If you’re looking for the best Vail après ski spots and spring events in the Vail Valley, this guide has everything you need to close out ski season in style.
Challenging snow conditions made winter in the Vail Valley look a little different this year, but luckily this mountain community still knows how to turn the end of the season into a full-send celebration.
As the days get longer and the sun gets warmer, spring skiing in Vail and Beaver Creek becomes less about chasing elusive powder and more about shedding layers, grabbing a drink, and soaking up the scene.
From lively Vail après ski patios to Beaver Creek’s best outdoor spots and can’t-miss end-of-season events, here’s how to make the most of the final weeks on the mountain.
Best Après Ski Patios in Vail Village
By early April, the patios in Vail Village and Lionshead Village fill up with goggle-tanned faces, skis leaning against racks, and kids sliding down handmade piles of snow.
Head to Pepi’s Restaurant & Bar to experience one of the most iconic patios in Vail. Known as the sunniest deck in the village, it’s just steps from Gondola One and packed with skiers soaking up afternoon sun, live music, and a distinctly European après vibe. Get there early – it gets crowded, in the best way.
A go-to for locals, Vendetta’s serves up pizza and beers on a lively outdoor deck tucked just off the main drag. Laid-back, social, and always buzzing, don’t be surprised to find yourself still in ski boots at 10pm chatting with off-duty ski patrol.
For the best views, head to El Segundo next to Gondola One. Its large deck overlooking Gore Creek has a modern, upbeat feel, known for high-energy après and a tequila-forward menu. It’s a crowd-pleaser for groups ready to celebrate, and locals consistently rank it among the best “camp out and watch the slopes” spots.
For a charming Bavarian-style patio that feels straight out of the Alps, make your way to Alpenrose on the west side of the village. Cozy and a bit calmer, it’s perfect for a beer and pretzel, or lingering over homemade goulash as the afternoon winds down.
Events in Vail
Après All Day
Watch the Gondola One base area transform into a live DJ après ski party in Vail every Saturday and Sunday through early April 5. With rotating DJs and outdoor dancing, it’s one of the best ways to experience spring après in Vail Village. Goldstar and Alana English are next on deck.
Tiësto at Après at The Amp
On April 10 and 11, Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater hosts one of the biggest Vail spring events, Après at The Amp. Headliners include Tiësto and Purple Disco Machine. Just minutes from Vail Village, this outdoor venue offers a unique blend of live music, mountain views, and high-energy après ski vibes, making it one of the top things to do in Vail in April.
Chair 4 at 4 (Closing Day Tradition)
Not part of the official event lineup, but officially the most fun is Vail Mountain’s legendary semi-underground end-of-season tradition, a.k.a. “4 at 4”. No tickets, no stages, just merry skiers and boarders enjoying the final hours of the season with costumes and speakers in backpacks. Get to the top of Chair 4 by 2:30 PM and bring sunscreen to make the most of this special way to say goodbye to the mountain. Vail closing day is scheduled for April 19, 2026.
Top Beaver Creek Après Ski Patios
In Beaver Creek, springtime means lively patios, buzzing plazas, and that “last runs of the season” energy.
For casual Tex Mex in the sun head to Coyote Cafe, one of the most iconic après spots in Beaver Creek right near the lifts. Known for tacos, margaritas, and a lively patio scene that carries into the evening.
For trendy, central plaza energy head to Citrea. This upscale Italian restaurant boasts outside seating right by the ice rink in the heart of the village. Perfect for shared plates, sun, and people watching.
And if you’re entertaining a group, the Dusty Boot Roadhouse never fails to disappoint as a go-to for burgers, beers and classic apres energy sure to continue into the evening.
Where to Stay Near Vail and Beaver Creek
Whether your day ends with live music, patio drinks, or one last sunny slush turn, staying near the heart of the Vail Valley makes it easy to experience it all.
Located in nearby Edwards, The Inn at Riverwalk offers convenient access to both Vail and Beaver Creek, while providing a quieter, more relaxed place to recharge after a day on the slopes.
Book a stay at The Inn at Riverwalk now to take advantage of the best closing day events and outdoor patios to fast-track that springtime feeling.
