5 Best Nightlife in Vail Valley, Colorado

This popular spot is a tradition in Vail. It's standing-room-only in the afternoon, and a bit mellower in the evening. Most nights there's guitar or piano music, and there's bingo in the winter.

The faux candlelight, modern chandeliers, and lounge-y vibe lure an upper-crust crowd who knock back favorites from the local craft beer and sparkling cocktail menus. Try the Bootwarmer, a mix of local spiced whiskey, lemon juice, and honey. The appetizers are just as delicious—consider the shucked oysters with a Colorado hot sauce.

For the best après-ski scene among both visitors and locals, head to this rollicking saloon complete with Wild West decor, including cowboy hats and buffalo skulls over the pinewood bar. When the ski slopes close, the bar is usually packed.

Near the gondola in Lionshead, Garfinkel's has good service, tons of local flavor, and plenty of TV screens for watching sports.

Extensive menus featuring Colorado-made vodka, whiskey, gin, craft beer, and wine bring thirsty travelers here for flights of all types with small plates for pairing. Those with bigger appetites can turn to comforting favorites like chicken and waffles and short ribs, each with its own suggested wine pairing.