Red Lion Lounge

Immerse yourself in an elegant retro atmosphere at the Red Lion Lounge — a legendary jazz bar and a true gem of Omaha. Located in a historic building in the USA, this 21+ venue invites guests to take a journey through time, returning to the golden era of the 1960s.

Spanning over 370 square meters, the lounge’s interior is striking in its attention to detail: authentic red velvet booths, a vintage phone booth, and original decorative elements create the feel of a private speakeasy. This is where rich musical history meets modern service, providing an ideal space for those who appreciate quality leisure.

The venue has earned recognition from locals and tourists alike, as evidenced by high ratings and hundreds of positive reviews. Every element here — from the lighting to the black-and-white photographs on the walls — works to create the unmistakable charm of a classic American lounge.

For more details or to book a table, you can use the contact information provided below. It is recommended to check availability in advance, especially on jazz nights.

The main draw for visitors at the Red Lion Lounge is live jazz music. Concerts are held regularly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and weekends, with free admission for all guests. It is a rare opportunity to hear high-quality performances in an intimate setting without unnecessary formalities.

The bar menu is well worth your attention, featuring both classic cocktails and signature drinks, as well as a wide selection of spirits, beer, and wine. Professional bartenders will help you choose a drink that perfectly complements your evening accompanied by the sound of the saxophone.

For those seeking privacy, there is a hidden gem inside the venue — The Lion's Den. This cozy, vintage basement-style space features eclectic decor and antique items. It is perfect for romantic dates or small private parties, creating a warm and welcoming "grandma's house" vibe, but with a touch of aristocratic charm.

The Red Lion Lounge is conveniently located on the lower level of the Colonial Hotel Apartments building. This historic Blackstone district in central Omaha is pedestrian-friendly, making it an excellent spot for a stroll before your evening out.

For those traveling by car, the exact coordinates for navigation are: 41.2579156, -95.9691791. Public parking is available in the vicinity, though you should keep in mind the area's popularity in the evenings. If you are staying downtown, a taxi ride will only take a few minutes.

Public transport is also a viable option — major bus routes pass through the area, connecting central Omaha with other parts of the city. Its proximity to key transport arteries makes it easy to reach the lounge from anywhere in the metro area.

The history of this venue began in 1957, when the Red Lion Lounge first opened its doors. At that time, Omaha was considered the "Triple-A league of jazz," and this basement spot in the Colonial Hotel became an epicenter of cultural life. Legends like Duke Ellington and Toots Thielemans performed on its stage, and live performances were broadcast over the radio, bringing national fame to the city.

In the mid-1960s, the venue attempted to shift its focus toward rock and roll, but the experiment was unsuccessful. Eventually, the bar closed for several decades, and the space was used only for storage. It seemed as though the era of luxurious jazz nights within these walls was lost to the past forever.

The Red Lion Lounge found a second life in 2018 following a massive renovation of the entire building. The new owners set out to recreate the 1960s atmosphere as accurately as possible. They managed to preserve the original floors, window frames, and even elements of the bookshelves, complementing them with new furniture crafted from original blueprints. Today, this place is not just a bar, but a carefully restored monument to the city's musical history.

To fully experience the unique atmosphere of the venue, it is recommended to plan a visit of 2 to 3 hours. This will be enough time to leisurely enjoy the skill of the jazz performers and appreciate the bartenders' craft.

If you plan to spend the evening with a group or visit the hidden The Lion's Den area, your stay may be longer. It is best to plan your visit to the Red Lion Lounge for the evening hours, when the venue reveals its full charm accompanied by live music.

The Red Lion Lounge opens its doors daily at 4:00 PM. Closing times depend on the day of the week: from Sunday to Thursday, the lounge is open until 1:00 AM, and on Friday and Saturday, it stays open until 2:00 AM.

Live music is featured on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Since performance schedules may change, we recommend checking the official website or calling (402) 933-8686 for the latest information before your visit.

The area surrounding the lounge is rich in historic sites and interesting locations. A walk through the neighborhood will allow you to better discover the architectural heritage and culture of Nebraska.