Exploring the oldest bars in each U.S. state offers a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s rich history. Here’s a list highlighting some of these historic establishments:
Here’s a synopsis of each of the oldest bars in every U.S. state, highlighting their history, significance, and unique features:
Alabama – The Peerless Saloon (1899, Anniston)
Once a high-end gentlemen’s bar, The Peerless Saloon has evolved into a historic gathering place known for its vintage decor and live music. It retains much of its old-world charm, with original fixtures and a sense of Southern hospitality.
Alaska – B&B Bar (1906, Kodiak)
This rugged, no-frills Alaskan bar has been serving fishermen and locals for over a century. Famous for its strong drinks and laid-back atmosphere, it reflects the resilient spirit of Alaska.
Arizona – The Palace Restaurant & Saloon (1877, Prescott)
A Wild West icon, The Palace was once frequented by figures like Wyatt Earp. Despite a fire in 1900, the mahogany bar was saved, and the saloon remains a beloved spot for food, whiskey, and Old West history.
Arkansas – Ohio Club (1905, Hot Springs)
A former speakeasy and gambling joint, the Ohio Club was visited by Al Capone and other infamous mobsters. Today, it’s a lively bar and restaurant featuring jazz music and Prohibition-era ambiance.
California – The Iron Door Saloon (1852, Groveland)
Claiming to be the oldest continuously operating saloon in California, The Iron Door Saloon served Gold Rush miners and still exudes an Old West aesthetic with its original iron doors and vintage décor.
Colorado – Buffalo Rose (1859, Golden)
Originally a mining town saloon, Buffalo Rose has transformed into a modern bar, restaurant, and live music venue while maintaining its historic roots.
Connecticut – Griswold Inn Tap Room (1776, Essex)
Established during the Revolutionary War, this charming colonial-era inn and tavern is famous for its maritime decor, fireplaces, and a deep connection to New England history.
Delaware – Kelly’s Logan House (1864, Wilmington)
A Civil War-era Irish pub, Kelly’s Logan House remains a staple in Wilmington, known for its hearty food, vibrant atmosphere, and deep Irish-American heritage.
District of Columbia – Old Ebbitt Grill (1856, Washington, D.C.)
A favorite of presidents and politicians, Old Ebbitt Grill started as a boarding house and evolved into a classic saloon offering upscale dining and an old-school Washington charm.
Florida – Palace Saloon (1903, Fernandina Beach)
The last American bar to close before Prohibition, Palace Saloon retains its original grandeur with lavish woodwork and Tiffany-style lighting, serving as a historical landmark in Florida.
Georgia – The Pirate’s House (1753, Savannah)
Once a tavern for sailors and pirates, this legendary bar is steeped in mystery, with underground tunnels rumored to have been used for smuggling. It’s now a popular restaurant and bar with ghostly tales.
Hawaii – Smith’s Union Bar (1935, Honolulu)
Honolulu’s oldest bar, Smith’s Union has been a longtime favorite of sailors and locals. It offers a laid-back island atmosphere, cheap drinks, and a taste of old Hawaii.
Idaho – White Horse Saloon (1907, Spirit Lake)
This rustic bar, Idaho’s oldest, features taxidermy decor and a history tied to the logging industry. It continues to be a popular watering hole for locals and tourists alike.
Illinois – The Village Tavern (1847, Long Grove)
A historic tavern with a cozy, old-world feel, The Village Tavern is famous for its massive mahogany bar, friendly service, and live music.
Indiana – Knickerbocker Saloon (1835, Lafayette)
Indiana’s oldest bar, this saloon has been operating since the early 19th century, serving patrons in an elegant setting with a rich history of entertainment.
Iowa – Breitbach’s Country Dining (1852, Balltown)
Family-owned for generations, Breitbach’s blends classic Midwestern charm with historic ambiance. It has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires but remains a beloved institution.
Kansas – Hays House (1857, Council Grove)
Founded by a frontiersman, Hays House is both a bar and a restaurant that served travelers on the Santa Fe Trail. It remains a key part of Kansas history.
Kentucky – Talbott Tavern (1779, Bardstown)
One of America’s oldest continuously operating taverns, this Bourbon Country staple once hosted figures like Abraham Lincoln and Jesse James.
Louisiana – Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (1772, New Orleans)
This French Quarter haunt, believed to have ties to the pirate Jean Lafitte, is one of the oldest surviving buildings in New Orleans, offering a dark, candlelit atmosphere.
Maine – Jameson Tavern (1779, Freeport)
A former meeting place for political leaders, Jameson Tavern is now a cozy bar with colonial-era decor and a reputation as “The Birthplace of Maine.”
Maryland – Middleton Tavern (1750, Annapolis)
A historic waterside tavern that once served George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, Middleton Tavern offers a rich colonial dining experience.
Massachusetts – Warren Tavern (1780, Charlestown)
One of Paul Revere’s favorite spots, Warren Tavern has been serving locals since the American Revolution and maintains its historic charm.
Michigan – Old Tavern Inn (1835, Niles)
A rustic tavern with a deep connection to Michigan’s pioneer days, Old Tavern Inn has served generations of locals with hearty meals and drinks.
Minnesota – Neumann’s Bar (1887, North St. Paul)
A Prohibition-era speakeasy that still operates today, Neumann’s is known for its tin ceilings, historic charm, and laid-back vibe.
Mississippi – King’s Tavern (1789, Natchez)
Once a stagecoach stop, King’s Tavern is famous for its ghost stories and its status as Mississippi’s oldest building.
Missouri – O’Malley’s Pub (1842, Weston)
A historic Irish pub built into limestone cellars, O’Malley’s serves craft beer and hosts live Irish music.
Montana – Bale of Hay Saloon (1863, Virginia City)
A preserved Old West saloon in a former gold rush town, Bale of Hay Saloon still attracts tourists with its authentic period decor.
Nebraska – Glur’s Tavern (1876, Columbus)
This classic Midwestern bar was once visited by Buffalo Bill Cody and remains a community gathering place.
Nevada – Genoa Bar (1853, Genoa)
“The Oldest Thirst Parlor in Nevada,” Genoa Bar has served everyone from Mark Twain to modern travelers.
New Hampshire – The Hancock Inn (1789, Hancock)
A historic inn and tavern known for its colonial architecture and New England charm.
New Jersey – Barnsboro Inn (1776, Sewell)
One of New Jersey’s oldest continuously operating taverns, featuring classic American fare and Revolutionary War-era ambiance.
New Mexico – El Farol (1835, Santa Fe)
A legendary Spanish-style cantina with tapas, live music, and a storied past.
New York – The Old ‘76 House (1755, Tappan)
A historic site where British spy Major André was held during the Revolution, now a restaurant and bar.
North Carolina – Antler’s Bar (1932, Blowing Rock)
A rustic bar serving mountain-town locals for decades.
North Dakota – Peacock Alley (1933, Bismarck)
Located in an old railway hotel, this bar has maintained its Art Deco charm.
Ohio – Ye Olde Trail Tavern (1827, Yellow Springs)
A historic stop on the stagecoach route, known for its cozy setting and traditional drinks.
Oklahoma – Eischen’s Bar (1896, Okarche)
Famous for its fried chicken and small-town charm, Eischen’s has been an Oklahoma landmark for over a century.
Each of these bars holds a unique place in history, offering more than just drinks—they serve as living museums of America’s past.