Iron Door Saloon
California's oldest continuously operating saloon, offering Gold Rush history, American grub, and live music.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music and lively atmosphere
Iron Door Saloon
Best Time
Live music and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
California's oldest continuously operating saloon, offering Gold Rush history, American grub, and live music.
"An old school dive bar with great wings, awesome atmosphere, friendly staff, and great history what else could you want?"
🎯 Stick a Dollar Bill!
Bring a dollar bill and a pen to add to the thousands on the ceiling. It's a fun tradition!
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check their schedule for live bands and karaoke nights for an authentic saloon experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dollar Bill Ceiling
Thousands of dollar bills cover the ceiling, a quirky tradition dating back to the Gold Rush era. Leave your own!
Historic Gold Rush Ambiance
Step back in time in California's oldest continuously operating saloon, with original bar and rustic decor.
Live Music & Local Vibe
Enjoy impromptu performances and a lively atmosphere, often featuring local bands and karaoke.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Yosemite Gateway Stop
Dollar Bill Ceiling Tradition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stick a Dollar Bill!
Bring a dollar bill and a pen to add to the thousands on the ceiling. It's a fun tradition!
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check their schedule for live bands and karaoke nights for an authentic saloon experience.
🍟 Garlic Fries Are a Must
Locals rave about the garlic fries – a surprisingly delicious bar snack!
🚗 Yosemite Gateway
Perfect stop on your way to or from Yosemite National Park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stick a Dollar Bill!
Bring a dollar bill and a pen to add to the thousands on the ceiling. It's a fun tradition!
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check their schedule for live bands and karaoke nights for an authentic saloon experience.
🍟 Garlic Fries Are a Must
Locals rave about the garlic fries – a surprisingly delicious bar snack!
🚗 Yosemite Gateway
Perfect stop on your way to or from Yosemite National Park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Iron Door Saloon is celebrated for its rich Gold Rush history, unique dollar bill ceiling, and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors often praise the lively vibe, especially when live music is playing, and many highlight the delicious garlic fries and cold beer. While some find the food to be average or overpriced, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile stop for its historical charm and casual fun.
"Alright, this place rocks. An old school dive bar with great wings, awesome atmosphere, friendly staff, and great history what else could you want on a way to Yosemite.
The kitchen had a great variety of bar food with a surprising good selection of both healthy and traditional bar grabs. The wings were incredible. I wouldn’t come here expecting it to be fine dining, but for an easy laid back experience I would definitely come back.
My only complaint it the desert is pretty expensive for what it is. 15 dollars for a pretty small, but delicious, slice of carrot cake. I’m definitely coming back."
Paul
"Oldest saloon in California. Lots of room to lounge and hangout. Very relaxed atmosphere. Bring a $1 bill and get it to stick to the ceiling. Legend has it you will have good success in the gold mine and will return to the saloon"
Tj Gross
"This place is super cool. The atmosphere here is amazing. Lots of very unique things hanging from the ceiling and on the walls. The staff here is very friendly, professional and helpful. Did not have to wait to long for food after ordering. Everything tasted great. Worth the stop if you are in the area."
Marc Crawford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Iron Door Saloon is located in Groveland, CA, about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from the Bay Area via I-580 E and CA-120 E. It's a popular stop on the way to Yosemite National Park.
Street parking is generally available in Groveland, but it can be competitive, especially during peak times. Arriving earlier can help secure a spot.
The Iron Door Saloon is approximately 25 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance of Yosemite National Park, making it a convenient stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Iron Door Saloon. It operates as a regular bar and restaurant.
Hours can vary, but it's generally open daily for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially for live music events.
While some live music events might have a cover charge, many performances are free to enjoy with your meal or drinks. It's advisable to inquire directly about specific events. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Iron Door Saloon offers classic American bar food, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and their famous garlic fries.
While the menu leans towards traditional bar fare, they may offer some vegetarian options like salads or veggie burgers. It's recommended to ask your server about current offerings.
Many visitors highly recommend the wings and the garlic fries. The burgers are also a popular choice for a hearty meal.
Yes, it's a family-friendly spot, especially during the day for lunch. The historical aspect and the dollar bill ceiling can be engaging for kids.
📸 📸 Photography
The dollar bill-covered ceiling is a unique and iconic photo spot. The rustic interior, historical artifacts, and exterior facade also make for great shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the saloon. However, be mindful of other patrons and performers, especially during live music sets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The menu offers familiar kid-friendly options like burgers and fries, making it easy to please younger palates.🚗 Road Trippers & Yosemite Visitors
Located conveniently on the route, it offers a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a hearty meal, and immerse yourself in local history. The historic atmosphere and the unique dollar bill ceiling tradition provide a memorable break from driving. It's a chance to experience a slice of California's Gold Rush past before or after exploring the natural wonders of Yosemite. Don't miss the chance to add your own dollar bill to the ceiling!🎶 Music Lovers & Nightlife Seekers
+1 The saloon frequently hosts local bands and karaoke nights, offering an authentic taste of Groveland's nightlife. It's a great spot to enjoy some country music or other genres while savoring a cold drink and soaking in the energetic atmosphere. The impromptu performances and the chance to mingle with locals make for a memorable night out.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Gold Rush History
The walls and ceiling are adorned with memorabilia and, most famously, thousands of dollar bills, each left by a visitor hoping for good fortune or simply to leave their mark.This historical significance makes it a popular stop for travelers heading to or from Yosemite National Park, offering a unique cultural experience alongside its food and drink offerings. The vibe is casual and relaxed, encouraging visitors to linger and soak in the ambiance. Whether you're a history buff, a road-tripper, or just looking for a unique local spot, the Iron Door Saloon provides a memorable glimpse into California's pioneering past.
The Iconic Dollar Bill Ceiling
Visitors are encouraged to participate in this tradition. Bringing a dollar bill and a pen allows you to write your name or a short message before adding it to the collection.
Food, Drinks, and Live Entertainment
The saloon is also known for its live music and entertainment.
+1 Local bands often perform, creating a vibrant atmosphere, and impromptu musical moments can occur, as one musician shared about singing with his guitar. Karaoke nights also add to the fun, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for an evening of good company and entertainment. The friendly staff contribute to the welcoming environment, making it a place where visitors feel at home. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit