Cactus Bar

You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Old West and experience authentic local flavor at the Cactus Bar—the oldest operating establishment of its kind in the city of Boise. This classic American dive bar in the USA is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, where a lack of extra polish is more than made up for by genuine hospitality and a decades-long history.

The establishment is located in the heart of the historic district and is a real magnet for both long-time residents and curious travelers. The popularity of this place is evidenced by the fact that in 2017, it was the most frequent destination for Uber trips in the entire state of Idaho.

You won't find complex cocktails here, but you will find the most affordable drinks in town and that "old school" energy that can't be faked. A recent modernization has added comfort to the bar—including a renovated patio and a modern photo booth—but its soul remains the same, true to the traditions of simplicity and friendliness.

For those planning a visit and wanting to clarify details or book a table for a large group, the establishment's contact information is provided below.

Spending an evening here means feeling the rhythm of the local community. Visitors come here primarily for social interaction: you can always strike up an interesting conversation at the bar or simply watch the city life go by. Be sure to order a signature beer or simple drinks, which are famous for their budget-friendly prices.

For those who prefer to keep moving, classic bar games are provided, creating an atmosphere of fun competition. Don't forget to stop by the photo booth to take a few funny souvenir photos—this has already become a tradition for everyone celebrating holidays here or just stopping by for a drink.

During the warmer months, relaxing on the outdoor patio is a special pleasure. It’s a great place to catch your breath before heading off to explore the city's other nightlife venues. Thanks to its inclusive atmosphere, the bar brings together people of all ages and interests.

Finding this iconic spot is easy, as it is located in the heart of the historic center at 517 W Main Street. Thanks to its central location, the establishment is within walking distance for those already strolling along the city's main streets.

If you are coming from further away, it is most convenient to use a taxi or popular ride-sharing services. For those who prefer public transport, major bus routes pass nearby, connecting the center with the rest of the city. Car owners can leave their vehicles in one of the municipal parking lots located just a couple of blocks from the entrance.

The history of this legendary establishment began in 1936, although back then it didn't function as a drinking establishment, but as a cigarette and cigar shop. It wasn't until the early 1940s that the venue received a license and transformed into a bar, quickly gaining popularity among city residents.

The first official mention in the press dates back to 1948, when the establishment was still located at a different address. The bar found its current home on W Main Street in 1972, when then-owner Tony Uranga decided to move the business. Since then, the walls of this building have witnessed many stories and have become an integral part of the city's history.

Today, the bar is run by Lisa and Dan, members of the previous owners' family. They literally grew up behind this bar, learning the secrets of hospitality from their father. The new owners have carefully preserved the spirit of the old dive bar, only slightly refreshing the interior and adding modern touches, such as a cozy patio, to ensure the traditions of the "Cactus Bar" continue to live on in the new century.

When planning your itinerary, it's worth setting aside 1 to 3 hours for a visit. This time is quite sufficient to experience the authentic setting, exchange a few words with the bartender, and play a few games.

If you happen to find yourself here on a Friday or Saturday night, when downtown life is in full swing, you could easily spend much more time enjoying the company of locals and soaking up the energy of one of the state's most popular spots.

The doors are open to guests daily, making it a great option for both an early visit and a late end to the evening. The bar operates on a consistent schedule from Monday to Sunday: from 10:30 AM to 2:00 AM.

Since operating hours may change slightly during holidays or special events, it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.

A stroll through the city center can become even more interesting if you stop by neighboring iconic spots. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to better feel the unique character of this region and see it from different perspectives—from historic buildings to modern parks.