Après Ski Guide

A couple enjoys apres ski drinks on top of a mountain

Après ski in Aspen and Snowmass Village is not just something to do after a day of skiing and riding—it’s a vibrant component to experiencing everything this small yet global Valley has to offer. Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as having the best après ski scene in North America, Aspen is the epicenter of it all, with more outstanding options just down the road in Snowmass Village.



Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner to sample a cocktail with friends, a buzzing bar filled with new faces, or an atmosphere bumping with music and energy, the scene at Aspen Snowmass always delivers. And, with outdoor patios and fresh mountain air, it's easy to catch some sunshine while you sip.



As always, keep your eyes out for pop-up DJs around our four mountains and après specials to celebrate spring skiing. Cheers!


Snowmass

Sam’s

Whether you’re there for the negroni spritz, a fine wine, or a beer—Sam’s ambiance warms from the inside out. Perched atop Sam’s Knob and known for its welcoming ambiance, fine wines, antipasti, and variety of Italian fare, Sam’s now offers a shot and a beer for $15 from 9am to noon or soup and a beer for $10 from 10am to noon.



Lynn Britt Cabin
Set in the perfect landscape for a light lunch or après ski (complete with the optional use of a
shotski), Lynn Britt Cabin is a staple on the slopes of Snowmass. Sporting an impeccable wine list, a rustic-yet-elegant dining room, and outdoor seating with a newly built Maker’s Mark bar perfect for al fresco toasting on bluebird days, Lynn Britt Cabin is the best après in Snowmass.
Elk Camp
Elk Camp is the hub for so many things at Snowmass with festive celebrations throughout the season
and in the afternoon, drinks on the patio are a must. The bar offers a large drink selection with modern decor and spacious seating areas indoors and outdoors to chill out with your travel group.




Aspen Mountain

The Sundeck
Casual yet classic as Aspen Mountain’s oldest après spot, The Sundeck opened in 1946-1947, Aspen Mountain’s first official season. Sit outside in Adirondack chairs to soak in the views or around picnic tables as friends come and go—sipping on cocktails and enjoying some flavorful fare. If the temperatures drop, opt to stay warm inside, at the bar, the fireplace, or open dining room seating.


Ajax Tavern

Location is everything. As you ski down Little Nell on Aspen Mountain, you’ll see its namesake hotel and what appears to be a sprawling party taking place on the patio. That would be the famous Ajax Tavern, the spot to see and be seen, and of course, eat truffle fries with a locally brewed draft beer in the fresh air and sunshine.

The Wine Bar

The Little Nell’s former après-ski bar, Chair 9, has transformed into a lively wine bar, offering intimate seating areas, an extensive list of wines by the glass, a vinyl DJ booth, and a full bar menu. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, cap off your perfect day surrounded by colorful characters in a modern setting.

Aspen Highlands

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro

This cozy, European-style cabin with a backdrop of the iconic snow-covered Maroon Bells is a highlight of any Aspen Snowmass vacation, complete with champagne parties, bumping music, and an energetic crowd ready for a good time. Located near the top of the Cloud Nine lift on Aspen Highlands, this on-mountain experience is iconic and in high demand, so a reservation is required for attendance.

Buttermilk

Cliffhouse

Take in a casual beer or a glass of wine while sitting outside overlooking Pyramid Peak and the ridge line of Aspen Highlands. Located at the top of both the Tiehack Express and the Summit Express, Cliffhouse is easy to get to and the descent down offers greens, blues, and blacks so every level of skier can soak up the scene.



Limelight Lounges

Limelight Lounges

Whether you’re in Snowmass or the town of Aspen, the Limelight Lounge is the place to be. Modern décor, relaxing, live music on weekend evenings, and huge windows that invite the outside light in, both the newly renovated Limelight Aspen and the Limelight Snowmass offer daily specials from 3 to 5pm. Order a cocktail or a glass of wine and a personal pizza made with fresh ingredients and enjoy an intimate gathering in what feels like a close friend's living room.