Dragon's Guide to the Andy Cloth Wyoming Open

Mar 28, 2014

Saratoga, Wyoming - This is one of my favorite pool tournament trips of the year. It started 4 years ago on my first visit to this part of the Rocky Mountain states. I had been to Colorado before, but never beyond that. So I decided to go see what many say is the land of God's country. And I haven't regretted it since.
The first day driving from Denver to Toga (as the locals affectionately call Saratoga) the drive was beautiful and scenic with the mountains in the background. The wind was super strong and I could barely open my car door from the inside to get out. It was chilly but not too bad. The following day it was like a perfect spring time day. I walked out as if I was back home in Florida in a pair of shorts, t-shirt, and sandals. The day after that, I walked outside and the town was covered in snow. One town with three different climates in a span of only 3 days. Amazing place.
Here are a few tidbits about this charming town of 1700 people :
Breakfast/ Brunch : Lollypops
This is an extremely charming mom n' pop place to eat or have dessert. The food is tasty and it's run by Bobby Chitwood, a country singer. If you're lucky he may sing you a tune
Things to Do: Hot Springs
Saratoga natural hot springs where the water has minerals good for your body and stays HOT naturally. Best part: it's free and 24 hours a day
Shively Hardware
Ever wanted to ride a tractor? Big boy toys here with a wide range of vehicles including snowmobiles. This place makes Wal-Mart look like Toys R Us
Dinner: Hotel Wolf Saloon
take you back to the Old West. Food is delicious and hearty and eating it in a 120 year old establishment just makes everything tastes better
Lodging: Riviera Lodge
Comfortable, clean rooms with a friendly staff. Owned by Chris & Sonya Duke who conveniently put their nightlife bar in walking distance for you heavy drinkers
Hotel Wolf
Built in 1894, one of the coolest places I've stayed. Rooms take you back in time but still maintain modern amenities like hot showers and Wi-Fi
Nightlife: Duke's Bar & Grill
Beers, liquor, and ask for a shot of Saratoga (my fav drink in town). These pics speak for themselves I believe.
Dinner Fine Dining: Bella's Bistro
I love Italian. But can Wyoming do great Italian food justice? The answer is YES.
Ask for a drink called The Korean Dragon, named after me. It's supposedly turns you into a kung fu machine and after you break a few bricks with your head you pass out but wake up feeling refreshed.
Services: Massage by Shandiin
I've had hundreds of massages around the world. I do not exaggerate when I say Shandiin is one of the top 5 I've ever had. Maybe it's her mystical Native American hands?To not get a massage by her while in town is a crime. Reserve her by calling 307-710-5665
The WY Open usually takes place at the end of March, so mark it on your calendars. To come play in the Wyoming Open call 1-307-329-8924 or email wyomingopen@gmail.com
Follow Charlie Dragon Williams at http://realrealcool.com/category/people/charlie-dragon/