Sometimes you just can't handle another night of drinking. Enjoy the nightlife anyway.
Sober and social By Mandy Hendrix, Jayplay writer My friend Andrea Briggs didn't ink until she turned 21. In high school he made her decision to wait until she is older because of the consequences it would've had on the sports she played. then Briggs, Overland Park senior, came
My friend Andrea Briggs didn't drink until she turned 21. In high school she made her decision to wait until she was older because of the consequences it could've had on the sports she played. When Briggs, Overland Park senior, came to college she just never bothered to buy a fake ID or sneak drinks at bars.
Photo Kit Leffler
Going out doesn't always mean getting drunk. Perhaps you need a night off from alcohol or you have a test in the morning but still feel like hanging out. As a college student you should be able to enjoy the social scene. But just because you're not 21or you don't feel like drinking, you don't have to stay in. There are other options to having fun while staying sober.
If you prepare yourself for a sober night, other factors—such as drunken friends—might not bother you as much. "You can still go out and not drink and have a blast," Briggs says. Have the bartender make up a nonalcoholic drink with some of your favorite juices or sodas. Sometimes you can even get free soda at a bar if you work the designated-driver role.
The Jazzhaus, 926/1 2 / Massachusetts St. The Gaslight Tavern and Coffeehouse,
317 N. Second St., and Henry's on Eighth, 11 E. Eighth St., are just a couple of 21 and over bars that offer music and a great atmosphere. Walking the stairs up to the Jazzhause makes you feel like you're being let into a secret club. The interior doesn't suggest anything less. Dimmed lights and circular tables adorned with glowing candles create a hipster feel. You can definitely sit here and jam with the music without any desire to drink. Sit down at a table with friends and be happy that tomorrow you'll still be able to remember the music while your friend's memories may be fuzzier.
The Gaslight and Henry's both offer coffee along with alcoholic drinks. Many nights of the week, Gaslight offers live music in its tiny quarters. The shadowy corners and red lights give the establishment a laid-back, urban-cool feeling. Henry's packs in the tables, which are perfect for socializing. The mocha latte is one of the most popular drinks among the regulars, says Jeff Otte, Topeka senior and barista at Henry's. Upstairs, it offers music and serves alcohol to the folks who need their fix. Grab a coffee from the first level and rock out upstairs with friends if your of-age.
If the bar scene just doesn't work for you, try live trivia games at 75th Street Brewery, 3512 Clinton Parkway, or The Bottleneck, 737 New Hampshire St. Every Tuesday at 10 p.m. is trivia night at 75th Street Brewery. The Bottleneck usually holds trivia night on Sundays. Players form groups and answer questions to compete for prizes. "It's an excuse to go out on a Tuesday night," says Joe Tarwa-
ter, Dodge City senior. His favorite part is the fast-paced questions mixed with loud '80s music.
Poker Pub, held at various locations including but not limited to: Johnny's Tavern, 301 N. Second St: — is a free Texas Hold 'Em poker tournament that takes place almost every night at 7 and 10 p.m. Players gamble for points instead of money so there's no chance of blowing your savings. You also get the chance to win prizes and bragging rights.
When sitting at home and watching a movie just doesn't work, check out other options around town. You'll find even more great places to spend a sober evening.
mhendrix@kansan.com