The best bars & nightlife in Cortland

3 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 3 places · showing the latest additions first

BRIX - brick oven pub

Nightlife

Beer, brick-oven pizza, wings & more are served in a casual eatery with industrial-chic decor.

60 Main St

“Beer, brick-oven pizza, wings & more are served in a casual eatery with industrial-chic decor.”

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Paddy's Pub

Nightlife

A Cortland staple since 1984, Paddy's Pub keeps it classic with crispy, saucy wings, big burgers, and those sneaky-good handmade Reuben…

75 Owego St

“A Cortland staple since 1984, Paddy's Pub keeps it classic with crispy, saucy wings, big burgers, and those sneaky-good handmade Reuben egg-rolls. Easygoing vibe, signature drinks, and plenty of hometown hospitality... the kind of place where catching up with friends somehow turns into staying for one more.”

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Dark Horse Tavern

Nightlife

Since 1975, Dark Horse Tavern has been the go-to for Cortland State folks and townies alike, the kind of downtown spot where stories start,…

96 Main St #98

“Since 1975, Dark Horse Tavern has been the go-to for Cortland State folks and townies alike, the kind of downtown spot where stories start, beers disappear, and that giant two-story mural makes it impossible to forget where the night began.”

From the Cortland newsletter, September 14, 2026

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