Apres Ski/Happy Hour
It's been many years since we've skied Aspen, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk and I cannot find any recent posts regarding this topic.
We like to do apres ski/happy hour and usually just have appetizers/food there for dinner.
Do you have any recommendations/favorites?
Thank so much for your help!
Hi there,
Aspen has a lively après-ski scene that caters to a variety of tastes, from casual drinks with small bites to more upscale happy hour options. Since you’re looking for spots where you can enjoy appetizers or a light dinner during happy hour, here are some favorites near Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk:
- Matsuhisa Aspen: Upscale Japanese cuisine with a stylish bar area. Happy hour offers small plates and sushi options, perfect for a lighter dinner after skiing.
- Ajax Tavern: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this is a classic après-ski spot. They have a lively patio in winter with hot cocktails, sliders, and fondue-style dishes.
- Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro: At Aspen Highlands, it’s a fun mountain-top option accessible by ski lift. Known for cozy alpine vibes, hearty small plates, and wine or cocktails.
- The Red Onion: Historic downtown Aspen tavern with casual comfort food, burgers, and a solid happy hour menu. Great for a relaxed evening after hitting the slopes.
- The J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome: Stylish and historic bar with classic cocktails and small plates. Ideal for a quieter, more refined happy hour experience.
Other notable options for drinks and small bites:
- Hops Culture or Aspen Brewing Company: Casual brewpubs offering appetizers, sliders, and local beers. Good for families or groups who want a more laid-back vibe.
- Mezzaluna: Upscale European-inspired cuisine with small plates and a happy hour menu; perfect if you want to combine drinks with light dinner options.
- Il Poggio: Italian small plates and wine; happy hour features discounted antipasti and cocktails, offering a cozy après-ski dinner experience.
Tips for après-ski in Aspen:
- Many mountain-base venues like Ajax Tavern get very busy between 3–5 PM, so arriving early ensures seating.
- Check ski resort websites for lift-accessed spots like Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, as hours and accessibility can vary.
- For a mix of casual and slightly upscale options, downtown Aspen is very walkable, so you can hop between 2–3 venues in an evening.
Overall, Aspen offers a wide variety of après-ski options, from lively mountain-base patios to elegant bars downtown, allowing you to enjoy drinks and appetizers without committing to a full formal dinner.
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