When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Mac's Club Deuce
Why Mac's Club Deuce is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mac's Club Deuce is one of the oldest and most beloved dive bars in Miami Beach, established in 1926. Nestled just two blocks away from the glitzy Ocean Drive in the Art Deco Historic District, this bar offers a no-frills, authentic experience that contrasts sharply with the surrounding upscale environment. Its rustic decor, neon lighting installed originally by the Miami Vice television crew, and old-school ambiance create a nostalgic refuge for locals, tourists, and celebrities alike. Mac's is famous for its laid-back vibe, friendly crowds, and affordable drinks with a two-for-one happy hour from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The jukebox and pool table add to the charm, encouraging relaxed socializing and spontaneous fun. This cash-only bar also allows indoor smoking, a rarity in today's bar scene, reinforcing its dive bar authenticity. With a history tied deeply to Miami’s cultural fabric and favored by legendary figures such as Anthony Bourdain, Mac’s Club Deuce is a unique gathering spot where friends can unwind, share stories, and soak in a slice of Miami’s past that still pulses with life today.
Here's what people think of Mac's Club Deuce
As of recent, Mac's Club Deuce holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1376 reviews.
User reviews of Mac's Club Deuce consistently praise its authentic dive bar atmosphere and affordable prices. Many patrons appreciate the bar's nostalgic decor, the friendly and chatty staff, and the lively ambiance fueled by its jukebox and pool table. Positive reviews highlight the two-for-one happy hour all day long until 5 p.m., making it a great spot for casual meetups and extended socializing. Visitors also note the draw of a place that has remained largely unchanged over decades, resonating with those seeking a genuine dive bar vibe amidst Miami Beach's upscale surroundings. Celebrities visiting undercover add an element of intrigue without disrupting the relaxed environment. On the negative side, some reviews mention the smoky interior, which can be off-putting for non-smokers, though guests typically are forewarned and accept this as part of the dive bar experience. Additionally, the bar’s cash-only policy may inconvenience some visitors. Despite such drawbacks, the overall consensus remains highly favorable, with reviewers describing Mac’s Club Deuce as a must-visit spot for its historical significance, affordability, and unpretentious character. Among Miami’s evolving nightlife scene, Mac’s stands out as a dependable, friendly dive bar with a rich cultural legacy and a welcoming spirit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Valentina
Mac’s Club Deuce is super cute, it’s one of the oldest clubs in Miami, and the moment you walk in, it feels like you’re stepping back in time. It has such a retro, vintage vibe, and I just loved it. The service was really good, the drinks were tasty, and the overall ambience is just so magical. I really hope they keep it like this for many more years 🙏there aren’t many places in Miami that are this well-kept, so I really appreciate that they’ve preserved it so nicely. They’ve kept the vibe just as it should be, haven’t over‑remodeled or tried to modernize it, and it still feels truly historical. This place is really special, and I hope it stays exactly like this for a long time.
Ethan McStravick
Absolutely amazing spot. If you are in Miami and you like a good dive bar to get away from the flashiness of the city, come here!! Henry the door man is a legend! Such a cool guy and very personable. We came back a second night and he recognized us and said hi, even grabbed us some stickers. Very cool experience and a great vibe. CASH ONLY BAR.
Cori Lydic
We saw this bar on our US Haunted tours and the atmosphere is awesome. Old school feel, great drinks, good prices, cool people. You have to make a stop here if you come to South Beach.
Q G
I visited Mac’s Club Deuce because I was intrigued by its reputation as Anthony Bourdain’s favorite spot in Miami. The experience did not disappoint. This is a dive bar in every sense, featuring a snake-shaped bar that feels like a relic from another era – a rare gem you just don’t see anymore. The happy hour is the real deal: buy one drink, and you get another free. Just make sure to bring cash because they don’t accept cards. The atmosphere is incredibly dark, making it easy to lose track of time, and the clientele is a fascinating mix of characters. Everyone sits neatly lined up, watching the bartender, but eager to spark a conversation. Smoking is allowed inside – whether it’s cigarettes or cigars – adding an old-school vibe to the place. The bathroom, however, is an adventure in itself: filthy, with the stench of stale urine that seems like it’s been there for ages. You even need to ask for the code to enter, which somehow adds an exclusive touch to its unapologetically neglected state. The bartender was excellent, professional, and clearly in command of the space. Pets are also welcome, giving the place a surprisingly warm touch. There’s a pool table and a jukebox to round out the experience.
Mitch Miller
**A South Beach Gem: Mac's Club Deuce** If you're looking for an authentic, no-frills bar in South Beach, *Mac's Club Deuce* is a must-visit! As Miami's oldest bar, it oozes charm and history while staying true to its laid-back, unpretentious vibe—a refreshing break from the glitz and glam of South Beach. Our server, Jason, was absolutely amazing. He was super kind, cool, and made us feel right at home. His warm personality added so much to the experience. Drinks are a steal here with their *buy one, get one free* deal during happy hour (which lasts until 8 PM). The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, making it a perfect spot to meet people who genuinely like people. Whether you’re starting your day early (yes, they open early!) or winding down for the evening, Mac’s Club Deuce is a place you’ll want to keep coming back to. It's the kind of bar that feels like a community—a rare find in South Beach. Don’t miss out on this iconic spot. It’s more than a bar; it’s an experience! --- Let me know if you'd like to tweak it!
How to reach Mac's Club Deuce
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Why Mac's Club Deuce may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mac’s Club Deuce with your friends?
When considering the perfect spot to gather with friends, Mac’s Club Deuce stands out for its unique blend of history, atmosphere, and affordable fun. This nearly 100-year-old bar, often regarded as Miami’s oldest, offers an experience steeped in authentic dive bar culture complete with neon lighting from the iconic 1980s Miami Vice television show. Unlike the flashy, upscale venues nearby, Mac’s invites you to leave the pretense behind and enjoy genuine camaraderie in a relaxed, no-frills environment. Its long opening hours—starting at 8 AM and going until 5 AM—mean you and your group can meet at virtually any time of day or night, making it accommodating for all kinds of gatherings, whether a midday catch-up or a late-night hangout. The two-for-one happy hour that runs daily from morning through late afternoon not only makes social drinking more affordable but also encourages lingering and conversation in this snug, nostalgic setting. If you want a place where everyone can feel comfortable kicking back without fuss or fancy distractions, Mac’s Club Deuce offers the perfect rallying point for friends seeking genuine connection and timeless Miami dive bar vibes.
What activities are available at Mac’s Club Deuce for groups?
Mac’s Club Deuce may not be a high-energy nightclub or a sprawling entertainment complex, but it offers a variety of classic dive bar activities that naturally foster group interaction and fun. The centerpiece of the bar is its long curved wooden counter where friends can gather shoulder to shoulder, sharing stories over cold drinks. A pool table provides an engaging pastime that can spark friendly competition or just casual play, making it great for groups who want to mix socializing with a bit of game time. Music plays from an old-school jukebox that adds to the dive bar ambiance, allowing the group to take turns selecting songs and setting the mood. The bar’s décor—an eclectic collage of neon lights, vintage memorabilia, and mirrors—creates an inviting, conversation-starting environment. Despite its simplicity, this array of casual activities encourages interaction, laughter, and bonding among groups of any size, providing memorable moments without any pressure to over-prepare or adhere to a strict schedule.
Why is Mac’s Club Deuce ideal for group meetups?
Mac’s Club Deuce caters perfectly to group meetups because it combines affordability, ambiance, and genuine character in one accessible package. Unlike popular spots that prioritize trendiness and stiff prices, Mac’s offers a welcoming, laid-back setting where groups can spend hours without worrying about their budget—thanks to its daily two-for-one happy hour from 8 AM to 5 PM. The bar’s longstanding reputation as a social hub makes it a familiar and comfortable place for locals and visitors alike, so groups can expect a friendly, easygoing crowd and talkative bartenders who know regulars by name. Its location just a block from the glitz of Ocean Drive offers a convenient retreat where your group can escape the noise and expense without leaving the heart of Miami Beach. The smoky, dimly-lit interior creates an intimate vibe, encouraging meaningful connection in a way that glitzy clubs rarely achieve. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a reliable gathering spot, Mac’s authentic dive bar charm and extended hours mean your group can meet at your own pace and style.
How does the history of Mac’s Club Deuce add to the experience?
Part of what makes Mac’s Club Deuce an extraordinary place for groups to meet is its rich heritage as Miami Beach’s oldest bar. Established in 1926 and officially opened post-Prohibition in 1933, it carries nearly a century’s worth of stories and tradition within its walls. The bar was famously owned by Mac Klein, a WWII veteran whose commitment to the place extended well beyond ownership—he worked behind the bar daily until he passed away at 101 years old in 2016. This history contributes to a sense of continuity and authenticity that modern bars often lack, making a meetup here feel like a step back in time. The fact that the bar still looks much like it did during its Miami Vice filming days—with neon lights installed by the show’s crew and old wooden bars preserved—adds a cinematic appeal that you and your friends can soak in together. This sense of place grounded in decades of Miami’s social culture offers group visitors a unique narrative woven into their outing, elevating an ordinary bar meet into a shared experience steeped in legacy.
What kind of crowd and atmosphere can your group expect at Mac’s?
At Mac’s Club Deuce, the crowd is an eclectic mix that reflects the bar’s deep roots and broad appeal. From longtime Miami locals and eclectic regulars to tourists and transplants looking for an authentic dive bar experience, the atmosphere is one of casual friendliness and inclusivity. The bar’s smoky, dim interior creates a cozy, intimate setting where everyone—from couples and small groups to larger outings—feels welcome. The general vibe is unpretentious and chatty, with people often striking up conversations with strangers, making it easy for friends to engage with both their own group and new acquaintances. Unlike louder clubs where music dominates, Mac’s balances background music from the jukebox and the occasional pool game’s friendly competition with ample space for talking and relaxing. This atmosphere makes it especially suitable for groups who value a social yet laidback environment where the focus can be on connection rather than spectacle or overstimulation.
What makes Mac’s Club Deuce’s pricing and specials attractive for group outings?
One of Mac’s Club Deuce’s greatest draws for groups is its incredibly wallet-friendly pricing, which stands out especially in contrast to the surrounding Ocean Drive area’s steep bar prices. The bar offers a generous two-for-one happy hour every day from 8 AM until 5 PM, a rare and extended window that lets groups maximize value while enjoying the bar’s relaxed ambiance any time during the day. With drinks like La Rubia priced around $7 during this period—significantly less than nearby venues—your entire group can enjoy a round of affordable beverages without feeling the pinch. Another unique feature is the bar’s tradition of handing out special casino chips with your change during happy hour, which can be traded in for another drink. These chips have a nostalgic, collectible quality, turning a simple happy hour drink into a fun and memorable ritual for groups. This blend of fair pricing, long happy hour hours, and a quirky souvenir tradition all contribute to Mac’s excellent reputation as a smart and enjoyable choice for group gatherings.
How does the location of Mac’s Club Deuce enhance your group’s meetup?
Situated just two blocks away from one of the most glamorous and bustling areas of Miami Beach—Ocean Drive—Mac’s Club Deuce offers a contrasting, more grounded locale ideal for groups who want to enjoy the city without the overpowering glitz. This prime location means that your group can enjoy proximity to South Beach’s main attractions while retreating to an authentic dive bar for some downtime. The area’s walkability allows easy movement between the beach, upscale hotels, clubs, and Mac’s, facilitating a flexible itinerary for your group. After exploring Miami’s luxury scene, your friends can decompress at Mac’s without the pressure of dress codes, crowded dance floors, or high tabs. The bar’s accessibility ensures that groups of all ages can convene conveniently, making it an easy meeting place whether you’re starting your day with morning drinks or winding down past midnight.
What makes the service and staff at Mac’s welcoming for groups?
Mac’s Club Deuce is known for its friendly and attentive bartenders who contribute to the bar’s welcoming and chatty atmosphere. Unlike establishments where staff remain distant or transactional, the bartenders at Mac’s often engage in warm banter with patrons, providing personalized service that makes each visit feel special. For groups, this means you can expect helpful recommendations, quick service during busy hours, and a genuine sense of hospitality that helps your outing run smoothly. This personable approach by the staff is integral to the bar’s reputation as a neighborhood staple and a “third place” for locals and visitors alike. The consistent presence of experienced bartenders who’ve witnessed decades of bar history contributes to a seamless experience where your group feels looked after without losing the relaxed vibe typical of dive bars.
What should groups know before visiting Mac’s Club Deuce?
Groups planning to visit Mac’s Club Deuce should be prepared for an experience steeped in dive bar tradition, including the classic cash-only policy and a relatively smoky atmosphere, which some might find nostalgic or a bit gritty depending on preference. The bar embraces its authentic, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” attitude, meaning there are no fancy cocktail menus or modern frills—just straightforward drinks and good times. Arriving early or during the generous happy hour window from 8 AM to 5 PM is recommended for groups wanting to take advantage of two-for-one drinks and a less crowded environment. Given the popularity of the bar, weekends can be lively and full, so groups may want to plan accordingly or embrace the bustling energy as part of the experience. Finally, while seating space can be limited during peak times, the inviting atmosphere and plenty of standing room keep the vibe inclusive and sociable, making Mac’s ideal for groups eager to connect over drinks and pool in an unpretentious setting.
Why is Mac’s Club Deuce an iconic part of Miami’s bar scene?
Mac’s Club Deuce’s status as an iconic Miami establishment comes from its ability to preserve and represent a side of Miami’s culture that many other venues have lost to gentrification and modernization. Its rich history, connection to Miami Vice, and decades-long continuous operation link it inseparably to the city’s social fabric. Unlike the heavily commercialized or trendy spots dominating South Beach, Mac’s remains true to its dive bar roots, offering an unvarnished slice of Miami life that locals cherish and visitors seek out for authenticity. This commitment to tradition, combined with its welcoming environment and historical significance, makes Madden's a living museum of Miami nightlife. Its neon lights, smoky air, and hard-worn wooden bar tell stories of generations past, cultivating a nostalgic allure for groups looking to gather somewhere that feels timeless and deeply connected to place.
In what ways does Mac’s Club Deuce support building lasting memories for groups?
At Mac’s Club Deuce, lasting group memories stem from its distinct atmosphere where every detail—from the neon lighting and vintage memorabilia to the pool table and jukebox music—works together to create a shared experience that’s rich in character and warmth. The unique tradition of receiving casino chips during happy hour adds a playful and collectible element that groups can look back on fondly, sparking stories about the night long after leaving. The bar’s intimate feel encourages conversation and genuine connection in a way that larger, louder venues simply cannot replicate. Whether your group gathers to celebrate, reunite, or simply unwind, the combination of affordability, spirited ambiance, historic pedigree, and relaxed vibe ensures your time together is both enjoyable and memorable. These elements create an enduring sense of friendship and place, inspiring groups to return time and again to renew those bonds in an environment that feels like a welcoming second home.