Posted in Cleveland July 24, 2018 by

The Oldest Bar In Cleveland Has A Fascinating History

When one explores and admires the streets of Cleveland, they will find a cornucopia of old and historic buildings. Many have housed multiple businesses and attractions, but a few historic buildings have continuously operated as the same entity since opening. Bars, in particular, seem to come and go with population and demographic changes, but this one bar in the Flats is the exception to that reality.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Welcome to the Harbor Inn!
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This historic destination is located on the West Bank of the Flats, and many cite its founding circa 1895.
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This familiar and cozy destination is located at 1219 Main Ave. in Cleveland and its ambiance is nothing short of nostalgic.
As the city's oldest continually operating bar, the walls of the Harbor Inn have witnessed a wide range of unique situations over the course of its history.
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However, some parts of its history are rather mysterious.
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The building's history before 1970 is challenging to trace, but some newspaper articles indicate that the location has been a bar since 1895.
This bar grew as the Flats grew with industry, entertaining everyone from Powerhouse workers to politicians.
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The West Bank once hosted a Powerhouse for the Woodland & West Side Street Railway Co., a group that powered Cleveland's old electric street lines. Many local factory workers once occupied the bar's campus, but it truly catered to people of all backgrounds.
In addition to a selection of hundreds of beers, this iconic dive bar also features old-timey antiques and memorabilia.
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Mementos of Cleveland history decorate the charming interior. Though the bar recently changed ownership, its design and layout have changed very little since around 1969.
With a selection of beverages and tavern food that would delight politicians and factory workers alike to this day, this historic Cleveland attraction is a must-see.
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Munch on mozzarella sticks while you take a tour of the Flats' own hidden history.
The selection of arcade and bar games will keep visitors entertained, too!
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Next time you are in the area, you simply must pay it a visit!
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Harbor Inn is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and stays open half an hour later on Fridays and Saturdays.

This bar is an icon, and Clevelanders can’t get enough of its atmosphere. Have you visited the Harbor Inn before? What year did you first discover it? Share your stories in the comments, because we’d love to learn about what these walls would tell of if they could talk!

For more, check out these epic historic landmarks throughout Cleveland.