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Our Philosophy
A great bar isn’t just about drinks—it’s about the people. At Second Chance Saloon, we believe in good company, great conversations, and a barstool that’s always open. Our bartenders are fast, friendly, and treat every guest like family, ensuring no one is left out. Whether you’re a regular, a traveler passing through, or someone looking for a second chance at a good night, we’re here to make sure you feel at home from the moment you walk in till the second you leave.
Mission Statement
Second Chance Saloon is more than just a bar—it’s a place where Mission Valley comes together. Built on community, connection, and reliability, we provide a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike can unwind, swap stories, and make lifelong memories. With fast and friendly service, a lively atmosphere, and the guarantee of never closing early, we promise to be here 365 days a year to offer a barstool, a cold drink, and a second chance to reconnect before the day is done.
Mission Valley's Watering Hole
The story behind the 2nd chance
Second Chance Saloon isn’t just a bar — it’s where folks from Polson down to St. Ignatius, and everyone passing through, come together in peace. This watering hole is built on the simple idea that a saloon should always feel welcoming, never close early, and always have a cold drink waiting. It’s a place for visitors and locals alike to swap stories, unwind, and make memories together. We love this bar. We think you will too.
Our original logo says it all—an outhouse spared by a lightning strike. Inspired by Rodney’s belief that everyone deserves a second chance, it’s a symbol of luck, grit, and finding relief in the right place at the right time. Just like our bar.
The Original Logo
A Tale Worth The Whiskey
Handcrafted with Heart
At Second Chance Saloon, much of what you see was built by hand by Rodney himself. Rodney took over the bar and poured his craftmanship into it, shaping the woodwork with his own two hands. Look around the bar and you’ll spot pieces of his past: saddle leather, old ranch branding irons, horseshoes, and other pieces with stories of their own. This place was handcrafted with care, grit, and a whole lot of heart.
The Ones Callin' The Shots
The Future Of 2nd Chance
Keeping Good Times Rolling
Looking ahead, we’re bringing bigger live music events, livelier holiday celebrations, and even more ways to bring folks together in Ronan. We’re working hand-in-hand with local businesses and the community to create larger town-wide events that remind people why Ronan is worth stopping for. From foot-stomping concerts and themed nights to collaborative town events that bring everyone together, we’re making sure Second Chance Saloon stays the spot for good times, strong pours, and even stronger memories. Stop on by, grab a drink, and see why we’re the best bar in Mission Valley.
Meet The Owners
Rodney Smart ( Father )
After A Lifetime at the Bar,
A Hidden Gem Was Created
Some folks are just meant to run a bar. Rodney Smart was born and raised in Ronan, Montana, and after serving in the Marines (1959-1963) and working at Montana State Prison for nearly two decades, he found himself at a crossroads—work dog kennels in Oregon, go on an adventure to Australia, or take over a bar. The choice was easy. Rodney had practically lived in a bar his whole life, so why not own one?
In 1981, he bought The Trading Room, formerly The Ronan Bar, a local watering hole that had once been Waldorf & Horn Pool Hall, a speakeasy during Prohibition. But Rodney wasn’t just buying a business—he was creating a second home for the people of Ronan. He renamed it Second Chance Saloon, inspired by his time working in the prison system, where he saw firsthand that everyone deserves a second chance. The bar became his way of offering that second chance to locals and travelers alike—a place to unwind, connect, and leave the day’s worries behind.
Jannel Smart ( Daughter )
A Handcrafted Legacy
Rodney didn’t just own the bar—he built it with his own hands. From the woodwork on the bar top to the back patio railings, he poured his craftsmanship into every detail. If you look around, you’ll see pieces of his old ranch—saddles, western guns, horseshoes, and even his personal branding iron burned into the wood—a reminder that this saloon is built on history, tradition, and a whole lot of heart.
Despite facing a medical challenge that led to both of his legs being removed from the knees down, Rodney never slowed down. These days, you’ll find him in his motorized wheelchair, rolling through the saloon, making his daily rounds, greeting every familiar face and welcoming every newcomer with a quick joke or a cold drink recommendation.
A Strike of Luck & a Second Chance
Our original logo says it all—an outhouse spared by a lightning strike. Inspired by Rodney’s belief that everyone deserves a second chance, it’s a symbol of luck, grit, and finding relief in the right place at the right time. Just like our bar.
More Than a Bar - A Gathering Place
Rodney believes that a great bar is about the people, the atmosphere, and the feeling you get when you step inside. Whether you’re a local looking for familiar company or a visitor passing through on Highway 93, he wants you to feel like you just stepped into your second home. His bartenders are trained to serve fast, welcome everyone, and keep the conversations flowing, ensuring that no one is left out, and everyone leaves with a memory worth keeping.
But Rodney’s vision for Second Chance Saloon doesn’t stop at the barstools. He sees it as Ronan’s gathering spot—the place that keeps town traditions alive and brings people together through live music, seasonal celebrations, and community-driven events. He’s working to bring more foot traffic to Ronan, partner with other local businesses, and turn Second Chance into the kind of landmark you plan your trip around.
If you ask Rodney what he loves most about running this bar, he’ll tell you: “The regulars gathering, the visitors feeling at home, and watching my bartenders run the place like it’s their own.” He may have built the saloon, but the people inside it are what make it special.
And if you want to know what Rodney’s drinking? Miller Lite. Always has been, always will be.
Meet The Owners
Rodney Smart
( Father )
Jannel Smart
( Daughter )
Rod's Story
After A Lifetime at the Bar,
A Hidden Gem Was Created
Some folks are just meant to run a bar. Rodney Smart was born and raised in Ronan, Montana, and after serving in the Marines (1959-1963) and working at Montana State Prison for nearly two decades, he found himself at a crossroads—work dog kennels in Oregon, go on an adventure to Australia, or take over a bar. The choice was easy. Rodney had practically lived in a bar his whole life, so why not own one?
In 1981, he bought The Trading Room, formerly The Ronan Bar, a local watering hole that had once been Waldorf & Horn Pool Hall, a speakeasy during Prohibition. But Rodney wasn’t just buying a business—he was creating a second home for the people of Ronan. He renamed it Second Chance Saloon, inspired by his time working in the prison system, where he saw firsthand that everyone deserves a second chance. The bar became his way of offering that second chance to locals and travelers alike—a place to unwind, connect, and leave the day’s worries behind.
A Handcrafted Legacy
Rodney didn’t just own the bar—he built it with his own hands. From the woodwork on the bar top to the back patio railings, he poured his craftsmanship into every detail. If you look around, you’ll see pieces of his old ranch—saddles, western guns, horseshoes, and even his personal branding iron burned into the wood—a reminder that this saloon is built on history, tradition, and a whole lot of heart.
Despite facing a medical challenge that led to both of his legs being removed from the knees down, Rodney never slowed down. These days, you’ll find him in his motorized wheelchair, rolling through the saloon, making his daily rounds, greeting every familiar face and welcoming every newcomer with a quick joke or a cold drink recommendation.
More Than a Bar - A Gathering Place
Rodney believes that a great bar is about the people, the atmosphere, and the feeling you get when you step inside. Whether you’re a local looking for familiar company or a visitor passing through on Highway 93, he wants you to feel like you just stepped into your second home. His bartenders are trained to serve fast, welcome everyone, and keep the conversations flowing, ensuring that no one is left out, and everyone leaves with a memory worth keeping.
But Rodney’s vision for Second Chance Saloon doesn’t stop at the barstools. He sees it as Ronan’s gathering spot—the place that keeps town traditions alive and brings people together through live music, seasonal celebrations, and community-driven events. He’s working to bring more foot traffic to Ronan, partner with other local businesses, and turn Second Chance into the kind of landmark you plan your trip around.
If you ask Rodney what he loves most about running this bar, he’ll tell you: “The regulars gathering, the visitors feeling at home, and watching my bartenders run the place like it’s their own.” He may have built the saloon, but the people inside it are what make it special.
And if you want to know what Rodney’s drinking? Miller Lite. Always has been, always will be.
The Beginning
A Saloon With A Story
Before it was a saloon, it was an idea—born from long days, late nights, and countless drinks shared over a bar top. Rodney Smart, a retired lieutenant guard, knew firsthand the power of a good watering hole—where folks could swap stories, shake off the dust, and raise a glass to another day down. He wanted to bring that feeling home to Ronan—a gathering place that never closed early, always had a cold drink ready, and welcomed locals and travelers alike with open arms. So, with a vision, good company, and a great team, Second Chance Saloon was born—a place where everyone gets a second chance at good times before the day is done.
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The Foundation
Built By Hand, Rooted in Community
When Rodney set out to open his own saloon, he didn’t just sign a lease—he rolled up his sleeves and built it himself. With his own hands, he crafted the woodwork, bar top, loft, and patio railings—designing the interior with character and craftsmanship. But building a bar is one thing—earning a place in a small town is another. Second Chance Saloon set itself apart with its unbeatable atmosphere, award-winning bartenders, and a promise that it would always be open when folks needed it. Soon enough, it became the kind of place where stories flowed as easy as the whiskey, and every night had the makings of a memory worth telling.
The Legacy
" Ole Reliable " in Ronan
Today, Second Chance Saloon is more than just a bar—it’s Ole Reliable in Ronan and a true landmark in Mission Valley. The doors swing open 365 days a year, from 10 AM to 2 AM—never closing early, never leaving anyone without a seat at the bar. Whether you’re passing through on Highway 93, cooling off after a long day on Flathead Lake, or just looking to let loose on a Saturday night, this is the go-to gathering place in Ronan. With live music, seasonal events, and a social atmosphere that’s as welcoming as an old friend, the saloon has earned its reputation as Mission Valley’s watering hole—a place where locals and travelers come together, night after night.
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The Future Of 2nd Chance
Keeping Good Times Rolling
Looking ahead, we’re bringing bigger live music events, livelier holiday celebrations, and even more ways to bring folks together in Ronan. We’re working hand-in-hand with local businesses and the community to create larger town-wide events that remind people why Ronan is worth stopping for. From foot-stomping concerts and themed nights to collaborative town events that bring everyone together, we’re making sure Second Chance Saloon stays the spot for good times, strong pours, and even stronger memories. Stop on by, grab a drink, and see why we’re the best bar in Mission Valley.
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Our Philosophy
A great bar isn’t just about drinks—it’s about the people. At Second Chance Saloon, we believe in good company, great conversations, and a barstool that’s always open. Our bartenders are fast, friendly, and treat every guest like family, ensuring no one is left out. Whether you’re a regular, a traveler passing through, or someone looking for a second chance at a good night, we’re here to make sure you feel at home from the moment you walk in till the second you leave.
Mission Statement
Second Chance Saloon is more than just a bar—it’s a place where Mission Valley comes together. Built on community, connection, and reliability, we provide a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike can unwind, swap stories, and make lifelong memories. With fast and friendly service, a lively atmosphere, and the promise of never closing early, we promise to be here 365 days a year to offer a barstool, a cold drink, and a second chance to reconnect before the day is done.