15 Best Dive Bars in Phoenix [2023 Update] - The Dive Bar Tourist (2024)

Phoenix, Arizona is known for its vibrant nightlife, and dive bars are an essential part of the city’s drinking culture. These bars are often hidden gems, tucked away in unassuming neighborhoods and serving up cheap drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, checking out the best dive bars in Phoenix is a must-do activity.

One of the most popular dive bars in Phoenix is Bikini Lounge, which has been around since 1947. The bar’s retro decor, including vintage neon signs and a jukebox, gives it a unique charm. It’s a great spot to grab a cheap beer or a classic co*cktail and chat with the friendly regulars. Another favorite among locals is The Lost Leaf, which offers an impressive selection of craft beers and live music from local bands. The bar’s outdoor patio is a perfect spot to enjoy a drink on a warm Arizona night.

Historic Best Dive Bars in Phoenix

Phoenix has a rich history of dive bars that have been around for decades. These bars have seen it all, from the highs of the city’s growth to the lows of economic downturns. Here are a few historic dive bars in Phoenix that are worth checking out:

Coach House

The Coach House is one of the oldest bars in Phoenix, having been around since 1959. This dive bar is located in the heart of downtown Phoenix and is known for its cheap drinks and friendly atmosphere. The bar has a jukebox, pool tables, and a dartboard, making it a great spot to hang out with friends. The Coach House also has a small outdoor patio where patrons can enjoy their drinks and watch the hustle and bustle of the city.

The bar has a long history of serving the community and has been a gathering spot for locals for over six decades. The Coach House has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including “The Kingdom” and “The Mentalist.” The bar’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a favorite among Phoenix residents.

If you’re looking for a taste of Phoenix’s history, the Coach House is a must-visit. With its friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks, it’s easy to see why this dive bar has stood the test of time.

Modern Best Dive Bars in Phoenix

Phoenix is known for its vibrant nightlife and its diverse range of bars. Among these are the modern dive bars that have become popular in recent years. These bars have a unique charm that attracts both locals and tourists alike. In this section, we will take a look at two of the best modern dive bars in Phoenix.

Valley Bar

Valley Bar is a popular modern dive bar located in downtown Phoenix. The bar has a unique underground vibe that makes it stand out from other bars in the area. The bar is located in an old building that has been converted into a multi-level bar. The basem*nt level is where the action is, with a stage for live music and a dance floor.

The bar has a great selection of drinks, including craft beer and co*cktails. The bartenders are knowledgeable and can recommend drinks based on your preferences. The bar also has a food menu that includes appetizers, sandwiches, and salads.

Rips Bar

Rips Bar is another popular modern dive bar in Phoenix. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its cheap drinks. The bar is located in a historic building that has been around since the 1940s. The bar has a large outdoor patio that is perfect for enjoying a drink on a warm Arizona evening.

The bar has a great selection of beer, including local craft beer. The bar also has a full liquor bar and a food menu that includes burgers, hot dogs, and fries. The bar is known for its friendly staff and its welcoming atmosphere.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a unique bar experience in Phoenix, be sure to check out Valley Bar and Rips Bar. These two modern dive bars offer a great selection of drinks, food, and entertainment in a laid-back atmosphere.

Best Dive Bars with Live Music in Phoenix

Phoenix is known for its vibrant music scene, and dive bars are a big part of it. Many of the dive bars in Phoenix have live music performances, adding to the unique experience of these establishments.

Crescent Ballroom

Crescent Ballroom is a popular dive bar in downtown Phoenix known for its live music performances. The venue has a spacious indoor area and an outdoor patio where patrons can enjoy live music while sipping on their drinks. The venue has a diverse lineup of local and national bands, making it a great place to discover new music. Crescent Ballroom also has a kitchen that serves up delicious food, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat before or after a show.

Yucca Tap Room

Yucca Tap Room is a dive bar located in Tempe that has been around since 1974. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its live music performances. Yucca Tap Room has a small stage where local bands perform, and the venue also hosts open mic nights. The bar has a good selection of beers on tap and a menu that includes bar food and vegan options. Yucca Tap Room is a great spot to catch a live music performance and enjoy a drink with friends.

Overall, Phoenix has a great selection of dive bars that offer live music performances. Whether you’re looking for a new band to discover or just want to enjoy some live music while grabbing a drink, these dive bars are worth checking out.

Best Dive Bars with Unique Atmosphere in Phoenix

Phoenix is home to several dive bars that offer a unique atmosphere to their patrons. These bars are perfect for those looking for a laid-back, unpretentious environment to enjoy a few drinks with friends. Here are two dive bars in Phoenix that offer a unique atmosphere:

Bikini Lounge

The Bikini Lounge is a dive bar that has been around since the 1940s. The bar has a retro vibe and is decorated with vintage furniture and neon signs. The Bikini Lounge is known for its strong co*cktails and live music. The bar also has a patio area where patrons can enjoy their drinks outside.

The Lost Leaf

The Lost Leaf is a cozy dive bar that has a relaxed atmosphere. The bar is located in a historic house and has a unique interior design. The walls are adorned with artwork from local artists, and the bar has a selection of craft beers and wines. The Lost Leaf also hosts live music and poetry readings.

Both of these dive bars offer a unique atmosphere that sets them apart from other bars in Phoenix. Whether you’re looking for a retro vibe or a cozy atmosphere, these bars are worth checking out.

Conclusion

Phoenix is a city with a diverse nightlife scene, and dive bars are a significant part of it. They offer a unique experience that is different from the typical upscale bars and clubs found in the city. Dive bars are known for their relaxed atmosphere, cheap drinks, and friendly staff.

This article has provided a list of some of the best dive bars in Phoenix. Each of these bars has its own unique charm and character, and they all offer something different to their patrons. Whether you are looking for a place to catch a game, enjoy some live music, or just hang out with friends, there is a dive bar in Phoenix that will meet your needs.

It is important to note that while these bars are considered “dive bars,” they are still subject to the same laws and regulations as any other establishment that serves alcohol. It is essential to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

Overall, Phoenix has a lot to offer when it comes to dive bars. Whether you are a local or just visiting, be sure to check out some of the bars mentioned in this article. You never know what kind of adventure or memories you might create at one of these unique establishments.

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