Bucket of Blood Saloon
Step into a piece of Wild West history at the Bucket of Blood Saloon, a 1876 Virginia City gem with live music and iconic drinks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music often plays
Bucket of Blood Saloon
Best Time
Live music often plays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a piece of Wild West history at the Bucket of Blood Saloon, a 1876 Virginia City gem with live music and iconic drinks.
"An authentic piece of Wild West history with genuine character and charm!"
🎯 Try the Bloody Mary!
Many visitors rave about the spicy Bloody Mary – it's a signature drink you can't miss!
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
Check the schedule for live bands like the Comstock Cowboys for an authentic Old West experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Famous Bloody Mary
Bar
Often hailed as the best in Nevada, this spicy concoction is a must-try for any visitor.
Live Music & Old West Charm
Main Saloon Area
Experience the authentic sounds of the Comstock Cowboys or other bands in a historic setting.
Vintage Decor & Memorabilia
Throughout the Saloon
Immerse yourself in history with dollar bills, bras, and memorabilia dripping from the ceiling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Old West Vibe
Plan for Drinks & Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Bloody Mary!
Many visitors rave about the spicy Bloody Mary – it's a signature drink you can't miss!
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
Check the schedule for live bands like the Comstock Cowboys for an authentic Old West experience.
🍿 Free Popcorn Available
Grab some free popcorn while you enjoy your drinks and the saloon's atmosphere.
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The unique decor and historic setting make for fantastic photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Bloody Mary!
Many visitors rave about the spicy Bloody Mary – it's a signature drink you can't miss!
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
Check the schedule for live bands like the Comstock Cowboys for an authentic Old West experience.
🍿 Free Popcorn Available
Grab some free popcorn while you enjoy your drinks and the saloon's atmosphere.
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The unique decor and historic setting make for fantastic photos.
💰 Souvenir Shopping
Look for t-shirts and hoodies to remember your visit to this iconic spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bucket of Blood Saloon for its authentic Old West atmosphere, lively live music, and famously delicious Bloody Mary. The unique, memorabilia-filled decor and friendly staff contribute to a memorable, time-traveling experience. While it's a bar with no full food menu, the free popcorn and vibrant ambiance make it a highly recommended stop in Virginia City.
"No food, do have popcorn though. But the employees, atmosphere, products and beverages are awesome. We always load up on stuff when we go there every year. Highly recommend for price and fun."
Heather Nolan
"Great place to sit a spell! We took the V&T Railway from Carson City to Virginia City and found this gem of a saloon!
The staff was very nice and attentive. The spicy bloody mary was excellent! The view out the back window was awesome! They have a good selection of food and drinks, as well as t-shirts, hoodies, slot machines, etc. Even saw a guy walking a pig outside the front door. Haha!
We loved the laid back old west atmosphere and the unique decor throughout. The hanging chandeliers were exquisite. And did I mention that bloody mary? Yum!
Highly recommend!"
Rob VanSuilichem
"Visited Virginia City for the Chili On The Comstock Festival. From the moment we arrived it was great. The entire festival was another of fun. The Bucket of Blood Saloon exhuded tons of charm and the people we met were very nice and friendly. Highly recommended...Thumbs up!"
Jon S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bucket of Blood Saloon is located in the heart of Virginia City, Nevada. If you're arriving by car, there is street parking available. Many visitors also take the V&T Railway from Carson City, which drops you within walking distance of the saloon.
Virginia City is accessible by car from Reno and Carson City. The drive offers scenic views of the surrounding Nevada landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Bucket of Blood Saloon. It's a public bar, and you can walk right in.
Operating hours can vary, but the saloon is generally open daily. It's best to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date information, especially if you plan to visit on a specific holiday or event day.
As a bar, you must be 21 years or older to enter and purchase alcoholic beverages.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is a lively and authentic Old West saloon experience. Expect vintage decor, memorabilia, and often live music, creating a truly immersive environment. +1
Yes, live music is a common feature at the Bucket of Blood Saloon, with bands like the Comstock Cowboys often performing. It adds significantly to the historic ambiance. 
The saloon is famous for its unique decor, including dollar bills, bras, and various Old West memorabilia hanging from the walls and ceiling, creating a visually rich environment.
Absolutely! The Bucket of Blood Saloon dates back to 1876 and is steeped in the history of Virginia City's mining boom days, offering a genuine glimpse into the past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While they don't offer a full food menu, they do provide free popcorn for patrons. Their focus is on beverages and the saloon experience.
The spicy Bloody Mary is highly recommended and considered a must-try by many visitors. They also serve beer and other standard bar drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photos are generally allowed and encouraged! The unique decor and historic setting make for great photo opportunities.
The entire saloon is visually interesting, but the bar area, the walls adorned with memorabilia, and the famous window tables offer particularly good shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Infamous History of the Bucket of Blood
Today, the saloon maintains much of its historic charm, with vintage decor, antique slot machines, and memorabilia adorning every surface. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as authentic and immersive, a far cry from a modern, polished establishment. The live music, often featuring local bands like the Comstock Cowboys, further enhances the feeling of being transported to another era. It’s this blend of historical significance and vibrant present-day atmosphere that makes the Bucket of Blood Saloon a unique destination for those exploring Virginia City.
Experiencing the Saloon's Ambiance
+1Many visitors highlight the friendly staff and the overall welcoming nature of the saloon. The presence of vintage slot machines adds another layer of historical entertainment, allowing patrons to try their luck just as patrons might have done over a century ago. Even the simple act of enjoying a drink at a window table, with a view of the historic town, contributes to the memorable experience. It’s this combination of sensory details – the sights, sounds, and tastes – that makes a visit to the Bucket of Blood Saloon a truly engaging experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit