Aspen and Snowmass are known for their après ski scene. There’s no shortage of places to indulge after a long day on the hill. Since we’re hillside on Snowmass, just above the mall, we’ll start with our favorite local haunts.
Venga Venga
This Mexican restaurant is known to get a little wild during happy hour, from 3-6 pm. and It’s that time of the year in Aspen Snowmass again. Who are we kidding? It’s always that time of the year in this town. They will often have a DJ playing and tequila shots and margaritas flowing like the Roaring Fork River.
Slow Groovin’
A great joint for amazing barbecue, a mellow après happy hour and less mellow late-night drinks with live music. This is a laid-back restaurant with more affordable prices than the restaurants you’ll visit in the Village.
Basecamp
Probably the wildest of the apres spots in Snowmass, Basecamp turns into a spring break-esque bar every day around 3. Usually hosting a local DJ or band and always a great view from the sundeck.
Highlands Ale House
The one and only (worth visiting) après bar and restaurant in Highland, this is a locals favorite. Since Highlands is almost entirely black diamonds and double blacks, this is a skiers hangout. You’ll find less fur and Gorsuch here and more avy gear and seasoned rippers.
The Red Onion
Another locals favorite, the Red Onion is probably the most affordable place to drink in town beside that Fred guy’s couch you met on the chairlift. During apres hours, around 3-6, there’s typically plenty of room to enjoy drinks and food. Once the clock strikes 10, this place fills to the brim with just enough room to squeeze up to the bar and take a ski shot.
Aspen Brewing Company
Recently established in their new location, the Brewing Company is a great place to enjoy some relaxed, high quality, locally brewed beer and snacks. Their new location is much sleeker than the old, and whether that’s a good thing or bad, it’s still a great place to hang out after a long day of burning turns.
