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John Barleycorn's

About

If you are looking for the epicenter of nightlife in Wichita, then John Barleycorn's is the place you simply cannot overlook. Located in the bustling city center, this nightclub is rightfully considered one of the most iconic venues in the state of Kansas, USA.

John Barleycorn's. Source: Kupi.com AI

The establishment is famous for its unique vibrant atmosphere and is a real magnet for lovers of high-quality music. The club's interior successfully combines elements of a classic pub and a modern concert venue, creating a cozy space for both high-energy dancing and quiet conversation at the bar.

The main focus here is on performances in the rock, blues, and country genres. With a high reputation among visitors, John Barleycorn's offers guests not only excellent sound but also an impressive drink menu, where local craft beers and select whiskeys take center stage, highlighting the authentic character of the American Midwest.

Contacts

For those planning to spend an evening at this venue, it is useful to have current contact information on hand. You can book a table or check the event schedule by phone or through the official website.

Address 608 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67202, USA
Phone +1 316-866-6792
Website barleycornswichita.com

What to Do

Immersion into the local nightlife begins with live performances. The club's stage regularly hosts both seasoned bluesmen and bold rock bands. You can grab a spot right by the stage to feel the energy of the artists, or choose a more secluded corner to watch the action from the side.

Be sure to pay attention to the bar menu. Local bartenders masterfully craft whiskey-based drinks, and the selection of craft beer will delight even the most sophisticated connoisseurs. If you get hungry, the menu features classic American snacks: juicy burgers, flavorful wings, and traditional BBQ, which will perfectly complement your evening.

In addition to concerts, there are often themed parties and karaoke nights where every guest can showcase their talent. And if you're lucky enough to catch happy hour, you can enjoy your favorite cocktails at very pleasant prices. This is the perfect space to make new friends or simply have a great time with friends to a quality soundtrack.

Getting There

The venue is located in the heart of the city at 608 E Douglas Ave. If you are traveling by car, finding your way is easy: GPS coordinates will help you park in one of the municipal lots or right along Douglas Avenue, where the street stays lively late into the night.

For those who prefer public transportation, stops for the Wichita Transit system, which serves the central districts, are within walking distance. However, given the late-night nature of the venue, the most convenient and safest way to get there from your hotel or the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT) airport (about a 10–15 minute drive) is via taxi or services like Uber/Lyft.

If your walk begins in the historic Old Town district or along the banks of the Arkansas River, you can easily reach the club on foot. This area of Wichita is considered safe and is perfect for an evening stroll between various bars and restaurants.

History & Facts

The name of this popular spot refers to an old English folklore character. John Barleycorn is the personification of barley, as well as the process of brewing beer and distilling whiskey. Choosing such a name emphasizes the venue's commitment to the tradition of quality drinks and the spirit of a good old tavern with a modern twist.

The club opened as part of the large-scale development of nightlife on Douglas Avenue at the end of the last century. Since then, it has become a true stronghold for fans of live sound in Kansas. Over the years, the venue's stage has seen hundreds of bands, many of whom began their journey to fame right here.

Although the interior and menu have been updated periodically to keep up with modern trends, the establishment has managed to maintain its authentic, slightly edgy, and cozy atmosphere. Today, it is not just a bar, but an important part of the city's cultural code, carefully preserving the history of the local music scene.

Time Needed

When planning your evening, you should expect to spend at least 2–4 hours. This is enough time to leisurely enjoy a couple of signature cocktails, try something from the menu, and soak up the atmosphere to the accompaniment of a live band.

If you are going specifically for a concert by a particular artist, we recommend arriving early to secure a good spot near the stage or bar. On such nights, your stay at the club might last until closing time, as musical sets are often followed by improvisations and opportunities to chat with the performers.

Working Hours

The club welcomes guests from Wednesday to Saturday. Doors open at 6:00 PM and remain open until 1:00 AM, providing plenty of time for a full night out. The venue is typically closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Sunday.

Please note that the schedule may change depending on holidays or special concert programs. Before your visit, we highly recommend checking the venue's official website to confirm the current schedule and upcoming show announcements.

Nearby

A visit to John Barleycorn's can be perfectly combined with a walk through the city center. The area around Douglas Avenue is full of interesting locations, from historical sites to modern park zones, which will help you better understand the spirit of Kansas.

Name Distance (km)
Old Town Square Splash Pad 0.5
White Castle Birth Place 0.7
Central Riverside Park Splash Pad 1.8
Celebration Plaza Splash Pad 1.8
Lincoln Park Splash Pad 1.9
Fresh Air Baby Camp 2.8
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens 2.9
Linwood Splash Pad 3.3
Fairmount Park Splash Pad 4.4
Evergreen Park Splash Pad 5.4

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