After a week of hitting the books and attending classes, every UCSB student deserves a chance to unwind without breaking the bank. Santa Barbara is known for its lively nightlife, and on Thursdays, it's all about "college night." You can enjoy drink specials, affordable transportation, and fantastic vibes at some of the city's most popular spots. If you're a UCSB student looking to have a blast on a budget, here are the top places to do it:
1) Tonic Nightclub - Candy Crush Thursdays
Tonic NightclubCotton Candy Machine at Tonic
Nestled mid-State Street, Tonic Nightclub takes Thursdays to a sweet new level with "Candy Crush Thursday." The club transforms into a candy wonderland, complete with a cotton candy machine at the entrance to treat students waiting in line. A roaming piñata adds to the fun, and you'll find bowls of candy at both the indoor and outdoor patio bars. The best part? There's no cover charge on Thursdays. It's a sugar rush extravaganza you won't want to miss. Website
2) Wildcat Lounge - Dance Your Heart Out
Wildcat LoungeWildcat Mascot Tearing Up the Dance Floor
Rated as Santa Barbara's top dance destination, Wildcat Lounge is the ultimate spot to unleash your dance moves. Situated off Ortega Street, Wildcat boasts a spacious dance floor and an even larger outdoor patio. On Thursdays, you can snag a $5 Bill's Bus pass for transportation to Wildcat, where $4 well cocktails await you. Keep an eye out for the giant wildcat mascot in Isla Vista or on the dance floor – he often comes bearing free drink tickets. Website
3) Eos Lounge - Mediterranean Vibes
Eos LoungeA Packed Dance Floor at Eos
Located at the corner of Anacapa and Haley, Eos Lounge is a college night essential. This Mediterranean-inspired club boasts a massive dance floor with not one but two DJs on any given night. Enjoy no cover charge on Thursdays, plus transportation options via Bill's Bus. Ladies who arrive before 11:00 pm can indulge in a complimentary glass of champagne. Eos also offers discounted bottle service and cocktails until last call at 1:30 am. Website
4) Sandbar - A Unique Experience
Sandbar
Sandbar offers a unique nightlife experience in downtown Santa Barbara. By day, it's a Mexican restaurant and tequila cantina; by night, it transforms into a dance club. Inside, you'll find a DJ and a bar, while outside, the lounge beckons with comfy cushioned seats and fire pits for those moments when you want to relax. Sandbar's college night deal is unbeatable – three drinks for the price of one. Website
5) Indochine - The Cozy Dance Haven
IndochineThe Inside Bar at Indochine
Indochine may be that place you've walked past on lower State Street with sweaty dancers having the time of their lives against floor-to-ceiling windows. This small club boasts incredible Asian décor and a lively atmosphere. While the bulk of the action happens on their outdoor patio, there's also a small but packed dance floor visible from across the street. Indochine offers moderately priced handcrafted cocktails and, of course, no cover charge for college students every Thursday. Facebook Page
In summary:
Santa Barbara's college night scene is brimming with options for UCSB students looking to unwind, have fun, and save some cash. From the candy-coated charm of Tonic Nightclub to the dance floor excitement at Wildcat Lounge, the Mediterranean vibes of Eos Lounge, the unique experience at Sandbar, and the cozy dance haven that is Indochine – there's a Thursday night adventure awaiting every student. So, gather your friends, take advantage of the deals, and make the most of your UCSB experience with unforgettable nights on the town.
