Beer & Après Prices in Buttermilk
What you'll actually pay for drinks and food in Buttermilk, Unite
Buttermilk's après-ski culture reflects its identity as the most laid-back mountain in the Aspen Snowmass quartet. Unlike its steeper siblings—Aspen Highlands and Snowmass—Buttermilk attracts a crowd that prioritizes fun over intensity, creating an approachable atmosphere that welcomes-skiers of all abilities. The resort opened in 1951 as a family-focused destination, and that welcoming DNA persists in its drinking culture today. What makes Buttermilk unique is its unpretentious vibe; you're more likely to find locals sharing stories over PBR than seeing the Hollywood-exclusive scene that Aspen proper sometimes cultivates. The mountain sits just four miles from Aspen proper, giving visitors easy access to both the slope-side bars and the town's more diverse evening options. The crowd skews toward families, beginner-to-intermediate skiers, and those who appreciate a relaxed mountain experience over hardcore skiing. The best nightlife months are December through March, with February offering the busiest crowds and liveliest bar scenes thanks to ideal snow conditions and family ski weeks. Saturday evenings during peak season consistently deliver the most vibrant atmosphere, while weeknight après tends to be calmer and more conducive to conversation with locals. Aspen and Buttermilk occupy the premium end of Colorado resort pricing, with costs significantly higher than average mountain towns. However, budget-conscious drinkers can find value by venturing slightly beyond the resort core. How it compares: Buttermilk and Aspen hover near Colorado's most expensive destinations, rivaled only by Vail and Beaver Creek. Towns like Crested Butte or Steamboat Springs offer 20-30% cheaper drinks, while budget areas like Leadville provide extreme value. Within Aspen, happy hour deals and local bars offer the best value, while resort venues command premium pricing. Where locals drink: Locals escape to Woody Creek Tavern and Glenwood Springs for budget-friendly drinking, while happy hour at The Red Onion delivers the best drink specials within immediate range. Aspen Brewing Company offers fair pricing for quality craft beer, and Wednesday Flight Night provides exceptional value for beer explorers. Begin at The Mountain Club at 3pm for slope-side beers while watching the last skiers descend ($9 beers). Transit to Aspen Brewing Company around 5pm for house ales and relaxed local vibes ($7-8). migrate to Jimmy's for dinner and signature margs around 7pm ($14-18). Cap the night at The Red Onion for late-night cheap drinks ($8-10pm happy hour specials). Budget: $50-75 Start at The Red Onion's 4pm happy hour for dollar drinks ($1 domestic, $2 wells), move to Aspen Brewing Company for $7 Altbier, finish at Woody Creek Tavern for $4 domestics. This route maximizes drink quantity while minimizing cost. Bonus: grab food at any stop for adequate dining. Budget: $20-35 Begin with cocktails at The Woolf ($14-15), proceed to Cache Cache for wine and cheese ($15-25 per glass, $18 boards), conclude with dinner and premium drinks at Jimmy's upscale dining room. This itinerary prioritizes quality over quantity with sophisticated settings. Budget: $100-150The Drinking Culture in Buttermilk
Complete Bar Guide
Prices & Value
Perfect Après Itineraries
🎉 The Classic Route
💰 Budget-Friendly
✨ Upscale Evening
Local Secrets
Quick Price Check
On-slope bar, standard lager
Village bar, evening drink
House wine, restaurant
Espresso or cappuccino
Main course + drink, on-slope
Two courses + drink, mid-range restaurant
How Does Buttermilk Compare?
| Item | Buttermilk | United States Avg | Alps Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pint on mountain | $12 | $12 | €7 |
| Mountain lunch | $33 | $32 | €22 |
| Evening meal | $67 | $60 | €45 |
The Après Scene
Our Take
Buttermilk has solid après options without being overwhelming. A good mix of mountain bars and village spots, reasonable prices by resort standards. You can have a good time without breaking the bank.
Where to Drink
- Mountain Bar — On-slope drinks with views
- Village Pub — Local favorite, reasonable prices
Money-Saving Tips
- Drink at village bars rather than on-mountain - typically 20-30% cheaper
- Buy beer from supermarkets for accommodation pre-drinks
- Avoid table service at busy après spots - bar prices are lower
- Happy hour deals often run 4-6pm in village bars
🏔️ Planning your ski trip to Buttermilk Beer & Après Prices 2025/26?
Find Accommodation on Booking.comCompare hotels, chalets & apartments