Eighth Street Tap Room

I love the fact that this place has free pool until 10pm.  Even though I cannot play pool, I feel a lot better about learning when I don't have to pay for it.  The beer selection is pretty great (and cheap), plus I like the vibe, chill and kind of dive bar-esque.  The bartender was very friendly, gave us lots of great tips about where to go in Lawrence.  My only beef was the "angry music"; I wasn't feeling angry.  If they changed the music up a little, I'd want to come here every day during my stay here.

So many nostalgic moments in this dim, somewhat seedy bar.  Since they added the large windows and patio a few years ago, it is not quite as gloomy, but this small, 2-story bar is a haven in downtown Lawrence.

Great music is often available downstairs, and the bar tenders are very knowledgeable.  Hit it for a dance night with some great local DJs, and spend the night with some cool kids, in a tiny little corner of Lawrence.

The drawbacks include very sketchy bathrooms (which add to the ambiance) and plastic cups for draft beer--stick with cans or, tempt fate, and get some wonderful liquor concoction--I recommend the whiskey daisy ( and I don't even like whiskey).

Taproom - I love it.  If you don't know what you want to drink, ask the bartenders to mix you up something special.  They'll give you some amazing cocktail you've never had before and will never have again.  Then go dance your pants off :)