The Shelter Bar Tucson Arizona

It’s no surprise that The Shelter Bar, a fallout shelter themed lounge, was opened in the midst of the cold war. Since 1961 it’s been serving up tasty cocktails at reasonable prices amongst its now retro interiors.

The only thing that directly alluded to the name in the decor was a magnificent mushroom cloud lamp perched atop the vending machine by the washrooms. Aside from that, the theme could only be inferred by personal associations and for me that was the overall feeling of being in my grandparents basement which is where I’m sure they would have sheltered had there been a nuclear war. Oh and the fact that the bar is completely windowless save for the front door. Truly a sixties bunker fortress!

Anne Rysdale was the architect behind the Shelter Bar. She was the only registered female architect in Arizona during the 1950s! The exterior is mid century at its finest. Though I’m not 100 % certain, but the walls looked like piled raw lava stone. This is a nice departure from the ever popular fieldstone (which I also adore for the record.) There are even martini glass shaped bike racks! 

The interior is a red cocoon of kitsch that looks as though it’s been untouched by time. I say this as the highest compliment since time capsule spaces like this are rarely found in such excellent condition. From the gold flecked booths to the exceptional vintage mood lighting, ever corner of the lounge is a delight to take in. On the upper floor of the split level bar is a pool table surrounded by more seating.

The plush stools around the bar were the most popular place to sit, or at least they were when we arrived. Everyone seemed to know each other and were incredibly welcoming which only added to the experience.

There’s a weird little backroom for smoking that’s open to the outside but still feels like inside. There’s even a few old arcade games and more memorabilia back there.

Though this may not be a selling point for anyone I thought it worth mentioning anyhow.
– Games of pool are free! 
– For those who adore silly souvenirs, The Shelter also has free bumper stickers as well. 

We showed up early enough for happy hour which meant all drinks were $4! Even with exchange to CAD, it was a deal. They have a number of cocktails featuring in house infused liquors. We opted for two glasses of champagne since we had limited time till our dinner plans. Hopefully I will have future opportunities to visit again soon so I can explore the cocktail menu more.

One of their taglines is “serving beer colder than your ex!” and I really need to order a Miller High Life just to verify these claims. 

The mood lighting is unparalleled at The Shelter Bar

As I mentioned previously, another cocktail lounge that matches the energy and patina of The Shelter Bar is the Kon Tiki. They also serve a wide array of deep fried food. The Shelter on the other hand doesn’t have food on their menu however you can bring your own in which is cool. 

Another spot in Tucson, is the Hotel Congress which has both a jazz bar called the Century Room, a venue Club Congress,  Tiger’s Tap Room, and a hotel lounge. Between those four spots you can pop in and out for different scenes in each. Best part is they’re all conveniently under one roof which is even better if you’re also a hotel guest. 

JFK’s teeth glow as they blink on and off.

If this post didn’t convince you to visit The Shelter Cocktail Lounge, I don’t know what else would. From the overall atmosphere to the signature cocktails, this is a must see for anyone visiting.

The Shelter Bar is open every night of the week from 3pm – 2am. There’s also ample parking.

Find them at 4155 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712.

Have you been to The Shelter? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. As well as any other kitschy bar recommendations in Tucson or elsewhere. xo