EAST TUCSON. This lively bar started out catering to Tucson's lesbian population, but has gradually grown to be a favored hangout among the city's gay population as well. Music and entertainment vary from night to night ­ some of the more popular ones feature Latin or hip-hop, karaoke or entertaining drag shows. You'll find great drink specials every night, and a couple of pool tables if you're looking for a game.

FOOTHILLS. The owners here aspire to attract Tucson's beer aficionados, and with 24 brews on tap and a big assortment in bottles ­ many of them unusual and hard to find ­ they succeed. For something stronger, try one of their original shots, which are guaranteed to get the evening rolling. The bar has a friendly neighborhood vibe, and serves as a stop on many a bar hopping night. With 26 televisions, a dartboard and a Golden Tee golf game, it also draws in sports fans, especially on U of A game days. Good appetizers and pub grub satisfy hunger pangs ­ try the awesome Big Texas Barbecue Burger.

DOWNTOWN. Asylum caters to the goth and alternative crowd. That may mean everyone in the club is wearing their blackest, spikiest best, or it may mean a more varied crowd, but the people who come here are, perhaps surprisingly, welcoming and non-judgmental. You'll fit in even in jeans and a t-shirt. The ambience is a tad more upscale than you might expect too, with elegant black and white photos, original paintings, and candles scattered about. It's all very moody, but in a good way. The music varies a bit from night to night, so call ahead if you're looking for something specific; and, yes, even here, all the Wildcat basketball games (go UA!!) are shown on the plasma TV behind the bar.

EAST TUCSON. A slightly more mature crowd gathers at Berky's, a local favorite with a great reputation. Live music is usually on the agenda, with well-known local groups as well as regional acts. The cover charge varies according to the band performing; call ahead for specifics.

DOWNTOWN. You're probably wondering where the name comes from. Well, if you run the phrase "buy sandwiches" together, it might sound a bit like "Bison Witches." OK, maybe that's not so creative, but the food at this neighborhood college hangout is. They serve sandwiches, soups, salads and beer ­ but what a selection. Soups and salads are served in big bread bowls, making them a complete meal in and of themselves. But the sandwiches truly are noteworthy, due to their variety, massive size and general tastiness. Try the Hawaiian chicken, brie and roast beef, or the Wildcat (roast beef, smoked turkey, smoked gouda, lettuce and spicy honey-mustard). If you're feeling homesick, there's grilled cheese or PB&J ­ now that's comfort food! The beverage list is impressive too ­ 8 domestics and imports on tap, plus more than 30 microbrews and over 20 imports in bottles. Great drink specials (this is a college bar, after all!).