United States Pennsylvania Philadelphia
All Philadelphia
5 Historic Bars in Philadelphia to Grab a Drink
Marla Cimini
Marla Cimini is an award-winning writer who was born and raised in Philadelphia. She writes about travel, hotels, food, music, luxury and more.
As the birthplace of the United States of America, Philadelphia is home to a number of intriguing historical sites that date back several hundred years. But there's more to the city than the iconic Liberty Bell and the legendary monuments—there are several unique and impressive bars in town that were established over a century or two ago and reflect a bygone era. If you wish to experience some history while you're sipping a beer, wine, or cocktail, be sure to pull up a stool at these historical Philadelphia bars, located in several neighborhoods in and around Center City Philly.
City Tavern
Visit Philly
138 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
This multi-floor restaurant is the optimal go-to destination if you want to feel like you've stepped back in time to the 1770s. Known as the "unofficial meeting place" of America's Founding Fathers, City Tavern is considered the top historical restaurant in the city, featuring wooden floors, tables, and décor from the colonial era.
It's also the only restaurant in the city with waitstaff dressed in costumes to reflect the early days of Philadelphia. Created by chef Walter Staib, the menu is inspired by 18th-century offerings, but features a number of more modern options as well. It's a great spot for a cocktail, too, as the cozy front bar includes recreations of beer and other libations from colonial times. After all, you can't leave Philly without tasting Thomas Jefferson's favorite brew.
McGillin's Old Ale House
Photo by J. Irwin/ClassicStock/Getty Images
1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
Sip libations and snack on tasty house specialties as you soak in the history at McGillin's Old Ale House, the oldest "continually-operating tavern" in the entire country. This famous city landmark opened the same year that President Abraham Lincoln was elected, and has been featured on TV shows, news programs, and in a variety of media outlets over the years.
The bar features an eclectic crowd of locals and tourists who keep returning for the lively ambiance as well as the reasonably-priced classic pub food and beer. Not surprisingly, it gets jammed up during happy hour and most weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
Cherry Street Tavern
129 N 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1021, USA
Cherry Street Tavern is an unassuming Center City bar that is as old school as it gets. Situated in the Logan Square neighborhood, this local hangout has been a popular spot since the early 1900s. Grab a seat at the bar, and you're almost guaranteed to strike up a conversation with one of the Philly "regulars."
Make no mistake, though: the Cherry Street Tavern is not considered "quaint." In fact, it has the feel of a modern bar, with Wi-Fi, several big-screen TVs (usually broadcasting a local sporting event), and plenty of craft beer options on tap. If you're hungry, you're in luck. Although the menu is limited, it boasts a few fan favorites such as the generously-sized hoagies and roast beef sandwiches.
M restaurant
231 S 8th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Situated in the historic Morris House Hotel, the M restaurant serves up inventive, modern cuisine within a traditional setting. The building, dating back to the late 1700s, is similar in architectural style to the nation's first "white house," which used to be several blocks away. In fact, it has even been referred to as the "white house's twin."
In addition to the exquisite dining room, the restaurant has picturesque gardens that feature outdoor tables during the warmer months—perfect for sipping a cocktail or two. With happy hour "light bite" specials (Tuesday to Friday) and craft drinks, it's always a warm and welcoming Old City spot to unwind.
The Olde Bar
125 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Located in the historic Bookbinders' building in the Old City district of Philadelphia, The Olde Bar is a landmark cocktail lounge and oyster bar. The warm ambiance is reminiscent of the city's early days, and it's a lovely destination to relax with a beverage or appetizer. Owned by award-winning chef Jose Garces (who heads up several other exceptional restaurants in town), The Olde Bar offers a great selection of creative and innovative dishes in a traditional setting. Several food favorites include fried shrimp, snapper turtle soup, crab cakes, and burgers. With a happy hour featuring $1 oysters every day of the week, The Olde Bar is an ideal spot to hang out while exploring Philly.
The 16 Best Bars in Philadelphia
9 Best Northern Arizona Hotels in 2022
The Top 11 Breweries to Visit in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's Top Nightlife Spots
The Top 20 Things to Do in Philadelphia
The Best Dive Bar in Every State
The Best Restaurant in Every State
The Top 13 Museums in Philadelphia
The 9 Best Philadelphia Hotels of 2022
The Best Restaurants in Boston
Tripsavvy's LGBTQ Travel Guide for Philadelphia, PA
16 Best Places to Eat in St. Augustine, Florida
Reading Terminal Market: The Complete Guide
An LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Denver, Colorado
The Complete Guide to Haddonfield, New Jersey
Grab a Pint of Beer at One of These Historic Bars in Philadelphia