Pioneer Saloon

The basics

The tin exterior and cherry wood interior of the Pioneer Saloon have stood the test of time, and added artifacts detail its storied history. Inside, walls are lined with newspaper clippings of bar patrons including, famously, Clark Gable, who spent two days sidled up to the bar awaiting word of his wife Carole Lombard’s fate following a plane crash.

Bullet holes from an early skirmish that killed a gambling man still scar the walls near a framed copy of his death certificate; his ghost is said to linger near the bar’s original card tables. Barkeeps also claim they’ve seen an old prospector waiting at the end of the bar. Such sightings have earned the Pioneer Saloon a haunted reputation, which the owners embrace, and the spot is including in ghost-hunting tours. Visitors also head here for food, drink, and entertainment.

Things to know before you go

• Pioneer Saloon is a must-see for history buffs, movie lovers, and ghost hunters.

• The saloon offers a free shuttle from Las Vegas to Goodsprings.

• A full bar and menu are available.

How to get there

Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings is about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Las Vegas via I-15. At the town of Jean (exit 12), turn right down 161 and travel for 7 miles. The saloon is on the right. Shuttles to and from downtown Las Vegas for those visiting the saloon on a tour are also available.

When to get there

The saloon is open daily, from morning to evening; the bar stays open later on the weekends. Check the saloon’s website for updated information on shows, karaoke nights, and special events.

The Goodsprings General Store

You’ll find staples such as milk, butter, eggs, cheese, and meat next door at this general store. There are also grilling supplies and souvenirs for sale. The store, which was originally a café, used to feed miners working in the area. The building is one of the few operating buildings in Nevada made with pressed tin.

Ways to explore

The Pioneer Saloon is located in the ghost town of Goodsprings, Nevada, a one-time mining community that’s a popular stop on day trips from Las Vegas. Such tours generally include a visit to the Pioneer Saloon—you can stop for a drink, or just check out the memorabilia on display. On weekend afternoons and evenings, the Pioneer Saloon often features live entertainment, which ranges from family-friendly music to adults-only burlesque shows. The saloon serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu whose highlights include burgers topped with fiery homemade ghost pepper sauce.

Accessibility

The Pioneer Saloon is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

While the dining room and shop are family-friendly, visitors must be aged 21 and older to visit the saloon itself.

What to pack

Sun protection, cash, phone

What to wear

Weather in Goodsprings tends to be cooler than in Las Vegas, so plan to bring layered clothing.

Not allowed

Pets are not allowed in the indoor dining room and saloon, but service animals are welcome.

Amenities

Restrooms, ATMs

Address

The Pioneer Saloon is on State Route 161, at the corner of the highway and Fayle Street. It’s a roughly 38-minute drive from Las Vegas. There are multiple ways to get there, including driving, biking, off-roading, and even horseback riding.

Driving

From Las Vegas, follow Interstate 15 south to Exit 12, then turn right onto Goodsprings Road/State Route 161. From there, it’s 6.7 miles (10.8 kilometers) to the saloon. Free parking is available on-site.

Public transportation

There’s no bus to Goodsprings from Las Vegas. Rideshare companies will generally drop passengers from Las Vegas at the saloon, but they don’t usually do pickups on-site. Instead, visit by booking a guided tour with round-trip transportation included.

Best times to visit

Come during daylight hours to enjoy the sun in the outdoor seating area—for the old-school saloon experience, though, it’s worth visiting at night.

Best days to visit

Weekends can get busy, so visit during the week to avoid waiting for a table. To catch music and entertainment, swing by on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday afternoon.

Best months to visit

Mild temperatures and sun make spring and fall particularly pleasant times to visit Goodsprings. Consider coming in March through May or September through October.

Special events

The annual Pioneer Saloon Halloween party draws a crowd for themed activities, entertainment, and a haunted house.