Oasis Bar & Grill
Muncie, IN Photo courtesy Richard Weiss
It's hard to drive by Oasis Bar & Grill in Muncie, Indiana without noticing its famous roadside sign. The animated neon monkeys climbing the palm tree make it one of the more unusual bar signs around, and it's easy to see why it's become a local landmark. The sign even proudly proclaims, "Where Friends Meet Since 1952." 11-10
The Oasis has been welcoming customers since 1952 and has long been considered one of Muncie's best-known neighborhood taverns. Family-owned for generations, it built a loyal following before changing hands in 2020 and again in 2025. Through it all, the character of the place has remained much the same.
One of the best things to happen in recent years was the restoration of the iconic neon sign. After years of darkened tubing, the monkeys were climbing the palm tree once again when the sign was fully restored and relit in 2021. It's a great example of how a vintage sign can continue to define a business long after it first went up.
UPDATE: Oasis Bar & Grill remains open under new ownership, and its restored neon sign continues to light up Burlington Drive.
Latham Tap
Rockford, IL Photo courtesy Kelly Sullivan
The Latham Tap has been a Rockford neighborhood favorite since 1939, and its vintage sign lets you know you've found the right place. Along with daily specials, it's the kind of neighborhood bar and grill that's been serving generations of locals for decades. 07-11
Known for its burgers, grinders, cold drinks, and free popcorn, The Latham Tap has built a loyal following by keeping things simple. Over the years, its success has even led to additional Latham locations elsewhere in Rockford, but the original spot on Latham Street remains the one that started it all.
The classic sign out front continues to welcome customers just as it has for years, making it another familiar roadside landmark that's well worth a look if you're passing through town.
UPDATE: The Latham Tap remains open and continues to serve the Rockford community more than 85 years after first opening its doors.
Melody Inn
Indianapolis, IN Photo and info courtesy Emily Steele
The Melody Inn has been lighting up the corner of 38th and Illinois in Indianapolis since 1935. With its vintage neon sign glowing outside, it's easy to see why this place has become a favorite stop for both music lovers and roadside fans. 09-10
Originally opened as a neighborhood piano bar shortly after Prohibition, the Melody Inn eventually found its groove as one of Indianapolis' best-known live music venues. These days, it's especially famous for its long-running Punk Rock Night, along with countless local and touring bands that have played its small but legendary stage over the years.
Step inside and you'll find plenty of history. The original oak bar is still there, and the red vinyl booths were rescued from the old Teepee Restaurant, giving the place even more vintage character. If you're in Indianapolis, the Melody Inn is worth checking out whether you're there for the music or just to admire that great old neon sign out front.
UPDATE: The Melody Inn remains open and continues to be one of Indianapolis' favorite live music venues. 07-26
Rocky's Tap
Loves Park, IL Photo courtesy Kelly Sullivan
Rocky's Loves Park Tap has been a neighborhood gathering place in Loves Park, Illinois, for generations. Its vintage roadside sign makes it easy to spot, and from the looks of the place, it's still a popular stop for locals looking to grab a drink, catch up with friends, or take part in one of the many events held throughout the year. 07-11
Established in 1933, Rocky's has been part of the community for more than 90 years. Inside you'll find the kind of classic neighborhood tavern atmosphere that's becoming harder to find, complete with pool tables, games, and a relaxed place to unwind. There's even an outdoor deck that's a favorite gathering spot during the warmer months.
The sign out front has survived through the years and remains one of the familiar landmarks along North 2nd Street. It's another reminder that sometimes the best roadside finds aren't flashy—they're the places that have quietly stood the test of time.
UPDATE: Rocky's Loves Park Tap remains open and continues to serve as one of Loves Park's longtime neighborhood bars.
North Main Tavern (Gone)
Rockford, IL Photo courtesy Kelly Sullivan
There was something about North Main Tavern that fit the scene perfectly. The faded roadside sign looked right at home along North Main Street, almost blending into the neighborhood while still catching your eye. Sometimes those weathered old signs have more character than anything brand new. 07-11
For years, the tavern was a familiar neighborhood gathering spot in Rockford. Like many longtime bars, it welcomed anyone looking to cool off after a hot day—or just enjoy a drink with friends. The worn sign out front became part of the tavern's identity and gave the place a classic look that couldn't be duplicated.
The original building was demolished in 2012 to make way for construction of the North Main Street and Auburn Street roundabout. The owners later reopened in another nearby location under the name North Main Bar, but that business has since closed as well.
UPDATE: The original North Main Tavern and its vintage roadside sign are gone, and the later North Main Bar location has also closed.
Rockford Brewing Company
Rockford, IL Photo courtesy Kelly Sullivan
At first glance, Prairie Street Brewing Co. looks like a modern brewery that found a new home in an old building. In reality, the building itself is the real attraction. Sitting along the Rock River, this impressive brick structure dates back to 1849 and is recognized as the oldest surviving brewery building in Illinois. 07-11
After sitting vacant for years, the historic brewery was brought back to life in 2013 as a craft brewery and restaurant. Originally known as Rockford Brewing Company, it was later renamed Prairie Street Brewing Co. to better reflect the history of the landmark it now calls home.
Today, the restored complex is much more than a brewery. It includes a restaurant, event space, marina, and apartments, giving new life to one of Rockford's most historic industrial buildings. It's a great example of how an old landmark can be preserved while finding a new purpose.
UPDATE: Prairie Street Brewing Co. remains open and continues to operate from Illinois' oldest surviving brewery building.
Bone Dry (Gone)
Highland, IN Photo and info courtesy Richard Weiss
There's no mistaking a name like Bone Dry. Located along Ridge Road in Highland, Indiana, this neighborhood tavern stood out with its original-looking mid-century facade and a name that was about as fitting as they come for a bar. 09-10
The building had the look of a classic 1950s tavern and was one of those places that seemed to fit right into the streetscape. Inside was a traditional neighborhood bar complete with pool tables, dart boards, and plenty of regulars who made it their local hangout.
Unfortunately, Bone Dry closed its doors in 2023 after more than 20 years in business, bringing another longtime neighborhood tavern to an end.
UPDATE: Bone Dry permanently closed in May 2023. While the building remains standing, the tavern is no longer in business. 07-26
Oasis Bar & Grill
Latham Tap
Melody Inn
Rocky's Tap
North Main Tavern (Gone)
Rockford Brewing Company
Bone Dry (Gone)
