Big Nose Kate's Saloon
Step into the Wild West at Big Nose Kate's Saloon, a lively Tombstone institution with historic charm, live music, and spirited entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, more relaxed
Big Nose Kate's Saloon
Best Time
Less crowded, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the Wild West at Big Nose Kate's Saloon, a lively Tombstone institution with historic charm, live music, and spirited entertainment.
"Hands down one of the BEST stops in Tombstone! The vibe hits you the second you walk in."
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss photo opportunities with costumed staff and in historic settings. Check out the pictures on the walls too!
🎶 Enjoy the Music
The live music is a highlight! Engage with the performers and enjoy the energetic atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Saloon Atmosphere
Main Saloon Area
Immerse yourself in the authentic 1880s saloon ambiance, complete with costumed staff and lively entertainment.
Live Music & Entertainment
Main Saloon
Enjoy energetic live music and engaging performances that bring the Wild West spirit to life.
The Shaft (Downstairs)
Basement Level
Explore the unique downstairs area, often referred to as 'The Shaft,' for a different perspective and potential holiday shopping.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild West Vibe
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss photo opportunities with costumed staff and in historic settings. Check out the pictures on the walls too!
🎶 Enjoy the Music
The live music is a highlight! Engage with the performers and enjoy the energetic atmosphere.
🍽️ Food & Drink Choices
Try the brisket plate or buffalo bites. Some find paper plates unexpected, but the vibe is worth it.
💰 Explore 'The Shaft'
Head downstairs to 'The Shaft' for a unique experience, especially during holiday seasons for shopping.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss photo opportunities with costumed staff and in historic settings. Check out the pictures on the walls too!
🎶 Enjoy the Music
The live music is a highlight! Engage with the performers and enjoy the energetic atmosphere.
🍽️ Food & Drink Choices
Try the brisket plate or buffalo bites. Some find paper plates unexpected, but the vibe is worth it.
💰 Explore 'The Shaft'
Head downstairs to 'The Shaft' for a unique experience, especially during holiday seasons for shopping.
🤠 Embrace the Vibe
It's a lively, high-energy spot. If you love spirited crowds and music, you'll have a blast!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Big Nose Kate's Saloon is celebrated for its vibrant, high-energy atmosphere that truly captures the Wild West spirit. Visitors praise the engaging staff, lively entertainment, and immersive historical ambiance, making it a standout experience in Tombstone. While the food is generally good comfort fare, some minor aspects like paper plates or specific dish preferences are occasionally noted.
"We had such a fun time here! Late lunch on a Wednesday, we enjoyed live music (he was really good!), engaging chit-chat with a cowboy who dressed us up for pictures at the piano and behind the bar, and great service by Melanie! The food was OK, I think I picked the wrong thing, husband loved his brisket plate. The fried zucchini was thickly breaded and served with ranch. I got the sample platter as my meal but didn't care for the chips, salsa, or onion rings. The buffalo bites were good. That aside, the experience was well worth it as we had a blast!"
Melanie KRD
"Had such a great exsperiance here. Took a brother of mine to the spot for a snack and beverage and was greeted and entertained the entire time. Our waitress (pictured) was amazing and fully attentive and had great menu recommendations. Will definitely stop in again.
side note, I forgot an item on the table she may have grabbed after we left, if someone could message me here I would greatly appreciate it."
Rodney Carman
"Big Nose Kate’s Saloon – Tombstone, AZ
Imagine taking an authentic 1880s saloon and mashing it together with a modern-day dive bar—then adding loud music, lots of energy, and PG-rated fun. That’s Big Nose Kate’s.
This place is lively, with good food, cold beer, and live music that keeps the atmosphere buzzing. The staff play their part too, with plenty of personality, bustled outfits, and big smiles that make the whole experience feel like a party.
For me personally, the volume and high-energy vibe were a little more than I prefer, as I enjoy a quieter, more toned-down setting. But for those who love lively crowds, music, and a spirited saloon feel, this spot might be perfection.
As long as you know what you’re walking into, Big Nose Kate’s delivers exactly what it promises—a five-star, high-energy adult funhouse."
Bryan Rupp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Nose Kate's Saloon is located in the heart of Tombstone, Arizona. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the historic town, often mentioned in conjunction with other Tombstone attractions like the O.K. Corral. +1
Yes, Big Nose Kate's Saloon is centrally located in Tombstone, making it easily walkable from most other historic sites, including the O.K. Corral and the Bird Cage Theatre. It's a great place to stop for a break while exploring the town on foot.
Many visitors recommend exploring Tombstone on foot to soak in the historic atmosphere. Big Nose Kate's Saloon is a must-visit for its lively ambiance and entertainment. Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed experience or in the evening for peak entertainment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically there are no admission tickets required to enter Big Nose Kate's Saloon. It operates as a restaurant and bar. However, there might be cover charges for specific live music events or shows, so it's always a good idea to check their schedule or inquire upon arrival.
Operating hours can vary, but Big Nose Kate's Saloon is generally open daily, often from late morning through the evening. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays or special events.
There is no strict dress code at Big Nose Kate's Saloon. Most visitors dress casually, embracing the Wild West theme with cowboy hats and boots if they wish. The staff often wear period costumes, adding to the immersive experience.
While reservations might not always be necessary, especially during off-peak hours, it's advisable to call ahead if you have a large group or are visiting during a busy weekend or event. This can help ensure you get a table promptly.
🎫 🤠 Onsite Experience
Big Nose Kate's Saloon is known for its lively entertainment, including live music, often featuring country or Western-style performers. The staff are also part of the experience, often in costume and engaging with guests, creating a fun, theatrical atmosphere.
Big Nose Kate's Saloon offers a family-friendly atmosphere, especially during the day. While it's a saloon, the entertainment is generally PG-rated, and children are welcome. The downstairs area, 'The Shaft,' can also be an interesting spot for families.
'The Shaft' refers to the downstairs area of Big Nose Kate's Saloon. It's often described as a unique space, sometimes used for holiday shopping or offering a different ambiance from the main saloon.
While not a formal museum, the saloon itself is a historical artifact, designed to evoke the 1880s. The walls are often adorned with historical photos and memorabilia, and the overall decor contributes to the immersive historical experience.
The atmosphere is energetic, lively, and fun, often described as a blend of an authentic 1880s saloon and a modern dive bar. Expect loud music, enthusiastic staff, and a buzzing crowd, making it a vibrant spot for experiencing the Wild West.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Big Nose Kate's Saloon serves classic comfort food with a Western flair. Popular items include brisket plates, buffalo bites, and pizzas. While some reviews mention paper plates, the food is generally considered good, especially for a saloon experience.
The brisket plate and buffalo bites are frequently recommended. If you're adventurous, consider the sample platter, though some components like chips and onion rings might be hit or miss for some diners.
They offer a selection of draft beers and cocktails, fitting the saloon theme. Enjoy classic drinks while soaking in the historic atmosphere. 
Prices are generally considered reasonable for a tourist destination, offering good value for the experience and the food served. It's a place where the atmosphere and entertainment often outweigh minor critiques of the food.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the essence of the Wild West by taking photos with the costumed staff, in front of the bar, or at the piano. The interior decor, historical photos on the walls, and the overall ambiance provide numerous picturesque moments.
Yes, the staff are often happy to pose for photos, especially if you engage with them. They are part of the immersive experience and contribute to the fun, memorable moments.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always polite to ask before taking close-up photos of staff or other patrons, and professional photography might require prior arrangement.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the food is classic comfort fare, it's generally appealing to a wide range of tastes. The energetic entertainment, like live music, can be engaging for kids, making it a fun stop during a Tombstone exploration. Just be mindful of the saloon's lively nature, which can be a bit loud for very young children.
🤠 History Buffs
While it's a modern establishment, the historical context is palpable. The walls often display historical photos and memorabilia, and the staff can share anecdotes about the era. It's a place to immerse yourself in the stories and legends that shaped Tombstone's rich history.
🎶 Music Lovers
Check their schedule for specific performers, as the music is often a highlight for visitors. It's a great place to enjoy a drink and a meal while tapping your feet to the rhythm of the Old West.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Big Nose Kate
While the saloon is named in her honor, it's important to note that the establishment itself is a modern interpretation of an 1880s saloon, blending historical ambiance with contemporary entertainment. The stories and legends surrounding Big Nose Kate add a layer of mystique to the visitor experience, making it more than just a meal or a drink.
Visitors often learn about her story through the saloon's atmosphere, the staff's interactions, and the historical context of Tombstone. Her legacy is a key part of the saloon's appeal, drawing visitors interested in the real women of the Wild West and their often-overlooked contributions to history.
Experiencing the Wild West Vibe
Many visitors highlight the engaging nature of the staff, who often dress in period attire and interact with guests, adding to the theatrical and immersive feel. This, combined with the rustic interior and the sounds of Western music, makes for a memorable visit. It's a place where you can truly feel like you've stepped back in time, even with modern amenities like cold beer and comfort food.
For those looking to capture the essence of the Old West, Big Nose Kate's Saloon offers numerous photo opportunities. From posing with the staff to simply soaking in the ambiance, it's a place that encourages visitors to embrace the historical setting and create lasting memories of their Tombstone adventure.
+1Food and Drink at the Saloon
The drink selection includes a variety of draft beers and cocktails, perfect for enjoying while listening to live music or chatting with fellow patrons. The staff are often praised for their attentiveness and menu recommendations, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Even with occasional comments about paper plates, the overall consensus is that the food and drinks contribute positively to the saloon's vibrant atmosphere.
For those looking for a full experience, combining a meal or drinks with the entertainment makes for a complete visit. It's a place where the culinary offerings are part of the broader sensory experience of stepping into a piece of Tombstone's history.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit