Behind Closed and Hidden Doors: Discover Nebraska’s Most Creative Speakeasies
Nebraska’s cocktail scene is getting more creative and more hidden by the day. These speakeasies combine vintage charm, modern mixology and unforgettable atmospheres to elevate your night out. Whether it's an intimate tarot reading lounge, a secret bar behind a vault, or a Wonderland-themed hideaway, each offers a different kind of magic waiting to be discovered.
Alice
Tucked beneath Legacy Chophouse in West Omaha’s Legacy Village, Alice is an Alice in Wonderland-inspired speakeasy where curiosity and cocktails go hand in hand. Their carefully selected menu includes whimsical spectacles such as smoke-infused cocktails that give the drink a smoky flavor, fired cocktails that are lit before serving, and coffee-smoked bubbles, adding a dramatic effect that adds flavor to the drink. Alice isn’t just about the taste, but the creativity behind the drink. Sip on signature creations such as the Velvet Rabbit, Amethyst or even the fired Saturn cocktail. The real magic of Alice is the experience. From the themed decor to the drink presentations, Alice is designed to transport you down the rabbit hole. Not sure what to order? Let the bartender craft you a custom cocktail based on your preferences and you’ll end up with something unexpected like Wonderland itself!
Anna’s Place
This speakeasy may be hard to find, but it’s worth the hunt for a sip of Anna’s Place carefully crafted cocktails. Tucked inside Hotel Indigo near Omaha’s Old Market, Anna’s Place is a cozy hideaway ideal for a pre-show drink before heading to the Orpheum or Steelhouse. While it’s known for its cocktails, guests often stay for the intimate, atmospheric vibe. On Tuesday nights, the bar hosts Tarot readings for guests interested in time for self-reflection and conversation about the present. Built on the idea of intentionality, every element at Anna’s Place is curated with care from cocktails that take months to perfect, to the overall energy of the space. Gourmet crafted drinks include a boozy house-made root beer float with a Stroopwafel and ice cream, bringing playful flavor to the experience. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a unique night out, Anna’s Place invites you to slow down, savor and stay awhile.
Henry J’s
This speakeasy may be hard to find, but it’s worth the hunt for a sip of Anna’s Place carefully crafted cocktails. Tucked inside Hotel Indigo near Omaha’s Old Market, Anna’s Place is a cozy hideaway ideal for a pre-show drink before heading to the Orpheum or Steelhouse. While it’s known for its cocktails, guests often stay for the intimate, atmospheric vibe. On Tuesday nights, the bar hosts Tarot readings for guests interested in time for self-reflection and conversation about the present. Built on the idea of intentionality, every element at Anna’s Place is curated with care from cocktails that take months to perfect, to the overall energy of the space. Gourmet crafted drinks include a boozy house-made root beer float with a Stroopwafel and ice cream, bringing playful flavor to the experience. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a unique night out, Anna’s Place invites you to slow down, savor and stay awhile.
Starlight Lounge
In the heart of Lincoln's Haymarket District, the Starlight Lounge transports guests back to the atomic era with retro furniture and a laid-back vibe. The lounge offers an extensive menu with something for everyone, along with seasonal drinks, including “Christmas in July” which serves 12 festive cocktails over 12 days. Travel back in time with classic cocktails like the “Orange Push-Up” or the “Audrey Hepburn,” a cocktail as elegant as its namesake, made with Pama pomegranate liqueur, Rangpur gin, St-Germain and a splash of champagne for a touch of sparkle. If you’re craving a night out with a little vintage flair, the Starlight lounge delivers a memorable escape.
The Sitch
Created by the team behind the DISH restaurant, The Sitch is a roaring ‘20s inspired lounge serving up elevated food and craft cocktails in downtown Lincoln. With a rotating seasonal menu and a focus on creativity, the bar offers something familiar with a fresh twist. The Sitch prioritizes locally sourced ingredients, partnering with local farmers to craft the food and drinks. Their mission is to be sustainable while also being a welcoming space that stands out from the typical downtown scene. Innovation extends beyond the art deco atmosphere to the cocktail menu. Classics are reimagined with bold flavors like a rhubarb shrub added to ranch water, or the pandan daiquiri made with toasted coconut, pandan, a house rum blend and lime. Whether you’re seeking a more redefined night out or want to explore something uniquely Lincoln, The Sitch delivers a one-of-a-kind experience where individuality shines.
The Vault
One of Omaha’s best-kept secrets is The Vault, a hidden 1920s-era Prohibition bar that’s as mysterious as it is luxurious. The true secret? Figuring out how to access it. Inside, high roller guests can sip on high-end libations like the “Trust Fund,” a sparkling mix of gin, Chandon, simple syrup, fresh lemon and gold luster dust. For those ready to drink like the elite, “The Millionaire Martini” is custom-made to your taste and served in a glass big enough for two. Whether you’re chasing mystery, elegance or just a top-shelf cocktail, The Vault is worth unlocking.
Header Image Photo Credit: Visit Grand Island
