Erie, Pennsylvania may be a small city, but it boasts some of the best dive bars in the state. Dive bars are often known for their cheap drinks, friendly atmosphere, and unique character. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these dive bars are worth checking out.

One of the best dive bars in Erie is The Sloppy Duck Saloon. This bar has been a staple in the community for over 30 years and is known for its laid-back atmosphere. The drinks are cheap and the bartenders are friendly, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day. The Sloppy Duck also offers live music on the weekends, adding to the overall experience.

Another must-visit dive bar in Erie is The Plymouth Tavern. This bar has been around since 1976 and has become a local favorite. The Plymouth Tavern is known for its extensive beer selection and delicious bar food. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to catch up with friends or watch the game. Overall, The Plymouth Tavern is a great representation of what a dive bar should be.

History of Best Dive Bars in Erie

Erie, Pennsylvania, is home to a number of dive bars that have been around for decades. These bars are known for their cheap drinks, laid-back atmosphere, and often colorful clientele. But where did the concept of the dive bar come from, and how did it become so popular in Erie?

The term “dive bar” originally referred to bars that were located in the basements of buildings, where patrons would have to “dive” down a set of stairs to enter. These bars were often dingy, poorly lit, and frequented by a rough crowd. Over time, the term came to refer to any bar that had a similar atmosphere, regardless of its location.

Dive bars became popular in the United States in the post-World War II era, as returning soldiers looked for places to unwind and socialize. These bars were often located in working-class neighborhoods, and they provided a place where people could come together and forget their troubles for a few hours.

In Erie, dive bars have been a fixture of the local bar scene for decades. Some of the city’s oldest bars, such as The Plymouth Tavern and The Colony Pub & Grille, have been around since the 1930s and 1940s, respectively. These bars have survived through economic downturns, changing social trends, and even Prohibition.

Today, Erie’s dive bars continue to attract a loyal following of locals and visitors alike. While they may not be the fanciest or most upscale bars in town, they offer a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for a cheap beer, a game of pool, or just some good conversation with interesting people, Erie’s dive bars have got you covered.

Top Rated Best Dive Bars in Erie

Erie, Pennsylvania is home to several dive bars that offer a unique experience for those looking for a casual and laid-back atmosphere. Here are some of the top-rated dive bars in Erie:

1. The Sloppy Duck Saloon

The Sloppy Duck Saloon is a popular dive bar located in the heart of downtown Erie. The bar has a lively atmosphere with friendly bartenders and regulars. The bar has a pool table, dartboard, and several TVs for sports fans. The bar also has a jukebox, which is a hit among patrons.

2. The Oasis Pub

The Oasis Pub is a hidden gem located in the west side of Erie. The bar has a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting and a fireplace. The bar has a wide selection of beer and spirits, and the bartenders are knowledgeable about their drinks. The bar also has a pool table and a jukebox.

3. The Plymouth Tavern

The Plymouth Tavern is a historic dive bar located in the Little Italy neighborhood of Erie. The bar has been around since 1971 and has a loyal following of regulars. The bar has a rustic atmosphere with exposed brick walls and wooden floors. The bar has a wide selection of beer and spirits, and the bartenders are friendly and welcoming.

4. The Harbor View Grill

The Harbor View Grill is a dive bar located on the waterfront in Erie. The bar has a stunning view of Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere with a beachy vibe. The bar has a wide selection of beer and spirits, and the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. The bar also has a patio where patrons can enjoy the view.

These are just a few of the top-rated dive bars in Erie. Each bar offers a unique experience and is worth a visit for those looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Unique Features of Erie Dive Bars

Erie is home to several dive bars that offer unique features that set them apart from other bars in the area. Here are some of the most notable features of Erie dive bars:

• Cheap Drinks: One of the defining features of dive bars is their affordable drink prices. Erie dive bars are no exception. Patrons can enjoy a wide variety of drinks at prices that won’t break the bank.
• No-Frills Atmosphere: Dive bars are known for their no-frills atmosphere, and Erie dive bars are no different. These bars typically have a casual, laid-back vibe that is perfect for relaxing with friends.
• Local Charm: Erie dive bars are often family-owned and operated, giving them a unique local charm. These bars are often frequented by regulars who have been coming to the same bar for years.
• Live Music: Many Erie dive bars feature live music on a regular basis. These performances often showcase local talent and can be a great way to discover new music.
• Pool Tables and Dart Boards: Dive bars are often equipped with pool tables and dart boards, providing patrons with a fun activity to enjoy while they drink.
• Unique Decor: Erie dive bars often feature unique decor that sets them apart from other bars. Some bars may have vintage signs or quirky knick-knacks on the walls, while others may have a rustic, wood-paneled interior.

Overall, Erie dive bars offer a unique experience that is different from other bars in the area. Whether you’re looking for cheap drinks or a casual atmosphere, these bars are worth checking out.

Best Affordable Dive Bars in Erie

Erie has a variety of dive bars that offer a unique and affordable experience. This section highlights some of the best affordable dive bars in Erie.

The Plymouth Tavern

The Plymouth Tavern is a popular dive bar located on State Street. It offers a laid-back atmosphere and affordable drinks. The bar has a jukebox, pool table, and dartboard, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends. The Plymouth Tavern also hosts live music events and open mic nights.

The Sloppy Duck Saloon

The Sloppy Duck Saloon is a dive bar located on West 12th Street. It is known for its cheap drinks and friendly atmosphere. The bar has a jukebox, pool table, and outdoor seating area. The Sloppy Duck Saloon also offers a variety of bar food, including burgers, wings, and fries.

The Oasis Pub

The Oasis Pub is a dive bar located on West 26th Street. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and affordable drinks. The bar has a jukebox, pool table, and dartboard. The Oasis Pub also hosts live music events and karaoke nights.

The Anchor Inn

The Anchor Inn is a dive bar located on West 12th Street. It is known for its cheap drinks and friendly staff. The bar has a jukebox, pool table, and dartboard. The Anchor Inn also offers a variety of bar food, including sandwiches, burgers, and wings.

Overall, these affordable dive bars in Erie offer a unique and enjoyable experience without breaking the bank.

Best Dive Bars in Erie with Live Music

Erie is home to some of the best dive bars with live music in the area. These bars offer a unique atmosphere with great music, cold drinks, and friendly staff. Here are some of the best dive bars with live music in Erie:

• The Plymouth Tavern: The Plymouth Tavern is a popular dive bar in Erie that offers live music from local bands and musicians. The bar has a cozy atmosphere with a pool table, jukebox, and a wide selection of beers and cocktails. The Plymouth Tavern is known for its friendly staff and great live music.
• The Oasis Pub: The Oasis Pub is another great dive bar in Erie that offers live music on weekends. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere with a diverse crowd and a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. The Oasis Pub is known for its live music, which ranges from blues and jazz to rock and roll.
• Docksider Tavern: The Docksider Tavern is a classic dive bar in Erie that offers live music on weekends. The bar has a nautical theme with a large outdoor patio and a great selection of beers and cocktails. The Docksider Tavern is known for its live music, which ranges from local bands to national acts.
• Sherlock’s Park Place: Sherlock’s Park Place is a popular dive bar in Erie that offers live music on weekends. The bar has a cozy atmosphere with a pool table, dart board, and a great selection of beers and cocktails. Sherlock’s Park Place is known for its live music, which ranges from blues and jazz to rock and roll.

Overall, these dive bars with live music in Erie offer a unique experience for those looking for great live music, cold drinks, and a friendly atmosphere.

Best Dive Bars in Erie with Best Food

When it comes to dive bars, the focus is usually on the drinks and the atmosphere. However, there are some dive bars in Erie that also serve up some surprisingly delicious food. Here are a few top picks for dive bars with the best food in Erie:

1. The Sloppy Duck Saloon

The Sloppy Duck Saloon is a popular dive bar that is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff. However, what many people don’t know is that the bar also serves up some of the best bar food in the area. From juicy burgers to crispy chicken wings, the Sloppy Duck Saloon has something for everyone.

2. The Oasis Pub

The Oasis Pub is another dive bar that is worth checking out if you’re looking for great food. The bar serves up classic pub fare like fish and chips, but also has some unique items on the menu like the “Oasis Burger,” which is topped with peanut butter and bacon. The bar also has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails to wash down your meal.

3. The Plymouth Tavern

The Plymouth Tavern is a dive bar that has been around for over 50 years, and it’s easy to see why it has stood the test of time. The bar serves up some of the best pizza in the area, along with other pub favorites like wings and nachos. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat and a drink with friends.

Overall, while dive bars may not be the first place you think of when it comes to great food, these three spots in Erie prove that you can find some hidden culinary gems in unexpected places.

Dive Bars with Best Drinks in Erie

When it comes to dive bars, the drinks can be just as important as the atmosphere. Here are some of the best dive bars in Erie that offer great drinks:

The Plymouth Tavern

The Plymouth Tavern is known for its extensive beer list, with over 200 different brews available. They also have a great selection of whiskey and scotch. If you’re looking for a classic dive bar experience with a wide variety of drinks, the Plymouth is a great choice.

The Cove

The Cove is a popular spot for locals, with a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. They offer a variety of craft beers on tap, as well as a selection of wine and cocktails. The Cove is a great spot to relax with friends and enjoy a few drinks.

Docksider Tavern

Docksider Tavern is a classic dive bar with a great selection of drinks. They offer a variety of beer and spirits, including some unique craft brews. The Docksider is a great spot to grab a drink and catch up with friends.

The Beer Mug

The Beer Mug is a cozy dive bar with a great selection of beer. They offer a variety of local and regional brews, as well as some classic favorites. The Beer Mug is a great spot to grab a drink and watch the game.

Overall, these dive bars offer a great selection of drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a wide variety of beer or a classic cocktail, these bars have something for everyone.

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Conclusion

Erie has a variety of dive bars to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a beer or a lively place to dance the night away, there is something for everyone.

After conducting extensive research and visiting multiple dive bars in the area, it is clear that the following bars stand out as some of the best in Erie:

• The Plymouth Tavern
• The Sloppy Duck Saloon
• The Last Shot Bar & Grill
• The Oasis Pub

Each of these bars offers a welcoming environment, affordable drinks, and a fun atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these dive bars are definitely worth checking out.

Overall, Erie’s dive bar scene is thriving and continues to attract locals and visitors alike. With so many great options to choose from, it’s easy to find a bar that fits your style and preferences. So grab a drink and enjoy all that Erie’s dive bars have to offer!