Don’t let your professors fool you.

Sure, studying is important, but college is about more than research papers and midterms. So when you’ve put in enough time with the books for one evening, it’s good to know where to head for Lawrence nightlife.

The city’s social scene revolves around Massachusetts Street with its restaurants, bars and clubs that lure students from diverse backgrounds. While upperclassmen may pack many of the Massachusetts Street bars on Fridays and Saturdays, there are plenty of options for underaged Jayhawks as well.

In particular, Lawrence has a vibrant and well-respected local music scene that brings both established and rising acts to fan-friendly downtown venues.

“When you see a show in Lawrence, you definitely get that intimate feeling,” said Brian Sears, a KU sophomore who deejays on KJHK, the student radio station. “Shows are constantly going on – and they’re good. Lawrence attracts a lot of good acts.”

Two of the busiest venues are The Bottleneck, 737 N.H., and The Granada, 1020 Mass., where dozens of acts take the stage each year. With its dive-bar decor and eclectic list of performers, The Bottleneck may be the heart of the local music scene. Big name acts like Radiohead, Wilco and the Flaming Lips have wowed crowds in the venue’s 350 person-capacity space, but you’re more likely to catch an up-and-coming band there. Much of the venue’s appeal comes from its dedication to local acts. Each Monday, The Bottleneck is host to open mic night where many recently formed college bands take their first hack at live performance. Almost all of the shows are 18 and over. For a performance list, go to www.bottlenecklive.com.

Reggie and the Full Effect perform to an overflow crowd at the Replay Lounge, 10th and Massachusetts street.

The Granada attracts a similar bill of performers, with the Smashing Pumpkins and Marilyn Manson among the acts it has hosted. The Granada is host to special events like end-of-the semester parties sponsored by Kansas University organizations or watch parties for major Jayhawk sporting events.

Downtown more entertainment options besides music. Several art galleries line Massachusetts Street, including Fields Gallery, 712 Mass., and Signs of Life, 722 Mass., which also has books and a coffee bar.

Liberty Hall, 646 Mass., a combination movie theater and music venue, features a variety of art house films. On Tuesdays admission is two-for-one.

“There is a lot of art and culture downtown,” KU student Sarah Leonard said. “If you look around, you’ll find something that interests you.”

For the more fleet of foot, downtown does offer some dancing opportunities. Abe and Jake’s Landing, 8 E. Sixth St., a huge bar and club overlooking the Kansas River, frequently features 18-and-over nights with live music. Last Call, 729 N.H., features hip-hop nights Saturday.

If you’re still not sure where to suit your socializing needs, help is only a few clicks away at www.lawrence.com. There, you’ll find a detailed calendar of events and performances, as well as information about restaurants and clubs throughout Lawrence. The site also features extensive local music listings, with downloadable MP3s from some of Lawrence’s brightest acts.

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