About White Water Tavern
Founded in 1976 the White Water Tavern is one of Little Rock's longest-running barrooms and music venues. This legendary establishment has been nationally recognized by Esquire The New York Times and scores of touring musicians as one of the best live music rooms and dive bars in the country.
Music Legacy
For nearly 50 years White Water Tavern has been a stop on the tour for musicians from across the country and around the world. The intimate wooden building features a small stage that has hosted everyone from Levon Helm and Billy Bragg to Leon Bridges and countless other notable artists. The venue books a wide variety of local and regional music and has hosted open jams karaoke and community events throughout its history. Recent performers have included Parker Millsap John Moreland Spirit Adrift and many acclaimed Americana roots rock blues and alternative artists.
Venue Character
The White Water Tavern epitomizes the classic American roadhouse and juke joint aesthetic. The intimate setting with a capacity of around 200 creates an up-close experience with performers. An upstairs area features pool tables and darts while a small patio in back has picnic tables. The venue is divey in all the good ways maintaining its authentic character while providing quality sound for performances.
Atmosphere and Services
The tavern operates a bar with 10 taps featuring a good selection of beer and liquor. A small kitchen serves a limited menu of pub food. Staff members are known for being incredible and welcoming. The venue is closed Mondays but otherwise maintains regular hours Tuesday through Sunday with live music typically starting around 8-9 PM on show nights. There is also a beer garden that becomes a popular gathering spot in warmer months.
Historical Significance
The tavern has been part of Little Rock's cultural fabric for decades. Bill Clinton could be seen hanging out during his Arkansas Attorney General days. The venue contains unique touches including beer bottles holding ashes of former owners and patrons a taxidermied beaver and an oil painting of a naked accordion-wielding matador. The space has hosted more than just music including book sales chicken-and-waffle brunches traveling opera and even memorable events like the legendary zombie wedding.