Looking to grab a drink without the snobbery or pretense? Dive bars are those often dimly lit and unassuming drinking holes where you’ll find just that. These bars are typically characterized by cheap drinks, a no-frills attitude, and a clientele that ranges from regulars to visitors looking to get away from the main drag. Dive bars often have storied pasts, and many of Winona’s were speakeasies or underground during Prohibition, so lots of history here. The charm of a dive lies in its authenticity and lack of polish. So, if you’re one of those drawn to the dive bar’s unique character, maybe you’ll just wonder into one of the many here in Winona, MN.
929 Beer House & Grill
The Bar
Looking to get so far from downtown you’re in Goodview? The Bar has you covered and is a hub of activity in their downtown. And every weekend you can catch live music, comedy, or other fun events. Plus they’ve got great drinks including their famous McBiggerton Bloody Mary.
The BrickYard
Watch the game or hang out on the patio. The BrickYard has great atmosphere and a friendly staff! It’s a fun place to go and have a few drinks. Along with the expansive bar seating, they have a pool table and darts, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio where you can play bags or just chill and watch the big game.
Broken World Records
It’s always pinball time and cheap drinks at Broken World Records. And it’s Minnesota’s only bar and record store combination! Beyond the pinball and free pool, you’ll find lots of live music and open jam sessions along with live DJs spinning strictly vinyl records on vintage stereo equipment so it’s always a cool vibe.
Cornerstone Bar
Come find a lively time here with the jukebox popping in this west side staple. Cornerstone Bar is a small, family owned bar with friendly service, great specials, darts, pool, and a patio. They’re known for great a Bloody Mary from scratch and MEGA bloodys when you can get them. They also claim Winona’s best Happy Hour.
East Side Bar
This is a gem of the east, and it helps if you’re a Vikings fan, but not required. East Side Bar is a neighborhood dive that’s been around for awhile. You can find bingo, pull-tabs littering the floor, darts, and even some people throwing bags outside. It’s cheap drinks and good people, just like it should be.
E.B.’s Corner
Established in 1885, this dive bar has been in the west side for a long time, and has been owned by two different people with the “E.B.” initials. E.B.’s Corner is another spot filled with great service and great people. Catch the meat raffle, play some pool and darts, or head outside to the patio for some bean bags.
Hei-N-Low Tap
Come cheer on your team with a neighborhood potluck. Hei-N-Low Tap is one of our favorite “townie bars” and is always a good time with a nice crowd, fun atmosphere, and good live music in an intimate setting. This place has been an east side staple for many years. You can watch the game inside or on the extensive patio. They also have a great Bloody Mary bar on Sundays.
Katie’s Place
This is an old east side hang that looks like someone’s house—because it probably used to be. Katie’s Place is beloved and Katie is known as the hostess with the mostest and will make you feel right at home. They always have something fun going on, like live music, and the patio is great spot to catch some while having a cold one or a couple.
Mankato Bar
This is one of east side’s favorites. Mankato Bar, or Kato as locals would call it. They know your name here and people have been gathering for karaoke, darts, and drinks for years. You might enjoy their pull-tab Happy Hour or their twinkle lighted atmosphere. And check out their giant over-the-top Bloody Mary on Sundays, where only 15 are served, so come early.
No Name Bar
Poots Tavern
If you’re coming to Poots you might want to scarf down a Pootza—because they’re fantastic and a local classic! This is a fun, little drinking hole where everyone is made to feel welcome and it may be the coziest bar in town. Sing some karaoke, play darts, or just grab a beer. And you’ll love the pontoon boat patio on those nice days.
Red Men’s Club
Don’t overlook this bar affiliated with one of the oldest national fraternal organizations still around. Red Men’s Club has been in Winona since 1913 and continues to serve up great drinks. You can also find burger nights, breakfast and bloodys, and other occasional eats. Maybe you just want to come down for bingo. You’ll find a good time either way.
Sloppy Joe’s Tavern
This may be the towniest of towny bars in Winona. Sloppy Joe’s Tavern is the oldest family owned bar in Minnesota, being 5th generation now. You’ll find lots of regulars and some of the cheapest drinks in town along with a jukebox, pool tables, and dartboards. Plus, you can head outside to their patio for some bags.
Winona Athletic Club
This place is a sight to see. At Winona Athletic Club, you’re going to be hanging out at one of the coolest old bars in town that many affectionately call “The Polish Embassy”. Aside from the vintage booths and bar stools, you’ll also find pool and lots of space to hang plus some arcade games. They also have great burger nights, live music, and dance events in their second floor ballroom.
