Ah, après ski. Never has a word been so sweet. Never a time so universally understood as “my legs are done; please hand me something warm.” Few phrases in mountain culture spark such immediate joy. Après ski in the Vail Valley is not the end of the day — it’s the beginning of the second half: the rewarding, relaxing, kick-off-your-boots and slide-into-something-soft part. Think friends shaking out helmet hair, faces still pink from the cold, and a table piled high with nachos and tales from the day.
The beauty of après ski in the Vail Valley is that it can be anything you want it to be. Looking for high energy and live music? Vail Village has decks and lounges buzzing from midafternoon through midnight. Head to Garfinkels for the buzz and the large sunny deck overlooking the mountain. Looking for something calmer? Unwind with a cozy glass of red or a thoughtful craft cocktail at Root & Flower. Or maybe your ideal post-ski vibe involves a steaming hot tub and a robe — in which case, The Inn at Riverwalk offers one of the coziest setups in town.
Top Après Ski Spots and Activities in the Vail Valley
Vail Village: This is where the action is. Picture open-air decks, bustling bars, and live music echoing through the pedestrian streets. Express Lift Bar at the base of Gondola One hosts Après All Day each Saturday and Sunday, while Garfinkel’s at the base of the Eagle Bahn Gondola is packed with outdoor seating and skier-watching as the sun dips behind the ridge. Vail is a full social whirlwind of craft cocktails, shareable bites, and opportunities to dance, dine, or drop into any lively spot.
Beaver Creek: Known for its elegance and alpine charm, Beaver Creek offers an après scene that blends refined indoor lounges with inviting outdoor patios—complete with wrought-iron seating, heat lamps, and plenty of Colorado sunshine. Sip a handcrafted cocktail while basking in the ski base action at the Beaver Creek Chophouse, or head to The Dusty Boot for a local craft beer and the lively energy of a classic Western saloon. Whatever you do, don’t forget to set a 3 p.m. reminder to grab one of the warm chocolate chip cookies handed out each day at the base of the Centennial Express Lift.
Edwards: For a slower, more local vibe, head back to Edwards, where you’ll find a wide selection of craft beers and artisan sandwiches at Craftsman, or an even larger selection of wines, cheeses, and charcuterie at The Drunken Goat. Edwards is lined with small restaurants, bars, and live music options that make après easy and approachable.
Of course, not all après-ski requires a bar stool. Outdoor fire pits glow across the Vail Valley once the lifts stop. Live guitar music fills the decks with mountain charm, and small bridges create perfect mini-moments while you sip cocoa and breathe in the cold, clean air. You may find that your hot tub dips and slow riverside walks become your favorite part of the trip.
Making the Most of Your Stay at The Inn at Riverwalk for Après Ski
Located just six minutes from Beaver Creek and fifteen minutes from Vail, staying at The Inn at Riverwalk puts you in a prime location to choose whatever après mood strikes, and if you land at the base of Beaver Creek or Arrowhead, a complimentary shuttle will bring you back to The Inn.
On-site amenities at The Inn at Riverwalk help you shift into après mode effortlessly. The heated outdoor pool and hot tub are surrounded by mountain views that turn golden each afternoon. The Gear Garage makes your transitions smooth, whether you need a cozy robe, snowshoes for an evening walk, or a place to store equipment after a long ski day.
Tips and Ideas to Elevate Your Après Ski Experience
There’s no wrong way to settle into après, but here are a few tips to enhance the experience:
- Switch footwear: After-hours in ski boots can dampen even the best après scene. Pack slip-ons or cozy boots for walking around town or The Inn. Your feet will thank you.
- Know when to head down the mountain: Leaving the slopes just before the final run means you beat the crowds to the best seats and fire pits. Plus, you catch the glow of alpenglow on the peaks — one of the valley’s most magical sights.
- Choose your vibe: If you want high energy and crowds, follow the music. Whether you’re in Vail, Beaver Creek, or Edwards, there are upbeat, spirited scenes to be found. If you prefer something more peaceful, head back to your room at The Inn at Riverwalk, pour yourself a warm drink, and let your tired feet soak in the riverside hot tub.
Whether it’s your first ski trip or your fiftieth, après-ski in the Vail Valley is icing on the cake after a great day on the mountain. It’s a chance to unwind and connect for longer than a chairlift ride. With lively options, cozy retreats, and countless ways to relax, you’ll find an après style that fits your mood perfectly. And with The Inn at Riverwalk as your home base, you’ll have the energy of the mountains within reach — and the comfort of a peaceful stay waiting for you at the end of the day.
