There’s something about a dive bar’s dim lighting, strong drinks, and endless amounts of pool tables that sets them apart from all other bars. Sacramento has a long history as a great spot for dive bars, each with its own unique charm, that guarantee a good time. Here are seven Sacramento dive bars that should be on your radar.

 

Socal’s Tavern

This East Sacramento gem first opened in the 1970s and offers affordable drinks, pool tables, and shuffleboard. If you’re looking for a local vibe, many Sacramentans describe this bar as a place where everyone knows your name and feels like a regular. Be sure to swing by from 4 to 6 p.m. for happy hour specials seven days a week.

 

Flame Club

Even nearly 70 years later, Sacramento’s Flame Club still captures the vibe of a 1950s-style dive bar. With strong drinks, delicious food, skee ball, and a jukebox, you’re bound to have a good time at this local dive bar.

 

Round Corner Tavern

Located in Midtown Sacramento, Round Corner Tavern is known for having cheap drinks, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere. There’s even a happy hour seven days a week, from 5 to 7 p.m. Be sure to bring you’re A game, because the games of pool can get quite competitive here.

 

Old Ironsides

Old Ironsides was the first business to obtain a liquor license in Sacramento following Prohibition. Having recently re-opened in 2022, this bar is known for live music, its nightclub, and Greek and Italian lunches during the week.

 

Hilltop Tavern

This sports bar offers a lively, yet laid-back atmosphere decorated with fluorescent signs, random photos, and a jukebox. Spend your night socializing as you enjoy Hilltop Tavern’s reasonably priced drinks, tasty pub grub, and games such as pool, darts, and ping pong.  

 

The Trap

The Trap is Sacramento’s oldest dive bar,  dating back to the 1860s. Featuring pool tables, pinball, a jukebox, and horseshoes on the back patio, this East Sacramento bar’s chill atmosphere makes it a great place to hang out and grab a drink with friends.

 

Dive Bar

Our guide to Sacramento dive bars wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Dive Bar. This popular Downtown Sacramento bar offers a modern vibe, with a huge aquarium above the bar where mermaids and mermen make occasional appearances.

 

Other Sacramento Dive Bars:

Chargins Bar & Grill

Cheaters Sports Bar

Club 2 Me

Ernie’s Interlude

Q Street Bar & Grill