The bar-restaurant opened for business on Friday, February 13, 2004, to a near-capacity crowd that had eagerly anticipated the opening. Customers witnessed a renovated century-old building - the former Z.C.B.J. Hall - with a totally unique atmosphere.

In late 2003, four local businessmen came together to form the ownership of Chrome Horse Saloon. Their vision was simple: Create a bar with a motorcycle theme that would be enjoyed by people of all ages

In 2008, Cedar Rapids was devastated by a flood that crested at 31.12 feet on June 13th. The Chrome Horse took on 12 feet of water. Months of cleanup ensued. There also was considerable redesigning, which resulted in an 84-foot horseshoe bar, more booth seating, relocation of the kitchen and restrooms, and more of a saloon-type look with considerable wood craftsmanship.

The Chrome Horse re-opened March 13, 2009, after 9 months of cleanup, repair and construction.
One of the attractions of The Chrome Horse is its Live Music.
In addition to weekly shows inside on Friday and Saturday nights, a series of Friday night outdoor concerts are held in the parking lot during the summer months. The bar also has hosted a variety of national acts, including The Jeff Healey Band, L.A. Guns, Saliva, Hank Williams III, Black Oak Arkansas, The Buckinghams, The Grass Roots, American Idol finalist Amanda Overmyer and Blues Traveler.

Several features stand out:

An outdoor "heated" patio that seats 80 people with low and high top tables.	Two paved parking lots, the main one which includes ample angle parking for motorcycles.

An interior designed around Harley-Davidsons. Hanging in the Chrome Horse are these motorcycles:
2003 Anniversary Edition Softtail Deuce ~ 2003 Anniversary Edition Fatboy ~ 1978 AMF Dirt Bike
1969 M65 ~ 1951 Pan Head ~ 1911 Excelsior