Ohio's Oldest Tavern and Living History

Open since 1861 Arnold's is Ohio's oldest continuously operated watering hole. Piece of living history where Civil War troops walked across floors unchanged from 1860s. Remained largely unaltered through 160+ years.

History

Occupies two buildings from 1838 originally barbershop and feed store. Simon Arnold converted to saloon 1861. Three generations of Arnolds lived in building over 98 years. During Prohibition operated as cafe allegedly producing moonshine in second-floor bathtub (bathtub still there). Wood and tile floors haven't been resurfaced since 1920s. Floor near entrance even older from 1860s. Tables date to 1910s clock from same era hangs over back bar.

National Recognition

Esquire Magazine Best Bars in America. Thrillist Most Iconic Bar in Ohio. The Daily Meal 150 Best Bars in America. City Beat Best Live Music While You Eat. Cincinnati Magazine Top 45 Burgers. Featured on Travel Channel Man v. Food Food Network Guy's Grocery Games Hot Ones with Padma Lakshmi. NBC Harry's Law built replica set of Arnold's.

The Courtyard

Opened 1976 beautiful performance space. Tented ceiling in winter open in summer always stunning. Stage hosts live music Tuesday through Saturday. Features mural with Emilio Estevez face (he's regular). Excellent acoustics natural enhancement with proper amplification for electric instruments.

Music Programming

Live music Tuesday-Saturday in courtyard. Wednesday Bluegrass Night featuring Tye Dye and other bands. Regular performances from local and touring artists. Most shows no cover charge. Historic venue with genuine significance - stage has hosted thousands of musicians over decades.

Food

Solid American fare with Cincinnati character. Greek spaghetti (spaghetti with olive oil butter garlic peppers onions mushrooms olives Romano cheese) is beloved signature dish. Arnold's famous meatballs served with red sauce over pasta shredded Romano. Burgers pastas chicken and waffles crab cakes. Vegetarian Cincinnati-style chili. Vegan options available. Generous portions acclaimed quality.

Drinks

Excellent beer selection including local craft breweries. Full bar wine by glass. 160+ years pouring drinks in this spot.

Atmosphere

Historic tavern character retained through original fixtures worn floors patina that can't be faked. Main bar warm historic lively - classic Cincinnati tavern. Courtyard provides beautiful setting for dining and performances.

For Musicians

Performing at Arnold's means participating in space with genuine historical significance. Built-in audience draws crowds for food drinks history - musicians reach people who might not specifically come for music but appreciate it. Regular programming Wednesday bluegrass residency consistent Tuesday-Saturday schedule. Tourism draw brings visitors from across country and world. Private events available (arnoldsparties@gmail.com) creating additional performance opportunities. Playing here means performing in Ohio's oldest tavern - authenticity earned through 160+ years serving community.