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Beer & Après Prices in Alyeska Resort

What you'll actually pay for drinks and food i

The Drinking Culture in Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort's après-ski culture is a uniquely Alaskan blend of rugged mountain adventure and laid-back Pacific Northwest vibes. Unlike the European traditions that inspired modern American après-ski, Alyeska's scene evolved from the state's gold rush mining history and independent spirit—think hearty Alaskan hospitality mixed with ski-town revelry. What makes it distinct is the dramatic setting: skiing beneath the Chugach Mountains with views of Cook Inlet, followed by drinks in intimate timber-framed lodges rather than sprawling village squares. The resort sits in the tiny community of Girdwood (population ~2,000), creating an authenticity that larger commercial resorts lack—the same locals who ski powder runs by day tend the bars by night. The season peaks from December through March, with January and February offering the deepest snow and most consistent crowds. March brings spring skiing, extended daylight (thanks to Alaska's long winters), and a festive atmosphere when the days stretch longer and the party continues well past sunset.

Complete Bar Guide

The Roundhouse
mountain-bar €€€

Perched at the summit of Alyeska's lift system, this iconic restaurant and bar offers the quintessential mountain-top après experience. The timber-paneled interior features massive windows overlooking the Chugach Range and Cook Inlet, creating a dramatic backdrop for post-run drinks. The atmosphere blends upscale mountain lodge with casual ski-bar energy—expect live acoustic music on weekends and a festive crowd that's just as happy in ski boots as they are après. The crowd tends toward experienced skiers and visitors who've made the summit journey specifically for the views. During spring, the sundeck becomes a beloved spot for lingering in the extended Alaskan daylight.

Signature The Alaska White Russian (made with locally distilled vodka) and the Roundhouse Hot Toddy
Best Time 2:30-4:30pm for sunset views; weekend evenings for live music
Insider Tip Take the first tram up around 2pm to beat the crowds and secure a window seat. The mushroom soup is legendary—pair it with a beer for the full experience.
The Double Musky Inn
village-bar €€

This legendary Girdwood institution has been serving Alaskan hospitality since 1975 and remains the heart of the local après-ski scene. The interior is steeped in character—taxidermy, neon signs, and a kind of organized chaos that feels authentically Alaskan. It's the kind of place where locals and tourists mingle freely, where the bartender knows everyone's name, and where the vibe is perpetually festive without being pretentious. The crowd skews toward regulars and longtime visitors who've been coming here for decades, creating a sense of community that's rare at modern resorts.

Signature The Musky Mule (house ginger beer with your choice of spirit) and strong Bloody Marys
Best Time Happy hour (4-6pm) for half-price apps and drinks; late evening for live music
Insider Tip The nachos are famously massive—split one with friends. Ask about the 'local menu' items that aren't on the main list.
The Flask
wine-bar €€€

Girdwood's most sophisticated drinking establishment offers craft cocktails and an impressive wine list in an intimate, dimly lit setting. This is the go-to spot for those seeking elevated libations away from the rowdier ski-bar scene. The craft cocktail program features Alaska-inspired creations using local spirits and ingredients like salmon-infused vodka and fireweed honey. The small-plate menu pairs well with the drinks. The crowd tends toward professionals, older visitors, and anyone looking for a more refined evening experience.

Signature The Girdwood Gimlet (local gin, lime, cucumber) and the Midnight Sun (Alaska vodka, aperol, orange)
Best Time Early evening (6-8pm) for quiet conversation; late night for bartender conversations
Insider Tip Ask the bartender what's 'off menu'—they often create special cocktails for regulars that aren't listed.
Girdwood Brewing Company
village-bar

The only brewery in Girdwood offers a genuinely local craft beer experience in a spacious, family-friendly setting. The industrial-chic space features large windows, communal tables, and a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes skiers straight off the mountain. The beer list includes rotating seasonal brews alongside year-round favorites, with something for every palate from IPAs to stouts. It's notably more low-key than typical ski-town bars, making it perfect for those seeking a genuine local hangout rather than a tourist-focused venue.

Signature The Chugach IPA and the Glacier Stout; flight tastings recommended
Best Time Afternoon (2-5pm) for relaxed drinking before dinner; family-friendly until 8pm
Insider Tip Check their social media for special release nights and events. The beer cheese soup is excellent.
The Alyeska Hotel Lounge
village-bar €€

Located in the base village's main hotel, this lounge offers convenient slopeside drinking with a more traditional hotel-bar atmosphere. The space is comfortable and well-appointed, with fireplace seating and mountain views. It's particularly popular with hotel guests and those seeking a more structured après-ski experience without venturing into town. The crowd tends toward visitors staying at the resort and families looking for a casual evening option.

Signature Hot buttered rum and the Alyeska Mule (house signature)
Best Time Immediately after skiing (3-6pm) for convenience; quiet evenings for hotel guests
Insider Tip Good backup option when other venues are crowded. The fire pit outside is excellent for star-gazing on clear nights.
The Sitzmark Bar
club €€

Girdwood's late-night option offers dancing and DJ nights that keep the party going long after other bars have closed. The space transforms from casual bar to dance club on weekend nights, drawing a younger crowd and those seeking nightlife beyond quiet drinks. It's the only spot in the area for actual dancing, making it a unique offering in Alaska's ski scene. The crowd is friendly and eclectic—everyone from ski instructors to visiting Anchorage professionals.

Signature Shots and well drinks; weekend signature cocktails
Best Time Weekend nights from 10pm until last call (which can be surprisingly late)
Insider Tip Get there before 11pm on weekends to avoid cover charges. The dance floor fills up fast.

Prices & Value

Alyeska offers typical Alaska pricing—generally higher than Lower 48 resorts due to the cost of shipping goods north, but comparable to other remote mountain destinations. The small-town setting means fewer options, but also less tourist markup than larger commercial resorts.

Beer
$7-10 for draft; $8-12 for bottles
Wine
$10-16 per glass; $35-60 per bottle
Cocktail
$12-18 for signature drinks; $10-14 for well drinks

How it compares: Prices run roughly 10-15% higher than comparable Colorado or Utah resorts, but you're paying for the authentic Alaskan experience and the cost of doing business in a remote location. The Double Musky and brewery offer better value than resort-based venues.

Where locals drink: Locals gravitate toward the Double Musky for atmosphere and value, and Girdwood Brewing for affordable pints. The Flask attracts those willing to spend a bit more for quality. Tourist-heavy venues near the lifts charge premium prices.

Perfect Après Itineraries

🎉 The Classic Route

Start at the Roundhouse for 3pm drinks and those famous summit views, taking the tram down around 4:30. Walk (or shuttle) to the Double Musky for happy hour apps and the legendary nachos around 5:30. Move to The Flask for sophisticated cocktails at 7:30, then finish at the Sitzmark for dancing if you have energy left. This route maximizes the classic Alyeska experience.

💰 Budget-Friendly

Ski hard, then head straight to Girdwood Brewing for $6 pints and the affordable food menu. Hang there for a few hours mixing with locals. Walk down to the Double Musky for their famous happy hour (4-6pm) for discounted drinks. End the night with cheap drinks back at the brewery or grab a six-pack to go. This route prioritizes local hangouts over tourist spots.

✨ Upscale Evening

Ride the tram to the Roundhouse for sunset cocktails and appetizers. Shuttle or walk to The Flask for a meticulously crafted cocktail and small plates. If still standing, cap the night at the Double Musky for live music in their more intimate back room. This itinerary prioritizes quality over quantity.

Local Secrets

  • The 'Blueberry Cat' is a real snowcat that serves drinks on the mountain during special events—follow Alyeska's social media to catch these rare appearances.
  • The Double Musky has a 'locals only' back room that's less crowded and has better music—ask your server about it.
  • Girdwood Brewing offers 'growler fills' at significantly lower per-ounce prices than serving by the glass—perfect for taking to your accommodations.
  • The Flask's bartenders will make off-menu cocktails if you describe what you like—some of their best creations never make it to the menu.
  • In March, the extended daylight means you can literally ski until 7pm and still have hours of après time before dark—the spring season is locals' favorite time to party.
n Alyeska Resort, United States. Prices verified for 2025/26 season.

Quick Price Check

Pint of Beer (Mountain) $11

On-slope bar, standard lager

Pint of Beer (Village) $8

Village bar, evening drink

Glass of Wine $10

House wine, restaurant

Coffee $4

Espresso or cappuccino

Mountain Lunch $29

Main course + drink, on-slope

Evening Meal $57

Two courses + drink, mid-range restaurant

How Does Alyeska Resort Compare?

Item Alyeska Resort United States Avg Alps Avg
Pint on mountain $11 $12 €7
Mountain lunch $29 $32 €22
Evening meal $57 $60 €45

The Après Scene

Our Take

Alyeska Resort has modest après-ski. A few bars and restaurants, but this isn't a party resort. Good for families or those who prefer early nights. Prices are reasonable.

Where to Drink

Money-Saving Tips

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