Best Après-Ski in South Lake Tahoe

 Finding the best slopes in South Tahoe is a no-brainer — just follow the trail of ski bums up a mountain. But finding the best “après” ski spots is a matter best left to the local experts.

Our RnR team members live and work in South Tahoe and have the inside scoop on recommendations. But first, just what is après-ski? Well, it’s a French term that translates to “after ski” or “after skiing.” The phrase was made popular in the Alps during the 1950s rise of commercial skiing, and today, après-ski is an umbrella term for popular post-ski activities. It can refer to Champagne toasts on slopeside terraces or just kicking back around a firepit with a few craft beers.

There’s no official time frame for “après-ski,” though it usually starts in the late afternoon — say, around 4 p.m., following the “last run” of the day (pro tip: never call it your last run; it’s bad luck) — and can keep going well past dinner.

Après-ski in Tahoe is a time-honored tradition. For many of us at RnR, it’s part of the reason we started skiing in the first place! As far as ski towns go, South Lake Tahoe is known for drinking, dancing, and letting loose. However, there are so many different options that finding a more family-friendly spot is not impossible.

 Here are some of the RnR staff’s favorite après ski spots to check out this winter after a day at the slopes (or anytime):

Lake Tahoe AleWorX Stateline

Hands down the best pizza in town, and it is perfectly paired with music, beer, cocktails, and … dancing! Just a short walk from the base of the Heavenly gondola, AleWorx Stateline has live music, dance parties, an outdoor fire pit, and their famous woodfired pizza. The craft cocktails are equally noteworthy. Find all the details here.

Azul Latin Kitchen

Featuring epic live music and deejays to get you in the groove, this hot spot sports an outdoor stage and an expansive outdoor patio. Close to the Heavenly gondola base in Heavenly Village, this is the perfect spot to dance away the night. Or, for those who don’t dance, perhaps a game of winter cornhole? For more, check out their website here.

Steins Beer and Drafts

Halfway up Heavenly Ski Resort, this charming spot reminds us of the Alps. Housed in a yurt, this no-frills gem is the perfect place to grab a pint and soak in the view. A brat, a pretzel, and a cold brew. There’s nothing more classic après-ski than that! With no phone or website, you just have to find this place by feel!

Jimmy's at The Landing

When it comes to craft cocktails, no one does it better than this classy place by the lake. The vistas from the large patio will make you linger. If you’re a wine aficionado, Jimmy’s is the proud recipient of the 2023 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

Basecamp Hotel & Desolation Brewery

The Beer Garden at Basecamp Hotel provides guests with a cozy atmosphere around fire pits and seasonal craft beer options. The hotel courtyard welcomes guests and visitors to gather around the fire with family and friends and enjoy many food and drink options.

Riva Grill

Offering an epic happy hour and Tahoe’s ultimate après-ski experience with Fish Taco Fridays, Riva offers a buzzing bar and live entertainment. Try the housemade salt and vinegar potato chips and the lobster deviled eggs for a snack. The sprawling restaurant overlooks the lake, making the most of its views. Their popular rum drinks - The Wet Woody's have been enjoyed over 3 million times!

Himmel Haus

Himmel Haus is regarded as a top German dining destination in South Lake Tahoe, CA, and perhaps throughout the state. It offers a comprehensive menu available for indoor, outdoor, and takeout services. Reserve your indoor dining experience now, or secure a place on our heated patio, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bar Trivia worth its weight in bier! Teams of up to six people go head to head in a match of random knowledge spanning everything from science to music and everything in between! Every Wednesday at 9pm. Located at the base of the Heavenly Cal Lodge parking lot on Saddle Road. 

Book your South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental

From spacious homes to charming cabins, a perfect South Lake Tahoe Rental awaits you to unwind and create lasting memories with family and friends. Start planning your next winter getaway today and secure your ideal vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe. Your après-ski experience awaits in this picturesque mountain destination.