15 of the Coolest Themed Bars in America

The Lovecraft Bar, Portland 

With so many bars and nightclubs located in our myriad great cities here in the U. S., and the incredible competition for patrons between establishments, owners have to work smart. They need at least one draw (and preferably more) to keep people coming in the door. Whether the lure is a classic idea such as with San Francisco's Tonga Room, or a more modern twist, such as Mutts Canine Cantina in Dallas, it needs to be done well, run well and produce the fun well. The Lovecraft Bar of Portland, pictured above, takes advantage of the horror master theme to the fullest. Creepy décor catering to a somewhat "goth" crowd. A giant pentagram over the dance floor. Bizarre, old movies and burlesque shows. Drinks strong enough to stir the dead. What could go wrong that wouldn't be considered part of the dark evening?
Check out this listing of cool, themed bars and nightclubs. Have you been to any on the list? Share your experience if you're so inclined. Last summer on an extended stay in San Francisco, my sister and I hung out at the Tonga Room more than once; a bar in which it regularly rains and thunders. A classic spot in the gorgeous Fairmont Hotel, this old-Hollywood, Polynesian tiki lounge — complete with a pool in the middle of the place in which a band plays on a floating raft — is cheesy, kitschy, stocked with delicious food and drink and an absolute blast.