Philadelphia’s St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration like no other. It’s loud and smelly, green-clad revelers, music, and the omnipresent smell of hearty pub fare making the streets alive. Bar hopping is a must, whether you’re a die-hard Irish at heart or just along for the festivities. But where to start? There are plenty of great bars in Philly’s bustling neighborhoods, and the secret to a great St. Patrick’s Day is having a plan. Below are some of the best routes for a fun St. Patrick’s Day Philly bar crawl.
Route 1: Old City Charm
A classic St. Patrick’s Day in Old City’s cobblestone streets. It’s walkable, and the bars are full of character. Head to The Plough & The Stars, a cozy Irish pub with some traditional music and a pub-like festive vibe. The Guinness pours are first-rate, and Irish stew is enough reason to sit for an hour.
Walk over to The Victoria Freehouse from there. It’s British leaning, but it has a St. Patrick’s Day spirit about it. There are usually fun drink specials, and the beer selection is extensive. Then head over to Mac’s Tavern, which has earned a reputation as a place with a friendly atmosphere and a decent beer list. It’s owned by It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia cast members, making it even more fun.
Change the pace at the end of the night at JJ Bootleggers. A lively energy to wrap up your Old City crawl, this whiskey bar is this. Or dance to the DJ, enjoy a whiskey cocktail, or just people-watch until you’re ready to call it a night.
Route 2: The Bustling Midtown Village Circuit
Midtown Village is always lively, but on St. Patrick’s Day, it’s electric. This neighborhood offers a mix of Irish pubs and trendy bars. Kick things off at Fergie’s Pub, a beloved local spot known for its warm, no-frills vibe. Grab a pint and catch some live music if you’re lucky.
After that, head over to McGillin’s Olde Ale House, the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philadelphia. This place pulls out all the stops for St. Patrick’s Day with green beer, Irish tunes, and a festive crowd. It gets packed, but that’s part of the fun. From there, stroll to Finn McCool’s Ale House. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere and great Irish whiskey selection, and it’s a good spot to catch your breath.
End your Midtown Village adventure at Tir na nÓg. This Irish bar combines modern touches with traditional flair. Their St. Patrick’s Day celebration usually includes live music, hearty bites, and plenty of beer.
Route 3: South Street Shenanigans
South Street offers an offbeat, eclectic energy perfect for a lively bar crawl. Begin at O’Neals Pub, a classic Irish bar with a down-to-earth feel. They’ve got great drink specials, a solid beer list, and an easygoing crowd. It’s a perfect place to warm up for the night.
From O’Neals, make your way to The Tattooed Mom. While not an Irish pub, this artsy dive bar embraces every holiday with flair. Expect funky decor, good drinks, and a welcoming vibe. After that, pop into MilkBoy South Street. This bar is known for its live music and strong cocktails. It’s not strictly Irish, but it’s always a good time.
Round out your South Street journey at Manny Brown’s. It’s a classic, no-nonsense bar with cheap drinks and a friendly crowd. Grab a final pint and toast to a successful St. Patrick’s Day.
Tips for a Great Bar Crawl
A successful bar crawl isn’t just about the bars. It’s about having a great experience. Here are a few tips to keep the fun going:
Pace Yourself: It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Sip your drinks and enjoy the vibe.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water between stops. It’ll help you last the night and feel better the next day.
Dress for the Occasion: Go all-out with your green gear, but wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot.
Plan Ahead: Bars fill up quickly on St. Patrick’s Day. Be prepared for lines and have backup options in mind.
Stay Safe: Make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Rideshares, public transport, or designated drivers are your best bet.
If you want a drinking event that blends fun, festive energy, and a community vibe, the St Patty’s Day bar crawl in Philly offers everything you need. Philly’s bar scene is full of opportunities to celebrate this holiday in style.
Conclusion
St. Patrick’s Day in Philly is full of energy, laughter, and great memories. No matter which route you take, you’re in for a festive night. So, gather your friends, wear your best green outfit, and hit the town for a classic St. Patty’s Philly bar crawl.