How to Set Up Your Bar Like a Saloon

Having a bar that looks like a saloon adds a nostalgic and fun element that can really draw a crowd, especially if you have a country-themed bar to begin with. With a few decorations and a little time and effort, you can easily set up your bar like a saloon and give your bar that Old West atmosphere.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Swinging doors
• Spitoon
• Rustic furniture

1. Give your bar that saloon feel by using wood countertops and handcrafted tables and chairs. Having older looking furniture will give your bar an Old West style. If you can’t find actual old furniture, you can refinish newer furniture to make it look old.

2. Set up card tables for poker. Poker was a popular game in the Old West, and having a couple of card tables set up will help your bar look like an authentic salon.

3. Incorporate swinging doors to give your bar that saloon feel. Saloons are known for the swinging doors at the entrance. While it’s not advisable to have swinging doors at the entrance of your bar, you could put them at the entrance to the back room or a party room to give that saloon feel.

4. Use old-style mugs and glasses to serve drinks in. If you are going with the saloon theme, you will want mugs and glasses that fit the theme. Check out old pictures and movies about the Old West to see what style mugs and glasses to use.

5. Dress in the style of the Old West. If you are going to have a saloon-themed bar, you want your wait staff to dress the part. Find out how people dressed in those days and have your employees incorporate the look while they are serving your customers.

Tips & Warnings

• Use dimmer lighting for that Old West saloon feel. Saloons were dimly lit, so use low-wattage light bulbs or sunlight if at all possible.
• If possible, find an old-style cash register for your saloon to add to the ambiance.
• Remove high-end electronic equipment in view. Televisions and videogames may take away from the saloon atmosphere.
• Don’t have the spittoon in a spot where customers can use it. Although the spittoon was a staple in the saloon, it is not very hygienic, and unless you want to clean up spit, you may want to keep it out of the way or covered.

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