From Powder to Pints: Your Guide to the Best Après Ski Spots on the East Coast
Published by Allie Hochman
These New England Mountains Are Serving Up Unbeatable Brews, Food, & Entertainment All Winter Long
There's nothing like a New England winter weekend spent slopeside - from the fresh Vermont powder to mountain munchies and making memories with the people you love most. And we'd be lying if we said an après ski wasn't on our mind for a good part of the day, too. For the East Coast's finest local brews, unbeatable happy hour deals, live music, and more, be sure to check out these iconic après destinations.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe takes immense pride in its après culture, welcoming anyone who makes their way through the town to join in on the late afternoon camaraderie. First on the list of après destinations is one you truly can’t miss, as it’s located right on Mountain Road, meaning you’re destined to pass by as you exit the mountain. Introducing The Matterhorn - a true Vermont staple since 1950. This renowned bar is serving up pizza, sushi, burgers, and more, with a side of legendary live music all winter long. For the whiskey warriors out there, look no further than Spruce Peak’s own WhistlePig Pavilion, and experience one of their local rye whiskey flights or sip on an original craft cocktail. Enjoy the magical view of the skating rink while you kick back in one of the outdoor heated pergolas, indulge in some unbeatable BBQ, and soak up the mountain magic.
Cracking open a cold one after a long day on the slopes is always a treat, especially when you’re drinking local, award-winning beer, brewed in-house at Von Trapp Brewing. The brewery offers tours of the facility, as well as guided beer tastings, so you can truly embrace the flavor, history, and meaning behind each pint.
Killington, Vermont
As Vermont’s largest ski resort, Killington is flooded with skiers and boarders of all skill levels every single weekend. And given the seven different mountain areas, you can probably imagine that, come last chair, no matter which peak you find yourself on, the après opportunities are endless. Starting with the Ledgewood Yurt, located right off the Northbrook trail. Since it’s not accessible by car, this picturesque structure is perfect for a mid-run pick-me-up or a stop along the way to the car, especially if you're craving a local brew. Next on the list of Killington classics is The Wobbly Barn. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a post-shred steak, dance to live music, or just throw back a casual beer, this spot simply never disappoints. And, with Long Trail Brewing Company’s Ski the East IPA, brewed right down the street, tasting this local craft is just part of the Killington culture.
For the night owls out there, there’s no better place to blow off some steam than the Pickle Barrel, a local hotspot since the 1960s. This mountainside nightclub, known to be "the house that rocks Killington," is unlike anything of its kind - complete with four bars, three floors, and incredibly talented cover bands that give New England nightlife a whole new meaning. And to ensure all attendees are having an epic, yet safe night, locals and visitors are encouraged to utilize the Barrel Rider program, a free service that provides transportation within six miles of the establishment.
Mad River Glen, Vermont
Located only a few miles from Sugarbush, Mad River Glen gives off its own authentically rustic vibe, and it certainly isn't your typical tourist trap. Those who take on the elite Mad River terrain are likely seasoned skiers and riders, so it’s no surprise they’re looking for an epic après spot. Stark’s Pub, recognized as one of the World’s Best Après Ski Bars by Men’s Journal, has everything from Vermont’s own Lawson’s Finest Liquids to live music and iconic decor that’s sure to catch your eye. You might be familiar with the “Ski It If You Can” bumper stickers that have plastered their way through New England, becoming a badge of honor for skiers from coast to coast. The pub even has a wall full of photos that features athletes, tourists, and adventure-seekers posing with the stickers in countless locations worldwide.
Since Mad River Glen is on the smaller side, venturing a few miles down the road to Sugarbush territory for a cozy evening at Mad River Barn in Waitsfield never disappoints. This mountain-chic pub offers countless craft cocktails, and even has various flavors of margaritas on tap - clearly, they’re not rookies over at Mad River! Let’s not forget about the array of live music throughout the season, with fan-favorite band Al’s Pals frequently making their way to the stage by popular demand.
Sugarloaf, Maine
With a menu inclusive of just about every beverage - spirits, beers, canned cocktails, and beyond - Widowmaker has been a Sugarloaf staple for 40 years, “where Maine craft beer culture meets mountain tradition.” And if you’re looking to get some good bang for your buck, hone in on the happy hour menu, with rotating food and drink specials daily, including Thirsty Thursday, Taco Tuesday, and all-day happy hour prices every Monday. Another Sugarloaf sensation is The Bag and Kettle, an old-fashioned pub that puts a whole lot of love into everything on the menu. While it’s not quite known for its glamorous decor, after a long day on the slopes, a pint paired with some melt-in-your-mouth pizza and a side of live music sounds like just what the doctor ordered.
For the ultimate ski-in/ ski-out experience, pop off your skis and head to Shipyard Brew Haus, sitting directly next to the Sawduster Chairlift. This slopeside haus has quite the event calendar in store for 2026, with an impressive lineup of live music just about every Thursday and Friday from 6 - 9 pm. For the weekday skiers, unwind with one of the many drink specials from 3 - 5, or indulge in your hunger with one of the delicious daily features.
Sunday River, Maine
One thing’s for sure when shredding Sunday River - come last chair, the whole town’s ready to roll into après mode. The Foggy Goggle, famous for its award-winning nachos and wide selection of draft beers, confidently states they won’t let a single customer leave hungry or thirsty - cheers to that! Located at the Base of South Ridge, you simply can’t miss the Foggy Goggle when you unclip your bindings, so be sure to head in for an evening of live music and decadent, greasy food.
Nothing says winter wonderland like a party inside an igloo, and Sunday River has certainly turned this dreamy concept into a reality. The Iglu, which happens to be the first of its kind in North America, is complete with an indoor ice bar, a cozy fireplace to help you defrost after a day in the snow, and an array of original cocktails. This ice lounge is the epitome of New England winter charm, and given its location right in the Jordan Bowl, skiers and riders can skirt right up to the entrance from various designated trails. And for those who aren’t toughing it out on the slopes, not to worry, you can still reach the icy bar through the Jordan Shuttle.