There’s something about the night-life in Banff and Lake Louise that’s unlike ski areas anywhere else. Even after a long day of shredding the Big 3, it’s hard to call it a day.
Thankfully, with endless options for après beers and cocktails, you won’t have to ever call “last run.” Whether you’re looking for a laid-back brewpub in downtown Banff, or looking to get posh in Lake Louise, here are a few of the top spots to check out for post-run libations. You’ve earned ‘em.
Town of Banff
Banff Avenue Brew Pub
A classic option, Banff Ave Brew Pub boasts downtown Banff’s only fully operational brewing setup. And they are all about their beer. Shoot some pool, hit the patio and be sure to take them up on their free brewery tour offering.
Insider tip: Pond Hockey Pale Ale pairs brilliantly with poutine. When in Rome…
Rose & Crown Pub
Not to be missed by any first time visitor, the Rose & Crown is Banff’s oldest pub and one of the coziest spots in town. It sports fireplaces, billiards tables, and set-apart sitting rooms ideal for dissecting the day’s action.
Insider Tip: Be sure to check the packed event schedule and hit up the upstairs patio on sunny afternoons.
The Dancing Sasquatch
Some like their post-run drinks to be a relaxing affair among a few close friends. For the rest of us, there’s the Dancing Sasquatch. This self-described “wild party place” is for those who don’t view ‘getting turn’t’ as a slopes-only activity. Dance the night away at one of the bar’s many weekly events, or for a night you’ll never forget– (remember?), book a private party for you and your friends.
Insider Tip: Mid-week marks the celebration of “Wildlife Wednesdays” at the Dancing Sasquatch, where indulging your wilder side is highly encouraged.
Lake Louise
Alpine Social
Alpine Social bills itself as a great place to recap your adventures in the mountains with good friends, hearty comfort food, and over 40 different bourbons and whiskeys to choose from. Located in the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, everything about this restaurant is an ode to the mountain lifestyle.
Insider Tip: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has been catering to adventurous alpine spirits of all types visiting Banff National Park for more than 100 years, so don’t be afraid to après here after snowshoeing or guided mountain tours, either.
The Explorer’s Lounge
Among the more casual options at Lake Louise, The Explorer’s Lounge is located within the Lake Louise Inn, so it may be your most convenient spot to kick back and recap the day if you’re staying nearby. With billiards, darts, and a jukebox on offer, you’ll have shaken off any ski-induced stiffness in no time.
Insider Tip: If you’ve had your fill of beverages in the Explorer’s Lounge, but its pub food-based menu isn’t your thing, Timberwolf Pizza and Pasta Cafe is also located within the Lake Louise Inn. And who doesn’t love a nice slice?
Lake Louise Ski Resort
If you’re lucky enough to ski Lake Louise Ski Resort, then there’s no reason to go far to get your aprés on. Between base-area dining at the jaw-dropping Lodge of Ten Peaks and mid-mountain options like the Whitehorn Bistro and Temple Lodge, you’re bound to run into a good spot to wet the ol’ whistle.
Insider Tip: On chilly days, warm up in the Powder Keg lodge with a hand-crafted cocktail. On warmer ones, exercise the grab-and-go option at Bier Stube and go enjoy the views.
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