Introduction
Forget the mega-resorts and predictable vibes of the Las Vegas Strip; a new pulse is thumping in the heart of the city. Downtown Las Vegas, or DTLV as it’s affectionately known, has undergone a remarkable transformation. This revitalization has breathed new life into classic streets, transforming them into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and, most importantly, a thriving bar scene that rivals anything the Strip has to offer. If you’re seeking an authentic Las Vegas experience, a place where you can sip expertly crafted cocktails, rub shoulders with locals, and soak in a unique atmosphere, then look no further than the cool bars of downtown. This guide will take you beyond the Fremont Street Experience’s flashing lights and predictable tourist traps, unveiling the hidden gems and hottest spots that make downtown Las Vegas a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable and stylish night out.
Craft Cocktail Creations: A Downtown Renaissance
The craft cocktail movement has swept across the nation, and downtown Las Vegas has embraced it with open arms. Gone are the days of sugary, mass-produced concoctions; today, DTLV bars are serving up innovative and meticulously crafted drinks using premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and a healthy dose of artistry.
The Griffin: A Fiery Hideaway
Tucked away under a nondescript awning on Fremont Street, The Griffin offers a refuge from the sensory overload of the Fremont Street Experience. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a dimly lit, intimate space dominated by a roaring fireplace. The vibe is decidedly cool and sophisticated, with a touch of rock and roll edge. Leather sofas, exposed brick, and flickering candlelight create a cozy atmosphere perfect for conversation. The Griffin’s bartenders are masters of their craft, whipping up classic cocktails with a modern twist and crafting unique creations tailored to your taste. Don’t miss their signature old fashioned or ask for a recommendation based on your preferred spirit. The Griffin is cool because it offers an escape, a place where you can unwind and enjoy a perfectly made drink in a relaxed and stylish setting. Live music most nights adds another layer to the experience.
Commonwealth: Rooftop Views and Prohibition Vibes
For a taste of old-school glamour with a modern twist, head to Commonwealth, a multi-level bar boasting stunning views of downtown Las Vegas from its rooftop patio. The bar’s interior evokes the spirit of the Prohibition era, with vintage decor, plush seating, and a dimly lit atmosphere. Commonwealth’s cocktail menu is extensive and inventive, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary creations. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, and they’re always happy to offer recommendations. One of the coolest aspects of Commonwealth is its hidden speakeasy, accessible through a secret door. The rooftop patio is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail while taking in the breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline. Commonwealth is cool because it blends history, sophistication, and breathtaking views into one unforgettable experience.
Oak and Ivy: Whiskeys and Handcrafted Elixirs
Located inside the Downtown Container Park, Oak and Ivy offers a more intimate and refined cocktail experience. This cozy bar specializes in whiskeys and handcrafted elixirs, with a focus on quality and craftsmanship. The bartenders are true mixologists, experimenting with unique ingredients and techniques to create innovative and flavorful cocktails. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with a rustic-chic decor that perfectly complements the bar’s focus on natural ingredients. Be sure to try one of their whiskey flights to sample a variety of different expressions. Oak and Ivy is cool because it provides a sophisticated and intimate cocktail experience in the heart of the bustling Container Park.
Dive Bar Delights: Embracing the Grit and Charm
While craft cocktails are certainly having their moment, downtown Las Vegas is also home to a collection of classic dive bars that offer a different kind of cool. These establishments are unpretentious, affordable, and full of character, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and a taste of its authentic spirit.
Atomic Liquors: A Piece of Vegas History
Atomic Liquors isn’t just a bar; it’s a piece of Las Vegas history. Originally opened in nineteen fifty-two, this iconic establishment holds the distinction of being the city’s first liquor store and the first bar to serve drinks by the glass. In its heyday, Atomic Liquors was a popular hangout for showgirls, tourists, and atomic test site employees eager to witness the mushroom clouds rising above the desert. Today, Atomic Liquors retains its vintage charm, with its neon sign, old-school jukebox, and walls adorned with historical photos. The drinks are strong, the prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is undeniably cool. Atomic Liquors is cool because it offers a tangible connection to Las Vegas’s past.
Dino’s Lounge: Karaoke and Cocktails
For a night of uninhibited fun, head to Dino’s Lounge, a classic Vegas dive bar known for its lively karaoke scene. This no-frills establishment is a local favorite, drawing a diverse crowd of regulars and tourists alike. Dino’s is cool because it embraces its dive bar status with pride. The drinks are cheap, the karaoke is enthusiastic, and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
The Double Down Saloon: The Self Proclaimed Happiest Place on Earth
If you like your dives with a punk rock edge, The Double Down Saloon is your place. This iconic bar, known for its unapologetically gritty atmosphere and the infamous “Ass Juice” cocktail, is a must-visit for those who appreciate the darker side of Vegas. It’s a tiny bar, usually packed, with loud music, and an attitude that is all its own. The Double Down is cool because it stands apart, a bastion of alternative culture in a city often known for its glitz and glamour.
Sky High Sips: Rooftop Bars with Unforgettable Views
What could be cooler than enjoying a delicious drink while taking in breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline? Downtown Las Vegas offers a growing number of rooftop bars that provide just that.
Legacy Club: Panoramic Perspectives
Perched atop the Circa Resort & Casino, Legacy Club is a sophisticated rooftop bar offering stunning three-hundred-sixty-degree views of downtown Las Vegas. This sleek and stylish bar features a spacious outdoor patio, comfortable seating, and a sophisticated ambiance. The cocktail menu is extensive and features a mix of classic and contemporary creations. Legacy Club is cool because it combines unparalleled views with a luxurious and stylish atmosphere.
The Sand Dollar Downtown: Live Music and Late Nights
While not strictly a rooftop bar, The Sand Dollar Downtown’s patio provides a great open-air vibe and excellent live music most nights. A sister establishment to the beloved original on Spring Mountain Road, this location brings the same dedication to blues and rock music to the downtown scene, creating a unique and cool atmosphere that blends a bar experience with live entertainment.
Hidden Haunts: Uncovering Downtown’s Secret Bars
Downtown Las Vegas is full of surprises, and one of the most exciting is the presence of several hidden bars that require a little bit of effort to find. These speakeasies offer a unique and exclusive experience for those in the know.
Downtown Cocktail Room: An Underground Escape
Located below street level on Fremont East, Downtown Cocktail Room offers a dimly lit and intimate escape from the crowds above. This hidden bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and its sophisticated atmosphere. The entrance is unmarked, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for the discreet doorway. Once inside, you’ll be transported to a world of classic cocktails and refined ambiance. Downtown Cocktail Room is cool because it rewards those who seek it out with a truly special and exclusive experience.
Gold Spike: Games, Drinks and A Backyard Vibe
While not hidden in the traditional sense, Gold Spike offers a unique hidden vibe in its backyard. Filled with oversized games, and a very laid-back atmosphere, you can often find people relaxing and drinking while enjoying the Vegas weather. Gold Spike is cool because it is a hidden space offering something a bit different to the DTLV bar scene.
Tips for navigating the downtown Las Vegas bar scene
Downtown Las Vegas is easily walkable, but ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. The Downtown Loop, a free shuttle service, is another convenient option for getting around.
As with any urban environment, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and drink responsibly.
Most downtown bars have a casual dress code, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time if you’re unsure.
Many downtown bars offer happy hour specials, so be sure to check the times and locations.
Reservations are recommended for some of the more popular bars, especially on weekends.
Some bars get very crowded on the weekends, so if you are looking for a quieter experience, you may want to visit on a weekday.
Downtown Delights: Your Vegas Bar Adventure Awaits
Downtown Las Vegas has truly blossomed into a premier destination for bar enthusiasts. From the expertly crafted cocktails of The Griffin and Commonwealth to the historic charm of Atomic Liquors and the sky-high views of Legacy Club, there’s a downtown bar to suit every taste and preference. The unique blend of classic Vegas grit and modern sophistication is what makes the downtown bar scene so compelling. So, ditch the Strip and head downtown for an unforgettable night of drinks, music, and authentic Las Vegas memories. Explore, discover, and create your own cool memories. Cheers!
