Arizona’s bar scene is arguably one of the best in Southwest. Sure, the state has a wide variety of under-the-radar joints and spirited, neighborhood locales. But the Valley is also home to fun drinking spots aplenty—with everything from themed destinations like UnderTow and Century Grand to moodier cocktail bars like Highball and Bitter & Twisted.
Regardless of what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find flavorful drinks and undeniable fun at any one of these Arizona drinking spots.
UnderTow
Take a trip under the sea at UnderTow in Phoenix. The subterranean cocktail bar boasts an Old World ship vibe complete with animated waves, immersive sounds, moody lighting and a wide-ranging menu of nautical-inspired spirits. The Coconut Grove Cooler comes highly recommended, thanks to its ingredient list of aged Jamaican rum, lime, pomegranate and absinthe. A second location of this Arizona drinking spot will soon open in Gilbert, too. For more information, visit www.drinkundertow.com.
36 Below
A visit to 36 Below feels less like you’re stopping by a local cocktail bar, and more like you’re being transported into an alternate universe filled with whimsical plants, checkered decor and a signature Alice in Wonderland-infused vibe that’s as unique as it is fun. Don’t miss out on trying a taste of the prickly pear and habanero-blended Archangel cocktail. For more information, visit www.36belowaz.com.
Highball
The quintessential, retro cocktail bar comes to life at Highball—a neighborhood lounge and cocktail hub that’s celebrated for its warm ambience, inimitable charm and elevated cocktail offerings. With drinks like the peach-infused Behind Every Cloud cocktail and the No Eye Contact Irish Whiskey, there’s a drink for everyone to indulge in. For more information, visit www.highballphx.com.
Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
As it turns out, you actually don’t have to leave the Valley to get your fill of a New York-style dive bar—all you have to do is visit Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour. The destination is hailed for its low-key, moody ambience that’s sharpened by vibrant glimpses of the busy Downtown Phoenix area just outside. In the mood for a more playful cocktail? You can never go wrong with the Pornstar Martini—which is chock-full of sweet vanilla vodka. For more information, visit www.bitterandtwistedaz.com.
The Americano
It’s likely that you’ve seen splashes of The Americano all over social media—or at least Instagram. The stylish Scottsdale restaurant might have a reputation for its steak offerings, but make no mistake—this fun Arizona drinking spot is just as famous for its picturesque cocktail menu, comprised of treats like a Cask Aged Negroni and a chili-coconut-infused Versace on the Floor drink. For more information, visit www.theamericanorestaurant.com.
Garden Bar PHX
Settled in a cozy 1914 California bungalow is Garden Bar PHX —a charming cocktail bar and green escape that will have you forgetting you’re in Arizona at all. Plus, this Arizona drinking spot from Kim Haasarud has a dog-friendly patio and porch for imbibing alongside your pooch. For more info, visit www.gardenbarphx.com.
Hula’s Modern Tiki Bar
Who needs a Hawaiian vacation when you have a cocktail destination as exotic as Hula’s Modern Tiki—and right in the heart of the Valley, no less? Coastal cocktails are seamlessly paired with savory, made-from-scratch Island bites, and all in a friendly environment. For more info, visit www.hulasmoderntiki.com.
Killer Whale Sex Club
As can probably be inferred by the name, Killer Whale Sex Club has no shortage of naughty fun—from the bar space’s inimitable vibe and buzzy interior decor to the playful drink names (like Little Dipper, The Socket and Heir to the Throne, among others), you’ll find few places in Phoenix that are as eccentric or delicious! For more info, visit www.killerwhalesexclub.com.
Don Woods’ Say When
Located on the rooftop of the famed and retro-inspired Rise Uptown Hotel is Don Woods’ Say When—a an intimate lounge and expansive terrace space that’s elevated by fire pits, photogenic seating spots and a diverse cocktail menu complete with the Bohemian Cocktail, Whiskey Rose Tart, a decadent, lime daiquiri and more. For more information, visit www.riseuptownhotel.com.
Platform 18 at Century Grand
When you think of Arizona, you might not imagine getting the chance to explore a cozy, wintery wonderland by train. But at Platform 18 at Century Grand in Phoenix, that vision becomes a reality—complete with an electric vibe that perfectly pays homage to the appeal of the 1920s. Visitors to this fun Arizona drinking spot will also get the chance to indulge in a wide variety of drink specialties, including a brandy and blueberry-infused Desiree Street Market cocktail that’s as decadent as it is flavorful. For more information, visit www.centurygrandphx.com.
Little Rituals
Offering one of the most impressive cocktails programs in the nation (it was a top four finalist for a famed Spirited Award!), Little Rituals is a cocktail bar on the fourth floor of Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Phoenix. When you enter the lounge, Little Rituals feels like a sexy little secret–dimly lit with a touch of glam, twinkling city views and an impeccable bill of sips, including the can’t-miss Vengeance & Fashion and Big City Nights. For more information, visit littleritualsbar.com.
The Beverly on Main
Scottsdale-based The Beverly on Main offers late-night eats and even a top-secret lounge alongside an ever-changing menu of picture-perfect cocktails. In addition to the stellar sips, guests adore The Beverly on Main’s gastropub-style menu (the kitchen is open until 1:30 a.m.!) and relaxed vibe, though the energy kicks up on the weekend with DJ performances. For more information, visit www.beverlyonmain.com.