5 of the World’s Most Extraordinary Bars – A Bizarre Slice of Americana – Sip ’n Dip Lounge in Great Falls, Montana

Start with an old-school motor lodge, combine it with a tiki bar, add in a swimming pool and some mermaids, and you get one of the most unusual bars in the world. This crazy combination is best described as Polynesia on the Great Plains. The Sip ’n Dip draws a local crowd ranging from college kids to ranchers to airmen from the nearby military base. The entertainment consists of a “tank” of mermaids (and occasionally mermen) who perform behind two large glass windows six nights a week to the delight of visitors from near and far. Another draw? The kitschy vocals of Piano Pat Spoonheim, a local icon who’s been headlining here for more than 50 years. Guests tackle drinks like the 52-ounce rum fishbowl and dine on the signature meatloaf.

By Frank Roffers

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