The Ultimate List of the Best Bars in Vail, Colorado

Whenever I travel to a Colorado mountain town, whether in winter or summer, I always love to stop at my favorite bars and restaurants for a beer or a cocktail. I also love to visit new establishments to feel the vibe and see what’s new and up and coming. Here’s my list of the best bars in Vail! 

Vail, Colorado has so many bars and restaurants that have a fun vibe and great reputation. Either for apres ski in Vail or an afternoon happy hour in the summer, they have it all! 

When you’re looking for the best bars in Vail there are a few different types of bars you’ll find.  

There are breweries serving local Colorado beers, sophisticated and chic hotel bars, bars with live music, wine bars, and lounges. All perfect for apres ski in Vail or an afternoon drink after a long hike in the summer! 

This list of the best bars in Vail will help you decide where to go to suit your desire, whether it’s for apres ski in Vail or any other time. Vail is one of the best mountain towns in Colorado and the bar scene is at the top of the list too! 

Vail’s Best Happy Hours and Apres Ski Bars

Vail Village 

The Red Lion 

The Red Lion is a classic bar in Vail and is known as one of the best apres-ski bars in the center of Vail Village. The Red Lion is a casual bar and eatery with a very energetic vibe. On the drinks menu, you’ll find a great selection of microbrews from Colorado, domestic and imported beers, a wine list, and delicious signature cocktails. Plus, the classic margarita, martini, manhattan, and lots more. 

The Red Lion in Vail also has a delicious food menu on offer that includes burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, BBQ brisket, and other casual meals and sides. 

The Red Lion is one of the quintessential bars in Vail, Colorado! It’s perfect as either an apres ski bar or a summertime patio drink while exploring Vail Village.

Vendetta’s 

Vendetta’s is a family-owned pizza spot in the heart of Vail Village. Vendetta’s is a top choice for apres ski in Vail or after a great hike in the summer! With an awesome selection of draft beer, canned beer, or bottled beer, Vendetta’s is a perfect place to casually hang out with friends.

Vendetta’s bar has a fun energy that is contagious! Share stories about your adventure of the day over a cold beverage or two. Vendetta’s also offers a full selection of wines by the bottle to enjoy.

As far as their pizza goes, order a specialty signature pizza from Vendetta’s such as the Billy Bob’s Brain, The Boneyard, or the Snow Pic. Or, create your own custom pizza pie with all of your favorite pizza toppings. 

If you’re looking for an after-dinner drink in Vail, Vendetta’s also has a wonderful menu of Cognac, Grappa, or Port. Stop in for a slice of cheesecake and port to end your evening! 

Alpenrose

Alpenrose Vail is a charming European restaurant with a great deck outside for lively apres ski in Vail. Alpenrose offers a fun happy hour whether you’re visiting Vail during the winter or summer. Their cocktail menu features a Black Forest Martini, Moutain Cow Mule, and a Jagermeister Mule plus some warm drinks that include German hot mulled wine or coffee with Baileys and whipped cream.

Alpenrose has an option of ordering a shotboard with four shots of Jagermeister or Peppermint Schnapps and a few other selections!

A very robust and attractive wine list is also available, featuring sparkling wine, rose, white wine, and red wine. Mugs of Bavarian and Austrian Beer are also popular with the apres ski and happy hour crowd at Alpenrose Vail!

If you decide to stay for dinner, you’ll find authentic Bavarian dishes such as Bavarian pork schnitzel and Veal goulash. Start off with a fresh-baked German Pretzel or Rustic potato balls stuffed with swiss cheese, bacon, and sour cream.

Two Arrows Coffee & Bar 

Two Arrows is a cute and approachable community coffee shop and cocktail bar centrally located in Vail Village. The coffee shop in Vail opens early in the morning as Two Arrows coffee shop. Then, ends the day with a delectable cocktail menu for apres ski in Vail or for happy hour after a fun, scenic hike. 

Stop in for one of their signature cocktails such as the Smoking Gun, which is Coffee-Infused Mezcal, Reposado Tequila, Amaro, and Cacao Liqueur. Or, the Whiskey Fraiche is made with Bourbon, Rye, a mix of amaros, honey, lemon, and aquafaba.

Hot beverages are also on offer at Two Arrows, perfect for apres ski deliciousness. And of course, there’s a menu of wine selections and rotating local Colorado beers on tap. 

You might also like:  The Ultimate List of Coffee Shops in Vail

Los Amigos Vail

Los Amigos Vail has the perfect location at the base of Vail Mountain making it one of the best apres ski Vail spots. Margaritas and a fun vibe flow on a regular basis whether it’s winter or summer. Los Amigos has a menu chock full of hand-crafted margaritas that are unique and delicious! It’s a perfect place to watch skiers come down Vail Mountain or hikers enjoying the outdoors. 

Try the Berries Margarita with Maestro Dobel, Patron orange, fresh blackberry, with a black lava salt rim, or The Black Diamond, made with a double shot tequila float in a pint glass over a perfectly classic margarita. 

A full menu of tequilas is on offer which includes a collection of Blanco, Anejo, Reposado, and mezcal. Beer, wine, and hot alcoholic drinks are also on the menu just in case you aren’t a tequila fan. 

Casual and cozy, Los Amigos Vail bar serves up traditional Mexican cuisine that is perfect for after a day of adventure in Vail or the surrounding areas. Order up some guacamole, nachos, tacos, or enchiladas to celebrate your mountain vacation. 

Loaded Joe’s Vail

Loaded Joe’s is a coffee shop in the morning that turns into a fun gathering place and Vail bar for cocktails in the afternoon in Vail! Next to the covered bridge in Vail, Loaded Joe’s has a perfect location to hang out centrally in Vail with a view of Gore Creek from their patio. This is a top, casual apres ski bar in Vail.

Local Colorado beers are on tap, and bottles and cans are also available. Grab a cocktail in a can such as Elenita Mezcal Cocktail or Dulce Vida Sparkling Margarita for a refreshing summer beverage after a hike or day of shopping. 

A Mountain Frost made with malibu rum, blue curacao, coconut cream, and pineapple juice is a fun cocktail choice or the Drunk & Nutty which is bailey’s, Frangelico, espresso, and steamed milk. Classic cocktails are also popular such as martinis, hot toddy, or old-fashioned. 

Root & Flower

Root & Flower is a lovely wine bar with a perfect setting in Vail Village! Patio tables are available making Root & Flower a cozy, wonderful experience. They are a wine bar first and foremost featuring a delightful hand-selected menu of white wines, champagne, red wines, and rose. 

A fun, creative cocktail menu is also on offer at Root & Flower such as the Banana Dolphin made with bourbon, pineapple amaro, banana liqueur, and tiki spices. Or, try Smokey the Pear, which is made with mezcal, pear brandy, carcavelos, and herbal liqueurs. 

Root & Flower also has a wonderful food menu of charcuterie, snacks, shared plates, and cheeses to enjoy with your beverage of choice. This is on the list of Vail bars that make it to the top of the “favorites” bars. 

Mountain Standard

Mountain Standard is a local favorite restaurant and bar in Vail Village!  With a prime location next to beautiful Gore Creek, Mountain Standard is convenient to the Village and a lovely place to have a cocktail. Artisanal seasonally crafted cocktails are on offer as well as a great selection of local beers. Stop in for an Old Fashioned or The Standard Margarita made with Pueblo Viejo Blanco tequila, Cointreau, Grand Marnier, lime, and salt. 

Mountain Standard also has a wine list and champagne to quench your thirst after a hike on a sunny summer day or an apres-ski afternoon. Founded by the owners of the legendary Sweet Basil restaurant in Vail, this bar and restaurant is a rustic and relaxed tavern. A delectable food menu is also available using only the purest of ingredients.

Mountain Standard is definitely one of the best bars in Vail, Colorado! 

Vail Brewing Company 

Vail Brewing Company is a Colorado favorite brewing company with a location right in Vail Village! Stop in for a Hot Mess Blonde or Abracadabra Hazy Double IPA. If you love experiencing the local beer in a destination then you must visit Vail Brewing Company while in Vail, Colorado. 

Local Vail Brewing Company’s cans-to-go are also a great option if you’d rather enjoy these local beers in your hotel or vacation home! Pick up a Radiant Hazy IPA or Gore Creek IPA to enjoy on your own patio. 

Vail Brewing Company proudly represents local mountain living and business. The company serves the community of the Vail Valley, Eagle River Valley, and the ski areas of Vail and Beaver Creek with their delicious variety of hand-crafted beers. 

Blu Cow

Blu Cow is a small, local, patio-served Vail bar and grill located in the prime location of Vail Village! Blu Cow is comfortable, approachable, and a perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail or beer with a chill attitude. Serving a menu of European beers and local beers on tap, Blue Cow is a classic little cafe that will make you feel like a local. 

If you’re looking for a warm drink, try the RumChata Hot Chocolate, or a Chai Hot Toddy with Chai Liqueur. A full selection of wines is also available.  

While you’re visiting Blu Cow, you may want to order up a Swiss Hot Dog made with pork and veal brats, onions, and homemade curry spice. They’re famous for serving this meal and even have Sweet French Beignets for dessert! 

This post is all about the best bars in Vail.

7 Hermits Brewing 

7 Hermits Brewing is a short walk from Gondola One in Vail Village and a perfect, casual spot to grab a beer after a day of skiing, hiking, or biking. Local 7 Hermits Brewing beers are available on tap along with additional local beers and cocktails.

7 Hermits Brewing is a very down-home, small bar that is quite low-key. This local bar in Vail Village serves crepes, tacos, nachos and other bar snacks to fuel up after your adventure of the day. 

Bridge Street Bar 

Bridge Street Bar is a local’s favorite casual bar in Vail Village offering live music, DJ, and a lively party scene. Bridge Street Bar can be a very energetic bar with a young crowd who likes to dance! If you’re looking for fun nightlife in Vail, Bridge Street should definitely be on your list. 

If you’re looking for a party in Vail Village, check out Bridge Street Bar. 

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits Tasting room

10th Mountain Whiskey &  Spirits Company is a local award-winning distillery in Gypsum, about 35 miles away from Vail Village.

At the Gypsum distillery, they craft their bourbon, rye, cordials, brandy, American single malt whiskey, sherry cask finished rye whiskey, potato vodka, and moonshine. 

The 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits Tasting Room in Vail Village is in a great location, just across the covered bridge as you enter the Village. Just head up the stairs to the entrance on the right and you’ll find the cozy tasting room bar. On the menu are flights of spirits, barrel-aged cocktails, and full bottles available. 

Shakedown Bar

Shakedown Bar is a live music spot in the heart of Vail Village. This is one of the best options for Vail nightlife! 

It’s a great place for happy hour after a nice summer day or apres ski. Recently fully renovated, Shakedown Bar provides an amazing bar experience coupled with intimate live music to make for a really fun evening! They’re a top choice for nightlife in Vail. 

Shakedown Bar is locally owned and operated and dedicated to providing a stellar music experience. You can check out the music calendar at Shakedown Bar here. 

Lionshead Village

Garfinkel’s (or “Garf’s”)

Garfinkel’s Vail is a classic ski town bar in Lionshead Village that has been in Vail since 1992. Garfinkel’s has a large sunny deck that is perfect for those days when it’s warm enough to sit outside during the ski season.

If you’re visiting Vail during the summer months, it’s a great option any day of the week! At Garfinkel’s, you’ll find a very fun, casual atmosphere where everyone feels like a local or already friends. Happy hour can lead to a fun evening of Vail nightlife at Garfinkel’s. 

The bar menu at Garfinkel’s has delicious cocktails like Garf’s Bloody made with Breckenridge Chili Chile Vodka and bloody mix or a Moose Juice, which is Denver Dry Gin, grapefruit, lime, and simple syrup. Plus, plenty of other creative cocktails that are perfect for a post-hike drink. 

They have a full list of liquors, local Colorado beers on draft and in cans, white and red wine, and champagne on offer too. Once you spend a few hours at Garfinkel’s on a sunny day with friends, it’ll become your new favorite and go on your “must visit” list when you’re in Vail. 

This post is all about the best bars in Vail.

Bart & Yeti’s

Another classic favorite bar in Lionshead Village in Vail is Bart & Yeti’s. Bart & Yeti’s was named after two dogs of the Vail Valley back in 1975 when they opened. Today, they’re known for their casual, fun atmosphere and patio, great beer selection, and food menu. You’ll find local seasonal beers on tap, imported craft beers, and a selection of domestic beers available. 

Pair your beverage with an order of Donny Jr’s Irish Nachos, or Bart & Yeti’s Green or Red Chili and you’ll be a happy camper. They have a great selection of burgers and sandwiches too, including a black bean vegetarian burger with a side salad! 

Vail Chophouse

Vail Chophouse is slopeside in Lionshead Village, at the base of the Eagle Bahn Gondola. A wonderful deck with mountain-facing views is the best option to enjoy cocktails or a meal in Lionshead after skiing or hiking on a beautiful day. Live music is regularly scheduled at the Vail Chophouse, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere! 

Vail Chophouse presents a cocktail menu with their creative version of the classics. Try a Mexican Mule with chophouse herradura double barrel reposado, elderflower liqueur, grapefruit bitters, lime, and ginger beer. Or, order up a refreshing I’m Your Huckleberry made with 44 North Huckleberry Vodka, mint, lemon, agave, and butterfly pea H2O.

A great selection of Manhattans is on offer at Vail Chophouse which you can customize to your liking by choosing bourbon, rye, or rum, which bitters you’d like, and a few other selections! 

An attractive wine list, champagne, and beer are also available including many local beers.

Hotel Bars 

Elway’s (Lodge at Vail)

Elway’s Vail is a popular local restaurant and bar inside the Lodge at Vail hotel. Owned by Denver Football star John Elway, they are known for their delightful full-service dinner restaurant.

Yet, they also host a lovely afternoon apres ski and happy hour experience! A full menu of cocktails, wine, and beer is available at Elway’s in Vail.

Sip your drink as you sit on the patio and take in the views of Vail Village and the bustling energy. This is a perfect seat for people watching! 

Remedy Bar (Four Seasons Vail) 

Remedy Bar, located inside the stunning Four Seasons Vail hotel is one of Vail’s most popular bars for apres ski! Snag a seat outside on their balcony next to a heat lamp with an idyllic view of Vail Mountain and order their popular Old Fashioned with bourbon, orange, luxardo cherry, orange, and angostura bitters. 

Or, enjoy cozy seats at the bar and receive top-notch bar service while you sip a glass of wine or one of their signature hand-crafted cocktails. Champagne, local draft beers, and mocktails are all on offer at Remedy Bar along with a delicious menu of shareable appetizers and entrees. Enjoy the Four Seasons Vail vibe while you socialize with your friends and make new ones. 

This post is all about the best bars in Vail.

Frost (The Sebastian Vail)

Frost is a lovely, sophisticated bar that sits inside the Sebastian Vail hotel. Open for happy hour and into the later evening, Frost will delight you with their creative craft cocktails such as the L Train, made with gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, lavender, and club soda.

Or for a more refreshing cocktail, order The Laughing Buddha created with citron vodka, ginger, serrano chili, fresh lemon juice, and ginger beer. With many more to choose from and a list of local Colorado draft and canned beer, Frost is a fun go-to bar if you’re looking for a bar with more of an upscale experience. 

Frost Bar inside the Sebastian Vail offers whiskey, tequila, or mezcal flights which are fun with a group of friends. The scotch and whiskey menu is extensive and will delight aficionados who are looking for something unique and different. Frost also serves up a wonderful dinner menu including soups and salads and shareable flatbreads. 

Bully Ranch (Sonnenalp hotel)

Bully Ranch inside the Sonnenalp Hotel has an amazing patio in the summertime to enjoy a few beverages after a hike while viewing the beautiful Gore Creek! A rustic bar and restaurant with a European vibe, Bully Ranch is a perfect spot for apres ski in the winter too!

Bully Ranch is famous for its mudslides, and offers a full menu of craft cocktails, beer, and wine. 

Slope Room (Gravity Haus Vail)

Slope Room inside the Gravity Haus Vail is a newly redesigned sophisticated bar with high-class energy! Serving up a mix of hand-crafted cocktails, wines, and local beers, Slope Room is a very comfortable place to spend your happy hour or apres ski in Vail.

Try Slope Room’s Smoking Rose, which is made with vodka, grapefruit, lemon, rose, and mezcal. Or, a Haus Martini with local gin, vermouth blend, and pickled vegetables.

Also available is a fabulous wine list of reds, whites, and bubbles, and a great list of local beers on draft.

Tavern on the Square (The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a Rock Resort)

The Tavern on the Square has a great, large patio that overlooks Vail Ski Resort so you can watch hikers come down as you enjoy your happy hour cocktail! Or, if you’re visiting during the winter season, it’s a perfect apres ski bar in Vail.

Located inside the European-styled Arrabelle at Vail Square, Tavern on the Square provides a casual and comfortable atmosphere, making you feel like a local.

The Tavern on the Square also had a delicious menu of upscale bar entrees and appetizers if you choose to eat too! The Tavern and Arrabelle are centrally located in Lionshead Village, so very walkable to your next bar or to dinner. 

Fireside Lounge (Grand Hyatt Vail)

Located more west than Vail Village and Lionshead Village, you’ll find the Fireside Lounge inside the Grand Hyatt Vail.

The Fireside Lounge is well known as a popular and vibrant apres ski bar in Vail. A sophisticated, large lounge area with local musicians and mountain views, this is a great spot to unwind and enjoy an end-of-the-day cocktail.

This post is all about the best bars in Vail.

The Fitz (Manor Vail) 

The Fitz, located inside the Manor Vail hotel, is a cozy gathering place for your afternoon happy hour beverage! Promoting a comfortable social atmosphere, the Fitz at the Manor Vail is a favorite spot for locals and visitors who know about it. On the beverage menu at the Fitz, you’ll find a great selection of local Colorado beer, hand-crafted cocktails, wine, and bubbles.

Manor Vail is located about 1 mile east of Vail Village. You’ll need to hop on the local Vail bus or drive over to the Fitz at Manor Vail.

King’s Club (Sonnenalp Vail)

At the King’s Club in the Sonnenalp Vail, you’ll find a comfortable lounge that has a traditional design. Low key and cozy, King’s Club often has live music from local musicians. Sit and enjoy the evening with your favorite cocktail by the fireplace.

The George Vail (Mountain Haus)

The George Vail is a long-standing local pub downstairs inside the Mountain Haus hotel. Centrally located at the entrance of Vail Village, The George is a fun, down-to-earth bar to visit for apres-ski or a drink after a day of epic hiking or biking in Vail! 

Drinks on offer at the George include a full selection of local Colorado beers, white and red wine, and a creative martini list. You’ll find delicious hot chocolate drinks such as the Nut and Berries, made with Frangelico, black raspberry liqueur, hot chocolate, and whipped cream. 

The George also has a full menu of Pub Grub which includes soups, salads and appetizers, and dinner entrees. The George is a perfect apres ski bar in Vail. 

Pepi’s Bar (Gasthof Gramshammer) 

At Pepi’s Bar inside Gasthof Gramshammer in Vail, you’ll find an amazing selection of Austrian beers and a signature cocktail menu after a day of hiking or skiing.

Most of all, you’ll experience an energetic atmosphere and historic Austrian vibe at Pepi’s.  As one of the first establishments in Vail Village, Gasthof Gramshammer still provides a European comfort and aesthetic to its patrons. Pepi’s in an Inn, a Bar, and a restaurant that is family-owned by the Gramshammers. 

In Conclusion

Vail, Colorado is a world-class destination in the Rocky Mountains to visit and enjoy the many outdoor activities available. Celebrating the end of a fun day with a beverage is also a big part of the experience! My hope is that this list helps you decide where to have that celebration and to try as many different places as you can.

As you can see, there’s a large selection of different types of bars and restaurants offering authentic bar experiences in Vail. Whether you’re looking for a sun-kissed lively deck after a hike or an apres-ski in Vail, these bars should hit the spot!

If you’re also looking for the best hotels in Vail, please check out this post on the best hotels in Vail to learn about all of the wonderful accommodation on offer!

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