As President Obama walked his path to victory, it became clear that a lot of people across the country -- happy and not -- need a stiff drink. It's been a rough election cycle, to say the least, and these swing states have seen more than their share of name-calling and voter-pandering. The beleaguered residents in these states could use the solace of a great local bar, so we at Fathom would like to present a handy guide for where we can raise a glass to the end of campaigning.
Colorado
At Denver's Williams & Graham, you can order The Prize Fighter if you're feeling celebratory. If you're undecided until the last minute, try your luck with a Figure It Out. Those who voted for the runner-up should head to Root Down in Denver. Independent Ticket? Your bar is Boulder's Mountain Sun.
Florida
Drown your sorrows in the divey Churchill's Pub in Miami. Or sweat out your anxiety on the dance floor while slinging beer. Or cruise from Tampa Bay to New Smyrna Beach and sop up the excitement with a fish sandwich.
Iowa
El Bait Shop in Des Moines claims that it's the only 1970s nautical-themed Mexican BBQ restaurant you'll ever come across. With the biggest selection of American microbrews. Talk about a melting pot! If the election doesn't go your way, hide out at Red Monk on the second floor of The Royal Mile (also in Des Moines), and think about secession while drinking beer from Flanders.
Nevada
You gambled big. Now party down at the local watering holes in downtown Vegas. Mob Bar for the one percent. Frankie's Tiki Room for the other 99. Crown & Anchor for the Green Card holders.
New Hampshire
Go hard or go home at sustainable bar and restaurant Root in Bethlehem. Searching for meaning? Get thee to The Holy Grail in Epping, and heavenly spirits will provide salvation. If you haven't eaten in days, it's off to The District, Black Trumpet Bistro, and Library Restaurant in Portsmouth.
North Carolina
Get out the vote and go to Fullsteam in Durham. Beer advocates lobby for the dependable and divey Thomas Street Tavern in Charlotte.
Ohio
Gather, all ye independent thinkers and imported beer drinkers, at The Tree Bar in Columbus.
Pennsylvania
A strong drink is the order of the day at The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co. in Philly, where effective enforcement of prohibition is impossible. The people's pub is The Grey Lodge in Philadelphia, while Dee's Cafe in Pittsburgh lets you express yourself through the jukebox.
Virginia
It's going to be a long night. Fill up at The Coffee Pot in Roanoke. Or remember simpler times at throwback bar PX in Alexandria.
Wisconsin
They say Wisconsin is king at The Old Fashioned in Madison. You'll be at the heart of America at the centenarian Holler House in Milwaukee, where there are bras, bros, beers, and bowling on some of the oldest lanes in the country.
FOLLOW THE RESULTS
YOUR TURN
Where are you going to celebrate — or drown your sorrows? Tell us in the comments below.
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