The Oldest Bar in Every U.S. State

It’s 5 o’clock somewhere, and many people are winding down with an alcoholic beverage. Enjoying a drink after a long day of work is a practice people have been doing since the dawn of time. If you’re looking for a place to kick back with a cold one, and want a side of history too, then you’ll want to add the following bars to your list. We’ve rounded up the oldest bars in every U.S. state, and boy do they have a story to tell. Some served as meeting places for generals during the Revolutionary War, others were frequented by Buffalo Bill, and others still have bullet holes in the walls — physical remnants of battles held many years ago. From sea to shining sea, here are the oldest bars in every U.S. state. 

T.P. Crockmier’s was established in 1875 by Thaddeus P. Crockmier, a professional gambler and son of a plantation owner, who wanted to “to build the most unique restaurant in the South.” The interior is decked out in wood decor harking back to the era in which it was born. It was originally founded in Atlanta, Georgia, and has moved a few times since, but currently sits in Mobile. 

Located in Kodiak, The B&B is believed to have opened in 1906 (according to the state’s oldest liquor license on display in the bar). The pieces to construct the U-shaped bar were moved in by horse and buggy. Today its walls are covered with vintage beer signs, neon-lit mirrors, and weathered bar stools, and it’s a popular spot among local fishers for a cold beer and a game of pool. 

Located in Prescott on historic Whiskey Row, The Palace was established in 1877 and still has its original wooden interiors despite a massive fire that ripped through the building in the 20th century. You can still find bullet holes in the ceiling, and it was frequented by famous 1870s gamblers and gunslingers such as Wyatt Earp, Virgil Earp, and Doc Holliday. 

Situated in Hot Springs, The Ohio Club opened in 1905 as a bar and casino and guise as a cigar store during prohibition. Famous patrons included celebrities like Al Capone, Bugsy Segel, Bugs Moran, Lucky Luciano, and major league baseball players like Babe Ruth. Many blues and jazz musicians performed there, due to all the gambling in the area, and live entertainment is still offered today Thursday through Monday. 

The Iron Door Saloon opened in 1852 in Groveland and was originally called the “granite store,” as its front and back walls are made of granite. It got its name from the front iron saloon doors that were carried in by mules and said to be fire preventers; they’re still there to this day. It’s covered with historic pictures (like one of John Muir, founder of the Sierra Club), and acts as a natural museum of sorts of animals indigenous to the Yosemite Valley. 

Opened in 1859, The Buffalo Rose is located in Golden and drew many patrons in with its large organ in its original two-story building. It was converted to a one-story building designed by architect James H. Gow whose works are listed on the National HIstoric Register. It’s since been renovated into a more modern tavern that includes five historical buildings, and functions as a bar, restaurant, and live music venue. 

The Griswold Inn, or The Gris as locals call it, was established the same year the country was (1776). Located in Essex, a seaport village, it originally served as a schoolhouse, and a team of oxen rolled in the logs to build it. It has been called “the most handsome barroom in America” and “the best-looking drinking room in America.” Today the inn offers history courses and live music, and serves as a taproom, restaurant, and, of course, an inn where guests can stay. 

Located in Wilmington, Kelly’s Logan House is also the oldest Irish family-owned bar in the country. It’s sat at the center of Forty Acres (now Trolley Square) since 1864 and is an especially popular venue on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s named after General John A. Logan, a famous Union Army General who instituted Memorial Day. Famous guests include Al Capone and Buffalo Bill. 

The Palace Saloon was established 1903 and is located in Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island. Louis G. Hirth, the original owner, wanted to create a gentleman’s club for a more wealthy crowd different from what was offered at the time. Regular patrons included the Rockefellers and Carnegies. Originally a haberdashery, it was the last bar to cease operations once Prohibition was enacted. Also called the “Shipcaptain’s Bar,” today it’s known for its world-famous pirates’ punch. 

Located in Savannah, The Pirates’ House was established in 1753 and originally got its name from being a meeting place for pirates and sailors due to its proximity to the river. It also sits on the land where Trustee’s Garden, the first public agricultural experimental garden in America, was located. After years of disuse, it was slated to be demolished, but thanks to dedicated locals it was saved and renovated around 1945. 

Smith’s Union Bar first opened in 1935 in Honolulu in a section of Chinatown’s original red-light district. Frequented by seamen, it has historic ties to Pearl Harbor (old navy pictures and cartoons line the walls). Today it’s a popular spot for karaoke. 

The White Horse Inn and Saloon first opened in 1907 in the historic town of Spirit Lake and is recognized as the oldest and tallest bar in the state. It still has the original wooden floors and is rumored to be the site of many ghost encounters. According to Google, it is temporarily closed, but recently underwent renovations in 2024.

Located in Long Grove, The Village Tavern was established in 1847 and survived Prohibition by operating as an ice cream parlor. Its 35-foot mahogany “Presidents Bar” was rescued in a fire and still stands. Today it’s known for its open mic nights, burgers, and craft-brewed beers on tap. 

Established in 1835 inside the Lahr Luxury Hotel in Lafayette, The Knickerbocker Saloon proudly displays the first liquor license granted in the state. Famous guests include John Purdue, President Ulysses S. Grant, Mark Twain, Al Capone, and Neil Armstrong. The cherry and walnut bar inside dates back to 1891, but today you’ll also find dartboards, shuffleboard, and a billiards table. 

Opened in 1852 thanks to a federal permit issued by President Millard Fillmore, Breitbach’s Country Dining has been family-owned for six generations. Located in Balltown, over the decades it has served as a stagecoach stop, home, hotel, grocery store, tavern, and restaurant. It survived not one but two fires (in 2007 and 2008), so the current building was constructed in 2009 with help from the local community. 

Located in Council Grove, Hays House Restaurant was established in 1857 by Seth Hays (Daniel Boone’s great-grandson). Over the years, it’s served as a restaurant, trading post, barber shop, post office, and theater on the Santa Fe Trail. It is registered as a National Historic Landmark. Guests today can’t get enough of the country fried steak.  

Built in 1779 in Bardstown, The Old Talbott Tavern is known as the oldest Western stagecoach stop in America. It provided shelter, food, and drink to Kentucky travelers. Famous guests include Andrew Jackson, Henry Harrison, and even President Abraham Lincoln (who stayed there with his family when he was a child). Today you can still see bullet holes left in the wall by Jesse James, an infamous Western outlaw, who got too drunk and thought he saw the mural painted on the wall moving. 

Step foot in New Orleans and you’ll see Jean Lafitte’s, a French pirate, privateer, and slave trader, name all over the city. Named after him, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar is located on New Orleans’ famous Bourbon Street and was built between 1722 and 1732. It’s believed to be the oldest structure used as a bar in the U.S. It used to function as a base for negotiations, trading goods, and even rumored smuggling operations. 

Located in Freeport and opened in 1779, Jameson Tavern is known as the “birthplace of Maine.” (There’s even a plaque on display in the garden that says so.) It used to serve as a famous meeting point; rumor has it that the papers that granted Maine its sovereignty were signed on the second floor. Today it’s beloved for its award-winning soups and chowders, such as the lobster stew that Bobby Flay raved over. 

Established in 1750 and located in Annapolis, Middleton Tavern was a popular gathering place for locals, travelers, and seafarers. Many famous patrons include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, the Maryland Jockey Club, and Free Masons. It was and still is known for its excellent seafood, especially oysters, as well as drinks, music, and games. 

Situated in Charlestown, MA, Warren Tavern first opened in 1780 and was one of the very first buildings constructed after the British burned the town down. It’s got a deep history, too. George Washington often stopped by and loved it so much that his funeral speech was given here. Paul Revere was also a popular guest as well. In fact, it is named after Dr. Joseph Warren who sent Paul Revere and William Dawes on their midnight ride.

The New Hudson Inn, originally named the “Old Tavern,” went up in 1831 in New Hudson. It served as a stagecoach stop and is said to have been a part of the Underground Railroad. Today, it’s known for its burgers, live music, and karaoke nights. 

Neumann’s Bar has been a beloved spot since 1887. Located in North St. Paul, it was founded by Bill Neumann who served Hamm’s beer to the community. In fact, it was Hamm’s Brewery that put Neumann into business, and you can still find the intricate back bar that serves as the centerpiece of the bar today. It survived Prohibition by serving non-alcoholic drinks on the first floor and functioned as a speakeasy on top. You can’t miss its pond out front, which has frogs that you might even get to feed on a visit. 

King’s Tavern was established in 1789 in Natchez, and is also the oldest building in Mississippi. It was originally a blockhouse, but became a tavern and inn when Richard King bought it in 1789. It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of a former waitress who King was having an affair with, and whose wife had killed once she found out. 

Located in Weston, O’Malley’s is an Irish pub built in 1832. The actual bar sits nearly 60 feet below the surface in an underground cellar of the Weston Brewing Company. It’s beloved for its charming old stone walls and is known for live music and beer on tap. 

Bale of Hay Saloon was built in 1863 and is located in Virginia City. It features original period artwork, including the famous “Nymphs and Satyr,” and offers ghost tours. Similar to many others, it survived a massive fire and was renovated in 1983.

Established in 1876 originally as the Bucher Saloon, Glur’s Tavern is located in Columbus and is listed on the national register of historic places. It touts itself as the oldest continuously operated tavern west of the Missouri River, and was often frequented by Buffalo Bill. Today patrons can’t get enough of the famous burgers, and it also has a beer garden with a basketball hoop and sand volleyball court. 

Located in Genoa in the Carson Valley, Genoa Bar opened in 1853, 11 years before Nevada became a state. During Prohibition, it disguised itself as a soda fountain. Famous guests include Mark Twain, Teddy Roosevelt, John Wayne, and Raquel Welch who visited while filming something near Lake Tahoe. The inside is decorated with many oil paintings and photographs from the early pioneer days, including an original wanted poster for President Lincoln’s killer. 

Hunt Bar & Scullery is a part of the quaint New England Hancock Inn. Located in Hancock, the inn originally served as a stopping point for travelers traveling through Vermont to Boston. It quickly became known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food and drink, and was often frequented by Franklin Pierce, the only U.S. President from New Hampshire. It was recently renovated in 2024. 

Located in Sewell, Barnsboro Inn opened in 1776 and originally served as a tavern. It was located strategically at the intersection of five major roads, which made it an ideal stopping point for travelers. It also sits atop the highest hill in the area, giving it a great lookout, and survived Prohibition by selling ice cream. 

El Farol means “warmth” and “light,” and it’s a perfect place to gather with friends and family. Located in Santa Fe, it was established in 1835 and is the oldest restaurant and cantina in the state. It specializes in Spanish tapas, and there’s live music and entertainment. Don’t miss the flamenco dancing and hatch chile drinks. 

The ’76 House is rumored to be America’s oldest restaurant. Located in Tappan, it was built in 1668 and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. It’s got four fireplaces and a beautiful garden, and served as a meeting place for patriots. In fact, it’s believed to even have served as the prison for Major John Andre, the revolution’s most notorious British spy. 

Located in Bistro Roca in Blowing Rock, Antlers Bar opened in 1932 — during Prohibition, no less. It’s decorated with impressive portraits of local pets spanning 15 years. 

Peacock Alley opened in 1933 in Bismarck, and served as a bar and hotel for famous guests like John F. Kennedy and Teddy Roosevelt. However, according to a statement on their website as of May 14, 2026, they are sadly planning to close this location on Saturday, June 13, after learning that the lease won’t be renewed. 

Located in Yellow Springs, Ye Olde Trail Tavern first opened in 1827. Today you can see the logs at the back from its original construction. The tavern is said to be haunted by its original owners. 

Eischen’s Bar was built in 1896 in Okarche. It had to shut down during Prohibition, but swiftly reopened once it was repealed. Today you can find a small piece of the huge back bar hand-carved in Spain on display; it was previously shipped to California during the Gold Rush before coming to Okarche in 1950. Sadly, the rest was destroyed in a fire in 1993. Plenty of famous people have visited (check out the list!), and Eischen’s Bar is known for its fried chicken. 

The debate’s out on this one. Two bars have competed and vied for the title of oldest in the state, as they were both founded in the same year: 1883. Both have tried to search for documents to set the record straight, and both sell merch claiming they’re the oldest one in the state. 

The Pioneer Saloon and Restaurant located in Paisley still has the original wooden bar shipped in from Boston in 1906, while The Rainbow Cafe in Pendleton is housed in one of the city’s first brick buildings and has the original linoleum bar top.

Located in Bristol right along the Delaware River, King George II Inn Restaurant & Tavern was founded in 1681, so it existed even before the U.S. did. It is America’s oldest continuously operating inn and served as headquarters for General Cadwalader during the Revolutionary War. The 1765 structure that’s still visible today replaced the original ferry house from 1681. It’s another one that’s said to be haunted. 

White Horse Tavern was established in 1673 and is located in Newport. It claims to be the “oldest operating restaurant in the U.S.” and the 10th oldest in the world. It’s also listed as a National Historic Landmark. The architecture of the building is very quintessential New England style, and it was often used as a meeting place for general assembly, criminal court, and city council. 

Located in Charleston, The Tavern at Rainbow Row opened in 1686 and also touts itself as the oldest liquor store in the country. It survived Prohibition by acting as a barber shop and today is filled with restored furniture and antiques. It originally served as a popular spot for seafarers, as it’s so close to the port. 

Formerly known as Buffalo Bar, The Buffalo Bodega Saloon was founded in 1877 in Deadwood. It’s named after Buffalo Bill Cody who came and drank at the bar often. Today it’s a part of a complex complete with a bar, casino, hotel, and steak house

Springwater Supper Club & Lounge, founded in 1896, is the oldest continuously open and operational bar in Tennessee. It’s in Nashville and is a popular dive bar with live music five nights a week. 

Opened in 1866 in Austin by German immigrant and Civil War veteran August Scholz, Scholz Garten became a popular spot for many Germans in the area. It also is the site of the oldest beer garden in America. Many politicians have stopped by along the way, such as Beto O’Rourke. 

One of the oldest operating businesses in the state, The Shooting Star Saloon was established in 1879 in Huntsville. During Prohibition, it disguised itself as a confectionary shop for children. Decor in the saloon includes dollar bills from all over the world on the ceiling, as well as a St. Bernard’s head that belonged to the deceased Buck, a previous Guinness World Record holder. 

Ye Olde Tavern was built in 1790 in Manchester, even before Vermont was a state. It used to be the spot where elite statesmen would hang out, and is the site of the town’s first-ever telephone line. It also was once a hotel and antique shop, and you can still see many antiques on display today. 

Built in 1710, hence the name, the tavern is located in Tappahannock. The 1710 Tavern predates all roads in the area and even previously served as a private residence for a pharmacist. Today you can enjoy the drinks and fine dining, and stay in the nearby Essex Inn.

Located in Roslyn, The Brick Saloon was established in 1889. It was rebuilt in 1898 using 45,000 bricks, hence where it got its name. It still has an original 23-foot running water spittoon inside, as well as other relics of its coal mining history. Check out the basement, which houses a few jail cells used in a 1979 movie starring Dick Van Dyke. 

Commonly known as “the NET,” The North End Tavern & Brewery was established in 1899 in Parkersburg. When it started producing beer in 1997, it also became the oldest brewery in West Virginia. Guests can enjoy the pub fare, craft beers, and iconic NET burger. 

There’s some debate about which bar is the oldest in the state, but The Legendary Monarch Public House was established in 1894 in Fountain City. Lots of the original charm is still there, including 15-foot pressed-tin ceilings, an original oak back bar, and walls densely covered in rare historical photographs, statues, and memorabilia. It’s known for its mix of Irish and American pub fare. 

Located in Hartville, Miners and Stockmen’s Steakhouse and Spirits opened in 1862, which also predates Wyoming being a state. Hartsville is also the oldest town in the state. Inside, you’ll find 35 different types of whiskey, an original cherry bar built in Germany, and a tribute wall to U.S. veterans.