Summit County Colorado Nightlife & Bars

Some winter vacationers aren't satisfied with only skiing and at only just one place. They're into a number of ski areas and an enjoyable and active nightlife. For these skiers, it has to be Summit County.

Within Summit County, about a 90-minute drive from downtown Denver, are four well-known ski areas: Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. Each resort has its own nightlife, lodging, shopping and restaurants.

This tri-town area is smack in the center of the ski and nightlife action. Having a car is nice, but not really necessary. The reliable Summit Stage, the free bus system subsidized by sales tax revenue, runs between the towns and the ski areas all day and into the night—until 2 a.m.

Dubbed Colorado's Playground, Summit County draws 3.4 million skiers each year, more than the entire state of Utah. Almost every conceivable recreation activity is available here, winter activities, as well as summer.

The nightlife is vibrant and entertaining. There are bars, restaurants and music venues that are favorites of both locals and visitors, and has been for years. Many places feature pool, foosball and video games too.

Of course, to find happy hour places is not too arduous at all. Indeed, at a ski resort more than any other place, this hour is almost as religious as a good day's skiing!

Brew pubs are also not difficult to encounter. A good array of hand-crafted beers help to brighten any evening. Team that with fast and friendly service, and specialties such as prime rib, steaks, and fresh seafood – well, chances are you're having a different sort of black diamond run!