There is never a dull moment when the sun goes down in Aspen, Colorado. Consistently ranked at the top in the "nightlife" category, Aspen and Snowmass offer more than 100 bars, night clubs and restaurants. Couple that with billiards, jazz clubs, dancing, coffee houses and local watering holes, and there is something for everyone. Great musicians love Aspen, as represented by the incredible live-music scene year-round at outdoor and indoor venues throughout town. Every weekend, there is someone different rocking the house, from Mumford & Sons to Keith Urban to Tech N9ne. This week, our blog team takes a closer look at the Top 5 Nightlife Experiences in Aspen That You Don't Want To Miss.
5. The Finer Things. With luxury resorts like the Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis Residences in town, there are plenty of options for an opulent night out on the town. Live large by stopping in at these high-end lounges and clubs:
- The Caribou Club is often listed as the top private club in any resort town. Since its doors opened in 1990, this prestigious, downstairs hangout has been the stage for many notorious parties and every-night celebrations. Week-long memberships are available. Contact the Frias Properties Concierge for details.
- Chair 9 at The Little Nell - A favorite among locals and visitors, this recently refurbished bar has a lively apres-ski scene and great cocktails. Come for a beer and a bite, and stay for the DJ to carry you into the night!
- Mountain Social at St. Regis Aspen Resort - Not all resort lobby bars are created equally, and Mountain Social is a step above. Their cocktail list and appetizer menu don't disappoint, and the renovated space pays tribute to John Jacob Astor's inspiration for his first hotel in Manhattan.
- The Marble Bar at the Hyatt Grand Aspen - Serving Marble Distilling Co. spirits and cocktails in an inspired space, this lounge is the perfect spot for a quiet apres-ski or pre-dinner drink.
- Bootsy Bellows, opening a new location in the former Aspen Kitchen space in time for winter 2018-19, is well-known to our Los Angeles visitors. With reserved tables and bottle service, this after-hours club is the spot to see and be seen when the clock strikes midnight.
4. Act Like A Local. Want to hang with the locals? Maybe the high-brow lifestyle isn't quite your thing. Check out these establishments to hang with the locals:
- Aspen Tap, Aspen Brewing Company's new tasting room and restaurant, serves locally produced beers at their full bar, and their gastropub fare satisfies even the biggest appetites after a day on the slopes.
- Zane’s Tavern has two locations - one in Aspen, one in Snowmass. Watch a game and celebrate with the locals.
- The Red Onion, Aspen’s historic watering hole, is located on the downtown mall and serves lunch, dinner, and a mean manhattan. After an epic day on the slopes, request the "shot-ski" to toast a day well-spent.
- The Public House, located adjacent to the historic Wheeler Opera House, has a "local's burger" for $10 and a great cocktail list. Grab a bite and a drink before a show at the Wheeler or a night on the town.
3. Fun & Games. Looking to kick back and smoke that fine cigar? How about shooting a game of pool? Check out Eric’s Bar and The Cigar Bar, located at 315 E. Hyman Ave. This unique after-hours hot spot offers both an elegant smoking a drinking room with fine cigars and liquors as well as a non-smoking bar with 14 beers on tap and more than 50 single malt Scotches.
2. Around the World in Aspen. Ready to take a trip around the world in about four square blocks? Aspen offers a number of fine, world-cuisine dining experiences, all within walking distance! Tantilize your tastebuds with these choices:
- Ellina, a hidden gem in the heart of Aspen, serves new-Italian cuisine and boasts a wonderful wine list. Lucky guests can find a seat at the bar and nosh on seasonal bar specials.
- Clark's Oyster Bar, the famed seafood restaurant from Austin, opened an Aspen location during summer 2018 and draws visitors and locals with its raw bar and apres-ski specials. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
- Kenichi, locals' favorite sushi spot, is a must-visit restaurant during any Aspen vacation. Belly up to the sushi bar to get the inside track on the freshest fish of the day.
- 7908, named for Aspen's elevation, joined the dining scene in 2018 and feels "exclusive and inclusive all at once." Come for dinner and stay for the in-house DJ, who turns up the beats to get the night started.
- Creperie du Village, Aspen's only French Alpine Bistro, offers a cozy setting that will transport you to the Alps. Serving lunch and dinner, the Creperie has outstanding food and a romantic ambiance.
1. Belly Up For Great Music. The Belly Up Aspen is the town’s hot spot for music. Voted the #16 Best Club in America to see a show by Rolling Stone magazine, the Belly Up hosts musical talent from around the world including acts such as: Ben Harper, Snoop Dogg, Lynard Skynard, ZZ Top, Social Distortion, B.B. King, Chris Isaac, Public Enemy and Michael Franti & Spearhead. When you arrive in Aspen, be sure to check the Belly Up Aspen calendar for upcoming shows. It’s always best to buy your tickets early for great shows!
Are you inspired to visit us in Aspen? Start planning your trip by browsing our selection of Aspen vacation rentals, or speak with one vacation specialists by filling out a brief form. Once you have reserved your perfect rental, our Concierge can assist you with restaurant recommendations and reservations. We can't wait to see you in Aspen!