The US may not be a very old country compared to the rest of the world. It is, however, rich in history, especially on the East Coast. Some of our nation’s most important stories, events, and traditions revolve around taverns in the area. They have been significant locations for many reasons, including lodging famous Americans, serving as meeting places, as well as rest stops for weary travelers. Many taverns on the East Coast have been built and torn down over the years, but a good number of them still stand. For those that like the vibe of old-time bars, then discovering some of the East Coast’s historic taverns is the way to go.

 

Jessop’s Tavern- New Castle, Delaware

How many buildings do you know of that are over 300 years old? Add Jessop’s Tavern to the list. Built in 1674, the building was originally used as a barrel making company, owned by Abraham Jessop. Over the years, it changed its purpose quite a bit. From a private residential home in the 1800s to a restaurant in the 1950s, 114 Delaware Street has experienced a lot of change. In 1974, it finally became The Green Frog Tavern. When the Day family purchased the building in 1996, they renamed it Jessop’s Tavern, after Abraham Jessop. The building isn’t the only historic thing  about the tavern. The food that Jessop’s serves is made to resemble dishes eaten in the colonial era. If you are ever in New Castle, Delaware, Jessop’s Tavern is a must for history lovers.

 

Barnsboro Inn- Sewell, New Jersey

Known for being the oldest bar in New Jersey, the Barnsboro Inn has been serving customers since 1776. It was originally built as a log cabin by a man named John Budd, and earned it’s license as a tavern during the American Revolution. Although The Barnsboro Inn is quite old, it’s menu is still top-notch. From steak, to crab cakes, to burgers, this tavern has made a name for itself as a national food destination. No wonder it has lasted a few hundred years.

 

Griswold Inn Tap Room- Essex, Connecticut 

Another Inn established during the Revolutionary War is the Griswold Inn Tap Room. It is one of the longest continuously operated inns in the state, in business since 1776. Aside from its 33 charming, colonial-style guest rooms, this building is also a fine tavern. It has become known as “one of the most handsome bar rooms in America.” With live music and delicious food, how could anyone not have a splendid time at the Griswold?

 

The Hancock Inn- Hancock, New Hampshire

The Hancock Inn is the oldest inn in New Hampshire, and one of the oldest bed and breakfasts in New England. It began its services in 1789, just after the Revolutionary War ended, and George Washington was in his first year of Presidency. Noah Wheeler was the man behind the establishment, and was the first to open an inn that was also a tavern in the area. It was known for its delicious food and lavish balls and dances. Although The Hancock Inn has changed ownership many times, its old-time charm and colonial ambiance remain a special place in Connecticut.

 

The Boiling Springs Tavern- Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania

Built in 1832 as a hotel, The Boiling Springs Tavern has become a popular place among locals. Not only did it function as a hotel and restaurant, but it also was also a stop on The Underground Railroad. It marks the halfway point on the Appalachian Trail, and is a popular rest place for hikers. The building has had some additions throughout the years to accommodate its  growing customer base, and is still a renowned tavern for Pennsylvanians and visitors alike. With a restaurant that has won numerous awards this old tavern gives newbies a run for the money.

 

McSorley’s Old Ale House- New York, New York

For this historic tavern, we journey to the Big Apple. New York City isn’t just sky scrapers and big business, it’s also home to some very old taverns. McSorley’s is the oldest continuously operated saloon in the city. It was founded by a Irish immigrant, John McSorley, in 1854 on 7th Street. The most fascinating thing about the tavern may just be the people who have had a drink there. Abraham Lincoln and John Lennon both visited, and Woody Guthrie inspired the union movement at a table in the front. A rather strange fact about McSorley’s Old Ale House is that women weren’t allowed to enter until 1970, and the first female bar tender wasn’t hired until 1994. Thankfully, these days everyone is welcome to enjoy the tavern and its historic past.

 

The Pirate’s House- Savannah, Georgia

Who better to name a tavern after than the rum-drinking pirates themselves? The Pirate’s House in Savannah has been serving hungry land-lovers since 1753. If you think the name is just for fun, you are mistaken. Pirates actually frequented the saloon back in the day, including seamen and fisherman. Whether you’re a pirate or not, the food and drink is definitely a treasure worth finding. But be warned, this is also one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah. The Pirate’s House offers ghost tours for those who are brave enough to meet some of its “past” customers.

 

The Hanover Tavern- Hanover, Virginia

What was originally a courthouse, became The Hanover Tavern in 1733. The building itself was a work in progress. With 5 additions made over the years, it is over 12,000 square feet on three levels. Its 27 rooms, 97 windows, and 16 exterior doors comprise this mansion of a tavern. The grandness of the building was noticed by George Washington, Lord Cornwallis, and the Marquis de Lafayette, who all stopped in for a visit. Not only did important people visit The Hanover Tavern, but also owned it. The parents of Patrick Henry’s wife, Sarah, owned the building from 1750 until 1764. Although the tavern had so much history, it almost didn’t make it to present day. It was almost in ruins when a nonprofit group decided to restore the site in 1990. They raised $5 million, and were able to keep the legacy of The Hanover Tavern alive. Now, it is a popular dinner theatre as well as a restaurant, and continues to serve Americans just as it did hundreds of years ago.

 

The Middleton Tavern- Annapolis, Maryland

You can’t miss this big red building while visiting the harbor in Annapolis. Operating as a tavern since 1750, it has had some pretty influential guests come through its doors. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin all visited The Middleton Tavern. Many important meetings were held there, and it was known as one of the most prominent buildings in the city. Today, The Middleton Tavern is busier than ever serving thousands of customers annually. Some newer features include its oyster bar and upstairs dining rooms.

 

McCrady’s Tavern- Charleston South Carolina 

Started as a retreat for notable Charleston residents during and after the American Revolution, McCrady’s was built in 1778. Edward McCrady opened it as a simple tavern, but after being imprisoned during the Revolutionary War, he was determined to make it high-end once he was a free man. He added another story to the tavern called The Long Room, which was the location of George Washington’s famous 30-course dinner. After McCrady’s death in 1801, the building changed owners many times, and eventually became an abandoned relic. It wasn’t until 1982 that it was reopened as a tavern. McCrady’s is now included in the National Register of Historic Places and Landmarks. It’s open for dinner all week, and hosts brunch every Saturday and Sunday.