About Way Side Bar
The Way Side Bar (also called Wayside Bar & Grill) is a family-owned bar and grill located right off Highway 200 in Trout Creek, Montana. This rustic pub offers a cozy, lodge-style interior and full kitchen – in fact, it “operates as a full Restaurant as well as a full service Tavern” . It’s the kind of place travelers and locals both know as the friendly seat of the small community. Uniquely for a rural Montana bar, Way Side has an “all-beverage” liquor license and even a gaming license, so you’ll find slot machines or video poker alongside standard bar games . The building has been updated over the years (a recent expansion added more space), but it still feels like a genuine mountain tavern from the outside – wood siding, a big sign, and plenty of parking. It’s notable as Trout Creek’s main nightlife spot and event venue, blending comfortable pub fare with live music, games, and community gatherings. Overall, Way Side Bar matters to the local scene as a gathering place for good food, drink and entertainment in an otherwise small town.
Events and Programming
Way Side Bar is far more than a static restaurant – it has a full calendar of social and musical events. A weekly highlight is **Wednesday Bingo Night**, which draws crowds of players and keeping the atmosphere lively mid-week (guests rave that “Bingo on Wednesday! [has] good food and friendly atmosphere” ). Weekends often feature **live music**: the bar hosts a regular concert series and jam nights, with local and regional country, rock or cover bands taking the stage. Thanks to a 2018 expansion, there’s now a covered outdoor stage and dance floor so bands can play even in the Montana summer or rain . The mix of performers can range from solo acoustic acts to full bands; the emphasis is on fun bar music and classic rock, although special private parties sometimes bring in other genres. Other recurring events include monthly **wine-tasting dinners** (often focused on local or Montana wines), a shuffleboard league, poker runs with partner bars, and barbecue/Prime Rib dinners. The current owners plan to continue this lineup of events without changing the formula . One-off and seasonal events are also big: for example, the venue even launched Trout Creek’s first-ever **ice fishing contest** in January, capitalizing on winter tourism . The bar also ties into town events – it typically participates in the annual Trout Creek Huckleberry Festival each August (since Trout Creek is legislatively the “Huckleberry Capital of Montana”) with specials and parties of its own. In short, visitors can expect nearly constant activity – from weekly bingo and poker games to live bands on weekend nights, plus occasional festivals and tournaments in the colder months.
Tickets and Booking
Most Way Side Bar events do not involve formal online ticketing. In practice, live music nights and bingo are usually no-cover or low-cover events: many shows simply charge a small **door fee (often $5–$10) or are even free**, and attendees buy drinks/food at the bar. If a bigger-name act is booked, the bar might sell advance tickets at the counter in the weeks before – in that case, it’s best to call ahead or check their social media page for details. There is no mail or website ticket office; transactions are handled in person at the bar. For popular or scheduled events (like a monthly band or festival night), tickets may go on sale a few weeks prior at Way Side’s bar counter. The bar’s phone (406-827-9996) is the main point for questions or reservations. In general, guests simply show up earlier on event nights to get seats. Because this is a small-town venue, always verify by calling or checking the latest schedule – but expect that most concerts and bingo nights operate on a walk-in basis or “buy at door” policy, rather than pre-booking through big ticket sites.
Seating and Layout
The interior of Way Side Bar is a classic Montana tavern layout. As you enter from the highway, the long wooden bar runs along one side with stools; opposite are tables and booths lining the walls. The décor is warm – lodge-themed lighting, hunting or wilderness photos on the walls, and a large flat-screen TV near the bar. Capacity is moderate: roughly **80–100 guests** can be seated inside when full, with enough room for another 50 or more on the outdoor patio and dance area after the 2018 expansion. The **best seats for conversation or dining** are the booths or tables away from the speakers (often to the rear or corners). For music fans, the main action is around the stage. The indoor floor has a small raised platform for entertainers, but the star is the covered outdoor stage: a permanent pavilion with a solid roof, concrete dance floor and picnic-style tables draped in tents and lights . On concert nights, that area fills up: the very front rows or standing area next to the platform give the best view of bands with minimal hearing obstructions. General admission (standing/dancing) is typical in front of the stage on busy nights. If you prefer quieter dining, the back tables or far end booths are cozier but may have a limited view of performers. Because the stage is open-air, sound disperses outside – so some guests outside will have better acoustics, while inside a center-table by the window opposite the stage is ideal for mixing music and dinner. Note that the bar also has arcade games and pool tables in the interior, so those areas can get lively – those spots are great for playing a quick game, but keep in mind they are not ideal if you want an uninterrupted view of performers. In general, consider the front-center of the hall for stage events, and the clustered side tables for a quieter drink or meal experience.
Getting There and Parking
The Way Side Bar’s exact address is **2944 Montana Highway 200, Trout Creek, MT 59874**. It sits right on the main road (Highway 200) through town. By car, it’s on the west end of Trout Creek’s small downtown. If you’re driving from Spokane or Idaho, take US-95 north to Clark Fork, then MT-200 west into Trout Creek. From Missoula you take I-90 west to Plains and MT-200 north; the bar is just after you enter town. Parking is easy and free: there is a paved lot and roadside spaces directly in front and beside the building. Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are generally **not available** in this rural area, so driving or taxi/rental car is recommended. Way Side Bar is walkable from nearby lodging. For example, the Trout Creek Motel & RV Park is a short 0.2-mile walk east along Hwy 200, and the Lakeside Motel & Resort (with its restaurant and rooms) is just across the street (north side) from the bar at 2955 Hwy 200. There is no public transit service to Trout Creek, and the nearest bus service is in Sandpoint or Missoula, so most visitors plan to drive. If flying in, the closest airport is Missoula (about 85 miles away). Once in town, guests should drop off passengers at the bar entrance and then use the lot or street parking. (Tip: on busy weekends check for parking quickly – although usually ample, some areas fill up when a big concert let out.)
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Way Side Bar, expect a warm, friendly pub atmosphere. The staff typically greets you at the door or bar, and you’ll see the long bar counter to one side stocked with Montana craft beers on tap, classic local brews, and a full cocktail menu (they’re known for mixing up a mean Bloody Mary and a “Montana Mule” style cocktail). The menu is **American bar fare**: generous burgers (like the popular “Bourbon Street Burger” which reviewers note is huge and very flavorful ), hand-battered fish fries (a Friday special often praised by locals), smoky BBQ dishes, and hearty sandwiches or wraps. Daily specials might include prime rib nights or western omelets on weekend brunch (garlic cheese curds and clam chowder are also house specialties according to customers ). Portions are large (“great burger after a long day” ) so many meals can be shared or saved for later. The bar serves spirits, wine, and local brews – there’s no happy hour, but prices are mid-range for Montana. Don’t miss local seasonal specials during trout or berry seasons (they sometimes add huckleberry desserts or specialty cocktails in summer to fit the local theme).
The venue features a few **entertainment amenities**: there are two coin-operated pool tables and a couple of arcade/video machines near the back of the bar, which draw players on quieter nights. Off to the side is a row of slot machines (reflecting the gaming license) where patrons gamble a bit of change. The restrooms are standard single-occupancy; there’s no coat check, so large jackets or gear usually hang on hooks or chairs near your table. (Staff will usually keep an eye on your things for you if it gets busy.)
Service is casual and friendly – order at the bar or flag down a server. On busy nights the line moves quickly but consider ordering early if you want to secure a table. The atmosphere can get lively: songs posted on screens by requests, friendly banter at the pool table, and on music nights the band might mingle with the crowd during breaks. Tip: if you want to chat or eat in peace, sit in the rear by a corner booth; if you came to dance or socialise, head toward the front near the bar or stage. Wi-Fi is not advertised, so assume it’s spotty or nonexistent. Cell service (most carriers) generally works inside, however.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants and Lounges: Besides Way Side, Trout Creek has a few other nearby eateries. The most notable is the Lakeside Restaurant (at 2955 Hwy 200, adjacent to the Lakeside Motel & Resort), which offers steaks, seafood and lodge-style decor – a good upscale alternative about 0.1 miles up the highway. The Trout Creek Motel (at 2972 Hwy 200) also has a small deli‐lounge with simple diner food and a motel bar, roughly a block east. Note that many places close early (around 8–9pm on weekdays), so for late-night munchies you may be limited to Way Side’s bar menu. Hotels and Lodging: If you’re staying overnight in Trout Creek, several motels and lodges are within walking distance. The Trout Creek Motel & RV Park and the Lakeside Motel & Resort (both on Hwy 200) are closest, each under 0.3 miles away. For more rustic options, there are a few hunting lodges and rental cabins in the area. For larger hotels, the nearest city is Sandpoint, ID (about 45 miles west) or Thompson Falls, MT (about 30 miles east).Dining Tips: Plan to arrive an hour early if you want a pre-show dinner at Way Side. The kitchen stays open until late (typically until 10–11pm), but popular items can sell out (especially on event nights). If Way Side is busy, Lakeside Restaurant is a good backup for dinner, or grab takeout from any cafe in town so you don’t miss the show. Also note that after major events (like the Redneck Ball held at nearby Lakeside Motel), local roads can get busy, so allow extra travel time.Late-Night Options: Way Side is usually the last one standing. The bar itself stays open until 2 AM on evenings it operates. Once it closes, there isn’t much late-night nightlife in Trout Creek – so if you need more after-hours drinks, your best bet is to head west to Interstate 90 and find a larger town (Missoula is 90 minutes away). Otherwise, plan to call it a night when Way Side closes.
What Makes This Venue Special
Way Side Bar stands out because it is a genuine community hub in a place where “downtown” consists of just a few blocks. Its combination of hearty Montana bar culture and active entertainment lineup is unique in rural Sanders County. The covered outdoor stage is a signature feature – few small Montana bars have a permanent stage and dance floor under a roof . This allows mountain folks to enjoy concerts year-round, rain or shine. Locals appreciate that the owners preserved the bar’s friendly, down-to-earth vibe even after modern upgrades (the 2018 expansion “added an outdoor venue for music and other events” but kept the original atmosphere ). The gaming license/casino corner is also unique; many customers enjoy slots or video poker for fun as much as the jukebox or pool. Historic and cultural touches add character too – the wood-paneled walls are often decorated with trout and bear mounts, and the crowd often wears college or hunting gear. Storytelling is part of the charm: it’s the kind of place where locals have jammed for decades, and where first-time visitors feel instantly welcome by the regulars and staff.
Culturally, Way Side benefits from Trout Creek’s love of the outdoors. After a day hunting, fishing or hiking in the Cabinet Mountains, people flock here to share stories over a pint. Its connection to local traditions – like participating in the famed Huckleberry Festival or hosting a winter ice-fishing derby – makes it more than just a bar; it’s woven into the town’s identity. Fans of live music often remark that bands love playing Way Side because the crowd is hearty and heartfelt, even though it’s far from any big city. And all the while, you can savor Montana-style pub food that reviewers call “the best in Trout Creek” . In short, Way Side Bar is both an everyman’s watering hole and an impromptu concert venue – a rare duality in a tiny town. That sense of warmth, tradition, and flexibility is why both visiting bands and local patrons feel an attachment to it.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main floor is ground-level with no steps, so a wheelchair or stroller can get inside easily. (Note: the restroom doorways may be somewhat narrow, as in many bars.) Service animals are welcome, and indeed the patio is pet-friendly (many customers even bring dogs with them outside ).
Age Restrictions: Montana law means patrons typically must be 21+ to be served alcohol or gamble. During the day and early evening, families have been known to eat here (especially on weekends), but once it gets later, expect mostly adults. The bar enforces ID checks for drinks and will ask minors to leave after a certain hour. There is no formal dress code – casual attire works fine (jeans and boots or flannels are common).
Safety and Policies: Security is friendly but watchful. There is no formal bag check, but the staff keeps an eye on the entrance during big events. Smoking inside is prohibited (for both nicotine and marijuana) – a small designated smoking area is typically set up on the patio. Photography is allowed but courteous habits are suggested (no flash pics of performers without permission). Weapons of any kind are of course forbidden in a bar. You cannot bring your own alcohol or any outside drinks. The clientele is generally friendly; just use normal bar etiquette (avoid overly rowdy or offensive behavior).
What to Bring: Cash is recommended (the bar takes cards, but some events have cash-only covers or games). A charged cell phone is handy for texting and taking pictures (though note coverage can be spotty if the bar’s TV is streaming something complex). If attending an outdoor show, bring a light jacket or blanket – even summer nights can get chilly once the sun goes down. If it’s a Vegas-style band night, wear comfy shoes for dancing. And always carry your ID (driver’s license or passport) – it will be checked if you’re ordering drinks.
Plan Ahead: For major events (like holiday concerts or festivals), arrive early to get parking and seats – things can fill up quickly. The bar opens at noon every day (closed Sundays), so you can even catch lunch or happy hour. If you’re new to town, call or check social media a day ahead to confirm event times (especially because road or weather conditions can delay something). Lastly, be prepared for Montana weather: during winter, Highway 200 can get icy, and in summer afternoons it can storm suddenly. The covered outside stage helps, but for foolproof timing, always check the forecast and give yourself a buffer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Way Side Bar located?
Way Side Bar is at 2944 Montana Highway 200 in Trout Creek, MT 59874. It’s on the west end of downtown Trout Creek, across the street from the Lakeside Motel & Restaurant. Look for a standalone building with a green roof and a big “Wayside Bar & Grill” sign visible from the highway.
What are the bar’s hours and days open?
Way Side Bar is open six days a week, Monday through Saturday, from 12:00 PM (noon) until about 2:00 AM . It is typically closed on Sunday. Because it’s open late, it’s one of the few places in Trout Creek where you can still grab a drink or dinner just before closing time.
Is there a cover charge or tickets required for events?
Most events at Way Side Bar do not require advance tickets. Regular events like Wednesday bingo or Thursday karaoke are usually free or have a small minimum (e.g. buy a bingo card). Live band nights may have a cover charge at the door – typically in the range of $5–$10 per person. Occasionally a special act or holiday show might sell advance tickets, but in most cases you can just pay at the door when you arrive. It’s best to call (406-827-9996) to confirm if you’re unsure about a particular event.
What kind of seating and viewing areas are available?
The bar has indoor seating (tables, booths and bar stools) plus an outdoor covered patio with a dance floor and picnic tables. For live music, the outdoor stage is the main performance space. The best spots to watch a band are up front near the stage. For a quieter meal or conversation, sit at the back tables or booths inside away from the stage. During busy shows, front areas fill up quickly, so arrive early if you want first-row viewing or front-row tables.
How much is the cover charge for concerts?
Cover charges, if any, vary by event. Many local acts play for free “tips only,” and larger bands might charge a modest fee, usually around $5 to $10. It’s rare to see more than $10 for a cover. If a concert has a known cover charge, it will be posted on the bar’s Facebook page or advertised a few weeks in advance. Otherwise, plan on a low fee or just paying for drinks and tips.
Are there age restrictions or ID requirements?
Yes. Montana law requires patrons to be 21+ to drink alcohol or play the slot machines. Way Side Bar enforces this by checking IDs at the bar. During daytime or early evening hours, families with minors have been known to dine here, but after a certain hour it becomes a 21+ crowd. If you plan to drink alcohol, bring a valid ID – driver’s license or passport – and keep it with you.
Can I bring my pet to Way Side Bar?
Pets are welcome on the outdoor patio only (served customers typically bring well-behaved dogs). The indoor area does not allow animals except for service animals. Reviewers specifically note that “the patio is dog-friendly” , so feel free to bring Fido outside while you eat or drink.
Is Way Side Bar wheelchair accessible?
The bar entrance is at ground level with no steps, so it is step-free. The floor plan is mostly open and allows wheelchair access. However, some interior areas (like between tables or near the restrooms) may be a bit tight. There is a ramped entrance at the side for easier access. Overall, most parts of the venue are accessible by wheelchair or mobility device, although the outdoor dance floor is concrete and uncovered on one side.
What payment methods are accepted?
The bar accepts cash and major credit/debit cards. For events or games, cash is sometimes preferred. The karaoke Jukebox and arcade machines take coins or tokens. There is an ATM inside if you need cash. As with most bars, it’s always good to have some cash on hand for food or small purchases, but card payment is fine for tabs.
Does Way Side Bar serve food and what’s popular?
Yes – it’s a full grill kitchen. Popular items include burgers like the “Bourbon Street” (overstuffed with toppings) and hand-breaded fish and chips, plus barbecue and steak dishes. A user review calls the fish fry “sublime” and the burger “so big I had to cut it in half” , which gives you an idea of portion size. Bar snacks like garlic cheese curds, fried pickles, and thick-cut onion rings are also favorites. For drinks, try local beers or their well-known Bloody Marys and other cocktails. The kitchen typically operates until around 10pm on weekdays and 11pm on weekends, but on busy nights they may serve a bit later.
Where can I park, and is it free?
There is free parking available right at the bar. The lot in front and to the side of Way Side Bar normally has plenty of spaces, and street parking on Hwy 200 is also free. On exceptionally busy nights, you may have to walk a block or two if the lot fills up, but paid parking is not an issue. Just be aware that in winter the lot may have some snow, so use normal caution.
Is outside food or drink allowed?
No. You cannot bring your own alcohol or outside food into Way Side Bar. All food and drink must be purchased from the venue. This includes pets (dogs can be outside, but you must pick up after them and can’t feed them any bar food without permission). Outside beverages or coolers are not allowed inside.
What is the “casino” aspect of Way Side Bar?
Way Side Bar holds a Montana gaming license, which means it offers a few electronic gaming machines (slot or video poker style). There’s no full casino floor, but a couple of video gambling machines are available for those over 21. Players can drop coins in to try their luck on simple betting games. If you’re not interested in gaming, you can simply ignore that corner – the rest of the bar atmosphere is unaffected by it.
Are dogs allowed on the patio?
Yes. Several reviews note that the outdoor patio at Way Side Bar is dog-friendly . Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to sit with you outside. (As always, make sure your pet is calm and clean up any mess.) Just remember that pets must stay on the patio area and are not permitted inside the bar.
What’s the typical dress code?
Way Side Bar has a very casual dress code. Patrons commonly wear jeans, T-shirts, flannel shirts or sweatshirts, and boots. Think of it like any laid-back Montana bar – no suits or formalwear are needed. During summer, shorts and tees are fine as long as you’re covered. In cooler weather you can just add a jacket. The main tip is to dress comfortably and for the weather, since you may step outside onto the patio between sets or late at night.
Are there food and drink specials or happy hours?
The bar occasionally runs specials (for instance, certain burgers or beers on sale), but it does not have a formal daily happy hour menu listed. Food specials are more likely to happen on event nights (for example, discounted appetizers during band intermission) or seasonal promotions (like prime rib dinners once a week). The best way to learn about any current deals is to call the bar or follow their social media. Otherwise, menu prices are fixed and fair for the generous portions.
Is there an age limit for entry?
There is no strict age limit until late at night. Families with children can enter during daytime hours for a meal. However, by law the premises become 21+ once alcohol is being served in significant quantity. In practice, after around 9 or 10 PM it functions mostly as an adult bar. If you’re bringing minors, arrive earlier (before dinner) and be aware they must still stay off the gaming machines.
How can I find out about upcoming events?
Way Side Bar does not have a dedicated website, but it usually posts upcoming shows and specials on Facebook or local event pages. You can call ahead to ask the bartender about scheduled events. Also, local tourism or community pages (like the Sanders County visitor site) often list big events for the Trout Creek area, which may include what’s happening at the bar. Checking a couple of days in advance is wise, especially if there’s bad weather in the forecast.
