American Legion Dugout Bar

There were very few, quirky, dive bars in the Marin area to choose from but we are so glad that we found the dugout bar. We chose this spot for our wedding after party and filled up the place. With affordable drinks, pool, shuffleboard, boardgames and a good juke box this place was just what we were looking for.:) When we went to check it out for the first time, we found out that, coincidentally, the same woman who handles rentals at our venue (Stacy) helps run the bar! Then we felt even more at home there. It was a great night! Thanks to Stacy and the dugout bar the party continued and fun was had by all. It's a special place.

A speakeasy in Marin? Where has this place been all my life?!

Some friends and I checked out the Dugout Bar (aka the Log Cabin). It's literally a rusty shack tucked away in a sleepy San Anselmo neighborhood. I guess it's owned by the American Legion, so technically it's government property. But for all intensive purposes, this place is like a summer camp clubhouse for adults. The only thing missing was a camp counselor and some smores.

The Dugout boasts cheap drinks, darts, a pool table, shuffleboard, hula hoops (now that's something I haven't seen before), a great jukebox, volunteer bartenders (who just work for tips), a unisex bathroom with a black light and a door that won't lock.

Apparently, the Dugout was the first Marin bar to regain its liquor license after the repeal of Prohibition. I don't know if that's true or not, but this place has definitely been around for awhile (and so have many of the colorful patrons). This is the diviest of dive bars - and I loved every inch of the place. It's been a long time since I heard the words "last call" at a Marin Bar (and it was actually 1:45am). Hell, you're lucky to find a bar that stays opens til 10pm.

I look forward to enjoying more last calls and good times at the Dugout.

A friend of mine recently rented this bar for a party. It ended up being a really phenomenal event, in part due to the venue.

It's a beautiful rustic old building tucked away from the main road. The log cabin oozes character and history. The employees are good natured and helpful. There's an excellent little stage for live music. Several long wood tables stretch the length of the main hall.

The whole building has an "adult summer camp" type vibe too it. Perhaps that's why the patrons really seem to cut loose and have a good time.....or maybe it was just the booze. Either way, it's a great place for a private event.