Oscar's Tavern

Oscar's Tavern is a beloved neighborhood dive bar on Sansom Street in the heart of Philadelphia's business district. It's unpretentious, with a worn wooden bar, neon beer signs, and a jukebox playing classic rock. The crowd is a mix of office workers, locals, and students from nearby universities. The main draw is the nightly karaoke, which starts around 9 PM and draws a enthusiastic, supportive crowd. Drinks are affordable, well drinks and domestic beers are among the cheapest in the city. There's no fancy cocktail menu; it's all about beer, shots, and simple mixed drinks. The bar also has a small patio out back for warmer months. It's a place where everyone is welcome, and the vibe is friendly and unpretentious.

Don't miss

• Sing your heart out at nightly karaoke
• Grab a cheap pitcher of beer with friends
• Play a song on the classic jukebox
• Enjoy the back patio in warm weather
• Chat with the friendly bartenders and regulars

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Oscar's Tavern

Cheapest way inHistoric Sites of Philadelphia Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour4.5★ · 30 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →Most bookedRevolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia4.9★ · 3,519 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate 2-hour Founding Fathers Tour of Philadelphia4.6★ · 24 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$175 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Karaoke starts around 9 PM; sign up early for a spot.
• Cash only; there's an ATM inside but it charges a fee.
• Beer pitchers are around $12; well drinks $5–7.
• It gets crowded on weekends; arrive before 10 PM for a seat.

A bit of history

Oscar's Tavern has been a fixture on Sansom Street since the 1970s, originally a working-class bar that evolved into a karaoke hotspot. It's survived the changing neighborhood and remains a staple of Philly's dive bar scene.