Best Après-Ski Experiences: From North America to Asia

Après-ski is an integral part of the skiing and snowboarding experience, offering a chance to relax, socialise, and enjoy the local culture after a day on the slopes. Whether you’re sipping cocktails in a cosy bar, indulging in local cuisine, or dancing the night away, après-ski activities can be just as memorable as the skiing itself. Here’s a guide to the best après-ski experiences in the USA, Canada, Japan, and Korea.

Top Après-Ski Venues in the USA

1. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is renowned not only for its world-class skiing but also for its vibrant après-ski scene. Ajax Tavern, located at the base of Aspen Mountain, is a favourite spot where you can enjoy truffle fries and a glass of champagne on the sun-soaked patio. For a more upscale experience, The Little Nell offers sophisticated cocktails and fine dining, with stunning mountain views.

2. Park City, Utah

Park City combines excellent skiing with a lively après-ski atmosphere. High West Distillery, the only ski-in, ski-out distillery in the world, offers a unique experience with its handcrafted spirits and hearty fare. Another popular venue is No Name Saloon, known for its eclectic décor, extensive beer selection, and rooftop patio.

1. Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler is famed for its après-ski culture, with a variety of venues catering to different tastes. The Longhorn Saloon & Grill, located at the base of Whistler Mountain, is a bustling spot with live music, great food, and a lively atmosphere. For those seeking a more refined experience, Bearfoot Bistro offers sabre champagne and a vodka tasting room where you can sample over 50 varieties of vodka.

2. Banff, Alberta

Banff’s après-ski scene is as spectacular as its scenery. The Magpie & Stump, a quirky Mexican cantina, is popular for its margaritas and vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel offers a luxurious après-ski experience with its elegant Rundle Lounge, where you can enjoy classic cocktails and stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.

1. Niseko, Hokkaido

Niseko is known for its incredible powder snow and fantastic après-ski options. Gyu+ Bar, also known as the “Fridge Door Bar” due to its unique entrance, offers a cosy, intimate setting with a wide selection of whiskies and cocktails. For a more traditional experience, soaking in an onsen (hot spring) is a must. Niseko Grand Hotel has both indoor and outdoor onsens, perfect for relaxing sore muscles.

2. Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba’s après-ski scene offers a mix of modern bars and traditional experiences. The Pub Hakuba, located in the heart of the village, is a lively spot with live music, hearty pub food, and a great selection of beers. For a cultural experience, visit a local izakaya (Japanese pub), such as Takahashi-ke, where you can enjoy a variety of small plates and sake in a cosy, traditional setting.

1. Alpensia Resort, Pyeongchang

Alpensia Resort offers a sophisticated après-ski experience. The Montblanc Restaurant & Bar provides a chic setting with panoramic views of the slopes, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail. For a unique cultural experience, try a traditional Korean jjimjilbang (spa), such as Water Park Ocean 700, where you can unwind in hot pools and saunas.

2. Yongpyong Resort

Yongpyong Resort, Korea’s largest ski resort, has a vibrant après-ski scene. Dragon Peak, located at the top of the mountain, offers breathtaking views and a cosy atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a hot drink or a meal. For a lively night out, The Dome, a popular bar in the resort village, features live music and a wide selection of drinks.

Dress Appropriately: Après-ski attire can range from casual to chic, so be prepared with versatile clothing. Layering is key to staying comfortable.

Pace Yourself: After a day on the slopes, it’s easy to overindulge. Remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated.

Explore Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture, whether through food, drink, or traditional activities.

Exploring local drinks and cuisine is a key part of the après-ski experience. In North America, you can enjoy craft beers, local wines, and hearty mountain fare such as poutine in Canada or bison burgers in the USA. In Japan, warm up with a glass of sake or a bowl of ramen, while in Korea, you can savour makgeolli (a traditional rice wine) and delicious Korean BBQ.

From the chic bars of Aspen to the cosy izakayas of Japan, the après-ski scene offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a hot spring, enjoy live music, or savour local delicacies, these experiences will add a memorable touch to your skiing holiday.