Since the 19th century, après-ski, or “after skiing,” has been a special tradition in Colorado. It all started when high society Brits opted for Swiss ski resorts in winter. Over time, it morphed into the lively scene we know, with alcohol-filled gatherings and dance parties.
By the 1950s, après-ski in Colorado was in full swing. Today, it’s more than just a pastime; it’s a way to unwind and celebrate with loved ones after skiing. This includes enjoying great food and craft cocktails with ski enthusiasts alike.
Key Takeaways:
- Historical après-ski traditions have deep roots in Colorado’s ski culture.
- Après-ski originated from British upper-class visitors in the 19th century.
- Colorado’s après-ski scene has evolved to include alcohol-fueled gatherings and dance parties.
- Après-ski in Colorado is a time to relax, indulge in food and drinks, and connect with fellow skiers.
- Colorado offers diverse après-ski options for every taste and preference.
The Best Spots in Boulder County for Après-Ski Drinks and Bites
Boulder County, Colorado, has lots of places for skiers to chill out after a fun day. It’s home to the Eldora ski area and has a lively après-ski scene. You can enjoy a hot cocktail, craft beer, or tasty snacks to end your day right.
Avanti Food & Beverage
In the heart of Boulder, Avanti Food & Beverage offers a sunny rooftop and great hot cocktails. It’s a favorite spot for many visitors.
Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery
Do you love St. Louis-style barbecue and craft beer? Then head to Busey Brews in Nederland. You can savor their delicious food and unique brews.
Twisted Pine Brewing Company
Twisted Pine Brewing in Boulder is perfect for beer and pizza fans. They have a big selection of craft beers and mouth-watering pizzas.
West Side Tavern
Looking for a cozy place in Longmont? Go to West Side Tavern. They have heated outdoor seating and cozy tents for a warm experience.
The Brown Palace Hotel
The Brown Palace Hotel in Denver is famous for its afternoon teas and cocktails. Enjoy a luxurious experience in a beautiful setting.
The Family Jones
Want to try award-winning hot toddies in Denver? Visit The Family Jones. It’s a cool place with great drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
The Golden Mill
Check out The Golden Mill in Golden for self-pour tap walls and live music. It’s a fun food hall perfect for après-ski fun.
Room for Milly
In Denver, Room for Milly is a unique spot for creative cocktails. Explore their menu and enjoy a lively vibe.
Westbound & Down
Westbound & Down offers great beer and food at multiple locations. Join in the fun and have a great après-ski time.
Discover many après-ski spots in Boulder County and enjoy the fun ski culture. You can pick from places like rooftop bars, cozy taverns, or high-end hotels. These spots are perfect for relaxing, chatting, and celebrating a day of skiing.
Après-Ski Hotspots in Eagle County (Beaver Creek, Vail)
Eagle County is famous for Beaver Creek and Vail, top ski destinations. There you’ll find cozy taverns and cool cocktail bars. They’re perfect for chilling after skiing and snowboarding.
Vail’s Artful Cocktails at The Gambit Bar
The Gambit Bar in Vail offers a taste of history. They make craft cocktails that feel elegant and classic. Enjoy the atmosphere and the friendly people while you sip.
The George Restaurant & Pub: Happy Hour Deals and Live Entertainment
The George Restaurant & Pub is a hit in Vail. It’s known for great deals during happy hour. There’s also live music to enjoy while you unwind with friends.
Historic Charm and Generous Plates at The Red Lion
The Red Lion has stood in Vail for over 50 years. It’s a cozy place with lots of drinks to choose from. Try their big, tasty dishes and enjoy a friendly, classic après-ski scene.
Classic Après-Ski Dishes at Stoke & Rye
Stoke & Rye in Avon is perfect for hearty après-ski meals. You can dig into cheese fondue or enjoy a big bowl of French onion soup. It’s all about comfort food at this spot.
Warm Beverages and Signature Cocktails at Two Arrows Coffee | Bar
Two Arrows Coffee | Bar is your go-to for a warm and relaxing drink. In Vail, it’s a lovely spot for any drink you fancy. They offer the full range, from coffee to creative cocktails.
Après-Ski Dining with Beaver Creek Views at WYLD
WYLD at The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch is stunning. You have Beaver Creek views with a Colorado-style menu. Join them for dinner and drinks to end your day on the mountain right.
Take in Eagle County’s après-ski life, with Beaver Creek and Vail. You can enjoy artful drinks, great food, or just the cozy vibes. These places make après-ski special and memorable.
Where to Unwind in Grand County (Winter Park)
Winter Park shines for après-ski in Grand County. It’s the main hub for fun after hitting the slopes at Winter Park Resort. You can choose from many spots, like cozy restaurants, lively bars, or lodges with great views, for your post-ski chill.
Adventures Decanted
Are you into wines? Adventures Decanted is ideal for a relaxed evening. They offer fine wines chosen by experts, along with tasty dishes. Enjoy the ambiance and have fun exploring wine and food in this intimate spot.
The Ditch on 40
Craving something New Mexican? The Ditch on 40 is a gem, known for its friendly, family vibe. Their deck has a perfect view of downtown Winter Park. Enjoy your meal with a view and savor their flavorful food.
Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge
For a special après-ski, visit Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge, right at the Winter Park Resort. Here, the views take your breath away. As you relax, enjoy cocktails, live music, and reflect on the day, absorbing the beauty around you.
Winter Park’s not just about skiing. It also hosts cool events all season long. These include live music, themed parties, and special deals. You’ll always find something fun to do in Winter Park after you ski.
In Grand County, Winter Park is a top choice for après-ski fun. After skiing, you can relax, eat, drink, and enjoy the mountain vibe. It’s the place to be for unforgettable après-ski moments in the beautiful Rockies.
Après-Ski Recommendations in Gunnison County (Crested Butte)
Gunnison County is where you’ll find Crested Butte Mountain Resort. It’s known for its lively après-ski scene. Head to various spots to relax and enjoy tasty food and drinks after hitting the slopes.
1. Bonez
Bonez is a top choice in Crested Butte for après-ski fun. It’s lively and serves a tasty menu. Try their wide variety of margaritas or choose from dishes like tacos or barbecue. It makes for a great way to end a day of skiing.
2. The Secret Stash
Looking for something different? The Secret Stash has unique, tasty pizzas. They offer pizzas like the Booty Call and the Notorious F.I.G. Enjoy these specially made pies in a cozy setting.
Looking for a fun spot for drinks or a place to enjoy pizzas? Gunnison County won’t disappoint. Visit Bonez or The Secret Stash in Crested Butte for a memorable après-ski event.
| Après-Ski Spot | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Bonez | Popular hangout with a margarita menu and flavorful dishes |
| The Secret Stash | Famed for specialty pizzas with unique flavors |
Where to Unwind in Pitkin County (Aspen, Snowmass)
In Pitkin County, you’ll find great spots to relax after skiing in Aspen and Snowmass. These areas offer a variety of options for après-ski fun. You can enjoy beautiful views, European-style spots, or award-winning restaurants.
Ajax Tavern at The Little Nell in Aspen
Ajax Tavern at The Little Nell is a top pick in Aspen for après-ski. It sits at the foot of Aspen Mountain, giving diners amazing slope views. Its outdoor patio is perfect for after-ski chill, offering tasty plates like truffle fries and a wagyu cheeseburger. The food, setting, and atmosphere combine for a memorable experience.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro at Aspen Highlands
For European vibes in Aspen, Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro at Aspen Highlands is a prime choice. It mixes Swiss appeal with a cozy alpine feel. While enjoying dishes like raclette and fondue, you can see Maroon Bells views. The place is known for its lively mood, great food, and stunning setting.
Prospect at Hotel Jerome in Aspen
For a high-end après-ski, Prospect at Hotel Jerome in Aspen is an elegant option. It has a menu that changes with the season, focusing on local products. Visitors can feast on dishes such as venison loin and roasted beets in a historic hotel. Expect top-notch food, service, and ambiance here.
Pitkin County caters to all who want to unwind after skiing. Enjoy the vistas at Ajax Tavern, taste Europe at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, or try the fine food at Prospect at Hotel Jerome. Your après-ski memory-making awaits in Aspen and Snowmass.
| Après-Ski Spots | Location |
|---|---|
| Ajax Tavern at The Little Nell | Aspen |
| Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro | Aspen Highlands |
| Prospect at Hotel Jerome | Aspen |
Conclusion
Colorado has a unique way to relax after skiing known as après-ski. You can enjoy this in many ski resorts, like those in Boulder, Eagle, Grand, Gunnison, and Pitkin Counties. They offer a wide range of après-ski activities.
In Boulder County, you can taste delicious food and try craft cocktails in warm cafes. Eagle County, on the other hand, hosts vibrant après-ski scenes. Maybe you’ll opt for a hot cocktail in Boulder or a raclette dinner in Aspen. The goal is to build warm memories in Colorado’s cold mountains.
Après-ski in Colorado is not just about fun. It’s also about feeling part of a larger ski community. If you enjoy rich history and lively cultures, Colorado awaits. It’s the best place for unforgettable après-ski moments. So, get ready for some Colorado-style relaxation after hitting the slopes.
FAQ
What is après-ski?
Après-ski means the fun and social time after skiing or snowboarding. It started in Europe.
What are the historical après-ski traditions in Colorado?
In Colorado, après-ski began when wealthy Brits went to Swiss resorts in the 19th century. They started with fancy gatherings later called “tea dances.”
What can I expect at an après-ski gathering in Colorado?
In Colorado, après-ski is about relaxing and partying with friends and family. You’ll find tasty food, cool cocktails, and a welcoming ski vibe.
Where are the best spots for après-ski drinks and bites in Boulder County?
Avanti Food & Beverage and Busey Brews Smokehouse are top picks in Boulder County. Twisted Pine Brewing and West Side Tavern are also favorites. The list includes more places like The Brown Palace Hotel and Westbound & Down.
What are some recommended après-ski hotspots in Eagle County (Beaver Creek, Vail)?
Eagle County boasts great après spots like The Gambit Bar and The George Restaurant. You can also check out The Red Lion and Stoke & Rye. WYLD at The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch is another awesome place.
Where can I unwind in Grand County (Winter Park)?
For après-ski in Grand County, try Adventures Decanted or The Ditch on 40. Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge in Winter Park is also a great choice.
What are the après-ski recommendations in Gunnison County (Crested Butte)?
Crested Butte in Gunnison County has great options like Bonez and The Secret Stash for après-ski.
Where can I unwind in Pitkin County (Aspen, Snowmass)?
Pitkin County has many places for après-ski. Check out Ajax Tavern at The Little Nell and Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. Prospect at Hotel Jerome is another good choice.
What is the significance of Colorado’s historical après-ski traditions?
Colorado’s après-ski traditions highlight the state’s love for skiing. They let people unwind with great food, drinks, and ski community fun.
