Ohio Club

The Ohio Club is not just a bar, but a true legend located in Hot Springs, USA. The establishment is proud to be the oldest bar in the state of Arkansas, as its doors first opened to visitors back in 1905 and it has been operating continuously ever since. The club was named after its founders' home state — Ohio.

At first glance, the Ohio Club attracts attention with its historic appearance, which has remained virtually unchanged over its more than century-long history. The building's facade stands out with its characteristic A-frame roof and an elegant domed portico decorated with circular elements on a blue background. Large windows with neon signs and a welcoming entrance complete the authentic look of this establishment, as if transporting you to another era.

Inside, the Ohio Club is striking for its atmosphere and unique interior. The centerpiece is a massive mahogany bar dating back to the 19th century. Its impressive size — about 4.5 meters high and 7.3 meters wide — and skillful carvings of horse heads will not leave any lover of antiquity indifferent. The club's walls and halls are decorated with numerous artifacts reminiscent of the establishment's turbulent history, linked to the era of gambling and gangsters.

Visitors can see photos of the famous Al Capone, who reportedly spent time here, as well as original tables made from old roulette wheels. The Ohio Club is not just a place to have a drink; it is a historic establishment with a rich past, offering its guests a chance to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of the early 20th century and feel the spirit of old Hot Springs.

Planning to visit the Ohio Club in Hot Springs? To check booking details, the menu, or opening hours, you can use the contact information provided below. We also recommend checking the establishment's official website for the most up-to-date information.

At the Ohio Club in Hot Springs, a rich entertainment program awaits visitors, the main highlight of which is live music. Musical evenings are held here regularly, from Thursday to Monday, creating a unique atmosphere. A stage is located on the second floor of the club, where the "Ohio Club Players" often perform, delighting guests with their mastery.

In addition to musical delights, the Ohio Club is famous for its cuisine. It was for good reason that the establishment became a finalist for the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame in 2023 – delicious dishes are served here daily. It is a wonderful place for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, enjoying quality food in a historical setting.

The club's interior deserves special attention. The central element is the historic mahogany back bar, decorated with skillful hand carvings of horse heads and semi-nude women – a popular spot for souvenir photos. Additionally, guests can examine numerous historical artifacts and photos of celebrities who visited the club throughout its long and rich history, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of the past.

The Ohio Club is conveniently located in the heart of Hot Springs, at 336 Central Avenue. This establishment is situated in a lively area between the historic Thompson Building and the Plaza Hotel building, making it an easy-to-recognize landmark for visitors. Thanks to this central location, getting to the club is quite simple.

Since the Ohio Club is on Central Avenue, one of the main thoroughfares of Hot Springs, it is easily accessible on foot if you are staying in the central part of the city. Such a walk will also give you a chance to better experience the atmosphere and architecture of this resort town.

If you prefer public transport, it is recommended to look into local bus routes, many of which likely pass along Central Avenue or in its immediate vicinity. In U.S. cities like Hot Springs, bus service is often an affordable way to get around. Of course, you can always use a taxi or popular ridesharing services, which will quickly deliver you to the doors of the Ohio Club from anywhere in the city or from your hotel.

The Ohio Club in Hot Springs, USA, is not just a restaurant, but a true legend with a rich history. Founded back in 1905, it originally functioned as a bar and casino, quickly gaining popularity among various personalities. Over more than a century of existence, many celebrities have crossed its threshold, including famous gangsters like Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel, Bugs Moran, and Lucky Luciano. The club was also popular with Major League Baseball players who came to Hot Springs for spring training in the early 1900s. Among them was the legendary Babe Ruth.

One of the club's hallmarks is its magnificent mahogany back bar dating back to the 1880s. The original owners purchased it in Cincinnati, Ohio. The story of its delivery to Hot Springs is fascinating in itself: first, it was transported by barge down the Arkansas River to Memphis, then by rail to Malvern, and finally, it was delivered to its destination on a specially built horse-drawn wagon. To install this massive and exquisite bar, the building's facade had to be completely removed and then reconstructed.

Due to the prosperity of gambling, Hot Springs attracted many famous entertainers, and the Ohio Club often served as their stage. Al Jolson performed here in 1915, Mae West delighted the audience with her talent in the mid-1930s, and throughout the 1960s, numerous blues and jazz performers sounded within the club's walls. In recognition of the establishment's historical significance, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 25, 1985, as part of the Hot Springs Central Avenue Historic District.

When planning a visit to the Ohio Club in Hot Springs, you should plan for the duration of a standard lunch or dinner. If you intend to enjoy a full meal, including appetizers, a main course, and perhaps dessert, set aside about 1.5-2.5 hours. This will allow you to leisurely browse the menu, soak in the atmosphere of the historic establishment, and, of course, enjoy the meal itself.

If your goal is just to pop into this famous place, have a drink at the bar, and feel its unique spirit, significantly less time will be required. For such an introductory visit or a short break with a drink, 30-60 minutes may be enough. During this time, you can manage to see the interior, which is an attraction in its own right, and take a few photos.

It is also important to consider that the Ohio Club is known for its live music and various events. If your visit coincides with such an event and you wish to attend, your stay may be longer. Overall, the time spent here depends heavily on your plans – from a quick introduction to a full evening in a historical USA setting.

To find out the exact opening hours of the Ohio Club in Hot Springs, it is recommended to visit the establishment's official website or check current information upon arrival in the city. Usually, such places operate year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season or day of the week. The Ohio Club is a popular spot, so if you plan to visit during peak times or with a large group, it's worth checking the possibility of table reservations in advance.

Since exact information regarding opening hours and the need for advance booking for the Ohio Club is unavailable, we strongly advise checking these details directly before your visit. This will help you plan your time and avoid any potential inconvenience. Local tourist information centers in Hot Springs can also provide up-to-date information.

Visiting the Ohio Club in Hot Springs is just one part of the exciting journey this region has to offer. The surrounding area is full of interesting places that can enrich your experience and provide new discoveries. Don't limit yourself to just one site, as a walk nearby will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and history.

Exploring nearby attractions will help you form a more complete picture of Hot Springs and its unique character. Below is a list of some interesting places located near the Ohio Club, along with the distance to each.