- Attraction: Buffalo Chip Saloon
- Location: 6823 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
- Industry: Restaurant, Live Music, Bar
- Website: https://buffalochipsaloon.com/
In the heart of Cave Creek, where the spirit of the Old West lives on and cowboy traditions run deeper than desert roots, stands Arizona’s most legendary honky-tonk destination.
The Buffalo Chip Saloon has been serving up authentic Western entertainment since 1951, transforming from a humble bait and feed shop into an internationally known entertainment complex where real cowboys ride real bulls, live music fills the desert air, and every night brings the excitement of the Wild West to life.
Live Bull Riding Spectacle
Real Cowboys, Real Bulls: Every Wednesday and Friday night, witness authentic professional bull riding where real cowboys attempt to stay aboard 2,000-pound bulls for eight heart-pounding seconds.
This isn’t a show – it’s genuine rodeo competition that attracts riders and spectators from across the Southwest.
Intimate Arena Experience: The small outdoor rodeo arena puts you close to the action, where you can feel the thunder of hooves and see the determination in riders’ eyes. The proximity creates an intensity that big arenas simply cannot match.
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Photo Opportunities: On some nights, guests can pay to sit on a bull for pictures, creating memorable keepsakes without the danger of actual bull riding.
Free Admission: One of the best parts about Buffalo Chip’s bull riding is that it’s completely free to watch – just walk in and enjoy the authentic Western entertainment.
Western Entertainment & Atmosphere
Live Music Scene: The saloon features live country music and cover rock performances Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, showcasing both local talent and touring acts on multiple stages throughout the 6,000-square-foot venue.
Country Dance Lessons: Free dance lessons on Thursday and Sunday evenings at 7 PM teach line dancing, two-stepping, and other country dance styles that let you join the fun on the dance floor with confidence.
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Discover MoreMultiple Entertainment Areas: With several bars and entertainment spaces spread across 5 acres, you can enjoy different atmospheres – from intimate indoor drinking to outdoor patio relaxation to arena-side excitement.
Mechanical Bull Fun: When live bulls aren’t bucking, test your skills on the mechanical bull, providing safer thrills while still delivering plenty of laughs and photo opportunities.
Authentic Western Dining
BBQ Buffet Excellence: The famous BBQ buffet isn’t your typical all-you-can-eat setup – you receive 1.5 pounds of food featuring exceptional brisket, pulled pork, and chicken with homemade BBQ sauce that rivals Texas standards.
Friday Fish Fry: All-you-can-eat fish fry every Friday night draws families and seafood lovers who appreciate the surprising coastal flavors in this desert setting.
Steakhouse Quality: Beyond barbecue, the full restaurant menu features quality steaks, burgers, and American comfort food that satisfies hearty appetites worked up by dancing and cheering.
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Cave Creek Community Institution
Historic Legacy: Starting as an 800-square-foot bait shop in 1951, the Buffalo Chip has grown organically with the Cave Creek community while maintaining authentic Western character that money can’t buy.
Church at the Chip: Sunday morning Cowboy Church services blend faith with Western tradition, creating a unique spiritual experience that reflects the values of ranch and rodeo culture.
Award-Winning Recognition: Phoenix New Times “Best of Phoenix” for three years, True West magazine’s “Best Western Saloon” twice, and Phoenix Magazine’s “Best of the Valley” twice confirm the authentic quality.
Transportation & Accessibility
Party Bus Destination: Popular with groups traveling by party bus from Scottsdale and Phoenix, the 40-minute scenic drive through Sonoran Desert landscape builds anticipation for Western adventure.
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Discover MoreAll-Ages Venue: Families with children can enjoy most activities together, though anyone under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Ample Parking: The 5-acre property provides sufficient parking for the crowds that gather for bull riding and live music events.
Other Considerations
Crowd Energy: Weekend nights and bull riding events create high-energy atmospheres with enthusiastic crowds that enhance the excitement but may overwhelm those seeking quiet evenings.
Reservation Recommendations: Large groups should make advance reservations, especially for bull riding nights when crowds pack the venue to witness authentic Western entertainment.
Weather Adaptability: Outdoor activities operate year-round, though Arizona’s extreme summer heat may affect comfort levels during peak summer months.
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Buffalo Chip Saloon & Steakhouse
📍 6823 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
