Aspen Après Guide — Where to Go, What to Wear, and How to Do It Right

Après in Aspen isn’t just about drinks — it’s a ritual that blends high-energy parties, fine dining transitions, and quirky local traditions. Knowing where to go, how to dress, and what the vibe is can make the difference between standing on the sidelines and being in the middle of the action.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro (Aspen Highlands)
This is Aspen’s most famous après spot — small alpine hut, big personality. The first seating is refined with raclette, fondue, and wine. The second seating turns into full-blown chaos: champagne showers, Veuve fountains, DJs, and dancing on tables in ski boots. Goggles, waterproof layers, and even a poncho are smart choices — anything you don’t want soaked, leave at home.

• Vibe: Wild, iconic, bucket-list après.
  
  
  

• Tradition: Dancing on tables and spraying champagne until ski patrol clears the hut.
  
  
  

Ajax Tavern (Base of Aspen Mountain)
The patio at Ajax Tavern is Aspen’s front-row seat to après. Sunny days feel like a party as skiers pour off the mountain and gather for truffle fries, oysters, and endless rosé. A DJ often sets the tone, and while it’s less wild than Cloud Nine, the energy is pure Aspen chic. Outside is where the magic is — with bluebird skies it feels like spring, even in January. Dress in ski gear with a stylish edge: fur jackets, cashmere beanies, statement sunglasses.

• Vibe: Social, stylish, scene-heavy.
  
  
  

• Tradition: Being seen on the patio — it’s Aspen’s unofficial catwalk.
  
  
  

Campo di Fiori
Campo starts as a lively Italian dinner spot and evolves into a true après-night crossover. Espresso martinis, shot skis, and tables turning into dance floors are all part of the energy. It’s rowdy in the best way, with regulars and visitors alike leaning into the fun.

• Vibe: Loud, playful, party energy.
  
  
  

• Tradition: Shot skis with strangers, dancing on tables, high-energy Italian après.
  
  
  

Las Montañas
Known for its strong margaritas and turquoise-colored interiors, Las Montañas is Aspen’s happy-hour-meets-après hub. The rooftop patio is heated in winter and full of energy on weekends. It’s quirky, fun, and walk-in friendly, though weekends can require reservations for prime tables.

• Vibe: Casual, social, margarita-fueled.
  
  
  

• Tradition: Happy hour discounts, rooftop laughs with locals.
  
  
  

Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
For something darker and more tucked away, Hooch is Aspen’s underground après stop. With dim lighting, quirky artwork, and a playful cocktail menu, it’s a favorite for groups that want something less obvious than Ajax or Cloud Nine.

• Vibe: Moody, intimate, local-heavy.
  
  
  

• Tradition: Exploring the funky cocktail list with witty names.
  
  
  

Clark’s Oyster Bar
East Coast-inspired, cozy, and a bit more refined, Clark’s runs one of Aspen’s best happy hours with oysters and cocktails. Locals love it as a softer après option — a place to start the evening before heading into the chaos elsewhere.

• Vibe: Casual, polished, neighborhood-friendly.
  
  
  

• Tradition: Oysters and martinis before moving on.
  
  
  

Where Locals Actually Love
While visitors flock to Cloud Nine and Ajax, locals often keep it simpler. Clark’s for oysters, Hooch for cocktails, and Mi Chola for casual margaritas are mainstays. On bluebird afternoons, though, everyone eventually gravitates toward Ajax’s patio.

What to Wear for Après
Aspen après is a style show. Ski boots and goggles are fine — in fact, part of the fun — but locals elevate it with fur-trimmed parkas, cashmere layers, chic beanies, and oversized sunglasses. Waterproof layers are essential for Cloud Nine, while statement coats are perfect for Ajax and St. Regis. The unspoken rule: après gear should be as IG-ready as your ski gear.