The best bars in Las Vegas

For stunning views of the Vegas skyline—from a glowing desert sunset to twinkling nighttime lights—head to Skyfall. The floor-to-ceiling windows and theater-style seating offer unobstructed views from every seat in the room. You’ll even see the bats swirling in Luxor’s sky beam next door. The vibe at Skyfall changes as the night progresses, from quiet evenings to upbeat DJ-driven nights. Treat yourself to a glass of champagne and a new perspective on Vegas.

Hang out on the outdoor patio or chill with friends at this classic beer hall with a lengthy lager, ale and cider list featuring local and international favorites. Daily happy hour bites include beer cheese, tater tots and hot dogs piled high with kraut. The beerhaus brat pairs perfectly with a pint and classic bar games. Live tunes on the weekend will keep your toes tapping as you sip German lager or Belgian ale.

Tucked away inside the famous Peppermill eatery, itself a piece of vintage Vegas kitsch, sits the Fireside Lounge, a room that looks untouched since the 1970s. Neon blue lights serve as backdrop to the fireplace, where most patrons cuddle up. Retro drinks make visitors feel like they've entered a time machine, and there’s the daily happy hour always attracts. 

Whiskey fans head to Downtown Container Park where this diminutive bar offers one of the best whiskey selections around. There are barrel-aged cocktails, a Whiskey Smash made with seasonal fruit, and nine different Moscow Mules. If you can’t decide, knowledgeable bartenders will make you something tailored to your liking.

DCR is credited with kicking off a revitalization of Downtown’s cocktail scene. With swanky decor, chill music, and a discreet entrance, this bar has the perfect vibe for enjoying upscale, inventive cocktails. The creative menu, which incorporates classics, punches, original concoctions, less familiar spirits, and out-of-the-ordinary garnishes, changes several times a year, so you’ll always find something different. Stop by for half price everything weekdays from 4–7pm.

The Commonwealth, a huge, pre-Prohibition–style cocktail bar is a destination in itself, boasting expertly made cocktails and a lively rooftop with live music and great views. But try to get into the secret speakeasy in the back (text the phone number or look for the red light that indicates available space) for a sleeker, more intimate experience. The 28-seat Laundry Room features premium spirits and an exclusive cocktail menu.

Soak up the old-school dive vibe at this local classic. Back in the 1950s, patrons would sit on the roof of Atomic Liquors (the oldest freestanding bar in Vegas, built in 1945) and watch nuclear test explosions in the nearby desert. A renovation and reinvention as a craft cocktail bar has made it a destination for a new type of crowd. The patio is one of the best in the city, as you can enjoy quiet conversation while also keeping an eye on Fremont Street shenanigans.

This eclectic bar was opened by two sisters who sought to create a welcoming place to hang out. The decor recalls the namesake classic children’s book, with mismatched vintage furniture and local artwork. The cocktail list is composed of modern takes on the classics. There’s an excellent beer list too. The space is great for socializing, with smaller areas for quiet conversation. DJs spin tunes on weekends, and the backyard patio often hosts local up-and-coming-bands.

This tiki bar goes for it one hundred percent, with decor and drinks that will transport you to an island paradise for the night. A giant shell you can sit in, mermaids, masks, and fruity drinks are just part of the fun. Try a fan favorite with the boozy Dole Whip cocktail. Enjoy live music, kitschy DJs and themed parties while sipping on something that comes in a pineapple and/or is on fire.

For a dose of elegance, have a drink at Bound at The Cromwell. The sophisticated lobby bar is perfect for pre-dinner drinks (many of the clientele are heading to Giada), but also a classy choice for quiet conversation or even a professional meet-up. The cocktail list, created by renowned mixologist Salvatore Calabrese, features classics, signature cocktails, seasonal offerings, and wines by the glass. Don’t miss the celebrated Breakfast Martini, with gin, Cointreau, lemon juice, and orange marmalade.

The Wynn’s casual duo of lounges offer a charming alternative to your standard casino bar. Whether you’re at Up or Down, you’ll find expertly made cocktails, great views of the waterfall, the blossom-filled atrium, and the colorful parasols suspended from the ceiling. Try the Boysenberry Delight, featuring a boysenberry vodka exclusive to the resort, or the popular berry-topped Sinatra Smash.

Dino’s is a true classic, known as 'The Last Neighborhood Bar in Las Vegas' (as stated in huge lettering on the front of the establishment). Bar flies are a fixture on quiet nights, but on weekend karaoke nights brace yourself for fierce competition. Bartenders vote on 'Drunk of the Month' contests, with the most notorious winning 'Drunk of the Year.' This dive is a must for any visitor and a great hangout for locals.

The Dorsey features some of the best bartenders in all of Vegas, practicing their craft in an upscale setting. The cocktail program was conceived by Sam Ross, the bartender behind Attaboy and Milk & Honey. The ultra-modern look was concocted by David Rabin, New York bar-making hot shot, and the venue welcomes guests with a warm fire and plush library seating. Go for champagne, conversational cocktails or shareable punch bowls.

This sleek Waldorf Astoria bar features creative libations and incredible views of the Strip thanks to its location on the 23rd floor. The decor is swanky, and the prices are steep, but original cocktails paying homage to all things Vegas, old and new, are a worthy splurge. Try the Atomic, featuring Empress Gin, Chambord, and raspberry syrup with a squeeze of lemon and sparkling wine. This is a great place for evening cocktails before fine dining in Sin City. 

A three-story chandelier shines at the center of this gorgeous, multi-level bar. You’ll be surrounded by sparkle and dazzled by your fellow cocktailers as you sip a We’re All Mad Here. An ode to Alice in Wonderland, the gin-based cocktail starts blue but changes colors as the ingredients mingle. It's accompanied by an edible tag that creates a tingly sensation to complete the experience.