Knickerbocker Saloon
The Knickerbocker Saloon at 113 North 5th Street in downtown Lafayette Indiana is known as the oldest bar in Indiana. It has poured drinks at the same address since 1835 and today it blends deep history with a busy live music calendar. Piano and jazz nights and karaoke and a dedicated open mic make the Knick one of the most storied music rooms in Greater Lafayette.
History
The saloon opened in 1835 as the Gault House Tavern and is said to have been the first place to legally serve drinks in Hoosier territory. It became the Cherry Wood Bar in the 1850s and took the Knickerbocker name in 1874. Its famous walnut and cherry bar dates to 1891 and the name is said to come from a piano brand that once set the saloon apart. Legend says the guest list over the years has included John Purdue and President Ulysses S. Grant along with Mark Twain and Al Capone and Neil Armstrong.
Atmosphere and Setting
Walking into the Knick feels like stepping back in time. Ornate pressed tin ceilings and belt-driven fans and rich woodwork surround the historic bar and guests often describe an old-school speakeasy vibe. A 2019 renovation added new booths and furnishings while keeping the historic character intact. The saloon is 21 and over and is open daily from 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
Live Music
Music is at the heart of the Knickerbocker. The saloon is proud to offer live entertainment most nights of the week with live piano and jazz on Thursday through Saturday evenings along with an acoustic series and local talent. Resident Piano Man Ryan Rollins plays the Knick whenever he is back in town from Key West. The saloon is also a sponsor of Lafayette's annual Uptown Jazz and Blues Festival.
Open Mic
The Knickerbocker hosts an open mic for local musicians and singer-songwriters and it has its own Facebook page called Open Mic at Knickerbocker Saloon. It is a great chance to play in a truly historic room with a crowd that loves live music. The saloon does not list the open mic day or time on its website so check the Facebook page for the current schedule.
Karaoke and Games
Monday nights belong to karaoke with host Jennifer Wilson known as JWOW. Between sets guests can play darts and shuffleboard and billiards in the game room.
Drinks and Food
The bar is known for professional bartenders and correctly made cocktails. The beer list runs to more than 80 import and craft and specialty beers and there is a wine menu too. The saloon does not run its own kitchen but guests can order from Digby's Pub and Patio around the corner with free delivery to the bar.
Private Parties
The Knickerbocker hosts private parties on site and offers beverage catering for events around town.
Good to Know
The Knickerbocker Saloon is at 113 North 5th Street in Lafayette Indiana 47901. Hours are 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM daily and guests must be 21 or older. Call (765) 423-2234 or visit knickerbockersaloon.net. Follow the saloon on Facebook for music and event updates.
