7 Bars for Grabbing a Drink in College Park, Maryland

Like many other college towns, you can find a unique bar or restaurant on just about every corner in College Park, Maryland. From local dives, to upscale lounges, or hipster hangouts, the University of Maryland bar and restaurant scene has something for everyone.

Here are seven great bars for grabbing a drink in College Park, Maryland.

1. Town Hall Liquors

8135 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, MD 20740

The epitome of a local dive bar, Town Hall Liquors has been a College Park institution since 1949. Part bar and part liquor store, this mainstay for UMD students and locals is under new ownership as of 2016.

Among the reasons Town Hall continues to be one of the best bars in College Park, MD is that the previous owner was quite passionate about ensuring the property retained its status as an historic landmark. He took the time to find just the right buyer, and the new owner has risen to the challenge by sprucing the place up without sacrificing the local charm for which this watering hole is known.

In fact, Town Hall is so classic that it doesn’t even have a website. But a glance at its unclaimed Yelp page should be all that’s needed to convince you to stop in. Reviewers rave about the beer selection – including craft and microbrew options – as well as the reasonable prices and daily drink specials.
If you’re looking for a laid back environment without a hefty price tag, Town Hall Liquors is the dive bar for you!

2. RJ Bentley’s Filling Station

7323 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, MD 20740

This landmark bar in College Park was founded by a group of alumni in 1978 and is brimming with Maryland pride, making it the perfect spot to pull up a chair and catch the Terps on TV.

While there are plenty of sports bars in College Park, MD, this one’s a little different. The building which RJ Bentley’s calls home was originally a gas station in the 1920s, explaining its name and why so much of the décor was inspired by antique automobiles.

Also covering the walls you’ll find a plethora of UMD paraphernalia, including a piece of floor from the 2002 NCAA men’s basketball championship.

Bentley’s specialty burgers (like the mac and cheeseburger) and unique cheesesteaks (spicy BBQ chicken steak, anyone?) are included in happy hour specials on Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you’d prefer a meatless meal, try the Bugatti wrap stuffed with fresh veggies and topped with hummus.

Regardless of your culinary preferences, a pit stop at RJ Bentley’s is a must for anyone checking out one of the best bars in College Park.

3. Cornerstone Grill & Loft

7325 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, MD 20740

The Rendezvous Inn was a tavern-style bar in College Park, Maryland and was known locally as “The ‘Vous” for years. It was rebranded as the Cornerstone Grill and Loft in 1997, but it has remained a steadfast part of the UMD bar scene. With 16 beers on tap and the largest selection of craft beer in College Park, you’re sure to find something to wet your whistle.

The main floor includes 15 HD TVs, allowing you to watch all of your favorite Terp teams from almost anywhere inside. Outdoors you’ll find a deck and patio perfect for grabbing a bite or enjoying a few adult beverages. To enjoy a more intimate experience, head upstairs to the Loft for a game of pool and a cocktail or sit back and enjoy the music playing from the digital jukebox while catching up with friends.

4. Terrapin’s Turf

4410 Knox Road, College Park, MD 20740

Delicious dining? Check. Fully stocked bar? Check. DJs and Dancing? Check! Terrapin’s Turf has everything you need to spend a fantastic night making memories with your favorite friends.

With a different special every day of the week, you’ll come back again and again without ever getting bored. Try the Sunday Game Day special featuring $0.50 wings. Pop in on Taco Tuesday for $2 tacos, $3 Coronas, and $4 margaritas. Or hit up Saturday’s bottomless brunch.

Terrapin’s Turf is the quintessential college bar and nightclub combo, earning it a spot on our list of the best bars in College Park, MD. You’ll be blown away by the reasonable menu prices, and if you plan your visit around one of their many events, you’re sure to have a blast.

5. College Park Grill

8321 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, MD 20740

College Park Grill is the newest addition to the Restaurant Zone family and has become a favorite spot for friends to gather while enjoying good conversation, fabulous food, and delicious drinks.

Located inside the Cambria College Park Hotel, you’ll find comfort-food inspired menu options such as Steak Frites, Ahi Tuna Nachos, and Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese with Bacon. The bar manages to feel both upscale and laid back, and the fabulous selection of libations is sure to leave every patron with a smile.

6. The Hall CP

4656 Hotel Drive, College Park, MD 20742

This open-air space with a modern warehouse vibe is more than just a bar in College Park. It’s an experience.

Part restaurant, part bar, and part entertainment venue, The Hall CP is your one stop shop for food, drinks, and fun. Make new friends while watching the big game at one of the community tables inside or grab a seat on the patio and watch the sunset with your sweetheart.

As the day winds down, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Comedy shows, live music, and reality TV watch parties are just a few of the events you can enjoy at The Hall.

While you’re there, you can imbibe with a traditional beverage or “crafty cocktail,” like the Figgy Smalls which is a unique mix of Hennessy, Grand Marnier, OJ, lemon, and fig syrup – with a sugar rim and sage garnish. The eclectic menu includes unique options such as Pickle-Juice Brined Chicken Tenders and Bulgogi Bowls, as well as everyday favorites like the Old Fashioned Burger and Big Bag O’ Fries.

7. Lobby Bar

7777 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, MD 20740

A local bar that feels more like a high-end lounge, The Lobby Bar is the perfect spot to sip a hand-crafted cocktail after a long day at work or a busy afternoon sightseeing in D.C. Located inside The Hotel at University of Maryland, The Lobby Bar provides comfortable booth seating surrounded by 12 TVs, also making it an ideal place to catch nationally televised games, local sports, and of course Terps football and basketball wins!

If sports aren’t your thing, grab a seat at the bar and pick your poison. The Lobby Bar menu includes over 160 different spirits, dozens of brews, and an extensive wine list. If you’re in the mood for a unique cocktail, ask the bartender to whip you up a Black Manhattan – a bourbon-based beverage with Amaro and Sweet Vermouth to compliment the rye.

Those with more traditional pallets might prefer a Vodka mule. Add a splash of watermelon, peach, or strawberry to up the flavor factor without going over the top.

Book Your Stay in College Park, Maryland

Located near all the best bars in College Park, The Hotel at the University of Maryland is the perfect place to retire after letting your hair down and enjoying the food and drink scene in our college town.

When you book a night in one of our luxurious guest rooms and take advantage of our Relax and Recharge package, you’ll wake feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day! Don’t forget The Spa at The Hotel either. After a fun time exploring College Park, enjoy some “me” time with a massage, facial or other personalized treatment.

And, with the University’s main entrance just across the street from our lobby, you’ll have easy access to all the UMD campus has to offer.