Next time you’re looking for a night out with friends, skip the traditional bar. Arizona is home to a selection of creative themed bars that will spice up your night. From bars with dueling pianos to vintage arcades to secretive speakeasies, here are the 9 best themed bars in the state.
Are you ready to get caught in the UnderTow? UnderTow is not your traditional themed bar. This inventive Scottsdale bar is part cocktail bar, part speakeasy, and part tiki bar. UnderTow is a small and exclusive bar located underneath a local coffee shop. You won’t find any big signs or advertisements here. You will find a fun theme to go with unique, island-style drinks like the Smoking Cannon, the Lei Lani Volcano, and the Mallory’s Treasure.
It doesn’t get much more authentic than the Duce. The Duce is a Prohibition-era bar located in an actual warehouse from the 1920s. Today it’s modeled after the iconic Black Orchid Jazz Club in Chicago. The entire bar is filled with retro décor and vintage items. You’ll find everything from old high school bleachers to a boxing ring at this popular Phoenix bar. The Duce is also known for their comfort food, unique cocktails, and lawn games.
There’s no denying the allure of the Shelter Cocktail Lounge. This 1960s-inspired bar is filled with retro nostalgia that’s fun for any generation. You’ll find vintage pinball machines, old-school lamps, and 20th century movies playing on old TVs. The Shelter is also known for serving up delicious martinis and a number of signature cocktails. This bar is also so affordable that their prices seem like they’re straight out of the 1960s.
This longstanding steakhouse and saloon has been a popular cowboy bar since launching in 1971. You can enjoy live country music, dazzling city views, and sunset happy hour specials at this iconic Phoenix bar. You can even wash down your beverage with a healthy-sized order of fried rattlesnake at the saloon.
It’s game on at Cobra Arcade Bar. This downtown Phoenix bar is filled with 40 vintage arcade games to go with its 14 draft beers. The arcade theme even goes into Cobra’s many signature cocktails. You can order video game inspired cocktails like the Krazy Kong, Princess Peach, or Garbage Pail Kid at this unique downtown bar.
You don’t have to fly to Hawaii to enjoy an authentic tiki bar. Make a trip to Old Town Scottsdale instead. That’s where you’ll find Hula’s Modern Tiki, a Hawaiian-inspired tiki bar that’s known as much for its tasty food as it is delicious beverages. Hula’s sells island style favorites like fish tacos, jerk chicken, and ceviche in a fun, casual environment. You can’t help but feel relaxed while sitting in their outdoor patio or next to a fire pit. Word to the wise: try the scorpion bowl.
Are you looking for a low-key evening? You might not want to venture to Low Key Piano Bar in Tempe. This Mill Avenue hot spot is filled with raucous crowds, cheap drinks, and wild entertainers. Low Key is an underground dueling piano bar located just minutes away from Arizona State University. You can make a song request, sit back, and watch the action at this hilarious bar. Low Key is also known for selling boozy cocktails like Long Island ice teas and fish bowls.
Private cabanas, ice-cold cervezas, and tasty tacos. No, we’re not talking about a resort in Mexico. We’re talking about Sandbar Mexican Grill. This Mexican-themed bar and restaurant will make you feel like you’re at a beachside bar in Rocky Point. You can enjoy draft beer, margaritas, and fresh Mexican food at their large, vibrant outdoor patio. Sandbar also has a number of misters and heaters, meaning you can enjoy an outdoor Mexican-style fiesta year-round. Find locations in Chandler, Phoenix, and Scottsdale.
You don’t have to worry about missing the hut. This popular bar is easily spotted thanks to its giant, 35-foot tiki head by its entrance. The Hut is located on Tucson’s bustling 4th Avenue, which is filled with bars and restaurants. But the Hut sets itself apart with a Hawaiian-style theme and a laid-back vibe. You’ll find tropical drinks, live music, and an eclectic crowd at this themed bar. Are you stuck on island time? You can enjoy The Hut’s drink specials starting nightly at 9 p.m.