The Rathskeller

- 92 State St, Binghamton, NY 13901

In the heart of downtown Binghamton, The Rathskeller has long been a part of the local social scene, particularly for those in and around the university community. Located on the bustling and popular State Street, this establishment has a reputation that precedes it, often drawing large crowds looking for a vibrant and high-energy atmosphere. As a fixture of the city's nightlife, it has become a destination for many, known for its distinct vibe and as a place to gather with friends. The name "Rathskeller" itself, which is of German origin and often refers to a basement-level tavern or a student pub, gives a hint to the venue’s character, which is often described as lively and unpretentious. It’s a place that many students and young adults in the New York region have come to know, either by experience or reputation, as a go-to spot for a night out.

The Rathskeller has a history that is intertwined with the collegiate culture of Binghamton. Its location in a basement gives it a certain, well-known feel that is unique to this type of establishment. This setting, while contributing to its character, is also something patrons should be aware of, as it plays a significant role in the overall experience. The venue’s popularity, particularly on weekends and during the school year, means it often operates at a high capacity. The crowds it draws are a key part of its identity, creating an environment that is often loud, packed, and full of energy. For those looking for a quiet evening or a relaxed sit-down experience, The Rathskeller is likely not the ideal choice. However, for those seeking a classic college town bar experience with a party-like atmosphere, it has certainly become a staple in the local scene. The reviews available online from past patrons are a testament to the strong opinions people have about the place, both positive and negative, reflecting its role as a high-volume, high-energy venue.

Its role as a popular nightlife spot means it is a place where many people go to socialize, dance, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The crowd is predominantly young, aligning with the college town dynamic of Binghamton. The music and general entertainment provided are geared towards this demographic, with a DJ often playing music that keeps the energy levels high. This focus on a specific type of entertainment and atmosphere is part of what makes it a recognizable name in the local bar circuit. It's a venue that thrives on a certain type of experience, which is often a defining aspect of its appeal for its target audience. The reviews mention a "fire hazard amount of people," and the general difficulty of navigating the space, which are points to consider for anyone planning a visit. The presence of a single exit, as noted in one review, is another critical detail that prospective visitors should be aware of. These factors contribute significantly to the overall environment and are important to keep in mind when deciding if this is the right place for your night out in Binghamton.

The Rathskeller’s standing in the community is also reflected in the broader context of State Street's nightlife offerings. It's situated among many other popular bars and restaurants, making it part of a larger ecosystem of entertainment in downtown Binghamton. The convenience of its location allows patrons to easily hop from one establishment to another, creating a fluid and dynamic night on the town. While the bar’s popularity is a draw for many, it also brings with it certain concerns, as noted by customer feedback. The reviews mention serious allegations about safety and security, including underage patrons and instances of people being "taken advantage of." These are very serious issues that are worth being aware of before planning a visit. The feedback from real customers provides a stark look into the experiences people have had, and it is crucial to take these accounts into consideration when weighing the options for a night out. The fact that customers have raised these concerns publicly is a significant part of the available information about this venue's reputation.

Location and Accessibility:

The Rathskeller is located at 92 State St, Binghamton, NY 13901, USA. This places it directly on State Street, a central hub for nightlife in downtown Binghamton. The building is situated in a busy area, with other popular venues nearby. As is common with many downtown locations, street parking can be a challenge, and visitors may need to rely on public parking garages or lots in the vicinity. Regarding accessibility, public information indicates that the establishment has a toilet, but it does not specify whether the entire venue is wheelchair accessible. Given the nature of a basement club and the feedback about a single exit, it is important for individuals with mobility challenges to research this further before visiting. The area around State Street is generally walkable, and for those living nearby, it is a convenient destination on foot.

Services Offered:

• A bar serving drinks, though specific selections are not publicly detailed.
• A dance floor area for patrons.
• DJ entertainment.
• Basic restroom amenities (toilet).

Features / Highlights:

• Classic college town bar and nightclub atmosphere.
• Located in a basement setting, contributing to its unique character.
• Part of the bustling State Street nightlife scene in downtown Binghamton.
• A popular spot for students and young adults.
• Music from a DJ creates a high-energy environment.
• Known for drawing very large crowds, especially on weekends.
• Proximity to other bars and restaurants for a bar-hopping experience.

Contact Information:

Address: 92 State St, Binghamton, NY 13901, USA

Phone: (607) 722-0255

What is worth choosing?

The decision to choose The Rathskeller depends entirely on what you are looking for in a night out. It is a venue with a very specific and well-defined character, and it is not for everyone. What is worth choosing about The Rathskeller is its role as a high-energy, classic college-town bar. If you are a student or a young adult in the Binghamton area who enjoys a packed, loud environment with a strong focus on dancing and socializing in a party-like setting, this venue may be a good fit. The bar’s central location on State Street makes it a convenient stop during a night out, and it provides a stark contrast to more laid-back or quiet establishments. However, it is crucial to be aware of the serious concerns raised by real customers. The reviews mention issues with overcrowding, a potential fire hazard, and allegations of a dangerous environment, including concerns about underage patrons and safety. These are significant factors that should be considered with the utmost seriousness. The information provided by the reviews suggests that while it may be a popular spot, it may not prioritize safety and comfort in a way that all patrons would expect. Therefore, anyone considering a visit should go with full awareness of these reported issues and prioritize their personal safety above all. The value of choosing this particular establishment is for the very specific, raw, and unfiltered experience of a busy college bar, but it comes with notable and publicly stated risks.

The Rathskeller

92 State St, Binghamton, NY 13901, USA