Aspen’s nightlife is famous and frequented by jet setters and celebrities, and it evolves with each season as new, trendy speakeasies, craft brew pubs, and see-and-be-seen nightclubs join the scene. We’ve compiled a list of Aspen’s best after-hours offerings to help you plan your night after dinner.
To find YOUR perfect stay in Aspen, check in with our concierge team. They are ready to help with recommendations and reservations!
BREWS AND COCKTAILS
The Aspen Brewing Company tapped its first keg in 2008 and later opened its first tap room on Restaurant Row. But in the winter of 2017/18, the company elevated their in-town offering by opening Aspen Tap in the bigger, ground-level space on the corner of Galena St. and Hopkins Ave. The still upbeat atmosphere now features a food menu, wine, and cocktails in addition to the Aspen brewed beers.
The historic Hotel Jerome at 330 E. Main Street is home to the legendary J-Bar, which has been serving drinks since 1889 and is a favorite of locals and guests who love its contemporary-yet-classic Western feel. Order an “Aspen Crud” to get a feel for Aspen during prohibition; this spiked milkshake was served when the J-Bar was an ice-cream parlor with trap-door liquor service.
It's hard to miss the newly opened Aspen Public House in downtown Aspen with its iconic location on the corner of the Wheeler Opera House at 328 E. Hyman Avenue. More Roaring Fork brewed beers from the restaurant's sister location, Capitol Creek Brewery in Basalt, top the drink menu, but a large array of local spirits and cocktails make the list as well along with a unique food menu.
Hooch Aspen, located at 301 E. Hopkins Avenue, joined the local craft cocktail scene in 2016 and is operated by the owners of its upstairs neighbor Meat & Cheese. With seasonally inspired cocktails, a great wine list and an inviting yet sophisticated lounge atmosphere, this underground hotspot is perfect for an after-dinner drink.
The newest tenant of the basement bar space in the Ute building is the Silver City Mountain Saloon. Sports fans will appreciate the multiple television screens and recreational billiards players will love the new table in the lounge area. Live music often graces the stage on the weekends, but the wide-ranging drink and food menu are available seven days a week.
Aspen’s nightlife has more to offer than just craft cocktails and local breweries. You can relax with a glass of wine at The Wine Bar at The Little Nell, try creative cocktails and mountain-inspired snacks at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in the St. Regis Aspen Resort. Whether you're seeking an upscale atmosphere or a relaxed place to unwind, Aspen offers memorable experiences long after the sun goes down.
ASPEN LIVE MUSIC AND PERFORMANCES
Belly Up Aspen, at 450 S. Galena Street, is the town’s premier live-music club and regularly features performances by major industry headliners with acts ranging from stand-up comedy to hip-hop. Past performers include Adam Sandler, Clint Black, Snoop Dogg and ZZ Top. The venue provides an intimate setting and an unforgettable experience. Tickets for performances go fast and can be at a premium during peak times of the season.
The Wheeler Opera House is Aspen’s quintessential landmark at 320 E. Hyman Avenue. The newly renovated theater hosts a number of world-famous acts regularly as well as local special events sponsored by Aspen Film, the Aspen Music Festival & School, the Aspen Writer’s Foundation, and others.
JAS Café, presented by Jazz Aspen Snowmass, brings intimate jazz performances by world-class musicians to intimate venues around Aspen, including The Little Nell, the Cooking School of Aspen, and the Aspen Art Museum. With a summer and winter performance schedule, JAS Café has become a favorite activity for locals and visitors.
ASPEN NIGHT CLUBS AND DANCING
In 2011, a group of young Aspen entrepreneurs launched Escobar at 426 E. Hyman Avenue on the downtown mall, and it’s still a favorite destination for late-night dancing and libations. Resembling the inside of a Leer Jet, Escobar sets the mood for a wild night on the dance floor or an intimate conversation at a private table. Check the local papers for big-name guest DJ performances.
The Sterling Aspen is another favorite spot, offering live music, craft cocktails, and a busy dance floor. In the early evening, you can enjoy live performances and a relaxed lounge vibe. As the night goes on, DJs take over and the place turns into a lively nightclub, making it a prime pick for anyone wanting to experience Aspen’s nightlife.
BE PART OF THE ASPEN NIGHTLIFE EXPERIENCE
Are you ready to check out Aspen’s famous nightlife? Whether you want craft cocktails, live music, late-night dancing, or just a memorable evening downtown, Aspen has plenty to offer. Check out local hotspots, enjoy drinks with friends, and take in the lively atmosphere of one of Colorado’s top nightlife destinations. When you’re planning your trip, look through our Aspen vacation rentals or contact the Frias Properties reservations team for help finding a place to stay close to the best nightlife, dining, and entertainment.