When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Double Down Saloon
Why Double Down Saloon is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Double Down Saloon is an iconic dive bar located near the Las Vegas airport, renowned for its punk rock atmosphere and welcoming, no-frills vibe that appeals to a diverse crowd. Open 24/7 with a legendary twelve-hour happy hour from 5 AM to 5 PM featuring $3 drinks, it offers a rare and vibrant spot for day and night drinking. The interior is dark and graffiti-filled with walls decorated by unique homemade signs, creating an intense yet familial ambiance that makes it a great place to meet up with friends who seek an authentic and alternative bar experience. Highlights include unconventional drinks like bacon martinis and a curious Beer Lotto vending machine that dispenses surprise beers. Whether you are a punk rock enthusiast, a traveler looking for a dive bar with character, or simply someone looking for a great spot to hang out any time of day or night, Double Down Saloon stands out as a legendary Las Vegas watering hole with a history dating back to 1992.
Here's what people think of Double Down Saloon
As of recent, Double Down Saloon holds a 4.3-star rating based on 591 reviews.
Reviews of Double Down Saloon highlight its distinct dive bar charm and intense punk rock atmosphere, often praising its character and authenticity. Positive reviews frequently mention the welcoming environment, affordable and extensive happy hours, eclectic drink options like bacon martinis, and the unique artistic decor that contributes to the bar's unique personality. Many visitors appreciate the bar’s 24/7 operation, making it an appealing destination for daytime or late-night outings. Regular patrons enjoy the familial vibe and the feeling of being part of a community that embraces both locals and visitors alike. On the negative side, some reviewers note the broken toilets and somewhat unkempt facilities as drawbacks, reflecting the dive bar’s gritty aesthetic which might not appeal to everyone. Others mention that while the drink prices are good, the quality can vary. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains highly positive, reinforcing Double Down Saloon as a landmark destination beloved for its raw, authentic experience. The mix of punk rock culture with a casual and accessible bar scene has made it a favorite among many, contributing to its solid 4.3-star rating from over 590 reviews.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Elizabeth Torres
A gorgeous old-school dive bar in LES with great happy-hour discounts, nice drinks, friendly service, and excellent vibes. There's graffiti on all the walls and a classy selection of visuals for sipping while you down your juice.
Tito
The dingiest bar I’ve found in LES. Perfect. I love it. 3$ pints before 8pm is a dream come true in this city. Amazing place, easy to sit outside, would definitely come back and get belligerent with the boys.
Pouesh Bkfjy
The bartender was amazing—friendly, attentive, and truly skilled. The cocktails were perfect. Despite being a dive bar, the place was impressively clean, including the restrooms, which were well maintained throughout the night. Cold water was readily available, and the overall atmosphere felt safe and welcoming, especially for women. Although the bar doesn't serve food, you can still bring your own food to enjoy.
Aj Rai
Overall the vibe is okay. The bartender was not nice at all. I didn’t know where the menu was and she was very rude with response. I accidentally threw away my cans and she gave me a sassy response and a look. When I dug them out of the garbage and brought them to the bar. The bartender made a comment and said “you didn’t need to do that” Honestly just here for vibes. The bartender is wayyyy too rude. Bathroom was scary.
Mollie poppyseed
Under qualified staff. The bouncers don’t know IDs, told my friend that her id wasn’t real when I know good and well it was, since we are from out of state. Get bouncers who are well versed in every state or don’t hire them at all.
How to reach Double Down Saloon
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Why Double Down Saloon may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Double Down Saloon with your friends?
Gathering with friends at the Double Down Saloon in Las Vegas means stepping into a unique venue that offers an unforgettable atmosphere tailored for group enjoyment. Known as the "Happiest Place on Earth," this dive bar has cultivated a reputation since 1992 as the quintessential clubhouse for the city’s alternative and punk rock crowd. Its open-24/7 schedule allows you to rally any time of day or night, fitting perfectly with any group's varying schedules or spontaneous plans. Whether it’s the drawn-in crowd of punk enthusiasts, music lovers, or night owls looking for a place that challenges the glitz of typical Vegas nightlife, Double Down delivers a raw, authentic experience where connection through shared vibes and good times is guaranteed.
The saloon's ambiance—dimly lit with graffiti-covered walls and a distinctly dive-bar aesthetic—creates an intimate yet energizing setting that encourages camaraderie and lively conversation. With affordable drink specials, including a marathon happy hour and novelty cocktails, it becomes an inviting spot for all types of gatherings, from casual catch-ups to celebratory nights out. This dive bar thrives on inclusivity and character, making it a perfect haven for groups craving something beyond the mainstream casino-bar scene. The strong sense of community and the venue’s no-frills, genuine vibe give friends plenty of reasons to keep coming back and rally together here.
What activities does Double Down Saloon offer for group meetups?
Double Down Saloon offers a plethora of activities that make it an ideal locale for group meetups. First and foremost, live music acts as the heart of the saloon’s experience, hosting nearly nightly shows featuring punk, rockabilly, garage, and surf genres. These concerts are free to attend, removing barriers to entry and encouraging groups to come together to enjoy authentic, sometimes underground, musical performances. The continuous string of events ensures there’s always something happening to energize the crowd and provide a shared soundtrack to your night out.
Beyond live music, the saloon features classic bar games such as pool and pinball machines, which provide engaging, interactive entertainment for groups. Challenging friends to games adds a fun competitive edge to your gathering and keeps the energy high throughout the visit. Another notable feature is the video poker machines; as is common in many Vegas bars, patrons can enjoy drinking on the house while playing, which adds an extra layer of fun and unpredictability to the outing.
The drink offerings themselves also contribute to the activity spectrum. Happy hour runs an astonishing 12 hours a day, from 5 AM to 5 PM, with all drinks priced affordably at $3, creating a perfect daytime rally point. For those seeking novelty, the bar offers unique concoctions such as the infamous “Ass Juice” and the bacon martini, which can become conversation starters and shared moments of humor within your group. Lastly, the jukebox pumps out a relentless mix of punk and rockabilly music, keeping the vibe alive even during quieter stretches, ensuring your group's experience is never dull.
Why is Double Down Saloon perfect for a group meetup?
Double Down Saloon is particularly suited for group meetups because it combines flexibility, affordability, and a distinctive ambiance that appeals to diverse tastes. The 24/7 operation means no matter what time your group decides to get together—be it a late-night rendezvous or an early-morning celebration—the saloon is open and ready to welcome you. This kind of scheduling freedom is rare and eliminates common constraints involved in planning group outings.
Affordability is another significant factor. With generous happy hour pricing and competitive drink specials, the saloon makes it easier to manage group expenses without sacrificing quality or fun. The absence of cover charges for live music further encourages groups to enjoy entertainment without worrying about additional fees, making it a cost-conscious destination that still delivers value and excitement.
The saloon’s non-traditional decor and cult-like status as “the punk rock sanctuary” provide a conversation-rich environment filled with character and attitude. This authentic dive bar aesthetic fosters an inclusive atmosphere where groups can relax, be themselves, and find common ground whether they're longtime friends or new acquaintances. The eclectic mix of patrons and the prominent live music scene also ensure a dynamic environment that keeps everyone engaged.
Finally, the variety of entertainment options—from drinks and games to live shows and video poker—allows groups to customize their experience. Whether your friends want to dance, catch live music, play pool, or simply chill with a round of drinks, Double Down accommodates all inclinations, making it perfect for groups with diverse preferences.
What live entertainment is available at Double Down Saloon?
Live entertainment at Double Down Saloon is a cornerstone of its enduring appeal. The saloon hosts live bands almost every night, focusing primarily on punk rock, rockabilly, garage, and surf music genres. This music selection reflects the venue's commitment to offbeat, underground culture rather than mainstream commercial acts, offering guests an authentic taste of grassroots music scenes.
Most shows charge no cover price, which is a major draw for groups eager to experience live music without the extra cost. Established local favorites frequently perform, alongside touring punk and alternative bands, providing variety and maintaining a fresh entertainment lineup. The 24/7 setting ensures that these performances happen at various times, suiting late-night crews as well as early evening meetups.
When the stage is quiet, the saloon’s jukebox keeps the energy alive by playing an unrelenting mix of punk, lo-fi, and rockabilly tracks that enhance the dive bar setting and complement the crowd’s tastes. Whether it’s soaking in the live music or vibing to the jukebox, groups have a continuous soundtrack that energizes their experience.
For visitors who appreciate music history and culture, the Double Down’s legacy as a punk institution adds a layer of cultural significance to every show, making a night here feel like participation in a living piece of Las Vegas music history.
What unique drinks and specials can groups enjoy together?
Double Down Saloon is renowned for its quirky and budget-friendly drink offerings, which are ideal for groups looking to bond over unique beverages. During the lengthy happy hour, which lasts from 5 AM to 5 PM daily, all drinks are a flat $3, making it easy for groups to indulge without overspending. This marathon happy hour is rare for any bar, especially one situated in a city like Las Vegas, providing great value and flexibility for day drinkers.
Signature drinks like the infamous “Ass Juice” cocktail are legendary within the community. Described variously as a tart and eclectic punch of cheap liquors and citrus, ordering one is often a shared joke and a way to break the ice in a group. Another notable concoction is the bacon martini, whose unique flavor profile sparks conversation and curiosity, encouraging groups to try and share their impressions.
Besides these novelty drinks, the saloon’s extensive beer selection includes a creative Beer Lotto vending machine, which offers mystery beer cans wrapped in koozies for $4 each. This adds a fun element of surprise and chance, perfect for groups who enjoy a playful twist to their drinking experience.
Additionally, the video poker machines allow groups to engage in casual gambling with the perk of free drinks while playing, blending entertainment and refreshments seamlessly.
What games and interactive entertainment keep groups engaged?
Double Down Saloon enhances group gatherings with several interactive entertainment options that promote friendly competition and social bonding. The availability of pool tables provides a classic bar game setting where groups can challenge each other in matches that cultivate a lively but relaxed atmosphere. Pool is ideal for small or large groups wanting to stay active and engaged while socializing.
Pinball machines offer a retro gaming experience that is both engaging and nostalgic, appealing to patrons who enjoy hands-on, skill-based fun. These machines encourage playful rivalry and are perfect for breaking up conversations with moments of collective excitement.
Video poker machines add a uniquely Vegas twist to the saloon’s entertainment; groups can simultaneously enjoy casual gaming opportunities with the chance to win while benefiting from drink perks common to gambling bars. Playing video poker encourages mingling among friends while also attracting those fascinated by chance and skill.
With live music periodically energizing the crowd and these games available, group members rotate between watching performances and engaging in games, ensuring continuous enjoyment and varied activities. This combination keeps everyone entertained regardless of their interests or energy levels.
What is the atmosphere like and why does it appeal to groups?
The atmosphere at Double Down Saloon is a compelling mix of gritty dive bar charm, punk rock edge, and neighborhood hangout warmth that appeals strongly to groups seeking an authentic and lively venue. Its graffiti-covered walls, dim lighting, and vintage decor pull patrons away from the overly polished Vegas scene into a space where raw individuality thrives. This welcoming, no-pretense vibe removes social barriers, making it easier for groups to connect and relax.
The saloon’s self-description as “the clubhouse for the lunatic fringe” signals its embrace of all types of personalities, from hardcore punk fans to curious visitors looking for a unique night out. The eclectic clientele and staff contribute to a sense of community and shared identity that groups can tap into, fostering a feeling of being part of a special club.
Despite its rough-around-the-edges appearance, the Double Down Saloon maintains an accessible, down-to-earth atmosphere built on shared music appreciation, open-mindedness, and fun. The energy levels fluctuate between laid-back during daytime hours and intensely vibrant during the live shows, allowing groups to tailor their experience according to their mood and preferences.
Ultimately, the saloon’s atmosphere encourages friendship and spontaneity, creating memorable experiences that groups can talk about long after they leave.
Where is Double Down Saloon located and how accessible is it?
Double Down Saloon is conveniently located at 4640 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, just a short distance from the Las Vegas airport, which makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Its position slightly off the main Strip offers a welcome respite from the usual tourist hotspots, providing a more authentic, grassroots Vegas experience.
The bar sits above a small parking lot, so groups traveling by car will find parking relatively hassle-free compared to many downtown or Strip locations. For those relying on rideshares or taxis, the saloon’s proximity to major roads simplifies drop-offs and pickups at any time of day or night, benefiting from its 24/7 operation.
Being slightly away from the overwhelming pace of central Las Vegas, Double Down offers a more intimate meeting spot where groups can gather without competing with throngs of tourists. Despite its off-Strip location, it enjoys good visibility thanks to its marquee and signage, making it easy to find.
Its accessibility and location contribute significantly to its appeal for group meetups, especially for friends and families wanting a relaxed but vibrant venue that is easy to reach and suits spontaneous or planned gatherings.
This detailed overview should help prospective visitors understand why Double Down Saloon stands out as an excellent venue to rally with friends or family, thanks to its unique atmosphere, 24/7 availability, diverse entertainment and games, affordable drinks, and inclusive vibe. Whether celebrating special occasions or simply craving a memorable night out, this iconic Las Vegas dive bar delivers on multiple fronts to accommodate and delight groups of all stripes.