Gene's Beer Garden

Gene's Beer Garden is more than just a drinking establishment; it's a living legend and the oldest operating bar in Morgantown, USA. Founded in 1944 by the Perrilli family, it has remained the heart of the cozy Greenmont neighborhood for decades, preserving its unique atmosphere of authenticity and hospitality.

Stepping inside feels like a trip back in time: the bar's interior is steeped in history, and the walls are adorned with memorabilia. The place is famous for its signature hot dogs, officially recognized as some of the best in town, and an impressive selection of cold beer. You'll find everything from reliable classics like Yuengling to unique craft brews from local breweries, including seasonal offerings.

Today, it's the perfect gathering spot for everyone from local university students to lifelong residents who have been coming here for decades. In 2019, a vibrant mural dedicated to the founders was added to the building's facade, making the bar an even more recognizable landmark on the city's tourist map.

For your convenience, we have gathered the establishment's current contact details so you can easily find it or check specifics before your visit.

The main ritual for any guest here is tasting the legendary hot dogs with secret homemade chili sauce. This simple yet incredibly delicious dish has become the place's culinary calling card. Be sure to pair your food with a drink from the extensive menu, which features local brands like Screech Owl or South Park Porter, as well as popular craft labels like Dogfish Head.

Beyond culinary delights, you can enjoy live music at the bar. It's a popular venue for local performers, so evenings often feature acoustic sets or high-energy band performances. If you're a sports fan, join in to watch games on the big screens alongside passionate fans—it's the best way to soak up the local vibe.

Don't forget to take some time to explore the interior and exterior decor. Make sure to find the colorful mural on the building's wall, depicting scenes from the Perrilli family's life, billiards, and musical instruments. It's a great spot for atmospheric photos that capture the spirit of good old Morgantown.

Gene's Beer Garden is conveniently located at 461 Wilson Ave in the quiet and picturesque Greenmont neighborhood. If you prefer walking, the trek from the city center will take about 20–30 minutes. It's a great opportunity to see the local residential architecture and feel the rhythm of local life.

For those arriving by car, the intersection of Wilson Ave and neighboring streets serves as a landmark; parking can usually be found nearby in the residential area. If you're using public transportation, choose bus routes that stop in the Greenmont area, from where the bar is a 5–10 minute walk.

In the evening, the most comfortable way to get around is by taxi or ridesharing services (Uber/Lyft), which will drop you off right at the entrance with the recognizable mural. The bar is tucked away among residential houses, so keep a close eye on your GPS to ensure you don't miss this hidden gem.

The story of this establishment began back in 1944 when Gene Perrilli opened the doors of his bar to the residents of the Greenmont working-class neighborhood. Later, management passed to his brothers, Frank and Joe, who turned the place into a true community hub where miners, students, and respected townspeople could all meet at the same bar counter. The Perrilli family was known for their hard work, spending 10 hours a day preparing their signature chili and serving guests.

A major turning point in the bar's history occurred in 1985 when it was purchased by local resident Al Bonner, who grew up in the neighborhood and had been a regular since the '60s. The previous owner, Frank Perrilli, personally trained the new owner in all the intricacies of the business over several months, passing on 41 years of accumulated experience. Thanks to this careful approach, Bonner managed to preserve the unique atmosphere of "time frozen in amber."

Today, Gene's Beer Garden is officially considered the oldest operating bar in the city. Its significance is highlighted by numerous awards, including being named the best establishment by "Best of Morgantown." In 2019, a colorful mural by artist Brian Pickens was added to the building's wall, dedicated to the Perrilli family and the heritage of this place, becoming a key visual highlight of the neighborhood.

Visitors typically spend between 1 to 2 hours here—plenty of time to enjoy a serving of the famous hot dogs and try a couple of craft beers in a relaxed setting.

If your visit coincides with a live music concert or a major sporting event broadcast, you might want to set aside about 3 hours. The establishment's atmosphere encourages long conversations with bartenders and locals, so time tends to fly by unnoticed.

The establishment is open daily, making it a great option for both an early lunch and a late dinner. From Monday to Saturday, the bar is open from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM, and on Sunday it opens slightly later—from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

Please note that operating hours may vary slightly on days of special events or holidays. It's recommended to check the official website or call ahead to confirm details before your visit.

Exploring the surrounding area after visiting this legendary bar will allow you to better feel the city's historic atmosphere and see its architectural landmarks. The Greenmont neighborhood and the adjacent South Park are ideal for leisurely strolls.