Multiple Florida cities have ranked high as the best cities for dive bars. Who doesn’t love cheap drinks and a chill atmosphere? Here in the Tampa Bay area, we have so many staple bars to choose from, and even more dive bars for a more laid-back evening.

While many places in Tampa Bay have created elevated cocktail menus, sometimes you just need a simple shot and a beer. That’s where these unique watering holes come in. From the delicious food to the giant mugs of beer, dive bars are a special place that explodes with character and personality you can’t find anywhere else. These bars are usually open past your typical downtown spots, so it’s usually the last stop of the night.

Another reason to love these pubs is the atmosphere. Usually, these bars are smaller and casual and even feature local music. The bartender won’t push fancy drinks on you and you can spend your night playing pool, darts, or other classic bar games. There are so many great bars scattered around the Tampa Bay area, that it’s hard to choose which is our favorite. Tampa even ranked third in this study for best cities for dive bars in the U.S.. A few more Florida cities made the list too!

Factors For Methodology 

  • Number of Bars
  • Average Star Rating of Bars
  • Number of Bars w/ Live Music
  • Number of Bars w/ Karaoke
  • Number of Bars w/ Outdoor Seating
  • Number of Bars w/ Street Parking
  • Number of Bars w/ Garage Parking
  • Number of Bars w/ Private Lot Parking
  • Number of Bars w/ a Pool Table

See the full list here: [Source: Shane & Co.]

These are the Florida cities that rank best spots for dive bars

  • Tampa, FL

    Tampa ranked number 3 (and is the best in Florida) for best cities for dive bars! We have lots to choose from in the Tampa Bay area, which one is your favorite?

  • North Port, FL

    In at number 12 is North Port, Florida, which is in Sarasota county not far from Port Charlotte.

  • Miami, FL

    Miami ranked number 17 in this list. Miami is really known for more of the fancy cocktail bars, so not surprising they didn’t make it in the top 10.

  • Orlando, FL

    Rounding out the list and the last Florida city to make it at number 20 is Orlando. After spending all your money at theme parks, the last thing you want to do is go to a bougie bar with overpriced drinks.

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