The Midwest knows how to do dive bars right — gritty, unpretentious and full of character. These are the places where neon signs glow like old friends, jukeboxes hum with decades of memories and the drinks come strong without a hint of pretense. From Ames’ Tip Top Lounge, where Cyclone fans gather over bowls of legendary chili, to Milwaukee’s Wolski’s, a century-old tavern famous for its ‘I Closed Wolski’s’ sticker, these bars aren’t just watering holes — they’re cultural landmarks. In Des Moines, Carl’s Place tells its story on graffiti-covered walls, while Alpine Tap keeps the Wisconsin-style vibe alive on Ingersoll Avenue. Iowa City’s Foxhead Tavern has been a haven for writers since 1934, and Sioux Falls’ Top Hat feels frozen in time, right down to the PBR sign. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or just a cold beer, these dives prove that the heart of the Midwest beats loudest in its bars.
Ames, Iowa
Sportsman’s Lounge
Sportsman’s Lounge in downtown Ames is affectionately known as Sporty’s by locals. It is Ames’ longest-running bar, operating continuously under the same name. It opened in the 1950s and has had its liquor license longer than any other Ames bar. With a quintessential dive-bar atmosphere, Sportsman’s is a great place to watch Cyclone games and the friendly vibe is always welcoming. Details: 123 Main St., Ames, 515-233-6320 or facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556233928239
—Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune
Tip Top Lounge
Iconic Ames bar Tip Top Lounge is small but mighty and is the second-oldest bar in town. Locally famous for its chili, the Tip Top has the perfect dive-bar vibe and a friendly crowd of regulars. A great place to gather with other Cyclone fans on gamedays, the Tip Top also has occasional live music. It opens early to pre-game on home football gamedays, and the crowd tends to be loud and enthusiastic. Details: 201 E. Lincoln Way, Ames, 515-232-8980 or facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063462041621
—Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune
Welch Ave. Station
Located in the heart of Campustown in Ames, Welch Ave. has been around for more than 30 years and is the Iowa State community’s longest-running bar. Big screen TVs offer a great view of games, and with Pizza Pit next door, customers can get a bite to eat from another Campustown icon. Details: 207 Welch Ave., Ames, welchave.com…