It's no secret that we deal with some extremely cold winters here in Montana. And while it's a wonderful privilege to enjoy all four seasons, those dreary days can sometimes leave us longing for summer. Luckily, Great Falls happens to have a world famous tiki bar where it feels like summer all year long... oh, and there are mermaids.
If you didn't know any better, you'd never discover the hidden gem on this casual motel property.
The O-Haire Motor Inn is located at 17 17th St. S. in Great Falls.
But inside, there's a year-round tropical paradise awaiting you.
The Sip 'N Dip is hidden onsite, and it's fantastic, as long as you don't take it too seriously.
Grab a seat at the bar, order a fruity, beachy drink the size of your head, and prepare to have a blast...
... because you're about to be entertained by mermaids.
Mermaids are probably the last thing you'd expect to see in a town like Great Falls, and somehow, that makes it even better.
It all started in 1962, when some genius had an idea to create a swimming pool that could be viewed from inside the bar.
Its creators were inspired by a similar design at the Playboy Club in Chicago.
Tiki bars were popular in the 60s, so the Sip 'N Dip was an instant hit...
... and over 50 years later, it's still as popular as ever.
The lounge is open daily at 11:30. They're open until 2 a.m. most nights, although they close early on Mondays and have special hours on Sundays for their popular mermaid brunch. Minors are allowed inside until 9 p.m.
Customers are encouraged to take pictures with the swimming mermaids (and tip them).
Recently, the Sip 'N Dip has added mermen to their lineup as well.
Even if mermaids and tropical drinks aren't your thing, you should go to the Sip 'N Dip just to see the legendary Piano Pat perform.
Pat is in her 80s and has been a local icon for decades. She performs every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evening.
The Sip 'N Dip is the perfect place to go when you need an immediate dose of summer. Check out our other suggestions for beating the winter blues in Montana.
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