Best Las Vegas Speakeasies & Hidden Bars

Quick Picks: The Best Speakeasy For You

In a hurry? Here’s our cheat sheet to the best hidden bars in Vegas:

• Best for an Intimate Date: The Laundry Room (Ultra-private, bespoke cocktails) or Velveteen Rabbit (Romantic, artsy vibe).
• Best for Live Music: The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails (Full rock/cover bands) or Seven45 (Live R&B).
• Best for a Fun, Surprising Entrance: Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den (hidden in a convenience store) or Ghost Donkey (find the hidden door in the food hall).
• Best for a Group (High-Energy): Más Por Favor (Lively speakeasy with great tacos) or The Golden Tiki (Classic tiki party vibe).
• Best for High-End Cocktails: The Vault (Bellagio) or Caspian’s (Caviar & martinis).
• Best for a Downtown Adventure: The Underground (Prohibition history) or Easy’s Cocktail Lounge (Hidden behind a donut shop).

The “Rules”: How to Visit a Las Vegas Speakeasy

Unlike a nightclub, you can’t just show up. Speakeasies operate under different rules, based on exclusivity and experience. Here’s what you need to know.

• How to Get In (The 4 Ways):
  1. Reservations (Most Common): Most intimate spots (like The Laundry Room or Velveteen Rabbit) are reservation-only. This often requires texting a specific number, booking on their website, or using an app like OpenTable days or weeks in advance.
  2. Find the Hidden Entrance: Many venues (like The Barbershop, Beauty & Essex, or Here Kitty Kitty) are “hidden in plain sight.” The test is simply knowing which janitor’s door, pawn shop, or secret wall to push.
  3. Passwords: This is less common, but it is still used. The Mob Museum posts a new password for its secret speakeasy on its social media every week. Always check a venue’s Instagram story before you go.
  4. First-Come, First-Served: Some hidden bars (like Ghost Donkey) don’t take reservations. The only way in is to find the (often unmarked) line and wait your turn.
• Speakeasy Etiquette (Don’t Be “That” Person):
  • No Flash Photography: This is the #1 rule. It ruins the dark, moody vibe for everyone. Some bars forbid all photos.
  • Be Patient: These are not high-volume bars. True craft cocktails take time to make. The experience is the main draw.
  • Use Your “Inside Voice”: Many venues are small and designed for conversation. If you’re looking to yell and party, go to a mega-club, not an intimate cocktail lounge.
• Dress Code: Assume “upscale casual” or “cocktail attire.” Refrain from wearing athletic wear, sneakers, shorts, hats, or jerseys. Think stylish, smart, and ready for an exclusive night out. When in doubt, overdress.

Las Vegas Strip Speakeasies & Hidden Bars

The Strip’s resorts hide some of the most inventive and luxurious secret spots in the city, often hidden behind unassuming fronts.

Intimate & Cocktail-Focused

High-Energy & Live Music Speakeasies

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Downtown & Arts District Speakeasies

The heart of local and craft cocktail culture, Downtown and the Arts District are full of truly hidden gems for the adventurous.

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Off-Strip & Local Favorites (Chinatown & Southwest)

Some of the city’s best-kept secrets are found west of the Strip, offering incredible themes and craft cocktails.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the dress code for a Las Vegas speakeasy?
A: It’s almost always “upscale casual” or “cocktail attire.” Unlike a nightclub, heels aren’t required, but you should look sharp. Do not wear athletic wear, sneakers, shorts, hats, or jerseys. A collared shirt and nice shoes for men are a safe bet. When in doubt, overdress.

Q: Do I really need a password for a speakeasy?
A: Rarely. The “password” is usually just knowing where the hidden door is (like The Barbershop) or having a reservation (like The Laundry Room). The Underground Speakeasy & Distillery is a fun exception, as they post a weekly password on social media for their side door.

Q: How do I get reservations for an exclusive speakeasy?
A: For top-tier, intimate bars like The Laundry Room, you must text their reservation number (listed above) days or even weeks in advance. Other spots, such as The Vault, utilize standard online reservation systems through their websites.

Q: Can I get into a speakeasy with a large group?
A: It’s very difficult. Most true speakeasies are small and designed for intimate gatherings of couples or groups of 2 to 4. If you have a group of 6 or more, you must make a reservation to avoid being turned away. High-energy, larger hidden venues like The Barbershop or Más Por Favor are better for groups.

Q: What is the average price for a drink at a Las Vegas speakeasy?
A: Be prepared for premium prices, especially on the Strip. Most craft cocktails will be in the $20 – $30 range, similar to what you’d pay at any high-end resort bar.

Q: Are all speakeasies in Las Vegas hidden?
A: Not all, but most have a “hidden” or discreet element. Some (like The Laundry Room) are truly secret, while others (like The Barbershop or Beauty & Essex) have well-known hidden entrances that are part of the fun and experience.

Q: Are speakeasies 21+ only?
A: Yes. Virtually all speakeasies in Las Vegas are strictly 21 and over, given their focus on craft cocktails and intimate bar/lounge atmosphere. Always bring a valid ID.

Q: What’s the difference between a speakeasy and a nightclub?
A: A speakeasy focuses on an intimate, often themed, experience with a strong emphasis on craft cocktails and conversation (like The Vault or Velveteen Rabbit). A nightclub (like OMNIA or XS) focuses on high-energy dancing, famous DJs, and a large-scale party.

Q: What’s the best speakeasy for someone who doesn’t like cocktails?
A: While cocktails are the main draw, a high-energy venue like The Barbershop (which has live music and a full bar with beer/spirits) or The Golden Tiki (which has a fun, party vibe) would be your best bet.

Q: Are there speakeasies in Chinatown?
A: Yes! Chinatown is a hotspot for unique, local-favorite bars. Más Por Favor (hidden behind a taqueria) and The Golden Tiki (a world-famous tiki bar) are both must-visit spots in the area.

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Related Links:

• Dive Bars
• Nightclubs
• Barcades
• Breweries
• Wine Bars
• LGBTQ Bars
• Late Night Eats