The Shell Bar is, in a word, Wyomingâs âCheers.â if you remember that award-winning TV series or youâve caught it in re-runs, you know its appeal is much more than the setting; it was the characters who made the show a smash hit.
In my opinion, the same applies to the Shell Bar.
Now donât get me wrong, the setting in tiny rustic Shell Wyoming is awesomely scenic and refreshingly serene. And the completely rebuilt bar, designed as an homage to the structure that historically occupied the same footprint, is nothing short of spectacular. But just like âCheers,â itâs the people who make the Shell Bar the kind of place âwhere everybody knows your name and theyâre always glad you came.â
The newly redesigned, completely rebuilt and recently (July 2024?) reopened Shell Bar was just getting going for limited hours a few nights a week when we visited in August, but it was bustling with locals and out-of-town visitors alike. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, fun and inclusive; nobody is allowed to be a stranger for long! While Wyoming is famous for its cowboys/cowgirls (or is it âcowpersons?â), and thereâs no shortage of authentic Wyomingites at the Shell Bar, youâll find them friendly, easy-going and more than happy to tell you interesting stories of life in their rugged, landlocked state. Even if youâre not a card-carrying member of a certain political party that dominates the state (guilty as charged), youâll be welcomed respectfully and as a friend.
The Shell Bar does have a full kitchen and I believe the owners have plans to eventually offer food made on the premises, but for now they seem to be happy hosting a variety of rotating local food vendors who feature their delicious fare each night the Shell Bar is open. As for libations, this place has it all. From several beers on tap and an even more options in bottles/cans, to wine, cocktails, soft drinks and more, Shell Bar has it all. Their liquor selection (including an impressive range of Scotch whiskies), is top shelf and their prices are quite reasonable, particularly compared to what we are all paying in more urban drinking establishments.
The bottom line is that if you find yourself anywhere near the feet of the gorgeous Big Horn mountains, stop by the Shell Bar for a memorable visit to a true local gem. Check their website (ShellBar.com) for the days/hours theyâre open. âYou wanna go where people know, people are all the same. you wanna go where everybody...
   Read moreI worked with the owners, Patty and Gene, to host a birthday party that included well over 100 guests. Their beautiful facility accommodated the four-hour event easily. Shell Bar turned out to be the ideal setting for mixing and mingling, having a cozy conversation, and making a large gathering feel intimate. From the initial conversation to settling up at the end, Patty and Gene were collaborative, flexible and willing to go the extra mile to make sure everything was âjust rightâ for the occasion. They connected me with a local caterer and created a space within the bar to serve food. They offered several drink options to stay within budget. Throughout the planning process they were responsive to questions and provided me with updates on their end. The chefâs kiss or icing on the cake was the incredible service during the event. Patty and Gene, along with the amazing staff, provided a warm welcome, and friendly, efficient service. If you are planning for a large event, I highly recommend you consider Shell Bar for all the reasons mentioned above and, of course, lots...
   Read moreWe were captivated by the stunning architecture and thoughtful design of both the exterior and interior of the bar. Inside, rich wood accents set a warm tone, and the preservation of Shell Townâs original post officeânow cleverly transformed into a pool roomâoffers a charming tribute to local history. Every corner reflects the Shell Bar brand with refined detail, from subtle design touches to a sleek shuffleboard room enclosed by windows and overlooking a lush green lawn. The outdoor space, with its dreamy and whimsical atmosphere, would be a perfect setting for a wedding or anniversary celebration under the stars.
On the day of our visit, the LG Root Beer Float made its debut, and none other than the legendary Loren Good toasted the occasionâhere he is, raising a glass with his great-grandson and future farmer, both savoring the fizzy delight. This bar is more than a place to grab a drinkâitâs a place for connection within the community. Gene and Patty have created something truly special, blending function with heartfelt beauty, and welcoming every guest...
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