OUR STORY

OUR STORY

We just completed a major renovation that gave us a new Patio, seating , bar and kitchen with an amazing new menu! Southern Alberta's Oldest and most famous Bar is also Waterton's only pub!! We have pool tables & Foosball tables with nightly specials. We are open everyday!

We have live entertainment so kick up your heels and make your way down to the "Bear". Visit our Facebook page or Instagram for weekly specials & upcoming events! Come in check out our new dinner menu!

Waterton Dance Pavilion

On Saturday, 15 May 1926, the Waterton Dance Pavilion pictured opened to the public. The building was constructed by Oland & Scott for owners Ernie Haug and Dave MacLean. It was one of the largest dance pavilions in southern Alberta at the time (other sources say in western Canada) and could hold 1000 people.

The 11 May 1926 Lethbridge Herald described the interior of the building:

“Stucco and peeled logs on the outside, the interior is one which is so different that one cannot help but be amazed. The tip of the ceiling is 42 feet from the floor. All round the outside runs a balcony form which to look down upon the dancers. Above this is a maze of peeled and stained logs, regular giants, many of them, which support the roof. 
Waterton Dance Pavilion
The whole interior has a rustic air which fits in so well with the atmosphere of the mountains. There is very convenience for the dancers… [and] there will be a lure for the dancers from 100 miles about, and a continual source of delight for tourists within the park. The building was designed by Messrs. Haug and McLean, but Superintendent Cromarty of the park revised the plans, and added many little touches with add greatly to the charm.”

The 14 May 1926 Herald added a little more to the description:

“One noticeable and striking thing in connection with the new dance hall is the effect produced after dark, when all its numerous electric lights are turned on, both inside and out. Shining boldly, those outside make a conspicuous beacon, supplemented by the reflections from the brilliantly lit interior, as shown from and through the wide expanse of crystal-clear window panes, the total effect of brilliancy being most marked.”

The dance pavilion is now part of the Bayshore Inn Resort & Spa. Half is the Bayshore Convention Center & the Serenity Spa and the other half is the Thirsty Bear Socialhouse which still retains most of the original beams and the original dance floor from the Dance Pavilion! Did you ever dance at the pavilion?

“The Bear” is a great place to spend 
your evenings in Waterton featuring:

Live Bands (on most weekends)

A Great Dance Floor (for showing off your moves)
Catch The Big Game or Special Event (on one of our 10 big screen HD TV’s)
Celebrate Your Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties (call and book your special event)
Drink Up On 12 Local Alberta Craft Beers On Tap All Night Long (the only place you can find it during your stay at Waterton Lakes)
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