Historic Bars in Arizona

Here is a list of 7 of the oldest bars in Arizona, most are over 100 years old! While they don’t have the wild west clientele anymore they are chock full of history and for the most part good eats.

The Palace Saloon 1877 120 S. Montezuma St., Prescott, AZ

When its doors opened in September 1877, The Palace Restaurant & Saloon was much more than just a “watering hole.” It served as election central for several local political races and the place where men gathered to check for job notices. Mineral claims could be brought in and sold over the bar, according to the website.

On July 14, 1900, the bar caught fire in the famous Whiskey Row blaze. Patrons carried the original 1880s Brunswick bar top to safety in the courthouse plaza. When The Palace was remodeled after the fire, they resurrected the bar, which is still in use today. On July 14, 2000 they re-enacted removing the bar across the street to the courthouse plaza just for fun.

The Crystal Palace 1879 436 East Allen St., Tombstone, AZ 

The Crystal Palace Saloon opened in 1879 as the Golden Eagle Brewing Company, one of Tombstone’s first saloons. Two years later, the bar was damaged in the July 22, 1881, fire that blazed through much of the Old West town. The Golden Eagle escaped relatively unscathed but wasn’t so lucky the following year when another fire swept through and completely destroyed the bar. It was quickly rebuilt and renamed The Crystal Palace Saloon. It has a reputation as being extremely haunted, worth a visit just to see!

The Spirit Room 1898 166 Main St # 155, Jerome, AZ

The bar itself provides patrons with an Old West feel, with painted murals of playing cards and “scantily clad dancing women.” The Spirit Room has live music most of the day, providing the mixture of bikers, locals and tourists entertainment throughout the week. For tourists looking to find a place to stay in the old town, the Connor Hotel sits directly above the bar. The hotel has 12 guest rooms, with all of the necessary amenities one needs, including a little paranormal activity for those looking for a chilling experience.

The Drift Inn 1902 636 N. Broad St., Globe, AZ

The Drift Inn Saloon opened in 1902 and has remained open since. The only thing that has changed has been the name. The saloon has a reputation as being haunted including by an old man and a girl who occupies the space that used to be a brothel. It’s a popular stop for motorcycles on their way along the scenic drives in the area.

St. Elmos Bar 1902 36 Brewery Ave., Bisbee, AZ

St. Elmo Bar in Bisbee opened in 1902 and is the longest, continuously operating bar in the state. St. Elmo Bar had a brothel upstairs and the bar downstairs. It also shared ghost stories with neighboring Bisbee hotels and restaurants. It’s still a great place for a cool beverage and some tasty food.

Sultana Bar 1912 301 Historic Rte 66, Williams, AZ

Located along Route 66, Sultana Bar is a historic property. The inception of this legendary bar dates back to 1912, when Route 66 was probably a germ of an idea. This self-described world-famous bar has long been one of Williams’ favorite neighborhood watering holes, providing a place for folks to congregate for fun games. Weekends and holidays mean endless live music. As for meals, patrons can savor a delectable array of appetizers and traditional American pub grub. The full bar proffers several heady brews great to enjoy with company.

The Buffet 1934 538 E. 9th St., Tucson, AZ

Located in Tucson’s historic Ironhorse neighborhood, The Buffet sits just as tall as it did when it opened on Nov. 1, 1934, just after the repeal of prohibition.

The Buffet is known for heating hot dogs in a coffee pot and serving pickled eggs as bar food.