There’s nothing quite like zipping down the mountain on the last run of the day and meeting up with friends for a hot mixed drink with stunning views. This is the essence of après ski—and Big Sky’s scene is on the rise. The best après ski spots in Big Sky were chosen for their proximity to the slopes, views of Lone Peak, drink offerings, and overall vibes. While this article focuses more on 21+ beverages, each locale offers non-alcoholic options. Planning a trip to Big Sky, Montana? Make sure to read the Ultimate Big Sky Montana Winter Travel Guide.
Steps away from the chairlifts, at the base of Big Sky Resort, you’ll find the Mountain Village Plaza with tables and heaters surrounded by a number of bars. Grab a drink and enjoy the live DJ that fills the space every Friday through Sunday. Venture down to the Meadow Village and you’ll find plenty of spots to keep the party going.
Umbrella Bar
Live DJ Friday – Sunday (Mountain Village Plaza)
A new addition to the 2022-2023 season, Big Sky Resort’s Umbrella Bar is an enclosed glass gazebo with 360-degree views of the mountains. Located at the base of the slopes in the Mountain Village Plaza, the circular bar is a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the resort’s DJ and dance scene every Friday – Sunday afternoon. Get the party started with a Shot Ski, or warm up with my personal favorite, the Howl at the Moon Cider.
Scissorbills Saloon
Slopeside Dive Bar (Mountain Village)
A local favorite with regular live music, the appropriately grungy saloon is full of character. Here you’ll find all your favorite bar foods with a variety of local beers on tap and plenty of spiked hot drinks. Scissorbills is located slope-side in the Mountain Village, making it easy to access at the end of a day or even as a mid-day break.
Beehive Basin Brewery
Local Craft Brews (Meadow Village)
If you consider yourself a beer aficionado, Beehive Basin Brewery is the place for you. Enjoy hand-crafted brews in the tasting room as you take in the mountain views or watch the brewmaster hone his craft. The establishment runs a custom seven-barrel brewing system and serves several staple beers, including ales, porters, and IPAs, as well as a number of rotating beers—recipes designed by brewmaster Andy Liedberg. There is no food service here, but you’re welcome to order in from the neighboring restaurants. Beehive Basin Brewery is located just a short drive down the mountain in the Meadow Village.
Tips Up
Games & Late-Night Music (Meadow Village)
After the sun goes down, keep the party going at Tips Ups. The casual bar is one of the few establishments that features live music and DJs well into the evening. Before the music starts, enjoy the endless entertainment—arcade games, pool, and shuffle board to name a few—while you grab a bite to eat. Located in the Meadow Village, the entrance is marked by a hanging red gondola.
La Grande Après
Champagne & Caviar (Montage Big Sky)
Another new addition to the 2023 scene, La Grande Après is a chic après ski experience at the Montage Big Sky. Converse over champagne and caviar in the property’s glass-enclosed Backcast Bar. Order the Veuve Clicquot wine flight—a menu highlight. Get to Montage Big Sky and La Grande Après by either skiing over to the property or driving. The property is a 20-minute drive from the Mountain Village. If you ski over, keep in mind ski lifts close at 4 pm and you’ll need to take two lifts to return to the Mountain Village.
Montana Jack
Largest Beer Selection (Mountain Village Plaza)
Montana Jack is home to one of the largest selections of beers in the area, offering over 100 varieties. Also known for their craft burgers, the tap house features live music throughout the week. Montana Jack is a great place for a casual hangout after popping off your skis.
Everett’s 8800
Mid-Mountain Drinks with a View (Andesite Mountain)
Conveniently located at the top of Ramcharger 8, this elegant cabin restaurant offers tasteful wines, European beers, plenty of cocktails, and alpine-inspired cuisine. Sit either inside at a high-top table near the bar, by the fireplace, or on the deck next to the outdoor fireplace. The enormous windows and unparalleled views of Lone Peak make it a great place to relax. Go for an order of truffle fries for a tasty snack!
Carabiner Lounge
Best Wine Selection (Summit Hotel, Mountain Village)
With handcrafted cocktails and one of the most extensive wine lists in the area, Carabiner Lounge earns a place on the list of best après ski in Big Sky. Relax at the base of the slopes and enjoy the views of Lone Peak either inside or on the outdoor patio. Come for the drinks, stay for the views, global-inspired cuisine, and live music on Tuesdays and Fridays.
