The Red Lion

Vail's consistently hot après-ski spot, this neighborhood-like bar is always jam-packed after the lifts close for the day. You may have to elbow your way to the bar for a Colorado microbrew or a margarita, but you'll be able to swap snow tales with travelers and locals alike. Hang around long enough and there's nightly live music by longtime Vail entertainer Phil Long.

Tip: Beat the crowds with the bar's reservations program, accessed through the website.