Après bars in Steamboat are good — and you'd expect that from a town that consistently ranks top 10 in the nation for the après life. Since I’ve been fortunate enough to pass through a few times while starting Renoun Skis, we can vouch that there’s a good time to be had.
When there's a party at the main base, it's hard to miss. And when there's not, here’s a list of the best après ski spots to check out in Steamboat.
Après-All-Day: T Bar
Ski-in/ski-out spot for a mid-day or afternoon beer
Located at the bottom of the Christie III lift, the T Bar has an awesome patio with lots of chairs and great views of Steamboat. The bar has all the basics you'd expect from an après bar — good beer selection, cheap PBRs, and awesome people. Perfect if you prioritize drinking beer over taking off your ski boots.
Pro Tip: Ask to play nails. And if you don't know what nails is, grab a beer, look around for some folks gathered around a tree stump full of nails, and ask join. You might lose a finger, but you'll gain at least one friend.
Address: 2045 Ski Time Square Dr, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 879-6652
Slope-side Après: Los Locos
The only thing better than après is après with tacos
Saddle up with a large plate of nachos and a margarita, and go make some friends. With a small outside patio that looks out on the mountain and a cozy feel inside, we love Locos for the low-pressure vibe you'd expect of an après establishment. Large portions and the best bang for the buck at the mountain.
Address: 1875 Ski Time Square Dr, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 761-2394
Upscale: Laundry
Amazing food, stunning cocktails, can’t lose
In downtown Steamboat, Laundry is by far the best place to sit down for great cocktails and amazing food. If you're just grabbing a drink, we recommend pairing it with the charcuterie board to nibble while you sip. While prices are higher than some of our other recommendations, it’s worth it.
Pro Tip: Though “upscale,” the Laundry isn't stuffy. The service is friendly and the crowd is full of warm folks who love to ski.
Address: 127 11th St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 870-0681
Local's Pick: Backdoor Burgers
Quirky place with delicious burgers
Backdoor may not sell alcohol, but these guys know burgers. You won't find any pre-frozen patties here – everything is fresh and high quality. We've also heard the veggie burgers are made in-house and are worthwhile, even for an omnivore.
Pro Tip: Get the delicious sweet potato fries if you're just looking for a snack.
Address: 825 Oak St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 871-7888
Unique Experience: Storm Peak Brewery
A true craft beer establishment
Amazing selection of local brews and a little bit off the beaten track so it's not usually mobbed by tourists. They don't serve food, but it's connected to a pizza place (How Ya Doin' Pizza N' Eats) that will deliver right to the taproom.
Address: 1885 Elk River Plaza, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 879-1999
Best Music: OTP (Old Town Pub)
Live music almost every night
The Old Town Pub is a great place to grab a beer and catch a game or listen to live music. Nothing fancy, and that’s what we like about it!
Address: 600 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 879-2101
Great Outdoor Space: Taco Cabo
Great outdoor space by the river serving authentic Mexican
With house-made hot sauces, you know this place is serving legit Mexican food. Taco Cabo has full menu of Mexican drinks to choose from, so you won’t go home thirsty.
Pro Tip: With a back patio on the water, Taco Cabo is an especially awesome place to hang out in the summertime.
Address: 729 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone Number: (970) 846-2307
Cover photo courtesy of Unofficial Networks
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