From opulent, Art Deco palm courts to a tiki bar with live mermaids, the U.S. is home to some of the world's coolest hotel bars. While trendy watering holes stretch across the 50 states there are some that have to be seen to be believed. Without further ado, grab a Sazerac or a glass of champagne and check out the coolest hotel bars in the U.S.
The Bar at Palm Court, Netherland Plaza Hotel, Cincinnati
Residing inside the Art Deco, skyscraper masterpiece, Carew Tower, The Bar at Palm Court is the epitome of opulence. Opened in 1931, the bar area features stunning Art Deco details including a Rookwood Pottery fountain and Brazilian rosewood interior. Luscious palms fringe each corner of the octagonal bar area and Romanesque paintings adorn the walls, giving you the feeling that you’re inside an F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. While Cincinnati is well known for its burgeoning craft beer scene, a Quite Contrary, made from mezcal, honeydew, and lemon should be added to your tab.
Redwood Room, The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel, San Francisco
Just stepping inside the Redwood Room will make you feel glamorous. Opened on December 6th, 1933, the day after Prohibition officially ended, the Redwood Room has seen its fair share of famous guests over the years. It’s no wonder a smart casual dress code is politely enforced.
The legendary redwood paneling is said to have been carved from a singular tree while the bar was chiseled from an 800-year-old redwood itself. Artwork by famous symbolist painter, Gustav Klimt hangs around the bar. The Redwood Rooms signature cocktail is the Mr. Clift (their take on a classic Manhattan), but don’t miss its selection of rare whiskeys and bourbons as well. The Redwood Room also offers small plates, some made with honey from the hotel's rooftop bee hives.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge, Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans
Named one of the “Top 20 Bars in the World” by Vogue, The Carousel Bar & Lounge is an iconic part of the New Orleans French Quarter. The revolving bar, constructed to look like a Merry-Go-Round, casts a whimsical vibe over the room. Boasting live entertainment from local musicians most nights, The Carousel Bar & Lounge has been dazzling spectators since 1949.
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without trying the city’s signature drink, the Sazerac. Its genesis in New Orleans makes it the perfect compliment on a visit to the city. The Carousel Bar & Lounge also happens to reside in one of the most haunted places in New Orleans, Hotel Monteleone. Several guests have claimed to see the ghost of a little boy, Maurice Begere, who died at the hotel.
Camellias Bar, Hotel Bennett, Charleston
Named after Charleston’s signature flower, Camellias' ode to pink is a statement in fuschia. As Charleston’s foremost Champagne Lounge, Camellias calls to those who have an appreciation for all things pretty and pink. The main bar's marble facade was reclaimed from the library that once stood on the site of Hotel Bennett. An etched mirror ceiling, crystal chandelier, and Fabergé egg inspired design lends the bar an air of luxury.
Camellias is the perfect destination for brunch or a bachelorette party as its Afternoon Tea, served on weekends by reservation, is renowned. Champagne, caviar, and seafood are the house specialties making a trip to Camellias a truly special occasion.
The Dorsey, Venetian Resort, Las Vegas
Tucked away in the Venetian Resort, The Dorsey is a thing of antiquated beauty. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves adorn the cozy back of the bar known as the “library room” while plush furniture and a fireplace with flames made of steam lull you into utter comfort. Voted “The Best Bar in Vegas” by Conde Nast Traveler, The Dorsey is something out of an episode of Peaky Blinders.
Opened in 2016 to great acclaim, The Dorsey’s dark, French oak interior, exquisite honeycomb ceiling, and mix of leather and velvet furniture give it a sumptuous feeling. Match this with their vast collection of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon and a DJ playing old school hip hop and you’ve got the coolest bar in Las Vegas.
Panorama Room, Graduate Hotel, New York City
Looking out from its viewpoint on the 18th floor of The Graduate Hotel is one of the best views in New York City. Order a cocktail to complement the scenery and take in the sweeping cityscape. This is the Panorama Room on Roosevelt Island.
With 360° views of the New York City skyline, the Panorama Room is a symphony of glass. As one of the lesser-known locations in New York City, it’s surprising that Roosevelt Island doesn’t see more foot traffic. Custom furniture was created to perfectly suit the bar and its unusual shape. Grab their trademark espresso martini, head to the deck, and take in the jaw-dropping view.
Sip ‘N Dip Lounge, O’Haire Motor Inn, Great Falls
Mermaids are real, in Montana at least. Listed as “The #1 Bar on Earth Worth Flying For” by GQ, Sip ‘N Dip is a testament to the kid in us all. One of the last of its kind, the Sip ‘N Dip is a rarity not only because it’s one of the last hotel tiki bars left in the States, but also because it’s home to live mermaids. The “merwomen" were originally hired to entertain guests by swimming in the hotel pool, visible through a window behind the bar.
Aside from their six mermaids, the O’Haire Motor Inn has had several unique employees including “Piano Pat” the bar's resident pianist for over 50 years who retired in 2021. Even a few mermen have made appearances over the years. Saddle up to the bamboo bar, order their signature 64 ounce fishbowl, and enjoy the dazzling mermaid show, visible through a window behind the bar.
