Whether looking for a quick drink or a new hangout spot, local dive bar Hilltop Tavern, provides a selection of affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere just five minutes away from Sacramento State.

 Located at 4757 Folsom Boulevard in East Sacramento, Hilltop Tavern comes to life at night as many nearby residents walk to the bar without the stress of driving home.

 Graphic design major Chris Benningfield said he lives near Hilltop, making it one of the places he regularly attends for a drink.

 “I love this place. I live down the street so it is close and means I don’t have to drive very far if I have been drinking” Benningfield said.

Decorated with fluorescent signs, random photos and a jukebox, Hilltop Tavern gives a laid back vibe.

 With a second room filled with games like pool, ping pong and shuffleboard, the bar only charges 75 cents per game. With these game tables occupied all night, the room serves as a main attraction of the bar.

 In addition to games, another attraction is the flat screen televisions surrounding the bar, making it a prime spot for many customer to watch sports.

 History major Casey Popick said he comes with friends when his favorite games are on.

 “Hilltop is my favorite place to watch sports,” Popick said. “They have $3.50 beer specials during Giants games which is an added bonus.”

 Biology major Julian Davis said he likes the low prices Hilltop charges for his favorite drinks.

 “I love that they keep their prices low. A lot of bars end up raising their prices on drinks because of the location or because they know they can get away with it,” Davis said.

 Where other bars and restaurants normally serve specialty brands like Patron for $10 a shot, Hilltop only charges $7. A pint of beer is also $4.

Although the bar does not have a designated happy hour, Hilltop Manager Rebecca Black said prices are always low.

 Because it is located in the heart of East Sacramento, Black said many of the customers are regulars and that Friday and Saturday tend to be their busiest nights.

 “A lot of people that come in grew up around here, so they come to see people they know, old friends and such,” Black said.

  Sac State Construction management major Steven Sleek said he enjoys the all-around good vibes that the bar has.

 “It is more of a low key, grab your own beer, and play some games dive bar,” Sleek said.  “I come when I want something chill, and they have the nicest bartenders I’ve ever met.”

 With many establishments along Folsom Blvd and near Hilltop Tavern, bar-goers can spend their whole night socializing in East Sacramento with low prices and a fun atmosphere.