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The Knuckle Saloon

931 1st St, Sturgis, SD

The Knuckle Saloon is a historic Sturgis landmark featuring South Dakota's longest bar and an on-site museum. It houses the city's first brewery and a full-service restaurant on land once owned by the town's namesake.

Located in the heart of downtown, The Knuckle Saloon is an immersive experience in Black Hills history. The venue is built on land once owned by Colonel Samuel D. Sturgis and operates as the only saloon in the state that is also a museum, filled with antiques and motorcycle memorabilia. Visitors can explore the extensive collection before grabbing a drink at the massive main bar, which is recognized as the longest in South Dakota. The property expanded in 2014 to include The Knuckle Brewing Company, the first brewery in Sturgis, which crafts award-winning beers like the Knucklehead Red. In 2018, a dedicated pavilion and the Brews & BBQ restaurant were added, offering Carolina-style barbeque alongside a stage for major live music events and performances. The site is also home to the KNKL 1710 AM radio station, known as The Voice of Sturgis. Hungry riders typically seek out the Saucey Knuckle Sandwich Burger, a signature item known for its massive size. The menu also features brick-fired pizzas, steak tips, and wings designed to pair with their house-brewed craft beers. Whether visiting for a quiet lunch or the energy of a major event, the combination of history, craft brewing, and live entertainment makes it a central stop in Sturgis.

Quick Facts

  • Features South Dakota's longest bar.
  • Houses an on-site museum with antiques and Sturgis memorabilia.
  • Home to KNKL 1710 AM, The Voice of Sturgis radio station.
  • Includes Sturgis's first brewery, established in 2014.
  • Serves Carolina-style barbeque at the Brews & BBQ pavilion.
  • Located on land formerly owned by Colonel Samuel D. Sturgis.

Common Questions

Who founded The Knuckle Saloon?

It was founded in 2000 by Ken McNinny and Bryan Carter, along with other partners.

Who is the current owner of the saloon?

As of 2023, The Knuckle Saloon is under the sole ownership of Curtis Venable.

What is the longest bar in South Dakota?

The main bar inside The Knuckle Saloon is recognized as the longest bar in the state.

Does the saloon have its own brewery?

Yes, The Knuckle Brewing Company was established on-site in 2014 as the first brewery in Sturgis.

What is the signature burger at The Knuckle Saloon?

The Saucey Knuckle Sandwich Burger is the signature menu item, known for being one of the largest in the Black Hills.

Is there a museum at the saloon?

Yes, it is the only saloon that also functions as a museum, displaying a variety of antiques and Sturgis memorabilia.

What radio station is located at The Knuckle Saloon?

The saloon is the home of KNKL 1710 AM, known as The Voice of Sturgis.

What historical figure is associated with the property?

The saloon is built on land that once belonged to Colonel Samuel D. Sturgis, the officer for whom the town was named.

What award has the house-brewed beer won?

The brewery's Knucklehead Red won first place in its category at the Black Hills Beerfest.

What kind of barbeque is served at the pavilion?

The Brews & BBQ side of the establishment specializes in Carolina-style barbeque.

Is there a retail store on the premises?

Yes, The Trading Post is the on-site retail store for The Knuckle Saloon's apparel and merchandise.

What type of entertainment is hosted at the venue?

The venue features live music, bull riding events, car shows, and has an on-site casino.

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