Bartender and consultant Shaun Traxler of Sideways Bar in Fayetteville shares his expertise and tips with AY readers. Keep up with him on Instagram.

For bartenders in Fayetteville, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. And, no, I’m not talking about the holidays – although it may as well be for us patron-deprived barmen and -women. Students are rolling back in and soon Dickson Street will be crawling with young, eager people looking for hot spots in which to spend their evenings. Downtown Fayetteville has an incredibly diverse selection of bars and is sure to please anyone who walks its way.

When the weather is right, hit the patios at Kingfish, 21st Amendment and Dickson Street Pub. Kingfish can also appease your need for that dive bar feel with cheap beers and friendly service. Plus, they’re always cranking out killer live tunes onstage.

If you’re looking for the quintessential Dickson Street experience chock full of shots, vodka sodas and an Uber ride, find your way into these joints: Ryleighs for cheap beer, fun shots and awesome bartenders; the new Yeehawg, complete with a mechanical razorback; Infusion for karaoke; Shotz for… well, shots that you can smash on the floor. For those with enough energy to make it until 1 a.m., check out the bars on West Avenue like Lit Lounge, Z330 and West End. I’m too much of a square to be moseying around those parts, but word is, it’s a good time for those looking to take it to eleven.

For those moments where nothing quenches your thirst like a quality brew, seek out Brewski’s, a Dickson staple with 71 taps, Sideways with 61 taps, and Puritan Brew Co.

When you’re craving a curated cocktail or a more progressive approach to booze, don’t miss Cannibal and Craft, Sideways, Theo’s (which has a great happy hour!), or Maxine’s. All of these cocktail joints are guaranteed to craft you something perfect.

From dive bar beer to world-class cocktails, Fayetteville has it all. Get out there and say hello to the bartenders thrilled to serve their city.