Dive bars are local drinking establishments known for their cheap alcohol and fun atmosphere. Cities of every size have them and when you accidentally stumble upon a perfect one, you know it. Although the dive bars of today are different than they were in the past, they still share some familiar characteristics.
Dive bars used to be infamous for their reputation of being unclean, possibly unsafe and having questionable clientele. Some dive bars used to be places where, if you didn’t know anyone there, you probably weren’t welcomed by the clientele. And if you did know some of the patrons, you might have been a little questionable yourself.
These days, ‘dive bar’ usually means a drinking spot that’s not too fancy or pretentious and has unique character. While some of these bars might be a bit rundown or in random locations, they’re not unsafe. Distinguishing a dive bar from regular neighborhood taverns is all about the true definition of what a dive bar is.
To be a genuine dive bar, a few boxes need to be checked off. The bar should have regulars, as in patrons who come in often, and most likely occupy the same seats every time. There could be some graffiti on the walls, a pool table or two in the back, a vintage jukebox and some simple and unfussy bar furniture. And off the beaten path would be considered an ideal location for a dive bar.
Another essential element of dive bars sometimes is their operating hours. Dive bars are often known for their early opening hours, and some start serving as soon as is legally permissable. The beverage options are a key element, too. Beer should be on tap, or in bottles and cans, and Pabst Blue Ribbon is a must. Lighting should be either too dim or too bright, and ideally there should be no windows. Bartenders are usually super friendly or a little gruff. But the main feature of a dive bar is the cheap drinks.
To compile a list of 30 of the greatest dive bars in America, 24/7 Tempo reviewed ratings and critiques of establishments that identify themselves as dive bars, in whole or in part, on Yelp. Some were disqualified because they weren’t strictly a dive bar. Those that were primarily restaurants, sports bars, or chain operations, or because they were judged editorially to lack essential dive bar characteristics, were not included. (Click here for the 20 biggest sports bar franchises in America.)
We also sourced information from various websites, including Thrillist, Tasting Table, and Daily Meal, as well as numerous local and regional sites.
One thing to know before you head out on a search for dive bars, is that some of them are cash only and do not accept credit cards. Also, with a few exceptions, there are not many food offerings beyond chips, popcorn or microwaved pizza. Some dive bars don’t even serve liquor – just cold beer and maybe some cheap wine.
Dive bars are usually friendly, surprisingly welcoming establishments where your bar tab won’t break the bank at the end of the evening. You’re bound to have more fun and end up with more interesting stories than if you’d gone to a snooty, upscale venue. (If that’s your preference, though, here is a list of the the best bars in America right now.)
Here are 30 of the best dive bars in America:
Van’s Dive Bar in Anchorage, Alaska
With live music, free popcorn, a pool table, and cheap drinks, it’s no wonder this Anchorage institution has a devoted local following and is a great discovery for anyone who manages to find it.
Bay Horse Tavern in Tucson, Arizona
Yelp reviewers rave about the funny bartenders, affordable drinks, and cozy patio with a TV at this charming establishment that features retired Bud Light Mascot, Spuds MacKenzie, overlooking the bar.
Midtown Billiards in Little Rock, Arkansas
Reviews praise this establishment as the real deal when it comes to dive bars. Commenters seem to enjoy both the grumpy staff and the delicious burgers.
Nob Hill Inn in Denver, Colorado
There has been a bar or restaurant in this location since 1937 and it’s been called the Nob Hill Inn since 1954. The crowd is eclectic, the art is funky and the jukebox still takes dollar bills.
Boat Club in Tarpon Springs, Florida
Customers call this place a classic Florida dive bar. They also mention that it’s crooked. Located overlooking the Anclote River, on approximately a 20-degree angle, this dive bar has both character and characters.
The Rail Pub in Savannah, Georgia
Cactus Bar in Boise, Idaho
At this cash-only institution, their motto is “Happy Hour Every Hour.” Patrons describe the drinks as “cheap and stiff,” and you can bring your furry friends with you. Dogs are allowed inside and on the patio at the Cactus Bar.
Chipp Inn in Chicago, Illinois
This century-old neighborhood joint has cold beer, friendly bartenders, reasonable prices, and it’s open late. It is a cozy and cash-only dive bar.
Fat Matt’s Vortex in Kansas City, Kansas
This beloved Strawberry Hill spot was built over an old crematorium (which you can tour). You can get ice-cold beer or try one of their signature cocktails called a Grog/Witches Brew.
Chevy Chase Inn in Lexington, Kentucky
Reported to be the oldest continuously operating bar in Lexington, this authentic dive bar has live music, canned beer and supposedly does not tolerate hipsters.
Snake & Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge in New Orleans, Louisiana
Another dog-friendly establishment, Snake & Jake’s has been described as a “bucket list dive bar destination” on Yelp. It’s open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. And the holiday decorations stay up all year long.
Mount Royal Tavern in Baltimore, Maryland
This dimly-lit Belvedere dive bar has cheap drinks, great music, and a ton of character. The bar earned it’s nickname, “The Dirt Church” because of a hand-painted replica of the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
Bronx Bar in Detroit, Michigan
Palmer’s Bar in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Palmer’s is in a flat-iron historic building that some describe as hard to find. When you do find this tucked away treasure, chances are you’ll be a return customer because of the inexpensive beer, strong drinks, and cozy outdoor patio.
The Rhino in Missoula, Montana
Officially known as The Rhinoceros, this dive bar has peanut shells on the floor, gruff bartenders at your service, and 50 beers on tap. The regulars say the nightly specials are cheap and awesome.
Rusty Spur Saloon in Las Vegas, Nevada
This old-style cocktail lounge is in a motel parking lot and it’s probably the only dive bar on this list with a silver horse sporting a PBR logo out front. Reviews say the place has lots of charm and they don’t serve craft beers.
One Star in New York City, New York
Patrons of the One Star say the chill vibes, great bartenders and delicious drinks are the best things about this hole in the wall. Long bar, low lights, and quirky art work add to the appeal of this New York City dive bar.
Thirsty Beaver Saloon in Charlotte, North Carolina
Reviewers say this neighborhood dive has a bit of a 70’s vibe, and a bit of a biker bar vibe. Combine that with cheap PBR, pool tables, and a free jukebox, and it’s a perfect dive bar.
Harbor Inn Cafe in Cleveland, Ohio
This fun West Bank dive bar is one of Cleveland’s oldest. It has nautical decor and serves over 150 different beers. And if you’re in the mood for games, this is the place. They have darts, pinball, and an old-school bowling game.
Lefty’s in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
This cozy bar in the Strip District has what one reviewer describes as “insanely cheap drinks.” The clientele is colorful and the music is turned up loud. The bartenders are friendly and they will serve your bloody mary with a Slim Jim in it.
Pontiac Tap in Providence, Rhode Island
Friendly regulars and friendly bartenders make you feel welcome at this Rhode Island hole in the wall. There’s nothing fancy about this place. You can grab a beer and watch a game or just relax with friends and enjoy the atmosphere.
Santa’s Pub in Nashville, Tennessee
At Santa’s Pub, they only serve beer and they only take cash. This dive bar in a double-wide trailer attracts tourists as well as locals, and on occasion, a country star or two have been known to stop in. Karaoke night is every night at Santa’s.
Club No Minors in Houston, Texas
This dive bar is inside a Mexican Restaurant named El Patio. After entering the restaurant, you’ll find a door that says “Club No Minors.” The room is small, but the margaritas are big. There is loud live music and if it’s an authentic mariachi band, you’re in for a treat.
Cheers to You in Salt Lake City, Utah
Loud, crowded, and full of locals is one description of Cheers to You. Friendly, fun people and awesome bartenders make this dive a must visit if you’re in Salt Lake City.
Charlie-O’s in Montpelier, Vermont
Charlie-O’s was once a biker hangout, but these days the joint has a much more diverse crowd. The beer is cheap and the selection includes local beers. Grabbing a local brew and playing some pool while listening to the loud music is fun at Charlie-O’s
The Locker Room in Richmond, Virginia
Family owned and in business since 1985, this Virginia watering hole has a jukebox, pool tables and shuffleboard. The owner says it also has “free wifi, top-shelf snacks, and all the attitude you expect from a dive, complete with nicotine walls and ceiling tiles.”
Al’s Tavern in Seattle, Washington
Al’s Tavern has been in operation since 1940 and has a loyal local following that would like to keep this treasure a secret. One fan describes it as having pretty much everything you want in a dive bar – “dank lighting, funky smell, faded Formica, vinyl half booths, stale chips, surly staff, stray dogs, irregular regulars, and a janky pool table.”
Red Carpet Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia
Some Yelp fans have proclaimed the Red Carpet Lounge “the purest version of a dive bar in existence.” Inexpensive drinks and good food are served up at this beloved dive bar. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Wolski’s Tavern in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Wolski’s celebrated its 115th anniversary this year. They offer patrons darts, pool, and free popcorn. If you end up having so much fun that you stay until closing time, you earn a “I closed Wolksi’s” bumper sticker.
Joe’s Liquor and Bar in Rock Springs, Wyoming
Joes is a combination package liquor store and what is reportedly Wyoming’s smallest bar. One Yelp review says you get, “an authentic Wyoming experience,” and while there’s no beer on tap, the bar makes up for the omission “in personality and rowdiness.”