Going to a bar alone can seem intimidating for some people. You may feel self-conscious about not having anyone to talk to or hang out with. However, going to a bar solo can actually be very enjoyable if you go into it with the right mindset. Here we’ll look at the pros and cons of going to a bar alone, as well as tips to make the most of it.
Is it acceptable to go to a bar alone?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to go to a bar alone. While bars are often seen as social spaces, there is no rule saying you have to be there with other people. Plenty of people go to bars solo to relax with a drink, watch a game, read a book, or even meet new people. As long as you conduct yourself appropriately, going to a bar alone should not be seen as strange or unacceptable behavior.
Pros of going to a bar alone
There are quite a few advantages to hitting up a bar solo:
You can come and go as you please
When you go to a bar alone, you can stay for as long as you want without having to adhere to someone else’s schedule. You can arrive and leave whenever it suits you best. This freedom allows you to truly relax and enjoy your time at your own pace.
You can choose the bar you actually want to go to
Going solo means you get to pick the establishment and ambiance you actually want. You don’t have to compromise on the bar choice – you can go exactly where your preferences lead you.
You may meet new people
Bars are inherently social places, so they present good opportunities to strike up conversations with new people. If you sit at the bar itself (not a table), it’s easy to chat with the bartender, other patrons, or even someone sitting nearby. You never know who you might connect with if you go in open-minded.
You can focus fully on yourself
When alone, you can be fully present with yourself at the bar. You can reflect, observe others, or do an activity you enjoy without any distractions or needing to entertain a group. Enjoy your own company and a moment of solitude.
You may feel empowered
Conquering the fear of going it alone at a bar can be an empowering feeling. Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone and recognizing that you don’t need others around to have a good time can boost confidence.
You can meet up with people later
Just because you start at the bar alone doesn’t mean you have to stay that way! You can go solo initially and then text or call friends to join you later if you feel like company. The best of both worlds!
Cons of going to a bar alone
However, there are a few potential downsides to consider as well:
You may feel awkward at first
It’s very normal to feel a bit uncomfortable walking into a busy social situation alone. You may second guess your decision at first. Just remember this initial awkwardness will fade!
Safety concerns
As when doing anything alone, you’ll need to be extra vigilant about your personal safety. Make sure to keep your drink close, watch out for any suspicious behavior, and don’t overdo it on the alcohol since you won’t have a group looking out for you. Consider limiting yourself to one or two drinks.
You may appear open to social interaction
When alone, other patrons may see you as more approachable and open to conversation. If you prefer to keep to yourself, bring a book, laptop or other activity to make your intentions clear.
You could feel lonely
While alone time can be valuable, sometimes the dynamic at a lively bar accentuates feelings of loneliness. If you start to feel this way, you can always invite a friend to join you for a drink or two!
It may be boring
While having fun flying solo is possible, there’s also a chance you’ll simply get bored at the bar without others to talk and laugh with. Having a backup plan to meet up with friends or leave for another activity ensures you won’t be stuck in a dull situation.
Tips for going to a bar alone
If you want your solo bar experience to be an enjoyable one, here are some useful tips:
Start early or late, not primetime
The nighttime crowds at bars ebb and flow. The most packed and lively hours are usually between 11pm-1am. Therefore, consider starting your solo mission earlier in the evening or later at night when places are emptier. You’ll attract less attention.
Sit at the bar, not a table
Sitting alone at a table looks and feels more awkward. If you want to appear open to conversation, sit at the actual bar counter. This way, you can also talk with the bartender if you’d like.
Come equipped with an activity
Bringing something to do will prevent boredom and make you look less available to socialize. Read a book, do crossword puzzles, browse social media, or listen to a podcast. Having an activity makes sitting alone look intentional.
Start a tab to avoid repeat visits to the bar
Repeating trips to the bar counter will draw more eyes your way. Open a tab so you can order more than one drink at a time and limit the visits.
Chat with the bartender
The bartender is your instant friend. Don’t be shy – chat them up! They’re often very friendly and great company. Talking with bartenders has a way of making you feel comfortable.
Go with confidence and purpose
Walk into the bar with your head held high, make eye contact with others, and project confidence. When you seem comfortable with yourself, others will see your solo status as intentional and natural.
Plan an exit strategy if needed
Scope out the vibe as soon as you arrive. If the bar is too crowded, noisy, or just not the right fit, don’t feel obligated to stay. Have an alternate chill bar in mind you can bounce to.
Watch your alcohol intake
When drinking alone, it can be easy to lose track and overdo it. Set yourself a drink limit ahead of time, sip water between drinks, and eat some bar snacks to stay even-keeled.
Interact with other patrons
If you want to socialize, look for communal scenarios to jump into conversations with others. Sit near the pool table, jukebox, or dartboard. Ask to join in on a game or comment on selections.
Is going to a bar alone safe?
The most important factor when going to a bar alone is keeping yourself safe. Here are some key tips:
– Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be home.
– Don’t leave your drink unattended. Even going to the restroom or outside for a smoke break, either finish it first or take it with you.
– Watch out for anyone who seems overly friendly or eager to buy you many drinks. Politely decline.
– Stay alert and trust your instincts about others’ behaviors. Don’t ignore red flags.
– Avoid divulging too much personal info and oversharing to strangers.
– Stay moderately sober. Know your limits and don’t let drinking impact your judgment.
– Bring cash for drinks and transportation to avoid pulling out credit cards.
– Text or call someone if you ever start to feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or unwell.
– Have your phone charged and easily accessible at all times.
– Arrange transportation like a rideshare home, rather than walking alone.
With proper precautions, you can keep yourself safe and protected on a solo bar outing. The most key rules are staying aware of your surroundings, not accepting drinks from strangers, and knowing your limits with alcohol. Use the same judgment as you would if out with friends.
Best bars for going alone
While every bar is different, certain types of establishments tend to be more conducive to a fruitful and fun solo bar experience:
Dive bars
Low-key dive bars with a neighborhood vibe have less pretense and judgment. Patrons typically keep to themselves. Sitting alone at the bar with a beer or cocktail won’t stand out.
Sports bars
Sports bars are social hubs where most patrons are focused on the game, not who is alone or not. Sitting solo with eyes glued to the action is perfectly normal.
Hotel bars
Hotel bars allow you to blend in, as there are often other solo business travelers passing through. The constant movement means you likely won’t stand out.
Breweries and wineries
At taprooms and tasting rooms, the focus is sampling beverages. You can go through a flight solo without seeming out of place.
Low-key neighborhood pubs
Find a mellow local pub versus a high-energy club scene. Neighborhood spots have regulars and friendly vibes versus more cliquey environments.
Restaurants with bars
Belly up to the bar at a restaurant for a drink and meal. Diners won’t find it odd, as they’ll assume you’re eating alone too.
| Bar Type | Good For Solo? |
|---|---|
| Dive bars | Yes |
| Sports bars | Yes |
| Hotel bars | Yes |
| Breweries and wineries | Yes |
| Low-key neighborhood pubs | Yes |
| Restaurants with bars | Yes |
| Nightclubs and dance clubs | No |
| Hipster cocktail lounges | No |
Conclusion
Heading to a bar solo can be intimidating at first, but ultimately liberating and enjoyable. With the right mindset and game plan, you can have an amazing time flying solo. It provides an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, truly relax, and even potentially meet new people. While no bars should feel off-limits, low-key establishments tend to be most conducive to productive solo missions. Overall, don’t be deterred from going it alone! With an open mind and spirit of adventure, you’ll see that rolling solo can be a rich and fun bar experience.