“Dubois is a classic old West town, and the Cowboy Cafe fits right in with its rustic, homey feel. The cafe embraces Western hospitality, with friendly service and a cozy, welcoming vibe. One of the biggest reasons people love the Cowboy Cafe is its homemade pies. Flavors like huckleberry, apple, peach and pecan keep visitors coming back. Located along Highway 26, the Cowboy Cafe is a must-stop for road trippers heading to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, or outdoor adventurers exploring the Wind River Range.”
– Josh T., Arvada, Colorado
Our team's favorite watering holes in the Greater Yellowstone
The creek of floorboards. The squeak of swinging double saloon doors and they open, and close again. The pop of a cork from a bottle. The tip of a hat. They’re all elements familiar to anyone whose movie taste frequents the Spaghetti Western genre. And the setting? The good ol’ Western bar.
Saloons west of the Mississippi date back to unruly days even before railroads, serving the region’s early population of fur trappers, cowboys, soldiers, lumberjacks, lawmen and outlaws alike. The region’s earliest was in Brown’s Hole, Wyoming, founded in 1822. Bars serve as an important port in which both neighbors and visitors could exchange the latest headlines, celebrate a victory or nurse a defeat, grab a meal and libation, and feel at home, no matter if they were or not.
Today, while times have certainly changed, the spirit of the Western bar lives on—in fact many of the originals still stand proudly serving their communities. We asked the Explore Yellowstone team to reveal their favorites, and we’ve compiled them here for our spring 2025 Cowboy Bar Guide. These are the spots that not only make this town big enough for the two of us, but big enough for anyone who’s of the mind to pull up a barstool and appreciate a cold drink.
Cheers,
The Editors
Cowboy Cafe
Dubois, Wyoming
The Miner Saloon
Cooke City, Montana
“Cooke City is quite an experience. It's really a mission to get there, and the town is incredibly small. During the summer this bar in the middle of nowhere is filled with fly fishermen traveling from far and wide to fish the local rivers. While during the winter it's packed with snowmobilers and backcountry skiers seeking the incredible snow that the nearby mountain ranges offer. Either season, it's an incredible spot, and offers an awesome remote Montana bar experience.”
– George V., Bozeman, Montana
– George V., Bozeman, Montana
Stacey's Bar
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
“Tucked off of U.S. Highway 191 between Big Sky and Bozeman along the Gallatin River, Stacey’s is a mainstay that provides a warm environment, hearty steak dinner and honest pours of local brews. While the area around it grows, Stacey’s remains consistent and reliable.”
– Eric L., Big Sky, Montana
– Eric L., Big Sky, Montana
“To me, this bar embodies the true spirit of the West with its perfect blend of locals and tourists, creating an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and timeless. Stepping inside, you get a sense of old Montana—like you've been transported back to its early days. The food is exactly what you crave in Big Sky Country—a hearty steak or a classic burger that hits the spot. And with the addition of the dance hall, it’s more than just a bar—it’s the ultimate place to kick back, enjoy great company, and experience an unforgettable night.”
– Coco C., Bozeman, Montana
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
“Have you ever seen 40 of the world's best professional bull riders arm wrestle for who pays the bar tab, while the late Toby Keith shows up and grabs the mic from the house band on stage and starts singing classic country songs? These are the types of legendary stories that happen at the Cowboy Bar.”
– Erisn O., Bozeman, Montana
– Erisn O., Bozeman, Montana
The Tetonia Club
Tetonia, Idaho
“Located on the main drag of Tetonia, this club feels like a warm cabin when you walk in complete with a wood stove in the corner. It's not uncommon to see a singular cowboy sitting at the bar or a funk band there to play for the night. While this is also a classic ski bar, there's nothing more Western than skiing, in my opinion.”
– Taylor O., Bozeman, Montana
– Taylor O., Bozeman, Montana
Pony Bar
Pony, Montana
“What’s not to love about the Pony Bar? Credit cards beware, this bar takes cash only, no exceptions. The moment you walk into the Pony Bar you are greeted with the bright lights of 30-year-old slot machines, live music, pool, and, last but not least, CHEAP drinks! Not to mention, gun raffles. What’s not to love?”
– Eric L., Big Sky, Montana
– Eric L., Big Sky, Montana
“Pony bar is off the beaten path. It has cold beer and good food. It’s usually quiet and has a special place in our family history.”
– EJ D., Bozeman, Montana
Roadkill Bar
McLeod, Montana
“Where else can you find a bar in the middle of nowhere with the following sign posted out front: ‘WARNING. Property patrolled by a crazy bitch with dogs and automatic weapons. ANYONE found here at night will be found here in the morning. Have a nice day.’”
– Eli K., Bozeman, Montana
– Eli K., Bozeman, Montana
Snow Creek Saloon
Red Lodge, Montana
“The Snow Creek Saloon boasts a classic, rustic charm with its wood-paneled walls, vintage decor, the local people (and usually local dogs) creating a genuine old West feel. One afternoon after skiing all day we were sitting there having a beer and someone rode their horse into the bar. The saloon regularly hosts live music performances, ranging from local bands to touring musicians, adding to the lively atmosphere and creating a fun, energetic vibe.”
– Graham M., Bozeman, Montana
– Graham M., Bozeman, Montana
The Ranch Bar
Anaconda, Montana
“It’s where the locals go and there’s a feeling of community. The cheers of Anaconda!”
– Leslie K., Big Sky, Montana
– Leslie K., Big Sky, Montana
Corral Bar
Big Sky, Montana
“Built in 1947 with all original structure still intact, the Corral is one of the few remaining pieces of the old Montana West, especially here in Big Sky. Originally built as a dance hall and watering hole for cowboys wrangling in the area, the walls still have bullet holes from late-night altercations gone awry. It's one of the oldest buildings in Big Sky and continues to be a great spot for locals and travelers alike.”
– Griffin H., Big Sky, Montana
– Griffin H., Big Sky, Montana
The Bank Bar & Vault Restaurant
Wilsall, Montana
“I love Bank Bar because it’s still a place where you can throw peanut shells on the floor, grab a burger made with beef from the ranch across the street, and run into interesting locals. The bartenders are fantastic and there’s the infamous two-headed calf in display. Plus, you can’t beat the view of the Crazies from the window. Will always swing by for a drink and bite when I’m in Shields Valley!”
– Mira B., Bozeman, Montana
– Mira B., Bozeman, Montana
