Welcome to Exchange Tavern
Exchange Tavern, nestled in Spanaway, WA, has been a beloved local haunt since 1890, showcasing a rich history with a distinct Western charm. Known affectionately as "The Bucket of Blood," this dive bar features original wood floors and an ambiance that echoes its storied past. Here, patrons enjoy cold beers and hearty drinks alongside a casual, friendly atmosphere—peanut shells on the floor included! With a pool table and pull tabs, it’s an ideal spot for social gatherings or a low-key night out. The welcoming staff and vibrant community spirit make Exchange Tavern a true hidden gem for both locals and visitors.
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16117 Park Ave S, Spanaway, WA 98387, United States Hotline: +1 253-531-8833
Welcome to Exchange Tavern, a charming dive bar nestled at 16117 Park Ave S, Spanaway, WA. Established in 1890, this historic local gem, affectionately known as "The Bucket of Blood," transports you back in time with its rustic wooden floors and unpretentious atmosphere. For over 130 years, it has been a beloved establishment, serving cold drinks and hearty fare to both locals and visitors alike.
As you step inside, the vibe is unmistakably authentic. With one pool table, a lively jukebox, and the unmistakable sound of laughter echoing off the walls, Exchange Tavern embodies the essence of a true neighborhood bar. It’s a place where you can take off your boots and unwind—where peanut shells end up on the floor, and camaraderie thrives. The friendly bartenders are always ready to serve up generous pours, ensuring your glass is never empty.
Dive bars often have a unique charm that draws a crowd, and Exchange Tavern is no exception. According to regular patrons, the environment is warm and welcoming, making it easy to strike up a conversation or challenge someone to a game of 8-ball. On Wednesdays, the bar transforms into a competitive but friendly arena with its pool tournaments, drawing in locals looking to show off their skills.
The food at Exchange Tavern complements its laid-back spirit. While diving into the menu might reveal uncomplicated yet satisfying offerings, many visitors rave about the simple pleasure of indulging in snacks while enjoying cold beers. The atmosphere encourages sharing stories, making new friends, and savoring every moment, all while feeling perfectly at home. It's not about a fancy dining experience here; it's about feeling like part of the family.
As you immerse yourself in the communal vibe, you can't help but appreciate the charm that comes from being in one of Washington's oldest and most storied locales. Whether you’re a biker revving up after a long ride or a local simply looking for a good time, Exchange Tavern provides a sanctuary filled with nostalgia and good cheer. Come visit, and experience a piece of history while creating your own stories to share.
The Exchange is a nice little, off the beaten path dive bar with one pool table, pull tabs, jukebox and food at the bar. It's hidden away from the main street areas and not alot of people know about it, and I'd like to keep it that way! Lol
The Exchange Tavern in Spanaway is a piece of living history—established in 1890 and still serving up cold beer and stiff drinks over 130 years later. Originally known by the colorful nickname “The Bucket of Blood,” this spot started as a loggers’ saloon and still carries that gritty, authentic old Western charm. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve time-traveled. The original wood floors have seen generations come and go, and the bar still feels like the kind of place where stories are made and legends are told. The beer is ice-cold, the pours are generous, and the vibe is delightfully rough around the edges. If you ride a Harley, you’ll fit right in—but even if you don’t, just smile, be respectful, and buy a round. That’s usually enough to earn your place. Yes, you might get a curious glance or two, but it’s all part of the atmosphere. This place is real. It’s got character. And it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re anywhere near Spanaway.
Have fun great place to eat peanut shells on the ground how many more years but showed up and it was great excellent service
This place is a legendary dive bar. "Dive Bar" is a term that means shells on the floor, local flavor, and great bartenders. "Legendary" simply means time tested. This place is historic. Established and operating in some form of commerce since 1890, SET is a neighborhood backyard. No pretense. Often comfortable.
Very chill place to go very low key spot ...great competition to get into a game of 8 ball tournament every Wednesday at 630 great drinks eat nuts spit them on the floor it's my kinda favorite place to go and have a safe and good times
One of the oldest bars in Washington was our cousin's favorite spots. They accommodated our family reception with great service and smiles. We love the Exchange!
Everything you need in a neighborhood bar. Great service, cold beer, pull tabs. Friendly staff. Remember your Peanut shells belong on the floor. Located in one of the oldest buildings in the county.
Best place to go for social gathering and to make new friends everybody there are very nice and always welcoming other people in very nice environment of throwing shells on the ground and shooting pool and listen to to music