Top 10 Most Memorable Bar Signs Across The Country

With countless bars either lining the downtown strip or dotting Google Maps, memorable and funny bar signs can serve as a crucial focal point guiding potential customers toward your business. When presented in a fun, aesthetic way, clever puns and plays on pop culture references pull the attention of thirsty onlookers.

However, the key is to balance memorable references with your own personal touches. By taking inspiration from some of the most memorable examples of bar signs in America, bar owners can craft Instagram-ready signs that support existing branding while drawing in new customers. Read on to find out more!

What Makes A Bar Sign Memorable?

What makes a bar sign memorable depends on several factors, including the audience, location, and current date/time. For example, a bar targeting Millennials and Gen Z may get a laugh out of the Mean Girl's reference: "You can't sip with us." However, older patrons might be confused and concerned.

Here are our tips for creating relevant signage:

Know Your Audience

Your bar sign should match the age, income, and general vibe of the patrons you typically serve. Serviced mostly by retirees and tourists? Your ideal bar sign will be different than a business frequented by young friend groups hanging out downtown.

Know The Location

Similarly to knowing the audience, your location will also help determine the types of bar signs patrons find appealing. Neon signs are a great idea for cool, flashy bars in busy hubs like Las Vegas, while something more subtle may work better in small towns. You can also comment on the weather or current events to pique the interest of locals.

Know The Season

Knowing the season is another way to increase your odds of pulling someone off the street. What could be better than a Christmas-themed pun or references to refreshing yourself in the hot weather?

Know Your Brand

Last, but not least, being able to tie your bar sign back to your brand's personality is the perfect cherry on top. Try incorporating words from your establishment name or referencing the building's theme in your bar signs.

10 Of The Best Bar Signs In America

Without further adieu, here are examples of some of the most memorable bar signs photographed around the USA:

1. Free beer, topless bartenders, false advertising

Nobody likes false advertising... unless it's delivered in a charmingly ironic and humourous package. This bar sign does just that, pulling the reader in by offering something they want, only to immediately shatter their hopes and dreams. It's the perfect Friday night choice for casual dive bars and beloved small-town establishments whose patrons love a little sarcasm.

2. Te [ ] Amo [X] quila

For the unaware Northerners, te amo means "I love you" in Spanish, while tequila can also mean love in Spanish. Just kidding! But seriously, this playful sign can be both an excellent way to attract Spanish speakers and a fantastic conversation starter for those who don't know what it means. Diversión para todos!

3. "Trust me, you can dance." -Vodka

Sometimes all it takes is a little charm to convince the shyest of the bunch to go drinking. This sign might just be that little bit of charm. We've all been there, standing outside of a pub too anxious to enter, but this expression is the perfect leap of faith for nervous tourists and upstanding citizens looking to loosen up.

4. Technically speaking, beer is a solution

Okay, maybe not the therapeutic solution you need, but beer is a homogenous mixture of two or more substances. This play on words is perfect for bars located in college towns or arts districts looking for educational humor.

5. 3D Tinder this way!

Did you know that over 39% of couples meet online? While 27% still meet at the bar, you can show your chronically online friends you care by offering the chance to experience 3D Tinder. This sign is sure to make anyone attending a "turning 21" party laugh.

6. You say alcoholism, I say liver CrossFit

As your alcohol consumption increases, your liver learns how to produce more of the enzymes that metabolize it. Think of it as a workout for your liver (not really). Regardless, this sign serves as the perfect inside joke for wine moms all over America.

7. Drink plenty of water in this heat; beer is 97% water.

In parts of the world where it regularly reaches 100°F (we're looking at you Arizona), joking about the heat can be another great way to attract potential customers. Who wouldn't love a refreshing glass of beer on a hot day? Especially when it's 97% water!

8. There are better things than alcohol, but alcohol sort of compensates for not getting them

The economy has seen better days, but turning everyone's existential crises into humorous bar signs offers that matter-of-fact relief many of us are searching for. This sign is ideal for well-established bars in small towns and cities. If you know your customers like the back of your hand, it's the perfect way to poke fun at them.

9. Special offer: You give us money, we give you beer

Whether you're a new bar trying to establish yourself or a hometown favorite, this sign grabs people's attention in all the right ways. The term "special offer" gets potential customers reading, while the punchline subverts their expectations and lets them know what to expect. And, what to expect is a fun night out at the bar!

10. Soup of the day: Whiskey

A classic answer to the question of: "Do you serve food here?" The answer seems to be yes, as long as you've got a strong stomach. It's the perfect choice for small-town charm.

Create An Even More Memorable Experience With Commercial Draft Beer Systems

These photos are all extremely memorable, but to further stand out from the competition, we recommend investing in automated draft beer systems. These systems streamline operations, improving service and adding to the fun vibe you're trying to build. Customers who stroll in after noticing your witty bar sign can immediately start pouring their own drinks, spending less time waiting and more time making memories with friends.

Whether you plan on opening a themed establishment or revamping an existing one, the GS Draft System Solutions team is ready to help. We take pride in our work and can design a custom system that blends seamlessly with your bar's unique sign. We're happy to address any inquiries about our extensive product options and services, which are all created to help your business run above the industry standard.

Explore our comprehensive installation options by calling us at (949) 421-3882. You can also email us at sales@gsdraft.com. We look forward to your message!