Columbus, Ohio is home to a thriving bar scene, with a variety of establishments catering to all tastes. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, dive bars are the perfect choice. These unpretentious watering holes offer a chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy a cold beer or cocktail without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best dive bars in Columbus, each with its own unique character and charm.

First up is Ace of Cups, located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Old North Columbus. This dive bar has a rock and roll vibe, with live music performances and a jukebox featuring classic hits. The bar also offers a variety of craft beers and cocktails, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks parked outside. With its friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere, Ace of Cups is a must-visit for anyone looking for a good time in Columbus.

Another popular dive bar in Columbus is The Tree Bar, located in the historic neighborhood of Italian Village. This cozy spot is known for its eclectic decor, featuring vintage furniture and artwork. The bar offers a variety of beers on tap, as well as classic cocktails and a selection of wines. With its intimate setting and welcoming vibe, The Tree Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

History of The Best Dive Bars in Columbus

Columbus has a long history of dive bars, which are known for their cheap drinks, unpretentious atmosphere, and often colorful clientele. These bars have been around for decades, and many have become iconic parts of the city’s nightlife scene.

One of the oldest dive bars in Columbus is the Blue Danube, which opened in 1940. It’s been a favorite spot for locals ever since, thanks to its cheap beer and laid-back vibe. The bar has changed hands several times over the years, but it’s managed to maintain its character and charm.

Another historic dive bar in Columbus is Dick’s Den, which opened in 1960. The bar is known for its live music, which features local jazz and blues musicians. It’s also a popular spot for pool and darts, and the walls are covered with vintage posters and memorabilia.

Over the years, many dive bars in Columbus have come and gone, but a few have managed to survive and thrive. These bars continue to attract a loyal following of regulars who appreciate their no-frills atmosphere and affordable prices.

Despite their sometimes seedy reputation, dive bars are an important part of Columbus’s cultural landscape. They offer a glimpse into the city’s history and provide a space for people from all walks of life to come together and share a drink.

Top Rated Dive Bars in Columbus

Columbus is home to a number of dive bars that offer a unique experience for those looking to unwind after a long day. Here are a few of the top-rated dive bars in Columbus:

Oldfield’s North Fourth Tavern

Oldfield’s North Fourth Tavern is a popular dive bar located in the heart of the city. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its cheap drinks and friendly staff. The bar also features live music on the weekends and has a jukebox filled with classic rock and roll hits.

The Tree Bar

The Tree Bar is another popular dive bar located in Columbus. The bar has a cozy atmosphere and is known for its extensive beer selection. The Tree Bar also features live music and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including trivia nights and karaoke.

Dick’s Den

Dick’s Den is a beloved dive bar located in the Short North neighborhood of Columbus. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere and is known for its live jazz music. Dick’s Den also has a pool table and a jukebox filled with classic hits.

The Blue Danube

The Blue Danube is a classic dive bar located in the University District of Columbus. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its cheap drinks and friendly staff. The Blue Danube also features a jukebox filled with classic hits and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Overall, Columbus has a number of great dive bars to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm.

Best Dive Bars in Columbus With Unique Themes

Columbus has a wide variety of dive bars that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of these bars stand out because of their unique themes. If you’re looking for a dive bar with a unique atmosphere, check out the following options.

Music Themed Bars

Ace of Cups

Ace of Cups is a music-themed bar located in the Old North Columbus neighborhood. The bar is named after a 1960s all-female rock band, and it features live music performances from local and national acts. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere, and it’s a great place to grab a drink and enjoy some good music.

Rumba Cafe

Rumba Cafe is a Latin music-themed bar located in the University District. The bar features live music performances from local and national Latin artists. It also serves delicious Latin food and drinks. The bar has a lively atmosphere, and it’s a great place to dance and have fun.

Sports Themed Bars

Fourth Street Bar & Grill

Fourth Street Bar & Grill is a sports-themed bar located in the Arena District. The bar has a large number of TVs that show different sports events. It also serves delicious pub food and drinks. The bar has a lively atmosphere, and it’s a great place to watch your favorite sports games.

The Varsity Club

The Varsity Club is a sports-themed bar located near Ohio State University. The bar has a large number of TVs that show different sports events. It also serves delicious pub food and drinks. The bar has a lively atmosphere, and it’s a great place to watch Buckeyes games.

Overall, Columbus has many dive bars with unique themes that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re into music or sports, you’re sure to find a dive bar that suits your style.

Best Dive Bars in Columbus With Best Food Offers

When it comes to dive bars, food is often an afterthought. However, there are a few Columbus dive bars that offer surprisingly delicious food options. Here are a few of the best:

• Dick’s Den: This classic dive bar has been serving up cold beers and hot food for decades. Their menu includes everything from burgers and fries to homemade chili and sandwiches. Plus, they have daily specials that are always worth checking out.
• Bernie’s Bagels & Deli: While not technically a dive bar, Bernie’s is a must-visit for anyone looking for great food in a casual atmosphere. Their bagels are some of the best in town, and their deli sandwiches are piled high with fresh ingredients.
• Ace of Cups: This music venue and dive bar has a surprisingly extensive menu that includes everything from vegan chili to loaded tater tots. Their grilled cheese sandwich is a crowd favorite, and they offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
• The Blue Danube: This German Village dive bar is known for its cheap drinks and friendly atmosphere, but their food is also worth checking out. They offer a variety of hearty sandwiches and burgers, as well as classic bar snacks like nachos and wings.

Overall, these dive bars may not have the fanciest menus, but they offer delicious food in a laid-back atmosphere that can’t be beat.

Best Dive Bars in Columbus With Best Drink Specials

For those looking for a great deal on drinks, Columbus has a number of dive bars with unbeatable drink specials. Whether you’re looking for a cheap beer or a discounted cocktail, these bars have you covered.

The Little Palace

The Little Palace is a popular dive bar in downtown Columbus with a great selection of drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. They offer $2 domestic beers and $3 well drinks during happy hour, which runs from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekdays. Additionally, they have a daily rotating drink special, so be sure to ask your bartender what’s on special that day.

The Tree Bar

The Tree Bar is a dive bar located in the University District that’s known for its cheap drinks and live music. They offer $2 PBRs and $3 well drinks during happy hour, which runs from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekdays. On Thursdays, they have a $2 beer night, where you can get select beers for just $2 all night long.

Ace of Cups

Ace of Cups is a popular dive bar and music venue in the Clintonville neighborhood of Columbus. They offer $2 PBRs and $3 well drinks during happy hour, which runs from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekdays. Additionally, they have a daily rotating drink special, so be sure to ask your bartender what’s on special that day.

These dive bars offer some of the best drink specials in Columbus, making them great options for those looking to save some money while still enjoying a night out.

Best Dive Bars in Columbus With Live Music

Columbus has a thriving live music scene, and many dive bars are no exception. These bars offer a unique atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying live music while enjoying a drink or two. Here are some of the best dive bars in Columbus that offer live music:

• Ace of Cups: This bar is known for its eclectic music selection and laid-back atmosphere. It features live music almost every night, with genres ranging from indie rock to punk to electronic. The bar also has a spacious patio area that is perfect for enjoying a drink and some live music on a warm summer night.
• The Tree Bar: This dive bar is a hidden gem in Columbus, and it’s known for its intimate atmosphere and great live music. The Tree Bar features local and regional bands, and the stage is located in the back of the bar, giving it a cozy and intimate feel. The bar also has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
• Ruby Tuesday: This dive bar is known for its retro vibe and live music. The bar features a jukebox that plays classic rock and roll hits, and it also hosts live bands on the weekends. Ruby Tuesday is also a great place to grab a burger and a beer while enjoying some live music.
• Dick’s Den: This dive bar has been a Columbus institution for over 50 years, and it’s known for its live jazz music. The bar features local and regional jazz bands, and it also has a great selection of beers and cocktails. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy some live music.

Overall, these dive bars offer a unique atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying live music in Columbus. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, indie rock, or classic rock and roll, there’s a dive bar in Columbus that has something for everyone.

Neighborhood Guide to Columbus’ Dive Bars

Downtown

Downtown Columbus is home to some of the city’s best dive bars. These bars are known for their cheap drinks, friendly staff, and laid-back atmosphere. Here are a few of the best dive bars in Downtown Columbus:

• Little Palace – This cozy dive bar is known for its great food and drinks. The menu features classic bar food like burgers, fries, and wings, as well as a variety of craft beers and cocktails.
• Cafe Bourbon Street – This dive bar is a popular spot for live music and events. The bar features a large stage and hosts a variety of local and touring bands throughout the year.

German Village

German Village is a historic neighborhood in Columbus that’s known for its charming brick streets, beautiful homes, and great restaurants. It’s also home to a few great dive bars. Here are a couple of the best dive bars in German Village:

• Club 185 – This dive bar has been a neighborhood favorite for over 50 years. The bar features a classic jukebox, pool tables, and a variety of beers and cocktails.
• The Village Idiot – This dive bar is known for its quirky decor and laid-back atmosphere. The bar features a variety of craft beers and cocktails, as well as a small menu of bar food.

Short North

The Short North is a trendy neighborhood in Columbus that’s known for its art galleries, boutiques, and great restaurants. It’s also home to a few great dive bars. Here are a couple of the best dive bars in the Short North:

• Ace of Cups – This dive bar is a popular spot for live music and events. The bar features a large stage and hosts a variety of local and touring bands throughout the year.
• Bernie’s – This dive bar is known for its cheap drinks and friendly staff. The bar features a variety of beers and cocktails, as well as a small menu of bar food.

Safety Tips for Visiting Dive Bars

Visiting a dive bar can be a fun and exciting experience but it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are a few tips to help make sure your visit is a safe one:

• Always be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on who’s around you and what’s going on. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and leave.
• Don’t leave your drink unattended: Unfortunately, drink spiking is a real concern at dive bars. Keep your drink with you at all times and never accept a drink from a stranger.
• Watch your alcohol intake: Dive bars are known for their cheap drinks, but that doesn’t mean you should overdo it. Pace yourself and know your limits.
• Have a plan for getting home: Don’t drink and drive. Make sure you have a designated driver, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
• Keep your valuables safe: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables close to you at all times. Don’t leave them on the bar or in an unsecured bag.

By following these simple tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience at any dive bar in Columbus.

Conclusion

Columbus is home to some of the best dive bars in Ohio. From classic spots like Ace of Cups to newer additions like Little Palace, there is something for everyone in this city.

Whether you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere or a rowdy crowd, Columbus has it all. With affordable drinks and friendly staff, these dive bars are perfect for a night out with friends or a solo adventure.

Overall, Columbus is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best dive bars in the Midwest. So grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

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