The Art Bar is a great bar in the Vista section of Columbia. It features live music on one of two small stages that are in rooms off the main bar area. If you are there to meet and chat with friends you can do so without the live music in the same room. The bands are usually quite good and the cover is low so don't complain about the $5 when you get to the door. They check ID and the crowd is usually 25-40 so there isn't a huge college scene here.
The decor is funky artsy and the dress code is casual. The main bar is small and can get busy late at night but there is another bar toward the back of the club. When bands aren't playing live you can hear a wild assortment of rock/alternative/indie music playing.
You'll see everyone from gay to straight, beatnick to attorney but everyone gets along and rubs elbows and has a great time.
Parking can be tricky since the bar shares a parking lot with neighboring bars and restaurants. There is parking across the street in a large lot that is free and non-reserved after 6pm. The streets are well lighted and traveled at night. The bar is a block off Gervais Street.
Pros: Uncomplicated, great crowd and great music!
Cons: Front bar gets crowded at night. Small restrooms steps from main bar.
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