There’s something to be said for simple tourism. Not everyone has the sense of depraved excitement necessary to visit only the “gnarliest dive bars” Las Vegas offers. Instead, if you want to dive into the best nightlife Las Vegas offers, you need a guide to take you by the hand to the most iconic locations.
This guide will present 7 of the most famous bars in Las Vegas to help you discover the best places to sip cocktails and socialize the night away. Learn the must-visit Vegas nightspots by name, choose the ones that stand out the most to you, and get involved with the iconic Vegas nightlife in a way you never imagined.
Dress up (or down), grab your ID, and find out what the best Vegas bars genuinely look like.
1. The Chandelier at The Cosmopolitan
When it comes to the top Las Vegas bars, nobody said you only had to be on the top floor. This multi-story marvel in the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas straddles three vertical levels, each with a distinct ambiance and a wildly different experience.
The Chandelier lives up to its name for its sparkling crystal and luxurious interior design, so celebrities and influencers alike have been drawn to it like a moth to a flame. The location is perfect for either glamorous nights out or casual events, though be aware that others may come from either end of the spectrum.
Serving a diverse range of cocktails from top mixologists, The Chandelier matches its artisanal drinks to the level you are on. As such, not only do you enjoy a delight to the tastebuds, but the other senses as the juxtaposition of sight, smell, and taste combine to create a perfect evening.
2. The Peppermill Fireside Lounge
Instead of the Chandelier’s modern elegance, consider a more classic venue with a nostalgic look at the Vegas ambiance. The Peppermill Fireside Lounge is famed for mixing a cozy fireplace-style mood with the neon vibe of decades past. Together, it results in a must-visit location for visitors who enjoy that age of cinema and real-world history.
Whether you plan to visit during the early or late shift, it’s always a good bet to book a space at the Peppermill. As they serve generous portions of food cooked on-site, you can spend a whole evening here without a second thought.
If we were to recommend one highlight, it would be the “Scorpion.” Buying one of these is either a challenge or a social event, as the cocktail satisfies both you and several of your friends simultaneously.
3. Atomic Liquors
After initially opening in 1945, this classic bar became famous for patrons watching America’s atomic bomb test sites from the roof of the building. While they do not have “radioactive” liquor, or at least any more radioactive than usual, the location is well-known for its period-appropriate feel and regularly hosted events, including live music.
This location closed briefly during its long history, but in 2012, it was renovated and has been going strong since. So, dive in and try an atomic cocktail. It’s rad!
4. Minus5 Ice Experience
In the middle of Vegas, the last thing you want is to find yourself stuck in a hot and stuffy location. As such, this may be the most refreshing venue in the whole city.
Minus5 is the only bar in Las Vegas made entirely out of ice. As the interior stays at a chilly -5 degrees Celsius, we recommend you dress warm to attend or bring a friend to cuddle up to.
The Minus5 experience is unique and can create one-off memories and photos to enjoy later. With several different themed rooms sculpted by local ice carvers, you can find the perfect location in which to spend your evening. Whether you want to visit solo, jump in with friends, or come for a corporate meeting, allow the ice to be the perfect alternative to the hot outdoor sun.
5. VooDoo Lounge
If you thought the Chandelier made good use of verticality, the Voodoo Lounds on the 51st floor of the Rio Hotel does even better. Sit on the rooftop deck during the day to see for miles or during the night to experience the glorious showpiece that is the lights of Vegas.
This spacious area is perfect for large groups, as well as those who have a taste of the finer things. The cocktails here, such as the Witch Doctor and the Rio Rio, were some of our favorites from this review, and the mixologists ensured they looked exquisite, too. Perfect as Instagram-worthy pieces of art.
6. The Laundry Room
If you want to feel like you’re in trouble, head down to this intimate speakeasy. Not just anyone can get in, though. You need a reservation and a password via text message to get in, so book ahead.
The location features expertly crafted cocktails that use high-end ingredients. They know they are offering something unique and exclusive, and it shows.
The location is only open to under two dozen guests, so it may be hard to get in on some evenings. However, if you do, its calm and cozy interior means you will not feel overwhelmed all night.
7. The Golden Tiki
The Golden Tiki has a beautiful Polynesian mood that drips from every piece of decor. Whether it is the authentic tiki statues, unique artifacts dotting the venue, or the use of bamboo in many of its furnishings, you will feel like you cannot avoid feeling drawn into its vibe.
Of course, they offer a large selection of tiki cocktails, each matched to a specific mug. Alongside daily entertainment, it will be hard to think of this location as anything but exciting.
Unforgettable Nights Await in the Most Famous Bars in Las Vegas
Each of these iconic bars guarantees you will come away with new memories that will stick in your mind for decades. Whether you prefer the charm of history, the elegance of culture, or a more esoteric ambiance, there is something for you.
If you want something that works for every possible gathering, don’t miss out on the Minus5 Ice Experience. Only the chill of ice can send a real, excited shiver down your spine. So, contact Minus5 today for reservations and let one of the most famous bars in Las Vegas show you what you’ve been missing.