residence in the country.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to make your bar crawl truly unforgettable, try some of these off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Take a dip in the Barton Springs Pool, a natural swimming pool that’s a favorite spot for locals. Visit the Broken Spoke, a legendary honky-tonk that’s been around since the 1960s and has hosted famous musicians like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton. Finally, take a stroll along South Congress Avenue where you’ll find quirky shops, restaurants, and music venues.

In conclusion, Austin is the perfect city for a bar crawl adventure. Use this insider’s guide to discover some hidden gems, taste the local cuisine, and learn about the city’s culture and history. With so much to see and do, your bar crawl in Austin is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.