American History

15 of America’s Oldest Taverns Still Pouring History

Darren - June 16, 2025

America’s oldest taverns are far more than simple watering holes—they are living museums where centuries echo in the creak of ancient floorboards and the glow of lantern-lit corners. These storied establishments have survived wars, revolutions, and sweeping cultural shifts, yet their doors remain open, inviting guests to step into the past. Every pint poured here comes with a side of legend, and every gathering is steeped in the unique character that only genuine history can provide. Raise a glass: these taverns are still welcoming guests, still pouring history.

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1. White Horse Tavern (Newport, Rhode Island)

Established in 1673, the White Horse Tavern holds the title of America’s oldest operating tavern. Its weathered beams and crackling fireplace transport visitors straight into colonial times, where both British soldiers and American revolutionaries once gathered. Every meal and ale served here is steeped in history, with a menu that pays homage to centuries of tradition. The White Horse Tavern isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a rare chance to savor the atmosphere of a bygone era, surrounded by the echoes of America’s earliest days.

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2. Fraunces Tavern (New York, New York)

Nestled in Manhattan’s Financial District, Fraunces Tavern has welcomed guests since 1762. This legendary spot is where George Washington bid farewell to his officers at the end of the Revolutionary War—a moment immortalized in American history. Today, its preserved architecture and period décor invite visitors to step into 18th-century New York. The onsite museum, lauded by History.com, offers a deeper look into the tavern’s pivotal Revolutionary War legacy.

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3. Bell in Hand Tavern (Boston, Massachusetts)

Opened in 1795, the Bell in Hand Tavern proudly stands as Boston’s oldest continuously operating bar. Founded by the city’s last town crier, it quickly became a gathering place for politicians, newspapermen, and locals seeking good company. Located near Faneuil Hall, the tavern’s historic charm and lively atmosphere remain intact. Its vibrant legacy and enduring presence are beautifully chronicled by Boston Magazine, making it a must-visit for those who love a pint with a story.

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4. The Old ’76 House (Tappan, New York)

Established in 1668, The Old ’76 House stands as one of the nation’s oldest taverns. It gained historical fame as the prison of British spy Major John André during the Revolutionary War, a story that adds intrigue to every visit. The tavern’s Dutch colonial architecture, hearty cuisine, and lively music create an atmosphere that blends history with vibrant hospitality.

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5. King’s Tavern (Natchez, Mississippi)

Dating back to the 1780s, King’s Tavern is the oldest surviving building in Natchez. Its rustic charm and creaking timbers tell stories of its past as a bustling stagecoach stop. Today, it operates as a gastropub renowned for both its inventive cuisine and ghostly legends. The tavern’s haunting reputation and enduring appeal are explored in depth by Southern Living, drawing in curious visitors and history buffs alike.

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6. Red Fox Inn & Tavern (Middleburg, Virginia)

Since 1728, the Red Fox Inn & Tavern has been a cherished stop along Virginia’s picturesque byways. Its stone walls and period furnishings create an inviting, historic atmosphere, while its menu showcases locally inspired dishes. The inn has played host to presidents, generals, and celebrities throughout its storied existence.

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7. Griswold Inn (Essex, Connecticut)

Established in 1776, the Griswold Inn ranks among America’s oldest continuously operated inns. Its historic taproom and inviting dining rooms have served patriots, sailors, and travelers for generations. Nautical artifacts and maritime memorabilia line the walls, creating a cozy, timeworn atmosphere.

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8. Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar (New Orleans, Louisiana)

Nestled in a Creole cottage from the 1700s, Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar is shrouded in pirate legend. Folklore claims this atmospheric bar once served as a front for Jean Lafitte’s smuggling operations. Its candlelit interior and weathered walls radiate mystery, inviting visitors to sip history by the flicker of old-world charm.

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9. The Griswold Tavern (Killington, Vermont)

Built in 1790, the Griswold Tavern stands as a testament to early American hospitality. Its weathered beams and warm hearth immerse guests in the tavern culture of a bygone era. Visitors are welcomed by an ambiance that feels both rustic and timeless. The Vermont Historical Society continues to maintain the records of its importance to the state and, indeed, the eastern seaboard.

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10. City Tavern (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Originally opened in 1773, City Tavern is renowned for hosting the Founding Fathers and foreign dignitaries during the birth of the nation. Though the original structure was lost to fire, the painstaking reconstruction preserves its 18th-century charm—from colonial recipes to period décor. Guests can enjoy dishes prepared as they were centuries ago, dining in a setting that echoes with revolutionary spirit.

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11. Tun Tavern (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Founded in 1683, Tun Tavern holds a special place in American lore as the birthplace of the U.S. Marine Corps in 1775. While the original tavern no longer stands, its legacy endures with a commemorative plaque at the site. The Marines’ official site offers an in-depth look at Tun Tavern’s pivotal role in military history.

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12. Warren Tavern (Charlestown, Massachusetts)

Established in 1780, the Warren Tavern is steeped in colonial history, famously welcoming patrons like Paul Revere and George Washington. Its colonial ambiance, complete with hearty fare and timeworn woodwork, draws locals and history enthusiasts alike. The tavern remains a cherished neighborhood gathering place, where the stories of its legendary guests still linger.

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13. Middleton Tavern (Annapolis, Maryland)

Since 1750, Middleton Tavern has welcomed seafarers, statesmen, and historic figures like George Washington to its waterfront setting. Its period details—from colonial furnishings to nautical accents—make it a living piece of Annapolis history. The tavern remains a beloved spot for locals and visitors eager to experience the city’s rich past.

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14. The Raleigh Tavern (Williamsburg, Virginia)

First opened in 1717, The Raleigh Tavern quickly became a central gathering spot for colonial leaders and revolutionaries during the tumultuous years leading up to independence. Although the original building was lost to fire, its careful reconstruction in Colonial Williamsburg honors its legacy as a hub of early American democracy.

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15. Buckman Tavern (Lexington, Massachusetts)

Built in 1710, Buckman Tavern is forever linked to the dawn of the American Revolution. On the morning of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, local militia assembled in its historic taproom, making it a true witness to history. Today, the tavern’s preserved rooms and authentic artifacts offer a vivid sense of that pivotal morning. History flows from its taps.

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