The Central Peninsula has a new gathering place in Soldotna.

The new beautiful Bridge Lounge located on the upper deck of the Kenai River Lodge at the Soldotna bridge not only offers a splendid view of the mighty Kenai River, but an outdoor deck with gas fireplaces that allows you to be on the river with your favorite beverage and friend any time of the year. “We wanted to make a special place where people can come sit, visit and enjoy the river or watch their favorite game on one of the six big screen TVs. We have the NFL package so every Sunday we open at 9 a.m. so no one will miss their favorite team’s game,” said Michelle Dix, whose family now owns the Kenai River Lodge. “My family has always had a B&B on the river, so I was around the hotel industry growing up and we’re friends with former owner Lela Rosin who got us excited about the opportunity.”

The striking ambiance of the Bridge Lounge was designed by a professional architect but the décor was done by Michelle’s family.

“My family and I put our brains together for the decorating and did it ourselves. We wanted a place where people could experience the river and see their favorite sporting events and we are totally happy with the way it turned out,” she said.

The Bridge Lounge bar features a unique acrylic transparent bar that changes colors in a similar way to the Soldotna Bridge.

Visitors will also find a unique appetizer and beverage menu at the Bridge Lounge.

“Some of the drinks, like the seasonal pumpkin martini was created by our bartender and has become extremely popular. We also have a fine selection of wines by the glass and local craft beers on tap,” said Dix.

The Bridge Lounge grand opening was a huge success and business has been booming ever since.

On social media websites people said the Bridge Lounge is “absolutely gorgeous lounge with the best outdoor deck overlooking the Kenai River,” “awesome place with great views of the river,” “great drink menu, I highly recommend! Michelle you did an amazing job!”

The Bridge Lounge is open seven days a week from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Owner Michelle Dix visits with friends by the new fireplace at the Bridge Lounge.

More than a view of the Kenai River the Bridge Lounge lets customers be by the River.