Who needs a big fancy bar in a hotel or on the beach? Neighborhood dive bars in Florida are where the good times roll! Almost like second homes to the folks who go there, dive bars are notorious for a low-key, uber-friendly, everyone-knows-everyone kind of vibe that makes it easy to kick back and unwind. These 9 best neighborhood dive bars in Florida are the places where everyone knows your name.
This locals’ favorite hangout has everything going for it that a dive bar needs. Their live music is some of the best in city, along with an eclectic clientele that makes every visit a new experience. And the drink specials and sizes are hands-down bar none.
This dive bar is nothing short of unique. It attracts locals with its laid-back vibe and know-your-name service, while tourists can’t get enough of the weird, vibrant treasures lining every square inch of the place. You’ll remember this experience for a lifetime.
Don’t let the name fool you—there’s no bananas here, but once you step inside that little detail won’t matter. This bar has serving up tasty libations for over 60 years and it’s become a fixture in the neighborhood. It’s low-key, local-friendly, and everything a neighborhood bar should be.
Lovingly called The Swig by local fans, this place is one of the budget-friendly drinkeries in St. Pete. There’s almost always drink specials that cost less than you can count on one hand. They’ve got this “home away from home” vibe that not many other bars can top.
A neighborhood tradition for over 85 years, they’ve got what other neighborhood hangouts want: an impressive history and a loyal fanbase. With 25-cent pool games, $1 foosball, and a fully loaded bar, you can while away the day without overspending. Even better, they’re just a block and a half away from the beach!
This locals favorite is a refreshing hangout away from the hustle and bustle of Duval Street. Fans flock here for karaoke and cheap drinks, both of which are found in abundance. And even you’re not a local, the folks here sure know how to make you feel like one.
This isn’t your ordinary Orlando nightlife. By far, it’s one of the best places to get away from it all with a hundred of your closest friends. They’ve got a triple threat of amazing food, sports action, and ice-cold cocktails and beer to give you all the more reason to linger longer.
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The Bloody Marys here are the only excuse you need to visit. More like a sippable appetizer, they’ve mastered the art of over-the-top cocktails that are an experience unto themselves. But the hometown service, live music, fair prices, and proximity to the beach will easily make this your new favorite spot.
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This Florida Gator-themed sports bar isn’t just the best place in town for oysters (although they have that claim to fame, too!). From classic arcade games to a top-notch bar menu to their spirit-fueled ambiance, they’re the total package. The energy in this place on game day is hard to ignore.