The best bars & nightlife in Aspen

“Craving a low-key upgrade to your week? Sant Ambroeus Aspen Restaurant leans Milanese with hand-cut pasta, wild-caught fish and a raw bar, while Il Baretto pours classic and inventive cocktails, a thoughtful wine selection and refined bites, ideal for post-ride catch-ups or lingering with friends.”

From the Aspen newsletter, August 7, 2026

“When you want a low-lit lounge that flips to full-throttle energy, The Sterling Aspen delivers craft cocktails, a pulsing soundtrack, and bottle service for when the night escalates. Slide in with friends this week, claim your table, and let the room do what it does best... celebrate.”

From the Aspen newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Slip into Silver City Aspen for meticulously crafted cocktails, a wall of top-shelf whiskeys, and, when the calendar hits right, live music from touring and local favorites. Historic Elks Building vibes, modern sound, and zero pretense... call it your reliable post-shift hideout this week.”

“Unpretentious watering hole serving basic bar fare such as chili & wings, plus tap beer & cocktails.”

“Renowned yet pint-sized music venue with big-name acts, open seating policy & 2 full bars.”

“Informal venue for comedy acts and festivals, plus a choice of drinks.”

“Chic eatery & marketplace for artisanal breads, meats & cheese plus wine, cocktails & beer.”

“Indoor/outdoor mountainside hub for French & American fare, après-ski cocktails & people-watching.”

“Rustic tavern wallpapered with Hunter S. Thompson memorabilia & quirky photos that serves bar fare.”

“Cozy grill with a penny-topped bar pairing American pub grub with craft beer, wine & cocktails.”

“Relaxed, slopeside standby with a deck for pub grub, draft beer & boozy milkshakes.”

“Laid-back restaurant serving plentiful, homestyle dishes that have modern touches.”

“Upscale eatery with a patio and bar offering creative mains and desserts.”

“Airport bar and restaurant also serving breakfast and lunch fare including burgers, pizzas and gumbo.”

“Elevated American & global fare, plus Colorado beers, in art-decorated surrounds with live music.”

“Live-music venue at Aspen Meadows Resort offering world-class performances.”

“Sleek, trendy après-ski nightspot with DJs, a dance floor & a summertime patio bar.”

“Elevated cocktails & casual bar snacks served in low-lit, rustic-chic surrounds.”