Seeking the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife? Look no further than Elbo Room Bar, the legendary dive bar on the beach that defines the city’s party scene. I’ll be honest, to me this is a great spot for day drinking over anything!
With a rich history dating back to 1938 and a star role in the 1960 film ‘Where The Boys Are,’ Elbo Room is the epicenter of fun and memories. In this article, get ready to discover what makes the Elbo Room an enduring favorite for locals and tourists alike – from its vibrant live music and oceanfront drinks to tips for your visit.
What to Know About the Elbo Room
Known as a legendary Fort Lauderdale dive bar known for its history, oceanfront vibe, and as a spring break destination, famously featured in the 1960 movie ‘Where The Boys Are’. The bar’s lively atmosphere is a huge draw with live music daily, friendly bartenders, and an outdoor seating area that offers breathtaking ocean views and a perfect spot for people-watching. Elbo Room provides a range of local beers and special deals like Reverse Happy Hour, is cash-only with an ATM on-site, and has a service-centric approach that keeps patrons returning. It is recognized around the world for its iconic status and vibrant atmosphere.
Located at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach, this bar has carved its place in the local culture and history of Fort Lauderdale FL 33316. Established back in 1938, it has witnessed the transformation of Fort Lauderdale from a sleepy town to a bustling beach city, all while serving cold drinks and hosting unforgettable parties.
Its status as a beachside icon was further solidified by its feature in the 1960 film ‘Where The Boys Are,’ which painted it as the ultimate social hub for beach vacationers and spring breakers.
This cinematic cameo catapulted Elbo Room to national fame, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Fort Lauderdale.
Elbo Room During Spring Break
The depiction in ‘Where The Boys Are’ wasn’t just a one-hit-wonder. It turned the bar into a spring break sensation and established it as a sought-after destination for generations of college students looking for a hot weekend getaway, evoking such nostalgia for those who experienced it.
Many college students have fond memories of meeting the ‘guy of their dreams’ at the Elbo Room, highlighting the bar’s casual and social atmosphere where numerous guests have forged connections and created lasting memories.
Maintaining its status, Elbo Room remains an iconic Spring Break destination today. Every year, it attracts visitors with its enduring atmosphere of fun, historic significance, and its legacy as the ultimate place to let loose and make unforgettable memories.
Florida Panthers Celebrate the Stanley Cup at Elbo Room
Our local hockey team, the Florida Panthers, chose to make the Elbo Room their headquarters when they won the Stanley Cup in June of 2024. Here’s a clip from the local news:
However, the music and location are just part of what makes Elbo Room special. It’s the feeling of being part of something bigger – a diverse crowd of locals and visitors coming together to drink, dance, and mingle. Here, everyone is part of the Elbo Room family, and enjoying oneself is always the top priority.
Live Music Scene
Music in Elbo Room isn’t relegated to background noise; it forms the bar’s soul. With live music performances every day starting at 11:00 am, Elbo Room contributes to Fort Lauderdale’s reputation for oceanfront live entertainment. It is recognized as a premier live music venue in the world.
From hits of the 80s and 90s to live cover bands performing on Saturday nights, there’s always something for every music lover at our fun bar. And it’s not just the music – the lively atmosphere created by the performances is enhanced by engaging bartenders, promoting an environment of dancing and festive socializing, making great memories for all who visit.
On a recent trip we bumped into tourists and locals alike. There is never a dull moment here and the party never stops. You’ll get sun-kissed beach goers coming in to cool off with a beer and take in the music all the way to locals who just love the venue so much they’ve made it their local bar.
And if you’re looking for a deal, don’t miss out on their Reverse Happy Hour from 9-11 p.m., featuring half-priced select martinis. It’s just another reason why Elbo Room is the go-to place for a lively night out in Fort Lauderdale.
Things to Know Before You Visit
Maintaining its genuine dive bar allure, Elbo Room functions solely on cash transactions. This simplifies transactions and adds to the old-school vibe of the place. So make sure to carry enough cash for your visit.
But don’t worry if you forget. For customer convenience, there’s an ATM located inside Elbo Room, ensuring patrons can easily get cash to pay for their drinks and service. It’s just another way Elbo Room ensures a hassle-free experience for its patrons.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the attentive and engaging bartenders at Elbo Room ensure that every patron’s experience is enjoyable. So sit back, relax, and let the Elbo Room’s bartenders take care of you.
- Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds.
- Plan your parking in advance, as parking can be limited in the area.
- Check out nearby attractions, such as the beach or other restaurants, to make the most of your trip.
Best Times to Visit
Operating from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, Elbo Room caters to both daytime and evening patrons. But if you want to avoid the evening crowds, which tend to swell after dark, it’s best to visit early in the day. We usually get there early to get good real estate either outdoors or at the bar.
And if you’re looking for a more low-key atmosphere, consider visiting on a weekday. The weekends at Elbo Room can get quite busy, making weekdays a great option if you prefer a more relaxed vibe.
Summary
From its humble beginnings in 1938 to its status as an iconic dive bar, Elbo Room has remained a cornerstone of Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant beachfront lifestyle. With its lively atmosphere, quality drinks, engaging bartenders, and rich history, Elbo Room offers an unforgettable experience for both tourists and locals. Whether you’re here for the live music, the ocean views, or the unforgettable nights out, Elbo Room guarantees a good time. So next time you’re in Fort Lauderdale, make sure to stop by Elbo Room and experience the quintessential dive bar for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Elbo Room famous?
The Elbo Room is famous for being the first commercial establishment to stream live with cameras over the internet in 1996 and for being featured in the blockbuster hit “Where the Boys are?” It has a rich history and has been a part of many iconic moments over the years.
What movies were filmed at Elbo Room?
The Elbo Room was featured in the 1960’s film “Where the Boys Are”.
Who owns the Elbo Room in Fort Lauderdale?
The Elbo Room in Fort Lauderdale is owned by Mike Penrod, who bought it in 1981 with his sisters Michele and Tracey. August 29, 2020.
When did the elbow room in Fort Lauderdale open?
The Elbo Room in Fort Lauderdale opened in 1938 and has been a beloved landmark for almost 70 years.
What is the Elbo Room’s operating hours?
The Elbo Room is open every day from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., providing options for both daytime and evening experiences.
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
