In contrast to the many universities which reside in Ohio, Wright State University is located in an area with few bars and clubs for young people. The assumption that there is no nightlife or 21+ scene for college students would be untrue, however, as Dayton offers many opportunities for college students to enjoy a night out.
The Oregon District
In the heart of Gem City, the Oregon District is packed with vintage shops, bars which cater to all age groups, coffee shops and various dining options.
Dane Thomas, of Ned Peppers Bar in the Oregon District, emphasized the uniqueness of the area for college-aged visitors.
“The shops and bars in the Oregon District stand out because they’re all independently owned by local individuals — no corporate chains here. As someone who’s spent many years in the Oregon District, I know that visiting these spots means supporting the people behind them,” Thomas said.
Ned Peppers is a favorite among college students for not being a bar that is heavy in seating. As Dayton is lacking in clubs, which college towns often are filled with, Ned Peppers is open late and has a large, open dancefloor.
The popular Oregon District bar is perfect for young crowds, going out for the weekend.
The most unique and convenient feature of Ned Peppers is not the dancefloor and atmosphere, however. The bar is connected to another Oregon District favorite: Hole in the Wall.
Hole in the Wall is described as “A more laid back chill bar decorated in pop culture.” The small bar is covered in movie and comic posters, and has movies playing for guests at all times.
The array of atmospheres which Ned Peppers and Hole in the Wall offer to locals, combined with the walkability to other spots in the Oregon District makes for a perfect night out.
Drag shows
Many college towns, including Columbus and Cincinnati, provide ample opportunity for entertainment while drinking. Students in Dayton often overlook the local scene traveling out of the city for drag shows and lively entertainment, assuming this is not offered in the area.
Drag shows are a great option for those wanting to go out and drink while having entertainment.
If anyone is to attend any drag show in Dayton, the Rubi Girls are a go-to. The group of girls have been performing drag together for Ohio since 1980 and are Dayton locals.
The girls are dedicated to entertaining audiences through drag and raising money through fundraisers. According to the Rubi Girls’ website, the girls have raised over $3,000,000 for HIV/AIDS and other LGBTQIA related causes.
The group of drag queens do not perform regularly however, but events to attend such as drag brunches and fundraisers are posted on the Rubi Girls’ Facebook and Instagram.
Another Dayton favorite amongst locals and drag queen fans is MJ’s on Jefferson.
MJ’s on Jefferson is a gay-owned and operated nightclub known for exciting drag shows for guests to watch and even participate in. Drag queens put on performances for the audience paired with music to energize the crowd.
MJ’s hosts many unique events throughout the week including, “So You Think You Can Drag?” on Wednesdays, and karaoke on Thursdays and Sundays. More information on times and locations can be found on the bar’s Facebook.
Silent Disco & Yellow Cab’s events
Located outside of the Oregon District, Yellow Cab Tavern is known for inclusivity and live music-themed events on weekends.
The bar, decorated with pride flags and taxi cab checkers across the walls, is a great option for a fun night. The stage is never barren on weekends, with a variety of different artists, new and established, and unique performances.
“You could come to Yellow Cab on a Friday night and see a punk band, an artist live painting, or even a burlesque troupe performing a routine,” Tara Moore, owner and manager of Yellow Cab Tavern, said.
The bar’s most popular event is “Silent Disco,” in which guests are given headphones to tune into one of three channels provided by the night’s DJ.
Silent Disco allows the audience to socialize on the dance floor, while having the liberty of choosing the music, a concept rare in bar and club settings.
“We try to experiment and take chances on young artists which allows locals to see some performances they might usually see around town. Since most clubs in Dayton have closed, we are also trying to provide more opportunities for people to dance in a safe and welcoming environment,” Moore said.
Yellow Cab Tavern’s mission to provide the people with club-like entertainment, while continuing to support community artists, creates a unique atmosphere for all ages.
