Let’s be real: skiing is just a socially acceptable way to justify eating carbs, drinking booze, and wearing outfits that make you look like a sentient marshmallow. And après-ski? That’s where the magic happens. The slopes are just foreplay—here’s where you make the memories that count. Whether you’re into champagne showers or a quiet glass of mulled wine while contemplating life, here are the top five après-ski spots for 2024-2025.

1. Aspen, Colorado – Champagne and Chill

Aspen is where the rich, famous, and wannabe famous come to après. Picture this: you, in a fabulous oversized knit, sipping something sparkly at Ajax Tavern while casually dodging a Real Housewife. Feeling wild? Take a snowcat up to Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, and spray some champagne. Aspen knows it’s hot, and honestly, it should.

What to Order: Truffle fries, because you deserve them.

2. St. Anton, Austria – Your Rowdy European Cousin

If Aspen is chic, St. Anton is its wild child cousin who snuck schnapps into the party. This is the birthplace of après-ski, and you can feel it in every beer-fueled singalong at MooserWirt or the unhinged dance moves at Krazy Kanguruh. There’s no such thing as “too much” here—it’s lederhosen, loud music, and drinks that could double as rocket fuel.

What to Order: A Jägertee, because it’ll warm you up and make you feel like a local.

3. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada – Casual and Cool

Whistler is for people who say they’re “laid-back” but still want to post an après pic that screams “effortlessly chic.” Whether you’re at Dusty’s Bar & BBQ, eating a burger bigger than your face, or at The Longhorn Saloon, owning the dance floor in snow boots, it’s all about vibes. This place is equal parts cozy and chaotic, like the perfect group ski trip.

What to Order: A Caesar, aka Canada’s way cooler take on a Bloody Mary.

4. Verbier, Switzerland – Fancy People Only

Verbier is like the high school queen bee of ski towns: gorgeous, exclusive, and probably better than you. The après here is all glam, no guilt. You’ll sip cocktails at W Verbier’s Living Room Bar, pretending not to care that your ski pants cost more than your rent. Or, if you’re feeling like an actual Kardashian, head to Altitude Sky Lounge to watch the sun set while sipping bubbly.

What to Order: Swiss raclette with a crisp white wine. It’s not optional.

5. Park City, Utah – Whiskey and Whimsy

Park City is what happens when your rugged outdoorsy friend learns to cook and becomes... cultured. It’s got charm for days and whiskey for nights. At High West Distillery, you’ll find yourself saying things like “I love the notes of vanilla” while secretly wondering if it’s too early for nachos. For a more chaotic energy, No Name Saloon delivers rooftop views and a crowd that’s equal parts ski bros and aspiring influencers.

What to Order: A hot toddy made with High West whiskey. It’s a hug in a mug.

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