Drink in Silver State history in watering holes you’ll only find here: Sagebrush Saloons, the birthplaces of tall tales, long pours, and our Wild West heritage. Luckily, you’ll stumble across saloons all over the state—from Virginia City to Carson City, Pioche to Goodsprings, and everywhere between.
Sagebrush Saloons
The Best Watering Holes on Nevada’s Backroads
Sagebrush Saloons aren’t just any old bars. Past patrons include miners, buckaroos, traders, outlaws, Golden Age movie stars, and famous mischief-makers like Mark Twain. If only these walls (and original red oil lamps, cobweb-covered paintings, and creaky 19th-century wood floors) could talk.
There are no items matching your search.
The Oldest Bars in Nevada
Looking for the oldest saloons in Nevada? Start in the oldest towns. These watering holes were a part of Silver State history before we joined the Union in 1864.
Pioneer Saloon
Find the oldest bar in southern Nevada in the bygone boomtown of Goodsprings, just 45 minutes from Las Vegas. When the railroad came through in 1910, this mineral-rich area southwest of modern-day Las Vegas attracted plenty of miners—most of whom would end a long shift parched and ready to unwind. The Pioneer Saloon—opened in 1913—became the perfect locale to relax and enjoy a frosty pour.
Plenty of history marks the walls of this historic saloon, including the stamped tin ceiling—courtesy of Sears, Roebuck and Co., of course—that’s among the last of its kind in the U.S. Its mahogany Brunswick bar was brought here from its first home in Rhyolite, about 150 miles northwest. In 1942, movie star Clark Gable left still-visible cigar burns in the wood while awaiting news about his wife, Carole Lombard, and others after their plane crashed into nearby Mt. Potosi.
Thousands of movies and TV shows have been filmed here, including plenty on Food Network, so be sure to order up some eats.
Genoa Bar & Saloon
The Genoa Bar & Saloon proudly goes by the moniker of “Nevada’s Oldest Thirst Parlor.” Boasting more than 170 years of history, the oldest bar in the Silver State oozes hardy charm from every long-faded painting, floor creak, and crumbly brick—and plenty of stories.
This historic watering hole snuck its way through Prohibition by operating under the guise of a soda fountain, separating guests into a gentlemen’s saloon or ladies lounge. While the owners no longer distill bathtub gin in the cellar, the ambiance remains the same—and has attracted a handful of U.S. presidents and celebs, including Raquel Welch, Stephen King, and Clint Eastwood.
We recommend their famous Genoa Bar Bloody Mary. While you sip it, be sure to wander the saloon’s eclectic decor, which ranges from risque paintings to historic Nevada memorabilia. And be sure to ask the bartender about the diamond dust mirror hanging behind the bar and the original red oil lamp overhead.
Our Favorite Sagebrush Saloons
Picture a Western saloon that slides whiskeys across their old wooden bars—delivered by train or wagon—where locals and adventurers alike rub elbows, swap tips, and share stories. It all still happens in Nevada’s Sagebrush Saloons.
If you’re looking to celebrate a hard-earned day exploring Nevada, park the rig for a while, pull up a stool, and toast your way back in time. And it goes without saying: Always sip responsibly.
Red Dog Saloon—Jarbidge
Situated below the spectacular Jarbidge Wilderness Area, this northeastern Nevada town is said to be among the most remote places in the Lower 48.
Some of the state’s best outdoor recreation is in this corner of the state, and if that’s not enough to make you feel free, the town’s Old West vibes will do the trick. With about 20 year-round residents, no paved roads, and only one intersection, this small community offers more in the way of history than first meets the eye.
Explore the Jarbidge Jail and Community Hall, then head for the Red Dog Saloon, situated in the heart of the main drag. Order up a cold one, drop a few quarters in the jukebox, and cheers alongside the locals. Whether you just traveled more than 60 miles on dirt roads or took the (mostly) paved route via Idaho to get here, you earned this one.
Lucky Spur Saloon—Kingston
Nestled in the foothills of Kingston Canyon, about 30 minutes south of the Loneliest Road in America, you’ll find one of the Sagebrush Saloon greats.
There are few better bar counter views than the one at this Silver State hideout, overlooking the spectacular Big Smoky Valley below. Stay a spell before or after experiencing the nearby fishing and camping, pictograph-adorned Toquima Cave, some of the tallest peaks in the state, hot springs, and everything else in the area.
Jiggs Bar—Jiggs
There’s just something about the chime of that old-school cash register and the reward of a frosty beer after a day spent hiking the Ruby Crest Trail.
Just south of Elko—and not far from Lamoille Canyon—Jiggs Bar offers classic saloon vibes with a healthy dose of unusual taxidermy. While enjoying a cold one, ask about local history and learn how this small ranching community was once a bandit hideout.
Iggy & Squiggy’s Junction Bar—Topaz Lake
Two words: Nevada Martini. But don’t expect shakers or frills at this Nevada saloon and biker hangout.
That said, do expect plenty of olives. Choose a draft beer, then pick from a variety of stuffed olives to complete your “cocktail,” and say cheers to your Nevada rite of passage. Complete the ritual by ordering a cheeseburger basket—one of our favorite treats in the Silver State—and washing it down with your frosty, salty malt, then finishing with a butterscotch ice cream sandwich.
Happy Burro Chili & Beer—Beatty
Award-winning chili and a cold PBR in a historic shack? Count us in.
Beatty is the only surviving community in what was once the massively successful Bullfrog Mining District. Today, this town accommodates snowbirds, road trippers, and of course, visitors to Death Valley National Park. After a day of exploring, head to this historic saloon to grab a dog or burger (don’t forget to add chili) and keep an eye out for wild burros that roam the town.
Oh, and be sure to check out the creative touch in the men’s room.
#TravelNevada
As you sip your way around the Silver State, tag #TravelNevada to show off your favorite Sagebrush Saloons. If we love the shots you took, you may find one featured here.
