Colorado is famous for its top-notch ski resorts and stunning mountains. But the excitement continues even after you’ve hit the slopes. Après-ski is all about relaxing, mingling, and celebrating your day. You’ll find countless spots across Colorado where you can make unforgettable memories.
Looking for a warm bar with a crackling fire, tasty dishes, or live music to keep the fun alive? Colorado has everything you need for a great time off the slopes. After gathering recommendations from many, we’ve picked out the best après-ski spots. Your after-ski time is sure to be awesome.
Key Takeaways:
- Colorado offers a vibrant après-ski culture, creating the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Top après-ski spots in Colorado include Crested Butte’s Secret Stash, Vail’s Red Lion, and South Fork’s Windsor Hotel.
- Grand County’s Heck’s Tavern and Steamboat Springs’ Slopeside Grill offer unique atmospheres and unforgettable experiences.
- Breckenridge’s Downstairs at Eric’s and Aspen’s Ajax Tavern promise delightful dining and memorable views.
- Winter Park’s Hernando’s Pizza Pub and Nederland’s Busey Brews provide local favorites and craft beer delights.
Top Picks in Crested Butte, Vail, and South Fork
Crested Butte, Vail, and South Fork have great picks for après-ski fun. You can find awesome food, drinks, and vibes. Maybe you want pizza, a live show, or a place full of history. These spots are perfect for each.
Crested Butte: Secret Stash
Secret Stash in Crested Butte is a must-visit for pizza lovers. They have bold pizza flavors and a lot of beer choices. The fun, crazy decorations add to the place’s charm. Try pizzas like “Psychedelic Thai” or “Rasta Deluxe.” You’ll see why it’s a top choice in Crested Butte.
Vail: Red Lion
The Red Lion in Vail is a classic place for après-ski. It’s warm and welcoming, with good food and drinks. You can chill by the fire or dance to live music. Sundays bring a special “Bloody Mary Bar.” It’s a spot to enjoy the Vail Village vibe.
South Fork: Windsor Hotel
The Windsor Hotel in South Fork mixes history with a cozy feel. It has great food, like their famous bone-in lamb. After skiing, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy local tastes.
Telluride: New Sheridan Bar
The New Sheridan Bar in Telluride is a favorite for its rich history. It’s great for craft cocktails, beers, and hanging out. Visit to be part of Telluride’s skiing legacy.
These places in Crested Butte, Vail, South Fork, and Telluride are unique adventures. Try the pizza at Secret Stash or the New Sheridan Bar’s atmosphere. They make après-ski in Colorado really special.
Grand County’s Cowboy Glamour and Steamboat Springs’ Slopeside Vibe
In Grand County and Steamboat Springs, you find two very special après-ski spots. They show off Colorado’s mountain town charm like no other. My journey to these places left me impressed.
Heck’s Tavern at Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Heck’s Tavern at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Grand County is all about cowboy style. Walking in, I felt the cozy, rustic vibe right away. Large leather chairs welcome you to relax.
By the warm fireplace, whiskey in hand, I enjoyed the true western feel. Their menu highlights Colorado’s flavors with steaks and local ingredients. It’s a top choice for an authentic cowboy après-ski experience.
Slopeside Grill in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs bursts with lively energy. The Slopeside Grill, at the mountain’s base, is a favorite spot. It offers something special – enjoying drinks outdoors in the snow.
The grill’s wide patio is perfect for a cold beer or hot cocktail with mountain views. They serve diverse meals, from burgers to salads. The staff and setting make it a must-visit for a unique après-ski vibe.
Grand County’s Heck’s Tavern at Devil’s Thumb Ranch and Steamboat Springs’ Slopeside Grill capture Colorado après-ski perfectly. With their unique settings and experiences, they’re must-visits for everyone.
Colorado truly shines in après-ski fun with Grand County’s cowboy style and Steamboat Springs’ lively scene. The mix of stunning scenery, warm welcomes, and vibrant après-ski traditions welcomes skiers and snowboarders. It’s where they unwind and celebrate after hitting the slopes.
Next, I’ll explore Colorado’s best après-ski spots further. From Breckenridge’s downtown charm to Aspen’s stunning mountain views, there’s much more to discover.
Breckenridge’s Downtown Charm and Aspen’s Mountain View
Breckenridge and Aspen both offer great after-skiing spots. In Breckenridge, Downstairs at Eric’s stands out. This place is loved for its cozy, town-like feel. You’ll find delicious pizza and typical bar food here. It’s great to relax in after skiing. Plus, they have an arcade for fun.
Then there’s Aspen’s Ajax Tavern with a stunning mountain view. This restaurant focuses on fresh, local food. It’s known for its top-quality bar food. You can enjoy fancy dishes and well-made drinks in a stylish setting. It’s a mix of comfort and high-end mountain style.
The Exceptional Fare at Ajax Tavern
According to Travel & Leisure, Ajax Tavern’s food is top-notch. Their menu has burgers, salads, and truffle fries. It’s all about great quality and taste here.
Grab a Slice and Unwind at Downstairs at Eric’s
Looking for comfort food with a side of fun? Look no further than Downstairs at Eric’s. Their pizzas and pub dishes are a hit. Don’t forget to play some arcade games with friends. It’s a perfect ending to a great day on the slopes.” – Ski Magazine
| Breckenridge | Aspen | |
|---|---|---|
| Food Options | Pizza, pub classics | Five-star bar fare, farm-to-table style |
| Ambiance | Downtown charm | Mountain luxury with a view |
| Extras | Arcade area |
Winter Park’s Local Favorites and Nederland’s Fresh Brews
Winter Park and Nederland offer great choices for après-ski in Colorado. They have tasty pizza and cold brews that you’ll love. These local favorites are places you won’t want to miss.
1. Hernando’s Pizza Pub Winter Park
Hernando’s Pizza Pub is a top spot in Winter Park. Here, you can enjoy great pizza in a fun setting. The restaurant is famous for letting people pin dollar bills on its walls. This tradition makes Hernando’s a unique and lively place to eat.
2. Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery Nederland
Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery in Nederland is a must-visit. It’s loved for its fresh beers and tasty smoked meats. Imagine sitting on the large deck, enjoying a cold drink and delicious food. It’s ideal for relaxing after skiing.
Make a stop at Hernando’s Pizza Pub and Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery, whether in Winter Park or Nederland. For a memorable après-ski, these places are perfect.
| Winter Park’s Local Favorites | Nederland’s Fresh Brews |
|---|---|
| Hernando’s Pizza Pub | Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery |
| Cozy atmosphere | Fresh beer |
| Decorated dollar bills | Mouthwatering smoked meat |
| Lively pizza joint | Spacious deck |
Vail’s Classic Elegance and Steamboat’s Mexican Delights
Vail and Steamboat Springs in Colorado offer different après-ski experiences. Do you love classic elegance or prefer Mexican food? These destinations have what you need.
I. The Gambit Bar Vail – Where Sophistication Meets Entertainment
The Gambit Bar in Vail Village is perfect for a classy après-ski. It has a refined vibe, live music, and crafted cocktails. This place screams classic elegance.
Inside, you’ll find comfy seats and chic decorations for a great evening. Sit at the bar for a well-made drink, or relax with friends and enjoy the live music.
The Gambit Bar offers great service, a cozy vibe, and awesome music. Whether you like craft cocktails or wine, you’ll love this Vail spot.
“The Gambit Bar is the epitome of sophistication in Vail. The live music and artful cocktails make it the perfect spot for a memorable evening after a day on the slopes.”
II. Besame Steamboat Springs – A Colorful Culinary Journey
Crave Mexican flavors in Steamboat Springs? Besame is your go-to spot. This lively restaurant offers creative Mexican food, a fun vibe, and great service.
The place’s decor and colors will make you feel like you’re in Mexico. Enjoy authentic Mexican dishes and a great margarita selection.
Besame prepares every meal carefully, ensuring a memorable dining experience. You can sit inside or on the patio and feel the place’s energy. It truly stands out in Steamboat Springs.
“Besame is a feast for the senses. The colorful decor, delicious Mexican cuisine, and signature margaritas create a vibrant experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico.”
III. A Taste of Vail and Steamboat Springs
The Gambit Bar and Besame are top stops in Colorado for après-ski. Looking for elegance or a food adventure? Vail and Steamboat Springs have it all.
| Venue | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| The Gambit Bar Vail | Vail Village | Sophisticated ambiance, live music, artful cocktails |
| Besame Steamboat Springs | Steamboat Springs | Vibrant Mexican cuisine, festive atmosphere, signature margaritas |
No matter where you go, it will be special. Enjoy the elegance of The Gambit Bar or the food journey at Besame. After all, après-ski is about fun, relaxation, and making memories.
Conclusion
Colorado’s après-ski scene is one of a kind. It offers a mix of culture that makes the mountain experience unforgettable. Each town adds its special charm, blending to form a colorful tapestry of après-ski customs.
Love cozy bars or places with great food and live shows? Maybe you just want to see stunning mountain views. Whatever you like, Colorado has something for you. Here, après-ski is not just about relaxing after skiing. It’s a celebration of mountain living and a time to make new friends who share your love for skiing and snowboarding.
While in Colorado, dive into the après-ski culture. Enjoy local craft beers and tasty mountain dishes. Each stop, from local breweries to dining spots, tells a story of Colorado’s après-ski vibe.
So, no matter if you’re a pro skier seeking new thrills or a newbie to Colorado’s après-ski, get ready for a magical time. The warmth, fun, and unforgettable experiences in Colorado’s mountain après-ski are waiting for you.
FAQ
What are some of the best après-ski spots in Colorado?
Colorado has great places for après-ski like the Secret Stash and the Red Lion. The historic Windsor Hotel in South Fork is a gem. And don’t miss the New Sheridan Bar in Telluride.
Where can I enjoy a cozy and woodsy après-ski atmosphere in Colorado?
In Vail Village, the Red Lion offers a perfect woodsy and cozy atmosphere. It’s great for unwinding after skiing.
Are there any après-ski spots with live entertainment in Colorado?
The Red Lion and the New Sheridan Bar are known for live music and fun. It’s a great place for those who love entertainment.
Where can I enjoy cowboy glamour and whiskey sipping in Colorado?
Heck’s Tavern at Devil’s Thumb Ranch offers cowboy vibes and comfy chairs for sipping whiskey. It’s a unique spot for après-ski.
Where can I enjoy après-ski beverages outside in the snow?
At Slopeside Grill in Steamboat Springs, enjoy your drinks in the snow. It’s right at the mountain’s base.
Where can I find delicious pizza and pub classics for après-ski dining?
Head to Downstairs at Eric’s in Breckenridge or Hernando’s Pizza Pub in Winter Park. Both are loved for their pizza and pub food.
Where can I enjoy stunning mountain views while enjoying après-ski fare?
Ajax Tavern in Aspen lets you see the full mountain view. They serve bar food that’s five-star and made from farm-fresh ingredients.
Where can I find fresh beer and mouthwatering smoked meat for après-ski?
In Nederland, Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery offers fresh beer and tasty smoked meat. Enjoy it all on their deck.
Are there any après-ski spots with a sophisticated ambiance and artful cocktails?
The Gambit Bar in Vail is known for its classy yet fun vibe. Enjoy live music and creative cocktails here.
Where can I find colorful Mexican cuisine and specialty pizzas for après-ski?
Besame in Steamboat Springs is colorful. Try their margaritas and unique pizzas.
What makes Colorado a great destination for après-ski activities?
Colorado’s après-ski scene is vibrant and diverse. Each town offers something special, from cozy bars to great food and stunning views. There’s lots to enjoy for everyone.
