Cross 11 bridges in the heart of the Badlands and you’ll arrive in Wayne, a former mining town that’s now home to just a couple dozen residents, plus an old-timey saloon and historic hotel right out of a Western film. Stepping inside the Last Chance Saloon is like stepping back in time: It’s packed with relics from the town’s coal-mining heyday, as well as other novelties, including a rare vintage band box that still plays. Eventually, you’ll want to head out back to the patio and saddle up on one of the barstools (literally — they’re made from 70-year-old saddles). While the menu has options like a locally sourced bison burger and house-smoked brisket, go for the “You BBQ” option and grill your own 10-oz. striploin on the patio, while the saloon prepares your sides: garlic bread, saucy baked beans and a fully loaded baked potato.
Driving distance from Calgary: 1 hour, 50 minutes northeast
Bring home: This is the kind of place you want to commemorate with a souvenir. Go classic with a Last Chance Saloon T-shirt or take things up a notch with a nightlight or shot glass.
Spend the night: The Last Chance Saloon operates the adjacent Rosedeer Hotel, which has seven no-frills rooms. There are also campsites next to the saloon (talk about stumbling distance).
555 Jewell St., Rosedale Station, Wayne, 403-823-9189, visitlastchancesaloon.com
