Skiing is a thrill, but for many, the real adventure starts après-ski—where good vibes, delicious eats, and unforgettable experiences come together. Après-ski, French for ‘after skiing,’ is all about unwinding in style. If you’re looking for more than just slopes this winter, we’ve rounded up the best US après-ski spots bursting with character and charm. 

If you’re planning your next winter adventure and want to make the most of your downtime, this guide is for you.

What Makes an Après-Ski Experience Truly Great?

A great après-ski experience is whatever fills your heart (and belly!) after a day on the slopes. It’s no longer just sipping hot chocolate by the fire—although that’s always a cozy classic. 

Today’s après-ski is bigger and better than you might imagine:

• Legendary Music & DJs – Live bands, international DJs, and parties that bring fun to the mountains.

• Culinary Excellence – Michelin-approved meals, farm-to-table dining, or comforting alpine classics done right.

• Unique Experiences – Ice bars, outdoor hot tubs, and even champagne sabering (yes, that’s a thing).

• Luxury with Sustainability – Eco-friendly lodges and locally sourced cocktails for a guilt-free indulgence.

Are you ready? Because we’re about to reveal the best of the best.

1. Aspen, Colorado – The Ultimate Après-Ski Playground

When you think of luxurious après-ski, Aspen probably comes to mind. And for good reason! It’s where celebrities, adventure seekers, and jet-setters go to play after a day on the mountain. The vibe? High-energy, utterly glamorous, and unapologetically indulgent.

Where to Mingle and Jam Out:

• Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro – Champagne spraying, a lively crowd, and a European après vibe with international DJs setting the scene.

• Belly Up Aspen – This iconic venue hosts incredible live acts ranging from The Chainsmokers to Kygo. It’s a music lover’s dream après spot. Visiting mid-March? Don’t miss Black Coffee performing live on March 21st—tickets will go fast.

• The Snow Lodge Aspen – If you’ve been to Montauk’s Surf Lodge, you’ll feel at home here. Expect refined music curation with top-tier DJs and intimate acoustic sets.

Where to Savor Aspen’s Best:

• Matsuhisa Aspen – Nobu-quality sushi and sake after a day of skiing? Yes, please.

• Element 47 at The Little Nell – Locally sourced ingredients and a wine list that never disappoints.

• French Alpine Bistro – Cozy up with some fondue in this romantic, candlelit setting.

What to Wear: Aspen’s all about effortless style. Pair our L.A. Hoodie with a tailored coat for a look that will take you seamlessly from slopes to soirée.

2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Rustic Charm Meets High-End Après

Looking for an après-ski experience that toes the line between rugged adventure and refined luxury? Welcome to Jackson Hole, where whiskey bars, roaring fireplaces, and Wild West vibes set the tone.

Where to Party:

• The Mangy Moose – A Wyoming legend featuring live rock bands, energetic vibes, and killer craft cocktails.

• The Handle Bar at the Four Seasons – Enjoy whiskey tastings and atmosphere with mountain views. Bonus? The occasional DJ night to keep things lively.

• The Silver Dollar Bar – Local brews, a lively dance floor, and live country music in a Western-style setting.

Where to Eat Like a Local:

• Bin22 – A standout wine bar meets a small-plate dining spot featuring organic, biodynamic wines.

• Million Dollar Cowboy Bar – Saddle barstools, live tunes, and a truly authentic vibe you won’t forget.

• Old Yellowstone Garage – A private members’ lounge with elevated alpine-inspired Italian dishes. Worth every penny.

What to Wear: Go for a cashmere-blend sweater layered over any color of COPALA’s Adventure Trousers for that rugged yet elevated Jackson Hole aesthetic.

3. Park City, Utah – Whiskey, Film Festivals, and Mountain Glamour

Park City is where Hollywood glitz and mountain charm collide. From Sundance Film Festival to high-end whiskey distilleries, this stunning spot has something for everyone—including unforgettable après moments.

Where to Celebrate:

• The Spur Bar & Grill – Sip on locally made whiskey while enjoying live country or rock music. It’s laid-back luxury at its best.

• The St. Regis Bar & Lounge – The Champagne Sabering Ritual? A must-see. Come for the ambiance, stay for the bubbles.

• O.P. Rockwell – This speakeasy-style venue offers a mix of indie and jazz live performances with undeniably cool vibes.

Where to Indulge:

• High West Distillery & Saloon – The world’s only ski-in distillery, serving handcrafted whiskeys and gourmet bites. Truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

• Firewood – Farm-to-table dining with an alpine twist. Most dishes are wood-fired for a smoky depth of flavor.

• Handle – Sustainability meets creativity at this innovative kitchen that emphasizes local sourcing.

What to Wear: Layer up with Phoenix Duster over a thermal long-sleeve for a practical yet polished après look. Amp up the adventure vibe with bold accessories like the Shark Tooth Necklace or the Lost Coin Necklace to add a touch of untamed spirit to your style.

4. Telluride, Colorado – Après with a View

If you’re all about stunning scenery and intimate vibes, Telluride is the place to après-ski. It’s slower-paced but no less luxurious, offering unmatched mountain views and cozy spaces where you can kick back and relax.

Where to Drink and Listen:

• The Liberty Bar – A hidden gem mixing craft cocktails with exceptional live music.

• Tomboy Tavern – Gather around the outdoor fire pit and pair your drink with the perfect Après playlist.

• Telluride Music Festival – Don’t miss seasonal music performances, where the beauty of the outdoors creates an unforgettable setting.

Where to Dine in Style:

• Allred’s Restaurant – Perched at 10,551 feet, this fine-dining destination offers jaw-dropping views of the San Juans.

• Alpino Vino – The highest-elevation restaurant in North America, Alpino Vino’s European-style menu pairs perfectly with your après-ski sunset.

• 221 South Oak – Farm-to-table lovers, rejoice! This charming eatery is all about seasonal, organic flavors.

What to Wear: Stay warm and chic with a tailored wool coat over our Tokyo Hoodie—a look that says grace meets golden hour.

What Do You Wear to Après?

Après-ski is all about relaxing, having fun, and soaking up the lively, post-slope vibes—no strict fashion rules here. Whether you’re heading to a cozy lodge, a buzzing bar, or a chic wine lounge, the good news is most people slide straight in from the slopes without any wardrobe fuss. Skis in hand, they gather for a well-deserved drink, sharing stories (and maybe some laughs) about the day’s adventures. Not a skier? No problem. You’re totally welcome to join the scene and enjoy the atmosphere.

If you’ve been on the mountain, your ski gear works just fine for après-ski, but swapping out your helmet and goggles for something a bit cozier is always a good move. Pack a beanie and some polarized sunglasses (they're like your slope-to-sunset MVPs) so you can kick back in style without the full-on ski setup.

Stay comfy and casual for those joining in without hitting the slopes—jeans, boots, a warm jacket, and a snug hat will help you blend right in. Après-ski is all about enjoying the moment, not stressing about what to wear (though warm toes are always appreciated)!

Apres Ski Celebrity Inspirations 

Want to après like a celebrity? Some of the biggest names in entertainment, fashion, and sports know exactly where and how to chill after hitting the slopes (and look effortlessly stylish doing it). Take a little après-ski inspo from the stars:

Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner's après-ski look perfectly blends rugged sophistication and Western-inspired luxury. He sports a sleek black overcoat layered over a black turtleneck sweater, creating a refined, effortless, cold-weather ensemble. The gray scarf adds a touch of elegance while providing warmth. He pairs this with light-wash denim jeans, contrasting the polished upper layers casually. His suede Chelsea boots and signature black cowboy hat complete the outfit, reinforcing his signature Western aesthetic. This look is a masterclass in après-ski style—understated, masculine, and timelessly cool.

Rihanna

Her style is effortlessly cool, blending luxury with laid-back street style. Her oversized cream blazer elevates the casual vibe of the gray hoodie and relaxed denim.

 

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow masters the art of après-ski chic with an effortlessly sophisticated and edgy ensemble. Draped in a pristine white double-breasted coat over a cozy turtleneck, she exudes winter elegance with a modern twist. The addition of sleek leather leggings injects a touch of urban polish, while her rugged buckle-detailed boots add just the right amount of utilitarian contrast. The result? A look that’s equal parts refined, relaxed, and undeniably cool—perfect for the slopes and beyond

 

Après-ski is about celebrating the journey, the mountains, and the people you share them with. Wherever your winter travels take you, make sure you’re dressed with intention, embracing both style and sustainability.

Need help dressing for both the mountains and the party? Check out COPALA’s sustainably chic collection and après in style.