A truly great ski day doesn’t end when you reach the bottom of the mountain. In Snowmass, Colorado, the hours after the lifts close are often just as memorable as your time spent on the slopes, whether that means grabbing drinks with friends, catching live music, or settling in for a nice meal. Between lively hubs in Base Village and a number of scenic, mountain-view hangouts, there are plenty of ways to enjoy après ski in Snowmass. Here are some of the best spots to add to your post-ski plans.
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In This Article:
- Base Village Favorites
- Take in the Views at Elk Camp
- Make it a Night Out in Aspen
- Choosing Your Own Après Style
- Where to Stay for Your Snowmass Ski Trip
- Frequently Asked Questions: Après Ski in Snowmass
Base Village Favorites
Snowmass Base Village puts several restaurants, bars, and gathering spots just beyond the slopes, making it easy to find a comfortable seat without going far.
The Lounge at Limelight Snowmass
One of the most popular picks here is The Lounge at Limelight Snowmass. Located right next door to the Elk Camp Gondola, this venue offers drinks, food, live music, and a great social atmosphere that’s perfect for groups. The roasted tomato soup, truffle fries, and wide selection of wood-fired pizzas all make excellent choices for warming up at the end of the day.
Venga Venga
If margaritas sound better than hot cocoa after a day on the mountain, consider a stop at Venga Venga. The handcrafted drinks, authentic street tacos, and traditional enchiladas here make it one of the resort’s go-to spots just steps away from the slopes.
The daily happy hour, patio dining spaces, and panoramic mountain views also make this casual outpost great for groups who don’t necessarily want to commit to formal dinner plans at the end of a busy day.
Base Camp Bar & Grill
For a classic après-ski pub experience in Snowmass Base Village, check out Base Camp Bar & Grill. This casual hideaway offers craft beer, cocktails, and a large patio space overlooking the mountains. It’s also a great place to grab dinner, with wagyu burgers, pulled-pork sandwiches, and poke bowls highlighting the menu.
Other Base Village Options
There are plenty of other casual happy-hour options and après events around Base Village on any given evening. A fully planned-out itinerary isn’t necessarily required, and sometimes the best approach is to just find a table, order a drink, and see where the night goes.
The village also offers plenty of ways to slow down after a busy day on the mountain. Sometimes, an ideal après-ski in Colorado is as simple as getting out of your gear, finding a warm place, and taking a nice break before dinner. Many Snowmass Village establishments feature fireside seating areas that are perfect for families looking for a place to relax.
Take in the Views at Elk Camp
Après doesn’t always have to mean sitting at a bar. If you’d prefer to keep the alpine scenery up close, Elk Camp offers an on-mountain dining option at the top of the gondola. Here you’ll find organic lunch fare, snacks, and kid-friendly grab-and-go items.
Elk Camp is especially appealing for groups with mixed plans. Those who need a breather can easily pop in for food and drinks right on the mountain, even if other members of their crew aren’t ready to call it a day yet.
Make it a Night Out in Aspen
One of the best things about staying in Snowmass is the easy access you’ll have to the broader Aspen-Snowmass area. If you want to change things up one evening, head to Aspen to visit some of the valley’s most famous post-skiing destinations.
Ajax Tavern’s après-ski offerings are an obvious choice. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this iconic hub is known for its energetic atmosphere, patio seating, and mix of French and American fare. Beyond its selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, you’ll find burgers, seafood, and group-friendly charcuterie boards.
Choosing Your Own Après Style
There really isn’t one right way to do Aspen Snowmass après ski. While some visitors want live music and spirited crowds, others may look for a more relaxed spot to grab dinner or a casual eatery suited for families. With all of these options so conveniently close by, that day-by-day flexibility quickly becomes part of the appeal.
If you’re looking for the best après ski in Snowmass, think about the kind of afternoon or evening you’re most likely to enjoy. An active lounge environment might be perfect after an exciting day with friends, while a relaxed meal or fireside drink can be exactly what you need after a long day on the slopes.
Where to Stay for Your Snowmass Ski Trip
Featured Snowmass Village Vacation Rental: Crestwood 2217
A convenient home base can make all the difference when you’re planning a vacation. If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Snowmass for a ski trip, you’ll naturally want a location within easy reach of both the slopes and the best après spots. At The Crestwood, we offer a variety of condos just steps from the top restaurants, bars, and entertainment hubs of Snowmass Base Village. Browse our available rentals, lock in your dates, and start counting down the days to your dream ski getaway.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Après Ski in Snowmass
What is après ski?
Après ski is the time spent relaxing, dining, and socializing after a day on the slopes.
Where is the best après ski in Snowmass?
Some of the best après ski in Snowmass can be found in Snowmass Base Village. The Lounge at Limelight, Venga Venga, and Base Camp Bar & Grill are all great options for drinks, music, or casual dining.
Is there an après ski pub in Snowmass?
Yes! Base Camp Bar & Grill in Snowmass Base Village is a popular après-ski pub pick, with craft beer, cocktails, food, and a mountain-view patio. Its location near the slopes makes it incredibly convenient for a post-ski drink or meal.
Where should I stay in Snowmass for a ski trip?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Snowmass for a ski trip, consider a vacation rental near Snowmass Base Village. Staying close to the slopes, restaurants, and popular après spots makes it easier to enjoy both your ski days and evenings.
Written by Colin Tate
Colin writes for The Crestwood, offering local insight and travel tips to help visitors get the most out of their stay in Snowmass Village.
