The Ultimate Pittsburgh Bar Crawl

Pittsburgh is affectionately known as a drinking town with a football problem. There is no better way to engage in one of Pittsburgh's favorite past-times than a bar crawl in the Southside. East Carson Street is the main artery running through this side of the city. The Pennsylvania Tourism Office boasts that on East Carson Street "there are more bars per capita than almost any other place on Earth," making it the perfect place for a night out.

Here are a list of suggested bars, running from 11^th St. to 20^th St.

Bar 11- 1101 Bradish St.

The only bar listed on this crawl that isn't located directly on Carson Street. Look for Christmas lights- the door is unmarked. Bar 11 is a great place to start the night and the atmosphere will definitely bring out the kid in even the most uptight individual. The TV is always tuned into Cartoon Network and the staff is always in the mood to joke and laugh. No need to pull out a pen and paper to take down a number here. The bartenders will eagerly supply you with glow in the dark markers so you can write messages on your arms, legs, etc. Other toys supplied at this one of a kind bar include army men, squirt guns, finger puppets and candy necklaces. You may even be lucky enough to visit on a night when they are hosting a foam party.

Jacks- 1121 E. Carson St.

You can always depend on an eclectic mix of individuals at this popular Pittsburgh hangout. You can spot college students, business men, toothless Willie from the alley and Ben Roethisberger. The drinks are large and the staff is friendly. Just watch your toes because this placed is always packed. If you find the front room too crowded, there's a hidden backroom that houses a jukebox, dart machine, 2 pool tables, and larger bathrooms. Open 365 days a year from 7am-2am.

The Carson City Saloon- Corner of 14^th and E. Carson St.

One of the newest additions to Carson Street. This 3 story sports bar used to be an old German Savings Deposit Bank. Huge televisions line the walls and there are 15 booth tvs to make sure you don't miss a second of the game. Very clean and laid-back.

Marios/Blue Lou's- 1514 E. Carson St.

There's a moose mounted to the wall with about 50 bras hanging from its antlers. That goes to show how wild nights can get in this place. Home to the worst bathrooms in the Burgh. But bonus if you're on a Birthday bar crawl: The bartender will serve up some special surprises.

Fatheads- 1805 E. Carson St.

Fatheads isn't just a bar/restaurant. It's an experience. There are 40 beers on tap and 200 bottles to choose from. The staff is very educated- tell them what you like and they'll offer a list of suggestions for you. While you're at it, have some food. One of Fatheads' famous 'Headwich's' was featured in Maxim Magazine for the #5 best sandwich in the nation. There are over 20 to choose from, and with names like "Beauty and the Beasty", "The Artery Clogger", and the "Bay of Pigs" reading the menu is almost as fun as trying to finish your food.

Casey's Draft House- 1811 E. Carson St.

A little seedy, but not as seedy as Bar 11. Saturday and Monday nights are proclaimed as 'Midget Madness'. When someone lays down $10 and offers to buy the bar a shot, a little person comes out of his box at the end of the bar and pours a shot into everyone's mouth. I'm not lying.

Smokin' Joe's- 2001 E. Carson St.

With 50 beers on tap and 250 others to choose from in the coolers, it's safe to say that if you can't find it here, you're going to have a hard time finding it anywhere else in Pittsburgh. If you appreciate a good beer, this is your place.

Town Tavern- 2009 E. Carson St.

Largest dance club on Carson Street. The club has two floors- the first floor hosts a gigantic bar while still managing to keep a lot of floor space. The upstairs has couches/lounging area, another smaller bar and a decent sized dance floor. Originally a bar in NYC, the owner didn't want to skimp on class when he brought Town Tavern to Pittsburgh. There's a velvet rope outside and an enforced dress code: no hats, cut-offs, combat boots, etc. This place is a guaranteed good time.

By the end of this crawl you should feel fairly good. If you feel the need to continue your night, don't limit yourself to these bars. There are hundreds to choose from all within walking distance