Elks Lodge #796 is a association or organization in Bluffton, IN. Open: Mon–Thu 3:00 – 10:00 PM; Fri–Sat 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sun 12:30 – 6:00 PM. Phone: (260) 824-2824. Average rating is 4.7 stars from 29 reviews. Website: https://www.facebook.com/Bluffton-IN-Elks-Lodge-796-178335568121.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemBluffton, IN Elks Lodge #796
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Silhouette of a moose against an American flag background. — Elks Lodge #796
4.7 29 reviews Today 3:00 – 10:00 PM

Brotherhood, Community, and the Best Tenderloin Around

Bluffton's Elks Lodge #796 brings good people together for great causes on South Main Street.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

Exterior view of Elks Lodge #796 with signage.
Exterior view of Elks Lodge #796 with signage.

Ask anyone in Bluffton, Indiana who's been lucky enough to walk through the doors at 213 S Main St, and they'll tell you the same thing: the Elks take care of their own, and then some. Lodge #796 has been a cornerstone of Wells County life for generations, running charitable programs, hosting community events, and building the kind of friendships that stick around long after the meeting adjourns.

The atmosphere here is genuinely warm. Members show up not because they have to, but because this is where people who give a damn about their town come to connect. The hall is comfortable, the bar is welcoming, and on the right night you'll find the kitchen turning out what locals will flat-out tell you is the best tenderloin in Bluffton. It doesn't make the menu every day, which only makes it more worth the wait.

With a 4.7-star rating built on real member experiences, Lodge #796 earns its reputation the old-fashioned way: by actually doing the work. Scholarships, youth programs, veteran support, and local fundraisers are all part of what keeps this lodge one of the most respected fraternal organizations in northeast Indiana.

What We Offer

Lodge #796 offers its members far more than a place to gather. The hall is available for private event hosting, making it a popular choice for milestone celebrations, club meetings, and community fundraisers. Affordable, flexible, and staffed by people who genuinely want your event to go well, it's one of the most practical venues in Wells County.

Membership opens the door to a full calendar of social events, lodge dinners, and the occasional kitchen special that has locals talking for days. The Friday tenderloin nights, when they happen, draw a crowd for good reason. Beyond the social side, members gain access to the Elks' national network of charitable programs, travel discounts, and scholarship opportunities for students in the community.

The Elks National Foundation backs initiatives ranging from youth drug awareness to veterans' care, and Lodge #796 participates actively. If you're looking for a way to plug into Bluffton's civic life while building real friendships, membership here is one of the most straightforward paths available.

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Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“Super nice Elks club, if your fortunate enough to be a member, then you know. Good people doing good things in and around the community.”

— Kevin Moore

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 years ago
"Super nice Elks club, if your fortunate enough to be a member, then you know. Good people doing good things in and around the community."
— Kevin Moore
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"Best tenderloin in town. They don't have them everyday though. :("
— Cassie Foulks
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"Great little spot for event hosting."
— Jesse Mahon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 years ago
"Come see the patio. In a town where we still smoke in bars, this sets them apart."
— Kyle Hunt
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"Was a guest for a party friendly staff clean club"
— Robert Hullinger

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a member of Elks Lodge #796 in Bluffton?

To join, you must be a U.S. citizen, believe in God, and be sponsored by a current Elks member in good standing. Reach out to Lodge #796 through their Facebook page or stop by the lodge at 213 S Main St, Bluffton, IN 46714 to connect with a member who can guide you through the application process.

When are the famous tenderloin nights at Lodge #796?

Tenderloin nights are not on a fixed weekly schedule, which is part of what makes them special when they happen. Follow the lodge's Facebook page at facebook.com/Bluffton-IN-Elks-Lodge-796-178335568121 for announcements on upcoming kitchen events and specials.

Can non-members use the lodge for events?

The hall at Lodge #796 is available for event hosting. Availability and policies may vary, so it's best to contact the lodge directly or reach out via their Facebook page to discuss your event needs, dates, and any member sponsorship requirements.

Where is Elks Lodge #796 located?

The lodge is at 213 S Main St, Bluffton, IN 46714, right in downtown Bluffton in Wells County, Indiana. It's easy to find and centrally located for members across the surrounding communities.

What charitable work does Lodge #796 do in the community?

Lodge #796 participates in Elks National Foundation programs that support veterans, fund youth drug awareness initiatives, and provide scholarships to local students. Members also organize and contribute to local fundraisers and community events throughout the year in the Bluffton area.

Is Lodge #796 open to the public or members only?

Most lodge activities and the bar area are reserved for members and their guests. However, some events may be open to the broader community. Checking the lodge's Facebook page is the best way to stay informed about any public-facing events or open nights.

What are the benefits of joining the Elks as a national organization?

Beyond the strong local community at Lodge #796, Elks membership connects you to a national network of 1.6 million members, travel and hotel discounts through Elks-affiliated programs, life insurance options, and scholarship opportunities for members and their families.

Hours of Operation

Open Now · Closes at 10:00 PM
Monday 3:00 – 10:00 PM
Tuesday Today 3:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday 3:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday 3:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Sunday 12:30 – 6:00 PM
The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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