The Ultimate Guide to Après-Ski Around Stratton Mountain, Vermont
From lively base lodges to hidden local gems — where to unwind after a day on the slopes
The ski day doesn't end when the lifts stop spinning. In fact, some would argue that après-ski — that magical time between your last run and dinner — is when the real Vermont experience begins. Whether you're craving a craft cocktail by a roaring fire or a cold beer with fellow skiers, here's your complete guide to the best après-ski spots around Stratton Mountain.
On the Mountain: Classic Stratton Base Area
Grizzly's
The iconic choice
Located right at the base of Stratton Mountain, Grizzly's is where the energy is. This is the classic ski resort bar experience: boots still on, ski gear scattered around tables, and the buzz of skiers reliving their best runs of the day.
What to expect:
- Live music on weekends
- Large selection of Vermont craft beers
- Full bar with specialty cocktails
- Busy, lively atmosphere
- Can get crowded 3:30-5:30 PM on peak days
The move: Arrive by 4:00 PM to snag a good spot before the rush. Order a Long Trail Ale and soak in the post-ski energy.
Best for: Groups, meeting other skiers, high-energy après
The Drift
Outdoor heated bar
Part of the Mulligan's complex, The Drift offers something special: an outdoor covered bar with fire pits and ceiling heaters. Even on cold Vermont days, you can enjoy drinks outside with mountain views.
What to expect:
- Covered outdoor seating with heaters and fire pits
- Full bar with Vermont craft beers, prosecco, wine, and specialty cocktails
- Try "The Bomb" (hot eggnog & brandy) or their famous hot mulled wine
- Live DJ on Saturdays from 3:30-6:30 PM
The move: Bundle up, grab a seat by the fire pit, and order something warm. The atmosphere here is unbeatable on a snowy afternoon.
Best for: Couples, small groups, mountain views, unique atmosphere
In Stratton Village: Local Favorites
Fire Tower Restaurant & Tavern
The local's secret
While everyone packs into Grizzly's, locals and ski instructors slip away to Fire Tower. Nestled in Stratton Village (just a short walk from the base), this is where you'll find a warmer, quieter après scene with seriously good drinks.
What makes it special:
- Stone fireplace and rustic tavern atmosphere
- Porcupine Lounge for a more intimate setting
- Vermont-maple bourbon cocktail (a must-try)
- Excellent appetizers if you're hungry
- Friendly bartenders who actually remember regulars
- Often spot ski instructors swapping stories
The move: Walk over from the base (5 minutes) or drive to the Village. Grab a seat by the stone fireplace and order their maple bourbon cocktail. This is where you linger.
Best for: Couples, quieter conversation, better cocktails, feeling like a local
Pro tip: Reservations recommended if you're planning to stay for dinner, but the bar area is walk-in.
Bar 802
Vermont craft beer headquarters
Located in Stratton Village, Bar 802 focuses on what Vermont does best: craft beer. The rotating selection showcases the state's finest breweries, and the cozy atmosphere makes it easy to settle in for the evening.
What to expect:
- Revolving selection of Vermont craft beers
- Tex-Mex menu (tacos, nachos)
- Craft cocktails and wine
- Full dining room
- More laid-back than base area spots
The move: If you're a beer enthusiast, ask the bartender what's new on tap. They know their stuff.
Best for: Beer lovers, casual groups, families
Mulligan's
The all-in-one option
Mulligan's has been a Stratton staple since 1988, and for good reason. With multiple dining rooms, bars, and even a sushi restaurant (Snowfish Sushi) under one roof, there's something for everyone.
What to expect:
- Multiple bars and dining areas
- American fare with generous portions
- Snowfish Sushi upstairs (surprisingly good mountain sushi)
- The Green Door Pub for a more intimate feel
- Can accommodate large groups
The move: If your group can't agree on what they want, Mulligan's solves the problem. Someone can get sushi, someone else gets a burger, everyone's happy.
Best for: Large groups, families, indecisive crews
Just Down the Road: Worth the Short Drive
Honey Pie
Comfort food après
Located right on Route 30 between Stratton Ski Haus and Stratton Mountain, Honey Pie is the perfect stop on your way home. This isn't a traditional bar scene — it's a burger and shake joint that hits the spot after a cold day on the mountain.
What to expect:
- Classic burgers and hand-cut fries
- Thick milkshakes (seriously thick)
- Casual, family-friendly atmosphere
- Quick service
The move: Stop here on your drive back to your rental. Order a burger, fries, and a shake. Take it to go or eat in. Either way, you'll be satisfied.
Best for: Families, casual groups, anyone craving comfort food
Location: Right on your route from Stratton Ski Haus to the mountain (about halfway)
Ungrounded Coffee Roasters
The non-alcoholic option
Right across from Honey Pie, Ungrounded is perfect if you want to skip alcohol but still want something special after skiing. This beloved local coffee roaster serves exceptional craft coffee, hot chocolate, and light bites.
What to expect:
- Exceptional coffee (they roast their own beans)
- Hot chocolate that's actually good
- Light sandwiches and snacks
- Cozy atmosphere
The move: Order a maple latte and a pastry. Warm up, decompress, and enjoy the quieter vibe before heading back to your rental's hot tub.
Best for: Non-drinkers, coffee enthusiasts, afternoon pick-me-up
Location: Also on Route 30, right across from Honey Pie
Manchester: If You're Venturing Further
The Copper Grouse at The Equinox
Upscale après
If you're staying through dinner and want something more refined, The Copper Grouse in Manchester (about 20 minutes from Stratton) offers an elevated experience.
What to expect:
- Sophisticated cocktail program
- Vermont craft beers and extensive wine list
- Regionally-inspired small plates
- Upscale but not stuffy atmosphere
Best for: Special occasions, date night, elevated experience
The Crooked Ram Natural wine and craft beer
Also in Manchester, The Crooked Ram specializes in natural wines (produced without herbicides or pesticides) alongside craft beer. It's part wine bar, part retail bottle shop with a full food menu.
What to expect:
- Curated natural wine selection
- Craft beer on tap
- Cheese and charcuterie boards
- Raw bar, small plates, and wood-fired pizza
- Retail bottle shop to take wines home
- The Yard outdoor space (seasonal)
Best for: Wine enthusiasts, beer lovers, casual groups wanting variety
The Best Après of All: Back at Your Rental
Here's what many Stratton visitors discover: sometimes the best après-ski doesn't happen at a bar at all.
At Stratton Ski Haus, your après-ski ritual might look like this:
4:30 PM - Return from the mountain, toss your boots in the boot warmers
5:00 PM - Crack open a Vermont craft beer (stock up at Winhall market or West River Provisions) and step into the private outdoor hot tub
5:45 PM - Move to the barrel sauna or the Hot Tub while your legs recover and steam rises into the Vermont evening
6:30 PM - Cook dinner in the full kitchen or order takeout from one of the spots above
7:30 PM - Settle in by the fire, plan tomorrow's runs, and enjoy the kind of quiet that only exists in the mountains
No crowds. No waiting for a table. No noise.
Just you, the forest, the stars, and the satisfying exhaustion of a day well-skied.
Insider Tips for Stratton Après-Ski
Timing matters: Most base area spots are busiest 4:00-5:30 PM. Arrive early (right after last chair) or wait until after 6:00 PM for a more relaxed experience.
Dress code: This is Vermont, not Aspen. Ski boots and gear are welcome everywhere (though you might want to change before Fire Tower if you're staying for dinner).
Cash vs. card: All major spots take cards, but having some cash for tips is appreciated.
Drive carefully: Even one or two drinks can impair your driving, especially on mountain roads. Know your limits or plan to Uber/walk back to your rental.
Local craft beer: Vermont is famous for its breweries. Ask bartenders what's local and try something new. Favorites include Long Trail, Switchback, and Heady Topper (if you can find it).
Save money: Drinks at the mountain are resort-priced. Consider grabbing a six-pack at Winhall Market and enjoying your own après at your rental's hot tub.
Create Your Own Après Tradition
The beauty of Stratton après-ski is the variety. Maybe you're a Grizzly's-every-day person who loves the energy. Maybe you prefer Fire Tower's quieter charm. Or maybe, like many of our guests discover, the best après-ski is the one that ends with you in a hot tub under the stars with no one else around.
Related reading: Want to know how to structure your entire Stratton day from first chair to stargazing? Check out our guide to A Perfect Winter Day at Stratton Mountain.
Plan Your Stratton Après-Ski Getaway
Book your stay at Stratton Ski Haus and enjoy the ultimate après-ski setup:
✨ Private outdoor hot tub (perfect post-ski recovery)
✨ Barrel sauna arriving 2025
✨ 7 minutes to Stratton Mountain Access Road
✨ Ungrounded Coffee & Honey Pie halfway to the resort
✨ Full kitchen with sunrise views guests rave about
✨ Boot warmers to dry your gear overnight
✨ EV charger available
✨ Perfect 5-star rating from all guests
Book direct at StrattonSkiHaus.com and skip the Airbnb fees.
Want more Stratton insider tips? Read our guide to Stratton's best-kept secrets to discover hidden trails, quiet lift lines, and local favorites most visitors never find.
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