Aspen Snowmass is home to four world-class ski areas, each offering its own character and attractions. Our guests frequently ask for tips on how to enjoy après ski at each ski area.
As spring arrives, the slopes are open longer and Aspen's legendary après-ski scene heats up. Revelers spill onto sunny patios to enjoy warmer temps and DJ-infused entertainment. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities or a see-and-be-seen scene, we have your definitive guide to après ski at Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass.
Aspen Mountain Après Ski
Rising from downtown Aspen, Ajax (aka Aspen Mountain) presents the shortest path from skiing to après. After you've chased the sun down Shoulder of Bell, post up at one of these epic venues:
- Snow Beach – Before you stop skiing, pull over to the new Snow Beach, presented by ASPENX and Gray Malin. This reservations-required collection of cabanas and lounge chairs is positioned to catch the after sun while you enjoy perfectly paired snacks and libations. Reservations required!
- Ajax Tavern – In the spring, the tent over the patio comes down, revealing tables aplenty to soak in the afternoon rays. Starting after the time changes in mid-February, champagne flows freely as Clicquot in the Snow presents Veuve Clicquot specials at The Tavern. Reservations recommended!
- CHICA ASPEN – The new hotspot in Gondola Plaza, Chica serves up Latin American cuisine plus an incredible après-ski scene starting at 2 p.m. every day.
- W Aspen's WET Deck – Located a block from the base, W Aspen's rooftop bar – The WET Deck – adds an extra hour of sunshine to your après ski. Settle in around a fire pit and enjoy great views, drink specials, and delicious bites.
- Aspen Art Museum - If you're willing to walk a few more steps, the Aspen Art Museum hosts a weekly Après Party every Saturday from 5-9 PM on their rooftop. The event features cocktails from The Slippery Slope, snacks from the new Rooftop Café, and music by their resident DJ: Golden
- Venture into town and mingle with the locals. Mezzaluna has a locals' favorite happy hour with great drink specials and pizza deals. Aspen Tap's sunny patio is a perfect spot for a cold beverage and hot bite.
Aspen Highlands Après Ski
After you've hiked Highland Bowl, you deserve to indulge for après ski! Here are our top choices for on and off-mountain fun:
- Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is an on-mountain restaurant, but those who score a late seating experience Aspen's most notorious après ski. Enjoy incredible views and a memorable meal, but prepared for a champagne shower as the party revs up around 2:30 p.m. Reservations required!
- Merry Go Round, the mid-mountain restaurant on Aspen Highlands, hosts weekend dance parties with a DJ on its sunny patio. Stop in for a shimmy before heading to the base.
- Highlands Alehouse features an expansive, sundrenched deck at the base of Aspen Highlands. It's the perfect spot to post up and indulge in gastropub fare and a cold beverage.
- Willow Creek Bistro at the Ritz-Carlton Club invites après-skiers to settle in around a fire table and enjoy gourmet fare and a crisp rose.
Buttermilk Après Ski
Whether you spent the day shredding the park or you are just picking up the kids from ski school, there are two great options for après ski at Buttermilk:
- Bumps has a perfect patio for watching skiers and riders come down the superpipe featured in the ESPN Winter X Games.
- Home Team BBQ is located inside the Inn at Aspen and spills out onto the slopes with an expansive patio. Diners indulge in delicious BBQ and enjoy the family-friendly, lively atmosphere. For sports fans, this après-ski spot has TVs!
Snowmass Après Ski
- Stay on-mountain to enjoy some of the best sunny patios, including Lynn Britt Cabin, a gourmet restaurant with red Adirondack loungers that beckon at après hour.
- On select Friday nights during the ski season, Aspen Snowmass hosts Ullr Nights mid-mountain at Snowmass. Ride the gondola up, dine at Elk Camp Restaurant, and enjoy the winter activities including a bon fire, the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, and snow tubing.
- The Collective is a hub for family fun in Snowmass Base Village. Take a spin around the ice-skating rink, or send the kids inside to the expansive game lounge, complete with table tennis, foosball, an interactive wall mural, and much more. (Kids under 12 require adult supervision.)
- Venga Venga, perched about Fanny Hill on Snowmass Village Mall has a sundrenched deck and offers 120 tequilas and mezcals to accompany its menu of authentic Mexican food. Enjoy happy hour from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily!
- Base Camp has an epic second-floor deck that looks up to Fanny Hill from Snowmass Base Village, and this mainstay restaurant as the après-ski experience dialed in.
- For that time between skiing and dinner, families flock to Luminescence, an interactive art and light display between Snowmass Village Mall and Base Village.
Join Us in Aspen Snowmass This Winter!
Now that you have your après-ski plan mapped out, it's time to book your Aspen vacation rental! Browse our selection of condos, townhouses, private homes, and hotel rooms at the Independence Square. If you have questions or would like a recommendation, contact our Reservations Specialists.