Support

St Elmo Bar

About

If you are looking for a place with an authentic Wild West atmosphere, stop by the legendary St Elmo Bar. Located in the historic Brewery Gulch district of Bisbee, this bar is the oldest continuously operating establishment in the state of Arizona, USA, welcoming guests since 1902.

St Elmo Bar. Source: Kupi.com AI

Inside the venue, time seems to have stood still: the rugged charm of the copper mining era blends harmoniously with the cozy atmosphere of an old pub. Guests are greeted by an antique wooden bar counter, surrounded by an eclectic collection of memorabilia, local art, and artifacts that tell the story of the region's rich mining past.

For many, this is not just a drinking establishment, but a true museum of Bisbee's social life. The bar attracts both locals and travelers seeking to feel the real rhythm of life in this historic town and touch a living legend of American history.

Contacts

To get in touch with the venue or check the live performance schedule, you can use the following contact details:

Address 36 Brewery Ave, Bisbee, AZ 85603, USA
Phone +1 520-432-5578
Coordinates 31.4431819, -109.914042
Social Media Facebook page (up-to-date information on events)

What to Do

At this venue, everyone will find something to their liking: from tasting local craft beer to joining lively parties. The bar is famous for its unique cocktails and wine selection, which perfectly complement the atmosphere of old Arizona. Live music performances take place regularly on weekends, turning the bar into an epicenter of dancing and fun.

For those who prefer indoor activities, there is a billiard table where both beginners and masters often gather. One of the highlights of the establishment is the outdoor terrace—the perfect spot to enjoy a cold drink under the Bisbee sky. Don't hesitate to strike up a conversation with the regulars; the locals are wonderful storytellers who are happy to share tales and give valuable tips for exploring the city.

Getting There

This legendary establishment is located in the historic heart of the city at 36 Brewery Ave. Since the Brewery Gulch area is characterized by narrow streets and a unique retro atmosphere, the best way to get there is to park your car in one of Old Bisbee's public parking lots and reach the bar on foot, enjoying the early 20th-century architecture along the way.

If you are planning a trip from other major Arizona hubs, keep in mind that the city is located approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles) southeast of Tucson. For precise navigation, it is recommended to use the GPS coordinates 31.4431819, -109.914042. In the city center, you can also easily use taxi services, which will quickly take you to the bar's doors from anywhere in the historic zone.

History & Facts

Founded in 1902, this bar holds the prestigious title of the oldest continuously operating drinking establishment in the state of Arizona. It is located in the legendary Brewery Gulch district, which during the heyday of the copper mines was the center of nightlife and entertainment for thousands of miners.

Interestingly, the establishment managed to survive the harsh times of Prohibition. According to local legends, a special trap door was installed behind the bar, allowing patrons and owners to quickly vanish in the event of an unexpected raid by federal agents. Thanks to such resourcefulness, social life within these walls never ceased, even during the years of the official ban on alcohol.

The interior of the bar is a true time capsule. One of the former owners set a strict rule: nothing on the walls should be changed. Thanks to this, the authentic finish has been preserved, along with the specific patina on the walls that serves as a reminder of decades of tobacco smoke from before modern restrictions were introduced. Today, the venue is officially recognized as a historic landmark of the city.

Time Needed

To simply stop by, see the historic interior, and have a cold drink, 1–2 hours will be quite enough. This is plenty of time to appreciate the collection of antique artifacts on the walls and soak in the spirit of the Old West.

However, if your visit coincides with a live music evening or if you decide to get to know the local regulars, time can fly by unnoticed. Many tourists prefer to stay longer to enjoy the unique energy of the place and join in the dancing, so it is worth planning your visit with a bit of extra time.

Working Hours

The establishment warmly welcomes guests daily, offering a stable schedule throughout the week. The bar is open from 10:00 AM to 02:00 AM, Monday through Sunday.

Since the official website of the establishment does not always provide up-to-date information, visitors are recommended to check the Facebook page or verify details on-site, especially if you plan to visit during the holidays.

Nearby

Exploring the surroundings of Brewery Gulch will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the mining past. After visiting the bar, it is worth taking some time to walk through the central streets, where every building holds its own unique story.

Attraction Type Distance (km)
The Quarry Bisbee Bar / Restaurant 0
Silver King Hotel (Room 4 Bar) Hotel / Bar 0
Gene’s Place Bar 0
Phelps Dodge General Office Building Historic building 0.1
Highest in Bisbee Observation deck 0.1
Old Bisbee Brewing Company Brewery 0.1
Historic Bisbee Historic district 0.2
Bisbee Grand Hotel Hotel 0.3
Bisbee Social Club Club / Bar 0.4
Mule Pass Tunnel Tunnel 2.9

Reached the end of the page?

That means the route is fully explored