The Knickerbocker Saloon in Lafayette, Indiana
In Indiana, the bar that received the state’s very first liquor license is still waiting to welcome you today.
In 1835, the Gault House Tavern inside the Lahr Luxury Hotel became the first place to allow patrons to legally drink in Hoosier territory. Although its name was changed to the Cherry Wood Bar in the 1850s, and the Knickerbocker Saloon in 1874—after the hotel closed—you’ll feel as though little has changed once you step inside. The original bar was replaced in 1891, and the "new" incarnation, made of walnut with an inch-thick cherry veneer, has remained in place ever since. A sign above it reads “Enter as strangers, leave as friends."
The Knickerbocker was named after a player piano produced by an eponymous manufacturer. The piano itself, the first of its kind in the area, was a big draw. The saloon is located right down the road from Purdue University, and famous patrons include university founder John Purdue, President Ulysses S. Grant, Mark Twain, Al Capone, and even Purdue’s own Neil Armstrong.
A plaque hanging on the wall from the Indiana General Assembly commemorates the Knickerbocker’s 175th anniversary in April of 2010. “We would like to acknowledge Knickerbocker Saloon on this joyous occasion of their one hundred seventy-fifth anniversary, with best wishes for continued success,” it reads.
Bar owner Jeff Hamann takes the Knickerbocker’s legacy very seriously. “It’s like I’m a steward,” he says. “It’s my job to pass the Knickerbocker on to someone else someday who appreciates the history, who understands the necessity of keeping it going for another 100, 200 years.”
A performance room was added in 1981 during the bar’s last significant remodel. Since then, the Knickerbocker has become one of Lafayette’s premier destinations for live jazz. Musicians like Kenny Neil, Tommy Castro, and Coco Montoya have all taken the stage. Even though rock acts have become more popular in recent years, the saloon is still a proud sponsor of the annual Lafayette Uptown Jazz and Blues Festival.
Location: 113 N. 5th St., Lafayette, Indiana 47901
Hours: 4 p.m.—3 a.m. daily
You’re having: One of 84 specialty, craft, and import beers. You might want to ask for a glass, though; they’re all served in bottles and cans.
Best Yelp review: "I always have a great time here. Great stage for bands, a jukebox that plays more Bad Religion than DMB, and strong strong strong drinks. Giant portions of food, and insanely amazing staff. The Bocker will always hold a place in my heart from my college days"
photo by: Courtesy Knickerbocker Saloon
The Knickerbocker Saloon, previously part of the Lahr Luxury Hotel, has been in business since 1835.
photo by: Courtesy Knickerbocker Saloon
The bar features 84 craft, specialty, and import beers, with an emphasis on local Indiana brews.
photo by: Courtesy Knickerbocker Saloon
The original pressed-tin ceiling was revealed during a renovation and remodel in 1981.
