10 Best Apres Ski and Happy Hour Spots in Summit County, CO
10 Best Apres Ski and Happy Hour Spots in Summit County, CO
Nothing screams "apres ski" quite like a cold beer, friends, and some hearty eats.
This french term, which roughly translates to "after ski," is used to describe the period after a day of skiing or snowboarding when people relax and socialize. It's when we let loose and celebrate a day well spent on the slopes.
Here in Summit County, we know how to do apres ski right. Whether you want a warm, cozy spot to unwind by the fire or a lively bar to keep the party going, we've got you covered.
Here are 10 of the best apres ski and happy hour spots in Summit County:
1. Arapahoe Cafe
Okay, call us biased, but if we didn't put The Pub Down Under on the list, we'd be doing everyone a disservice. Our very own Arapahoe Cafe is THE place to be for apres ski.
With 30+ beers on tap, plenty of TVs for game day, and a menu full of pub favorites, it's the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a long day on the slopes.
Located just under the cafe, you'll find daily happy hour deals and a variety of themed nights, including Philly Cheese Steak Night, Taco Night, and the fan-favorite Ruby Red Trout Night. Stop by and see us sometime!
2. Arapahoe Basin Ski Area
Nestled in the nape of the Rocky Mountains, Arapahoe Basin is one of Colorado's most iconic ski areas. After a long day on the slopes, relax in style at the Arapahoe Basin Ski Area's iconic A-frame building.
This historic structure is home to the 6,800-square-foot 6th Alley Bar & Grill, which offers an extensive menu of American classics plus a full bar with views of the slopes. It doesn't get much more convenient than this!
3. Bistro North
If you're looking for a slightly more upscale apres ski, make sure to add Bistro North in Dillon to your list. This global-inspired spot features handmade cocktails and plates, plus an impressive wine list.
During happy hour, enjoy 2-for-1 martinis - the perfect way to unwind after a long day on the mountain! You won’t regret making Bistro North part of your Summit County trip!
4. Apres Handcrafted Libations
Breckenridge (or "Brek" as the locals call it) is home to some of the best skiing in Summit County. It's also home to Apres, one of the liveliest apres ski bars around!
Apres is located in the Whitehead House Hotel & Boardinghouse - an iconic and historic part of Main Street in Breckenridge. This 1892 treasure is now home to tons of taps and handcrafted cocktails, plus a menu of elevated pub fare. It's the perfect place to grab a bite and a drink after hitting the slopes.
5. Bagalis
Frisco's own Bagalis offers an Italian twist on the apres ski experience. This cozy spot is the perfect place to warm up by the fire with a glass of wine or a bowl of homemade pasta.
Bagalis prides itself on simple yet sophisticated fare, and the cocktails and wine list reflect that. Make sure to try one of their signature drinks while in the Frisco area - the perfect way to end a day on the mountain!
6. Outer Range Brewing Co
If you love beer, then you'll love what is brewing over at Outer Range Brewing Co. in Frisco. This local brewery is known for its unique and ever-changing selection of IPAs, stouts, sours, and more.
A winner of multiple awards from some of the most prestigious beer competitions, Outer Range is definitely worth a visit (or two... or three). Even if you don't love beer, Mountain Dwelling Coffee Roasters (located inside Outer Range) is great for a warm cup of post-ski joe!
7. Sauce on the Blue
If you are in Silverthorne, make sure to add Sauce on the Blue to your apres ski plans! This contemporary Italian spot offers a unique take on classic dishes, plus an impressive wine list.
Their classic dishes are definitely a crowd favorite - make sure to check out the Penne Gorgonzola. And with a full selection of drinks to enjoy, you'll love unwinding at Sauce on the Blue after a long day of skiing or snowboarding.
8. Timberline Craft Kitchen
Another Silverthorne favorite, Timberline Craft Kitchen features American classics with a gourmet twist. This is the perfect place to go if you're looking for a hearty meal after hitting the slopes. Right off Rainbow Dr. in Silverthorne, you can't miss this iconic spot.
The menu features craft dishes that capture the heart and soul of the Rockies. And with an extensive wine and cocktail list, you're sure to find the perfect drink to pair with your meal.
9. Saved by the Wine
A unique addition to the list, Saved by the Wine combines the views of a mountain town with unique offerings that few on this list have. Grab your friends and settle in for a view of the slopes - and enjoy a variety of fun options like wine on tap, "build your own s'mores," fondue, and more!
Not only is Saved by the Wine a great place to enjoy some apres ski eats and drinks, but it's also a great place to cozy up by the fire.
10. Angry James Brewery
Rounding out our list is Angry James Brewery in Silverthorne. This local brewery has a taproom with a great mountain town vibe, and it's the perfect place to relax after a day of skiing or snowboarding.
Angry James offers a variety of beers, from IPAs to stouts, and they're always rotating their selection. Plus, with pub bites and live music on Wednesday nights, you'll enjoy your time at Angry James Brewery.
Summit County, CO - Your Apres Ski Destination
With so many great places to choose from, it's hard to go wrong when it comes to apres ski in Summit County.
These fantastic locations offer the perfect combination of food, drink, and mountain town vibes. So whether you're looking for a cozy spot by the fire or a place to enjoy a craft beer, you'll find it in Summit County. Join us after the slopes for the ultimate apres ski experience!