Conventiongoers needn't worry about drinking and driving. Here are the best bars within walking distance of the Xcel, picked by the Star Tribune's nightlife reporter.
1. THE LIFFEY
Just steps from the Xcel Center sits one of St. Paul's favorite Irish pubs, with a terrific terrace. (175 W. 7th St., St. Paul, 651-556-1420, theliffey.com)
2. ARTISTS' QUARTER
This is what comes to mind when you think of an authentic, smoke-filled jazz club -- minus the smoke. (408 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-292-1359, artistsquarter.com)
3. GREAT WATERS BREWING COMPANY
We're proud of our brew pubs -- where beers are made from scratch -- and this is one of the Twin Cities' finest. (426 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-224-2739, greatwatersbc.com)
4. SENOR WONG
This happy-hour spot is a hidden gem downtown, featuring Latin and Asian food side-by-side on the menu. Hence the name. (111 E. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, 651-224-2019, senorwong.com)
5. ALARY'S
This sports bar isn't everyone's cup of tea, but if you dig cop hangouts and provocatively dressed servers, this is your spot. (139 E. 7th St., St. Paul, 651-224-7717, alarys.com)
TOM HORGEN
Coming Wednesday: Best bars for sipping outside.
