The Velveteen Rabbit opened in 2013 and is one of the bars credited with kickstarting the Arts District revival. Sisters Pamela and Christina Dylag built out a small mid-century space with vintage furniture, original art on every wall, and a cocktail programme that rotates seasonally and reads more like a tasting menu than a drink list. The result is a properly grown-up bar that feels nothing like the Strip.
The patio out back is one of the best outdoor drinking spaces in the city — string lights, mismatched seats, and live jazz some nights. The bar runs a low-key live music programme indoors and hosts the occasional poetry reading. Beer and wine lists are well chosen but cocktails are the reason to come. A short rideshare from downtown or central Strip.