Top Bars in Las Vegas: Where to Drink Like a Local

In Las Vegas, drinking is far from new; you have the freedom to imbibe almost everywhere and at any time.

Select from upscale lounges within casino-resorts along the Strip, trendy dive bars favored by hipsters, classic Prohibition-era style hidden saloons, and retro Tiki-themed joints. Unlike Las Vegas’ internationally renowned clubbing district, which can be quite bustling, the local bar scene tends to be more subdued, particularly when exploring venues downtown. However, keep in mind that even then, securing a reservation might be necessary for popular locations on the Strip, where dressing appropriately is also expected.

For further Las Vegas Inspiration? Check out our guides to the city's top spots. hotels , restaurants , nightclubs , things to do and activities you can enjoy without spending money . Use our ultimate weekend guide To organize your visit, should you be heading farther away, check out our comprehensive guide to the area. Grand Canyon National Park here .

Locate a pub based on neighborhood

  • The Strip
  • Downtown

The Strip

The Chandelier

Stepping into this upscale cocktail bar feels akin to entering an extravagant chandelier. Adorned with crystals and stretching across three floors in the heart of the establishment, it creates a grandiose atmosphere. The Cosmopolitan The Chandelier serves as an ideal spot for enjoying a cocktail prior to catching a performance or unwinding with a refined nightcap late into the evening. This venue features three distinct tiers, each with its own ambiance: the ground floor provides live musical entertainment, the mid-level caters primarily to exclusive gatherings, and the top tier functions as a classic cocktail bar. Stepping inside feels akin to venturing through the looking glass; this notion aligns well with one of their signature cocktails which draws inspiration from "Alice in Wonderland." Titled "We're All Mad Here," it's a gin concoction initially appearing blue but transforms hues upon thorough mixing.

Contact: cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/lounges-bars/chandelier

Prices: £

Chéri Rooftop

To experience an upscale ambiance and breathtaking views of the Bellagio’s fountain show just across the way, it's tough to beat the newly opened Chéri Rooftop at Paris Las Vegas. Nestled beneath the replica Eiffel Tower that stands tall within this iconic city, the verdant outdoor patio offers a sophisticated setting reminiscent of a 1950s Parisian garden soiree. Indulge in delicacies like caviar or steak tartare as you enjoy sparkling champagne and soak up the vibrant scene unfolding down below on the Strip, particularly enchanting once night falls. Additionally, it serves as a splendid location for a spirited weekend brunch featuring treats such as crème brulée French toast accompanied by refreshing mimosas.

Contact: cherirooftop.com

Prices:​ ££

Getting in:​ ​Reservations recommended

Peppermill Restaurant & Fireside Lounge

Get two experiences for the price of one at this vintage cocktail bar and diner, which is an iconic spot in Las Vegas. Located neither on the Strip nor downtown, but rather in the space between them, it operates around the clock like many places in Sin City. Admire the delightfully tacky retro décor, complemented by a creative menu of cocktails such as their signature Blue Hawaiian—featuring Curaçao and pineapple—and the infamous Scorpion Bowl made with rum. Nestle into one of the colored half-moon booths illuminated by neon lights and enjoy the ambiance created by faux fireplaces late into the night. There’s also great entertainment provided by the endless parade of characters passing through.

Contact: peppermilllasvegas.com

Prices: £

Rhumbar Tropical Ulta Lounge

It can be challenging to tell what time it is when you're inside numerous bars along the Strip: since they are dimly lit and lack windows, these establishments are typically situated far within casino resorts. However, Rhumbar Tropical Ultra Lounge stands out as an exception. Although it is located The Mirage This bar and cigar lounge sits at the very edge of the resort, featuring a spacious open-air terrace and an extensive selection of Caribbean-style rum drinks. Enjoy fresh air, accompanied by either live tunes or DJ-generated rhythms, all while taking in vistas of the Las Vegas Strip and The Mirage’s artificial volcanic eruption. Holding a chilled Mojito encapsulates what it means to have a true Vegas moment. This alfresco celebration continues throughout the entire year; during colder months, they activate heaters for comfort. If you're looking to sample a modern take on a traditional Sin City cocktail, consider trying Rhumbar’s interpretation of a Latin Manhattan.

Contact: rhumbarlasvegas.com

Prices: ££

Bar Parasol

Spinning parasols, playful chandeliers, extravagant floral displays—it’s challenging to envision another Las Vegas establishment with such opulent and fantastical ambiance as Bar Parasol within the Wynn hotel. This vibrant setting offers a serene corner perfect for enjoying an upscale pre-dinner cocktail along with some exquisite snacks. Consider sampling their champagne selection, indulge in the 'Jet Set' combination of champagne paired with caviar, or savor the lavish old-fashioned designed for sharing directly at your table.

Contact: wynnlasvegas.com

Prices: £££

The Mayfair Supper Club

Position, positioning: this chic cocktail lounge-cum-nightclub offers an unparalleled vista of the renowned Bellagio fountains. Savor your champagne while admiring the cascading waters below. Beyond its prime locale, though, the Mayfair Supper Club boasts numerous attractions. It functions as an upscale eatery and drinking spot many nights, offering delicacies such as filet mignon and lobster thermidor amid a stylishly vintage ambiance. On weekend evenings starting at 11 pm, however, it morphs into 'Mayfair After Dark,' complete with live entertainment and cabaret acts. You can also enjoy the spectacle of the fountain display from the front balconies every quarter-hour.

Contact: bellagio.com

Prices: ​ £££

Getting in:​ ​Reservations recommended

Downtown

Atomic Liquors

The eye-catching vintage neon signs outside serve as your initial hint: Atomic Liquors stands out as Las Vegas’s oldest standalone bar. Its moniker draws inspiration from the nearby Nevada Test Site for atomic weapons, which was actively operational when the establishment opened back in 1952. Over the years, this Downtown watering hole has drawn locals and even famous visitors seeking a discreet spot for libations sans autographs. Reports suggest that during her prime, Barbara Streisand frequented the venue regularly, along with members of the Rat Pack. After changing hands following the demise of the founding proprietors, Atomic Liquors underwent restoration efforts yet managed to preserve its quintessential mid-century allure. Today, it offers an impressive selection of craft beers alongside their signature 'Atomic Cocktail' known for its special ingredient.

Contact: atomic.vegas

Prices: £

Frankie’s Tiki Room

This place exudes authenticity. Frankie’s Tiki Room has long been an iconic spot in Las Vegas for those seeking adult beverages. This nostalgic Polynesian-styled lounge specializes in extravagant tiki drinks and captures the essence of old-school Vegas flair. Carved wooden furniture and tropical motifs transport patrons to the South Seas, yet the dim lights and classic bar seating bring back memories from mid-20th century Las Vegas. You might want to try their signature rum concoctions such as the Zombie—a legendary remedy for post-drinking woes since the 1930s—or perhaps opt for something new like the Nakalele Knockout, blending different rums along with hibiscus and lime flavors. Plus, there's never really a bad time to visit; Frankie’s operates around the clock throughout the entire year.

Contact: frankiestikiroom.com

Prices: £

Commonwealth

Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas on a pleasant street corner, Commonwealth is a contemporary bar with a nod to prohibition-era style. It offers vintage-inspired cocktails reminiscent of the 1930s and features a hidden speakeasy called the Laundry Room, which requires reserving through a text message (check their site for specifics). Alternatively, you can enjoy a handcrafted brew at the main bar or sip a margarita on the rooftop patio. The establishment takes pride in its signature mules—ranging from classic Moscow Mules to innovative creations like the Mexican Standoff—that combine ginger beer, tequila, and lime juice. Every Tuesday brings an engaging trivia session, complemented by various evening events scheduled throughout the week.

Contact: commonwealthlv.com

Prices: £

How we choose

Each establishment, spot, or event featured in this carefully selected list has been personally vetted by our local expert, ensuring they have firsthand knowledge for an authentic viewpoint. Our selections span various prices and themes, ranging from laid-back taverns to high-end mixology spots—tailored to cater to all kinds of travelers. In crafting these suggestions, we take into account factors such as customer service, beverage quality, ambiance, and cost. To stay current with new entries and offer fresh advice, we refresh this compilation frequently.

About our expert

Bridget Gleeson has visited Las Vegas numerous times, yet it wasn’t until she leased an apartment near the Strip that she truly began to understand the essence of the city. She holds a special affection for Las Vegas due to its historic neon lights, traditional libations, and tranquil waterways.

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