Spring is upon us and that means patio season in here! Whether you’re looking for a drink and a boogie right on the mountain, or something in town; we have a list of the best places to try.
Photo Credit Dan Evans
Banff Sunshine Village takes on a life of its own once spring rolls around. There’s no better place to be than Mad Trapper’s Saloon after a few cruisy laps on the mountain.
Come springtime, Trappers transforms into an outdoor après party, with their weekly Untracked Concert Series – running April 1st through May 19th.
Photo Credit Jill Tester
From March onward, you’ll see how easy it is for a cheeky afternoon drink to turn into an après party. Caesars by the fire pit, draught beer at the picnic tables, and a signature smokehouse menu make this an obvious spot to hang out with your friends. Wave hey from the patio as they line up at Glacier chair, you might even get in another cheeky lap or two!
Enjoy Banded Peak’s weekly Deck Party from 2-6pm, with a different DJ every week.
When: March 15th, 22nd, 29th, April 5th, 19th and 20th
If you’re chasing an earlier après party but not quite ready to head down, stop over at Temple Lodge for the Corona Temple Lodge Take Over. From 11am-3pm enjoy a local favourite – DJ Bunny Hops, while you sip on a cold beer and enjoy a taco or two on the outdoor patio.
When: March 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th and April 5th
Photo Credit Reuben Krabbe
For après and events on the mountain, Mt Norquay is the place to be. After ripping laps of the North American Chair, head to Lone Pine and kick back on the balcony. Enjoy a few craft brews and dip into fresh cuisine - with portion sizes perfect for crowd sharing. While soaking up some much-needed sunshine, you can look out at the mountain and find there’ll be something going on, whether that be the Bozo Cup, Dopestyle, Masters Racing or a Rail Jam.
If you’re chasing retro vibes on a heated outdoor patio, right in downtown Banff – then Bluebird is your après destination. Enjoy half price fondue and drinks from $6.50 every day. On Fridays, enjoy their famous heated patio party with an extra hour of delicious mountain inspired cocktail deals and Bluebirds famous fondue and burgers and retro ski DJ. Stay warm by cozying up next to one of the many fires or wrap yourself in a SkiBig3 puffer Rumpl blanket; although dancing helps too!
All free ski shuttles stop right outside and offer ski racks, so you can literally step off the mountain and into Bluebird.
Join us for the Bluebird x SkiBig3 Après Retro Wrap Up Party on March 14th 2025!
Elk and Oarsman is the ‘people’s pub’ - no matter your age or background, you’re sure to have a good time here. When patio season hits, you can enjoy sunshine and panoramic views of Banff's signature peaks. They have a wide selection of beers on tap to kick back and soothe your ski legs! Even better, the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub is right across the street. If you've completed the Trifecta Challenge, head on over for your complimentary brew!
This year, The Fat Ox has introduced Aperitivo Hour. From 2-6 (one of Banff’s longest happy hours), you can enjoy Italian cuisine – Banff Style! Savour on a menu featuring delicious bites and cocktails from $5. With a shuttle stop from all the resorts right outside, this is the perfect stop after a day out on the hill.
Take in the bold mid-century atmosphere that is The Moxy. The bar evokes a retro ski vibe, perfect for a post ski day drink. Enjoy delicious après and an all-day menu from The Moxy’s Bar - a fully restored ‘66 VW food truck. Check out daily specials and events all month long.
Ready to book your spring skiing vacation to Banff National Park? Our friendly Reservations Team are always happy to share their local knowledge and experience to help you find the best vacation package for your style and budget. You can reach them by calling 1-844-754-2443.
