The Basket Case

If you are looking for a place with the most authentic and laid-back atmosphere in Peoria, then The Basket Case is exactly what you need. It is a classic American dive bar located in Illinois, USA. The establishment is famous for its coziness, neon signs, and that special old-school charm that cannot be faked.

The bar's main pride is its live karaoke, which takes place here every single evening. It is the only pub in the city where the microphone never goes quiet seven days a week. Inside, a quirky decor awaits you: for example, a festive Christmas tree stays decorated all year round, creating a sense of eternal holiday regardless of the calendar.

Visitors particularly appreciate the horseshoe-shaped bar, which is perfect for making new acquaintances, and the abundance of collectibles. The owner carefully preserves traditions, making The Basket Case a true social hub for local residents and curious travelers.

For more details or to book a spot for a large group, you can contact the venue directly. The Basket Case stays actively connected with its guests via social media.

The main entertainment at The Basket Case is, undoubtedly, karaoke. People aren't shy about singing here, even if they don't have vocal training. Guests have several microphones at their disposal, allowing for duets or even group performances of hits. The repertoire is vast: from classic rock to fun comedy songs.

In addition to music, you can do the following things here:

• Admire the unusual interior: find that evergreen Christmas tree with gifts and the famous flickering sign on the wall.
• Try your luck at the slot machines located at the back of the room.
• Try classic American drinks, such as canned Budweiser, which is particularly popular here.
• Examine the collection of vintage items behind the bar, including a figurine of the legendary dog Spuds MacKenzie.

This is a great place for those who want to feel the true rhythm of life in the American heartland, strike up a conversation with the bartender, or simply watch the colorful crowd in the neon light.

This legendary pub is located at 610 W Main St. Finding it is easy: the bright "The Basket Case" sign faces Main Street, but there is one interesting detail to keep in mind—the main entrance to the establishment is located on the side, in a small alley. Just follow the signs or use Google Maps navigation to make sure you don't miss the turn.

From the city center, you can get here in just a few minutes by car or taxi. If you prefer public transport, use the Peoria Mass Transit District buses, which stop right nearby on Main Street. In the evening and at night, for safety and comfort, tourists are recommended to use Uber or local taxi services.

This establishment on Main Street has been around for decades, firmly holding its status as a classic dive bar. In the late 1980s, The Basket Case was known for its unusual schedule: the doors opened as early as 6 AM. This was when night-shift workers and nurses from nearby hospitals would gather for a drink after a hard shift, creating a 24/7 party atmosphere in the bar.

Since 2014, the bar has been managed by an owner named Danette. She has successfully preserved the old-school spirit while making the establishment a popular stop on modern tourist routes. For example, in 2026, the pub became part of the large-scale "A Guy Walks Into 365 Bars" project, taking an honorable place on the list of the city's must-visit spots.

Interestingly, the venue attracts not only locals but also global stars. Just recently, in the spring of 2023, the famous actor Will Ferrell stopped by. Such visits only confirm that this place has its own unique charisma that even Hollywood celebrities find hard to resist.

To simply have a beer and appreciate the interior, 45 minutes will be enough. However, The Basket Case is a place where time flies. If you plan to catch the karaoke marathon or chat with the colorful local regulars, set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit.

It is best to come here in the evening, when the atmosphere heats up and the horseshoe-shaped bar fills with guests. It is an ideal location to end a busy day of sightseeing in an informal setting.

The pub's doors are open to guests daily, making it a great option for a spontaneous evening out. From Monday to Wednesday and on Sunday, The Basket Case is open from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM. On the most active days—Thursday, Friday, and Saturday—the fun is extended until 2:00 AM.

Since the schedule may change on holidays, it is recommended to check the venue's official social media page before your visit.

A visit to this atmospheric bar can easily be combined with a walk through the city's historical and cultural sites. The area around Main Street is rich in architectural landmarks and interesting locations that will help you better understand the spirit of the region.