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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
