Pioneer Saloon Travel Guide — Nevada

Our Pioneer Saloon guide covers practical planning for Pioneer Saloon Nevada — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

For over a century, the Pioneer Saloon Nevada has stood as a rugged testament to the Old West, a living relic nestled in the small, historic mining town of Goodsprings. Far from the neon glow of the Las Vegas Strip, this iconic establishment, dating back to 1913, offers an authentic glimpse into Nevada's rich past. Our team at Roam States believes in experiencing the true character of a destination, and the Pioneer Saloon delivers just that: a confident, specific, and utterly unique slice of American history. We’ve compiled everything you need to know to plan your visit, from its storied past to practical tips for your 2026 trip.

Why Visit Pioneer Saloon

Stepping into the Pioneer Saloon is like stepping back in time. Built in 1913 by Clark County Commissioner George Fayle, it's one of Nevada's oldest continuously operating saloons, constructed from distinctive stamped tin from the Sears Roebuck Company. This isn't some manufactured theme park experience; this is the real deal, with creaking wooden floorboards and a genuine 1860s mahogany bar that journeyed by sea around Cape Horn before finding its home here.

The saloon's walls whisper tales of a bygone era. You can still see the three bullet holes from a fatal 1915 poker game, a grim reminder of the rough-and-tumble lives of early miners and cowboys. Beyond the local lore, the Pioneer Saloon holds a poignant connection to Hollywood history. It’s famously where legendary actor Clark Gable reportedly waited for three agonizing days in 1942, hoping for news of his wife, Carole Lombard, after her plane tragically crashed on nearby Potosi Mountain. A dedicated room within the saloon preserves memorabilia from this heartbreaking chapter, including the very chair where Gable sat.

But it's not just about history. The Pioneer Saloon offers a vibrant atmosphere for modern-day travelers. It's renowned for its delicious food, particularly its burgers and BBQ, with the "Ghost Burger" even featured on Food Network. You can enjoy live music, karaoke nights, and special events throughout the year. Whether you're a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast (the saloon is rumored to be haunted), a biker, or simply someone seeking an authentic experience away from the glitz of The Las Vegas Strip, the Pioneer Saloon offers a memorable escape. It's a true piece of Nevada history, a living museum where you can literally belly up to the bar and drink in the past.

Who It's Best For

The Pioneer Saloon caters to a wonderfully eclectic mix of visitors, reflecting its rich history and unique charm. We find it's particularly ideal for:

• History Buffs: If you're fascinated by the Old West, mining history, or early Hollywood, the saloon's preserved artifacts, bullet holes, and Clark Gable connection offer an immersive experience.
• Motorcycle Riders & Off-Road Enthusiasts: Goodsprings is a popular destination for bikers and those exploring the surrounding desert trails via ATV or UTV. The saloon serves as a perfect pit stop.
• Families (during the day): While the saloon bar itself is 21 and over, the entire property is family-friendly. Kids are welcome in the dining area, the Goodsprings General Store, and all outdoor patio areas. Daytime visits are encouraged for families.
• Paranormal Investigators & Ghost Hunters: With its long history and tragic tales, the Pioneer Saloon is rumored to be haunted, attracting those interested in the supernatural.
• "Fallout: New Vegas" Fans: The saloon gained modern-day fame through its inclusion in the popular video game, drawing gamers eager to see the real-life inspiration.
• Travelers Seeking Authenticity: If you're looking to escape the manufactured experiences and discover a genuine piece of Americana, the Pioneer Saloon offers an unfiltered taste of Nevada's frontier spirit.
• Day Trippers from Las Vegas: Located just 25-35 miles from the Strip, it's an easy and rewarding excursion for those looking for a change of pace.

Essentially, if you appreciate character, history, good food, and a friendly atmosphere, you'll feel right at home at the Pioneer Saloon.

Getting There & Parking

Reaching the Pioneer Saloon is part of the adventure, offering a scenic drive through the Mojave Desert. The saloon is located in Goodsprings, Nevada, roughly 25 to 35 miles southwest of the Las Vegas Strip. The drive typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point in Las Vegas.

How to Get There

The most common way to reach the Pioneer Saloon is by car. From the Las Vegas Strip, we recommend taking I-15 South to the Jean, NV off-ramp at Exit 12. From there, head west on Nevada Route 161 (also known as Spring Mountain Road) for about 5-7 miles. You'll find the Pioneer Saloon and the Goodsprings General Store on your right as you enter the town of Goodsprings.

While ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft can drop you off, be aware that they generally will not pick you up from Goodsprings, so ensure you have return transportation arranged. For those seeking a more adventurous arrival, some visitors come by bicycle, motorcycle, off-road vehicle, or even helicopter! Several tour companies also offer guided ATV or UTV tours from Las Vegas that include a stop at the Pioneer Saloon, often with lunch.

Pioneer Saloon Parking

When you arrive, you'll be pleased to find ample parking available. There is plenty of free parking in the acre-sized dirt lot located behind the Pioneer Saloon. It's important to note that you should avoid parking in surrounding lots, as they are privately owned. After parking, we advise walking around to the front (highway side) to enter the saloon.

If you or anyone in your party is under 21, you'll need to enter through the front door of the Goodsprings General Store. Those 21 and over can use the saloon's front doors. On busy days, all customers might be directed through the general store first to help staff manage seating and orders efficiently.

Top Things to Do

A visit to the Pioneer Saloon is much more than just grabbing a drink; it's an immersive historical experience. Here are the top things to do at Pioneer Saloon and in the surrounding area:

Things to Do at Pioneer Saloon

• Soak in the History: Marvel at the saloon's original stamped tin walls from Sears Roebuck, the authentic 1860s mahogany bar, and the vintage potbelly stove. It truly feels like a step back into the Wild West.
• See the Bullet Holes: Locate the three bullet holes in the west-facing wall, a tangible remnant of a fatal poker game from 1915. The table where the incident occurred is often placed nearby.
• Explore the Clark Gable Room: Visit the area dedicated to Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. See memorabilia from their tragic story, including the chair where Gable waited for news of his wife.
• Visit the Mini-Museum: Inside the dining room, you'll find a mini-museum displaying antiques, including the original cash register used when the saloon opened in 1913.
• Enjoy the Food: The Pioneer Saloon is famous for its hearty American fare, especially its burgers and BBQ. Don't miss the "Ghost Burger," which has been featured on the Food Network. They also offer a country breakfast on weekends and a variety of drinks.
• Catch Live Entertainment: Check the saloon's calendar for live music, karaoke nights, and other special events.
• Go Ghost Hunting: Due to its long and sometimes tragic history, the saloon is a popular spot for paranormal investigations. Some tours specifically focus on its haunted past.
• Shop at the Goodsprings General Store: Located next door, the General Store offers souvenirs and a chance to experience another piece of Goodsprings' history.

Things to Do in Goodsprings

Beyond the saloon, the town of Goodsprings itself is a living ghost town, offering additional exploration:

• Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour: Explore the remnants of this once-booming mining town. You can stroll past historic buildings like the Goodsprings Schoolhouse (built in 1913 and on the National Register of Historic Places), miner cabins, the old post office, the Robbins family home, and the Goodsprings Cemetery. Interpretive signs often provide historical context.
• Hit the Trails: The Goodsprings area boasts several scenic hiking trails, such as the Goodsprings RR Ridge Loop (a moderate 2.2-2.5 mile loop) and the Dead Horse Loop. These trails offer panoramic desert and mountain views, mining artifacts, and a chance to spot local wildlife like wild burros.
• Embark on an Off-Road Adventure: Goodsprings is a hub for off-roading. You can rent ATVs or UTVs or join guided tours that take you through desert washes, Joshua tree stands, and old mining sites.
• Visit Seven Magic Mountains: A short drive away, this vibrant art installation by Ugo Rondinone features seven towering stacks of brightly painted boulders, creating a striking contrast against the desert landscape. It's a popular photo opportunity.
• Explore Jean Dry Lake Bed: Near Jean, this vast, cracked dry lake bed has been featured in films and music videos and is perfect for off-highway vehicle riding or catching a surreal desert sunset.
• Adrenaline Mountain: Near Jean, this adventure park offers activities like off-road vehicle driving, firearm shooting, axe throwing, and even flamethrower operation for adrenaline seekers.

Best Time to Visit

The Pioneer Saloon is open year-round, seven days a week, making it accessible whenever your travels bring you to Southern Nevada. However, our team has a few recommendations to help you choose the best time to visit based on your preferences:

• For a Lively Atmosphere: Weekends are generally busier at the Pioneer Saloon, especially when live music or special events are scheduled. If you enjoy a bustling crowd, camaraderie, and the chance to experience local entertainment, a weekend visit is ideal.
• For a Quieter, More Intimate Experience: Weekdays, particularly during daytime hours, tend to be less crowded. This allows for a more relaxed exploration of the saloon's historical artifacts and a chance to chat with staff or locals.
• For Outdoor Activities: The cooler months, typically fall through spring (October to April), are the best time for hiking and off-road adventures in the surrounding Mojave Desert. Goodsprings is at a higher elevation (around 3700 feet) than Las Vegas, so it can be about 10 degrees cooler, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
• During Summer: While the desert heat can be intense, the saloon is equipped with swamp coolers inside and large fans outside to help keep visitors comfortable. The area is beautiful year-round, and the dry climate means evenings can still be pleasant.
• For Families: We encourage families to visit during daytime hours, ideally before 6 PM, as the saloon transitions to a 21-and-over environment in the evening and entertainment may become adult-oriented.

The Pioneer Saloon generally opens at 11 AM on weekdays and 9 AM on weekends. The kitchen typically serves food until 8 PM on weekdays and 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, with the bar usually staying open an hour later each night. If you're interested in breakfast, arrive before noon on weekends.

Where to Stay Nearby

While Goodsprings itself is a small, historic town without traditional hotels (the famous Hotel Fayle burned down in 1966), there are several excellent Pioneer Saloon lodging options within a reasonable driving distance. Most visitors choose to stay in the southern part of Las Vegas or in the nearby towns of Jean or Primm, which offer a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.

Pioneer Saloon Lodging Options:

• South Las Vegas Area: This is the most popular choice, offering a balance of proximity to Goodsprings and access to the amenities of Las Vegas. Hotels here are typically 17-21 miles from the Pioneer Saloon.
  • South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa: A well-regarded option with a casino, multiple restaurants, and a pool. It's family-friendly and often receives excellent reviews.
  • M Resort Spa Casino: A luxury resort in Henderson, offering a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and highly-rated service.
  • Grandview at Las Vegas: An aparthotel offering free WiFi, multiple outdoor pools, and hot tubs, ideal for families or longer stays.
  • Durango Casino & Resort: A newer, highly-rated luxury option in Las Vegas.
  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Southwest I-215 Curve: A comfortable, well-reviewed option for those seeking Hilton reliability.
• Jean & Primm: Located directly on I-15, these towns are even closer to Goodsprings, offering more budget-friendly and casino-focused Pioneer Saloon lodging.
  • Primm Valley Hotel & Casino, a Travelodge by Wyndham: A business-friendly resort in Primm.
  • Buffalo Bill's Resort & Casino, a Travelodge by Wyndham: Another option in Primm, often praised for its value.
• Unique Stays & Glamping: For a more unconventional experience, consider glamping or vacation rentals in the surrounding desert.
  • Log Cabin near Las Vegas ~ West Bungalow: A vacation home located directly in Goodsprings, just a 10-minute walk from the Pioneer Saloon. It's pet-friendly for dogs under 20 lbs.
  • Sandy Valley Ranch: Offers glamping accommodations (like renovated Airstreams) about an hour from Las Vegas, near Goodsprings. It's a dude ranch with horseback riding and other activities, providing a tranquil desert hideaway.

When selecting your Pioneer Saloon lodging, consider how much time you plan to spend in Goodsprings versus other Las Vegas attractions. The hotels in South Las Vegas provide a good base for exploring both the city and the desert, while options in Jean or Primm offer closer proximity to the saloon and a more immediate desert experience.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To truly savor the history and charm of the Pioneer Saloon and its surrounding desert landscape, we recommend dedicating at least two days. Here’s a sample itinerary crafted by our team to help you plan an unforgettable trip:

Day 1: History, Haunts, and Desert Charm

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Journey to Goodsprings & Saloon Immersion
  • Begin your day with a scenic 30-45 minute drive from Las Vegas to Goodsprings.
  • Arrive at the Pioneer Saloon. If it's a weekend, enjoy a hearty country breakfast (served until noon).
  • Spend the late morning exploring the saloon's rich history. Marvel at the stamped tin walls, the 1860s mahogany bar, and the infamous bullet holes.
  • Visit the Clark Gable Room to see the memorabilia and learn about his poignant wait for news of Carole Lombard. Don't forget to check out the mini-museum with its original cash register.
  • Enjoy lunch at the saloon, perhaps trying their famous "Ghost Burger" or some classic BBQ.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Goodsprings Ghost Town Exploration
  • After lunch, embark on a self-guided walking tour of Goodsprings. Pick up a local history guide if available.
  • Visit the historic Goodsprings Schoolhouse, the Goodsprings Cemetery, and other remaining structures from the mining boomtown era.
  • If you're feeling adventurous, head out for a short hike on one of the local trails, like a portion of the Goodsprings RR Ridge Loop, to take in the desert views and spot old mining artifacts.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Local Entertainment
  • Return to the Pioneer Saloon for dinner. Enjoy more of their menu and soak in the evening ambiance.
  • If it's a weekend, stay for live music or karaoke, immersing yourself in the local scene.
  • For those interested in the paranormal, consider joining a ghost tour if one is scheduled, or simply enjoy the saloon's rumored haunted vibe.
  • If you opted for lodging in Goodsprings, enjoy a quiet desert night under the stars. Otherwise, make the short drive back to your accommodation in Jean, Primm, or South Las Vegas.

Day 2: Desert Adventures & Iconic Sights

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Off-Road Thrills or Scenic Views
  • Choose your adventure:
    • Option A (Adrenaline): Book an ATV or UTV tour from Goodsprings or nearby Jean. Explore the Mojave Desert's rugged trails, washes, and old mining sites. Many tours include lunch at the Pioneer Saloon, so you could revisit!
    • Option B (Scenic & Art): Drive to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area (approx. 45-60 minutes from Goodsprings) for stunning desert landscapes, hiking, and photography. Alternatively, visit the vibrant Seven Magic Mountains art installation on your way back towards Las Vegas.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Hoover Dam or Las Vegas Exploration
  • Depending on your morning activity, transition to another iconic Southern Nevada attraction:
    • Option A (Engineering Marvel): Head towards the Hoover Dam (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes from Goodsprings) for a fascinating tour of this engineering wonder.
    • Option B (City Exploration): Return to Las Vegas to explore specific areas of the Strip you haven't seen, visit a museum, or enjoy some shopping.
• Evening: Departure or Continued Vegas Fun
  • Depending on your travel plans, either head to the airport for your departure or enjoy a final evening in Las Vegas, perhaps catching a show or dining at one of the city's renowned restaurants.

This itinerary offers a blend of history, outdoor adventure, and iconic Nevada sights, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience centered around the unique Pioneer Saloon.

Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.