As the winter months approach most of us are dreading the snow and everything that comes with it. For some people though, they can’t wait until the first snowfall so they can get out their winter gear and hit the slopes. There are a plethora of great ski towns and resorts all over this country that are worth checking out during your next adventure. But even better, they come with great bars, which make a perfecting ending to a successful day skiing. Ending your ski day at a bar not only is the best idea in the world, but it’s a place to warm up, grab some food, and drink away the pain from falling down so much. It’s also a great place to mingle with people from all over the world that share the same interests and hobbies as you.
Our Picks For The Top 7 Best Bars in U.S. Ski Towns
1. Belly Up - Aspen
Address: 450 S Galena, Aspen, CO 81611
Belly up is a famous bar that is known for their concerts. This small venue only holds up to 450 people, but it makes the atmosphere very comfortable and intimate. It’s a popular destination to visit after the ski slope because it has live music and great drink deals. Belly Up offers VIP seating and general seating so you can choose and get the best of both worlds. Make sure you check out their website at www.bellyupaspen.com for upcoming events and grab your tickets before they sell out.
Aspen
2. Stateline Brewery and Restaurant - Aspen
Address: 4118 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
For me, convenience is key. That’s why I highly recommend The Stateline Brewery in South Lake Tahoe, California. The bar is literally at the base of the gondola. If that’s not convincing, they house make all their own local beers. It’s known for their beer and beer flights. It’s also conveniently located near other nightlife so you can venture off and explore the strip. I guess you could call it “downtown” where everything is mostly located. It has a great menu as well.
Aspen
3. The Little Nell - Aspen
Address: 675 East Durant Avenue, Aspen, CO 81611
This 5 star luxury hotel is a hot spot for colorado skiers. This hotel is very upscale, but has some of the greatest views and delicious cocktails. Also known for their “insanely good bottles.” The Little Nell has the best of the best. Firepits, cozy chairs, four bars, and a surprising menu. You’ll always be 20 steps away from the gondola, and you can always ski-in and ski-out to their famous champagne bar up on the mountain.
4. The T-Bar - Aspen
Address: 1521 Ski Hill Rd Breckenridge, CO 80424
This bar is marketed toward the younger crowd, but all are welcome. The T-Bar is located at the base of Peak 8, which is great for skiing to and from to grab a quick drink. It also has the best views of Breckenridge and it has a patio, which is a plus. The T-Bar has great drink deals and small plates.
5. The Rusty Nail - Aspen
Address: 1190 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT 05672
You can’t beat how unique this bar is. The 50’s charm will have you dancing in no time after a long day at the slopes. It has great reviews on their food, and everything is reasonable - with great drink specials! On certain weekends it has live bands, so make sure you check out their TripAdvisor page for a schedule.
6. Mangy Moose Saloon - Aspen
Address: 3295 Village Drive, Teton Village, WY 83001
No matter the situation, having a cold beer and a nice dinner is always needed after a hard day at the slopes. That's why the Mangy Moose Saloon is the perfect two-story place to be. Cheap beers, spicy margs, attractive staff or the woody warmth of the mammoth logs is the reason this bar is so inviting.
7. Pepis - Aspen
Address: 231 East Gore Creek Drive, Vail, CO 81657
Vail is one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and very worth visiting. This bar is famous because everyone goes right after their done skiing and it’s known for their intimacy. They have a beautiful heated desk with great views. Everyone stays in their skiing attire, which makes for a cozy night. It’s in the heart of Vail near several other bars with great nightlife.
This article was written by Kevin Burrows.
October 04, 2016