Scouted Hotel Bars You Should Know About

One of life’s unsung pleasures is ducking into a great hotel bar to enjoy a tipple, whether a midday refresher for a weary voyager or a nightcap for in-the-know locals, where the focus is not only on crafting sensational cocktails, but on creating unique, design-centered immersive environments. Enjoy some armchair travel as you discover The Scout Guide owners/editors’ favorites across the country. To find a scouted hotel bar near you, visit The Scout Guide Directory.

Photography courtesy of Crawford’s.

BAR: Crawford’s at Keswick Hall
LOCATION: Keswick, Virginia
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Crawford’s is an alluring, comfortable place to gather and yield to the temptation of handcrafted farm-to-shaker cocktails. The intimate atmosphere and plush furnishings in Crawford’s harken back to a time when important conversations were had over cocktails.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Crawford’s is one of my favorite spots to kick off the weekend with a cocktail and some small plates,” shares Christy Ford, co-owner/co-editor of The Scout Guide Charlottesville. “During colder months I love to grab a table near the fire and in warmer months my favorite spot is out on the terrace overlooking the horizon pool and golf course.”

Photography courtesy of Quirk Hotel.

BAR: Quirk Hotel Bar
LOCATION: Richmond, Virginia
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Patrons enjoy a stay at Quirk Richmond for not only expert hospitality, but also the design-forward spaces that begin in the lobby and extend to every area throughout the hotel, including the rooftop bar that serves up innovative cocktails and reliable beer and wine offerings.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “With a rooftop bar and captivating views of the Richmond skyline, you can’t get any better than the Quirk Hotel bar,” explains Cheney Edmunds, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Richmond. “But it does because they also have an excellent happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m.!”

Photography by White Rabbit Studios.

BAR: Baker & Able at 106 Jefferson
LOCATION: Huntsville, Alabama
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Atop Huntsville’s new downtown boutique hotel, Baker & Able not only offers incredible views, but showcases stunning décor. Named for the monkeys who were sent to space prior to human launch, honoring Huntsville’s connection to the space and rocket industry, the adorable kitschy wallpaper and artwork creates the ideal space to kick back with a cocktail or two.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “My favorite part of Baker & Able is the interiors,” shares Dawn Pumpelly, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Huntsville. “Like the entire hotel, this rooftop bar honors its namesakes with a whimsy and warmth that only adds to the fun!”

Photography courtesy of Fiddletree Kitchen.

BAR: Fiddletree at The Elwood Hotel
LOCATION: Lexington, Kentucky
WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: The new Elwood Hotel hosts the adorable Fiddletree Kitchen. Fiddletree evokes a subtle southern coastal vibe with shiplap walls and a soft pastel palette, while serving up buttermilk pancakes and cast iron cornbread, this spot is one you don’t want to miss.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Elwood is a stylish new spot! It is a must for happy hour and date night,” says Jennifer Mueller, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Lexington.

Photography courtesy of Otro Bar.

BAR: Otro Bar at Canopy Hotel
LOCATION: San Antonio, Texas
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Otro is a newly designed bar on the third floor of Canopy Hotel. Located on the hotel’s terrace, the bar offers a scenic view of San Antonio’s impressive Riverwalk.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Thanks to the lovely view of the San Antonio River, this outdoor bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy delicious appetizers and craft cocktails,” explains Francie Mannix, owner/editor of The Scout Guide San Antonio.

Photography courtesy of Lockbox.

BAR: LockBox at 21c Hotel Lexington
LOCATION: Lexington, Kentucky
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: LockBox, led by executive chef Nick Fisherkeller, is centrally located downtown in the 21c Hotel and not only serves up a seasonal menu, but offers notable craft cocktails amongst rotating art installations.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “This hot-spot is perfect for any occasion! You’ll love everything from the cocktails to the decor and more,” says Jennifer Mueller, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Lexington.

Photography by Krystal Kast Photography.

BAR: Bar at Fearrington House
LOCATION: Pittsboro, North Carolina
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: This tiny, boutique-sized bar impresses with impeccable cocktails.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “The bar at Fearrington is precious,” shares ​​Hopie Avery, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. “It’s a tiny, chic space with the most delicious, fresh, inventive cocktails. Arrive early to walk around the gardens, or take your drink out on the lawn to enjoy in an Adirondack chair!”

Photography courtesy of The Mad Horseman.

BAR: The Mad Horseman at The Sire Hotel
LOCATION: Lexington, Kentucky
WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: The Mad Horseman is located in the intimate boutique Sire Hotel. This cozy hot spot serving up their signature pecan old fashioned and locally inspired bar bites is a perfect spot for happy hour or night cap.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Nestled in the charming Sire Hotel, The Mad Horseman offers a cozy little spot for all guests,” says Jennifer Mueller, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Lexington.

Photography courtesy of Davenport Lounge.

BAR: Davenport Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans
LOCATION: New Orleans, Louisiana
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: You’ll enjoy reliable bites and cocktails at this French Quarter spot, but what puts it on the map is their live music by jazz musician Jeremy Davenport.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “One of my favorite ways to unwind is to get cozy in the sumptuous elegance of the Davenport lounge with an adult libation while listening to Jeremy Davenport’s jazz riffs,” shares Taylor Morgan, owner/editor of The Scout Guide New Orleans. “There’s something about the setting and music that makes me feel instantly sophisticated.”

Photography courtesy of Houndstooth.

BAR: Houndstooth at Glen Gordon Manor
LOCATION: Flint Hill, Virginia
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: The sleek marble bar is adjacent to the chef’s kitchen so you can order a delicious seasonal cocktail and steal a few peeks at dinner being prepared.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “I like to move out to the peaceful sunroom overlooking the fields with free-range chickens and the horse pastures beyond,” says Nelina Loiselle, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Hunt Country. “In the summer I head out to the pool area with a drink in hand and take in the bubbling fountain and sweeping views of the Shenandoah.”

Photography courtesy of District 42.

BAR: District 42 at Hotel Arras
LOCATION: Asheville, North Carolina
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: From Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald to O. Henry, Thomas Wolfe, and Wilma Dykeman, this city has been a magnet for people who thrive in its creative, literary, and energizing environment. District 42 bottled that sense of place where this history could converge at the very core of their location and be celebrated among friends.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “District 42 offers an elevated lounge atmosphere to enjoy great food and spirited cocktails,” shares Meagan Harris, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Asheville. “A great spot to gather with a group of friends or for a date night! We love that we can pop in for a quick drink or linger longer and enjoy the live entertainment.”

Photography by Audrey Benninghoff.

BAR: Poolside Bar at Hotel Saint George
LOCATION: Marfa, Texas
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: A popular pool bar with delicious frozen drinks that are perfect for a hot West Texas day.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “My husband and I always love to tell friends about the bar at the HSG pool,” shares Claire Ramirez, owner/editor of The Scout Guide West Texas. “We could spend all day there ordering our favorite drinks and trying all the delicious food on their menu. Word of advice: get the nachos!” 

Photography courtesy of Lambeth Lounge.

BAR: Lambeth Lounge at Inn at Carnall Hall
LOCATION: Fayetteville, Arkansas
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Sited conveniently on the University of Arkansas’s campus, Lambeth Lounge is inside the historic Inn at Carnall Hall that’s been in operation since 1905. While seated on cozy leather sofas or on the exterior porch, guests enjoy drinks and small plates in a plantation shutter setting that exudes laid-back Southern elegance.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “There is something so charming about sitting on the porch at the Inn and sipping on a cocktail from Lambeth Lounge,” shares Jennifer Esty, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Northwest Arkansas. “I especially love the summer months when they start their Sippin’ at Sunset series every Friday with fun drink specials and live music!”

Photography courtesy of The Saint.

BAR: The Saint Bar at St. Francisville Inn
LOCATION: St. Francisville, Louisiana
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Its warming fires, grand piano, rich wood tones, and stunning textures make The Saint Bar one of the most charming bars around Baton Rouge. Not to mention the fabulous wine selection and yummy cocktails.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “From the decadent interiors to the specialty craft cocktails, The Saint is one of the most unique and intimate boutique hotel bar experiences I’ve ever encountered,” shares Kaleigh Porcelli, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Baton Rouge.

Photography courtesy of The Lobby Bar.

BAR: The Lobby Bar at The Chloe Hotel
LOCATION: New Orleans, Louisiana
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Known for its amazing interior design and cozy space, this the perfect spot to pop in for a drink while enjoying all New Orleans has to offer.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “I love how intimate the Lobby Bar at The Chloe is,” says Taylor Morgan, owner/editor of The Scout Guide New Orleans. “It’s the place visitors and locals alike flock for cocktails in a chic and totally Instagrammable setting.” 

Photography courtesy of Quirk Hotel.

BAR: The Rooftop at Quirk Hotel Charlottesville
LOCATION: Charlottesville, Virginia
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: The Rooftop is laid-back fun from start to finish, and a local Charlottesville favorite. The all-day space is indoor/outdoor with the most incredible views.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “The Rooftop Bar at the Quirk Hotel is one of my favorite spots to meet up with friends for a drink at the end of the day,” says Susie Matheson, co-owner/co-editor of The Scout Guide Charlottesville. “I love the central location, playful cocktails, and amazing views of Charlottesville and the surrounding mountains. In fact we love it so much that we hosted our The Scout Guide Charlottesville, Volume 13 launch party there!”

Photography courtesy of Mara.

BAR: Mara at Four Seasons Minneapolis
LOCATION: Minneapolis, Minnesota
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: At Mara, chef Adam Witherspoon creates cocktails that exude exceptional craftsmanship, merge Mediterranean with Minnesotan, and are created with passion, all in an honest way.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “There’s no question Mara and the Four Seasons Minneapolis will become a community staple creating an atmosphere that is both inclusive and offers an eclectic experience,” shares Kate Grutzmacher, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Minneapolis. 

Photography courtesy of Five Nines.

BAR: Five Nines at Clayton Hotel and Members Club
LOCATION: Denver, Colorado
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Five Nines is a craft cocktail bar serving a selection of drinks curated to be as elaborate as they are elegant, alongside shareable bar bites and live entertainment every night.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Whether you’re out with a group of friends or capping off a romantic evening, Five Nines is cool, classic, and innovative which makes for a great experience,” shares Leigh Gordon, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Denver.

Photography by Jason Masters.

BAR: Capital Bar & Grill at Capital Hotel
LOCATION: Little Rock, Arkansas
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: CB&G is Little Rock’s legendary watering hole. It’s the city’s oldest hotel and most popular bar with the best cocktails.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Capital Bar is one of those classic places where you don’t have to make a plan to see friends, you just know everyone will end up there eventually,” says Valerie Shively, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Little Rock. “When the bar runs out of space, locals know it will overflow to the upstairs terrace.”

Photography courtesy of Beck and Call.

BAR: Beck & Call at Hyatt Centric Beale Street
LOCATION: Memphis, Tennessee
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: Beck & Call is housed on the roof of the only hotel located on historic Beale Street. It’s home to beautiful views of the Mississippi River, a delicious cocktail menu, and a great ambiance.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Beck & Call is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Memphis,” says Stephanie Stephens, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Memphis. “With beautiful views of the Mississippi River, happy hour at sunset is a must-do! I was so delighted to host our launch Party for The Scout Guide Memphis, Volume 8, at this happening rooftop bar!”

Photography courtesy of Hotel Leveque.

BAR: The Keep Kitchen & Liquor Bar at Hotel LeVeque
LOCATION: Columbus, Ohio
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: After an adventure-filled day in downtown Columbus, The Keep Kitchen & Liquor Bar is the perfect spot to unwind while enjoying beer, wine, craft cocktails, and small bites in a cozy space.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “With a cozy and chic atmosphere, The Keep Bar gives you the sense that you are enjoying one of their incredible cocktails at a swanky speakeasy, instead of on the second floor of their downtown hotel,” shares Abigail Fredelake, owner/editor of The Scout Guide Columbus. “The service is always fantastic, and if you stay for dinner at their adjoining restaurant, I promise you won’t regret it.”

Photography courtesy of The Polo Lounge.

BAR: The Polo Lounge at Windsor Court
LOCATION: New Orleans, Louisiana
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL: The Polo Lounge is the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap while enjoying the English ambiance. It also has one of the largest Cognac collections in the world.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “The Polo Lounge is my favorite spot to get a pre-dinner drink before heading to The Grill Room,” says Taylor Morgan, owner/editor of The Scout Guide New Orleans. “I love the dark wood interior and leather seats. The vibe is immaculate.”

Photography courtesy of The Gunrunner.

BAR: GunRunner Bar at GunRunner Hotel
LOCATION: Florence, Alabama
WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: The GunRunner Bar, set in the middle of the 3,200 square foot common area, features eclectic décor, comfortable seating areas, and ornate chandeliers that mingle with the historical building’s brick walls, exposed beams, and original wood floors.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “A stay at the GunRunner is truly a unique boutique hotel experience! With each suite individually decorated to honor the Shoals heritage, guests have access to this unique full-service bar that is built atop the old elevator lift from the car repair business of days gone by,” says Dawn Pumpelly owner/editor at The Scout Guide Huntsville. “Even if one isn’t staying at the GR, the bar is open seven days a week to the public. Once you visit the bar, you’ll definitely want to come back for a stay!”