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Steamboat Magazine

Up Here You Can Howl At The Moon

04/23/2013 09:18PM ● By Christina Freeman

The Rowdy Shade House funk band plays at Sweetwater Bar & Grill.

Vibrant, rowdy, chill, sophisticated: in the ‘Boat you can relax, dance or howl the night away at dozens of bars and restaurants downtown and at the mountain.

At the Beach

Kayakers, walkers and bikers converge riverside, ending the day with a cocktail and app at the Boathouse Pub, Sunpie’s, Cottonwood Grill, Sweet Pea Café and Sweetwater Grill. All are located along the Yampa River and have outdoor seating and/or decks with a view. Sweetwater and Cottonwood regularly schedule live music.

On the Deck

If there were a “town with the best decks” contest, Steamboat would be a contender. From the rooftop deck at Rio Grande (memorize the taxi’s number before you order your second margarita) to the ski area views from Truffle Pig, decks are the place to spend afternoons and evenings.

Double Z BBQ and Cugino’s have decks overlooking Howelsen Hill and the river; both serve beers, apps and cool early-evening views. Mambo Italianos has a garden setting and great Mojitos.

Mahogany Ridge Brewery and Grill and the Cantina both have lively happy hours and sidewalk seating for people- watching on main street.

Or head east to Rex’s Backyard Bar at the Holiday Inn, with backyard games and bike access from the Walton Creek extension of the Yampa Core Trail. The Rowdy Shade House funk band plays at Sweetwater Bar & Grill.

Downtown Scene

The Ghost Ranch, Carl’s Tavern and Old Town Pub have happening bars, affordable and delicious dinners and, occasionally, live music.

The Steamboat Smokehouse and Tap House Sports Grill are especially busy on big sports nights, and kids love the atmosphere at both establishments.

On the Mountain

Slopeside, Saddles at the Sheraton and the Tugboat Grill & Pub have spacious outdoor decks with views of ski area, and are popular places to meet on the mountain. The Tugboat regularly features live entertainment and dancing.

Two stops stand out for their ethnic offerings: At La Montaña, select from an extensive tequila menu and sip a margarita on the deck while you watch the sun set. McKnight’s Irish Pub offers pool and billiards, plus Guinness and fish & chips.

Relaxed and Refined

Harwig’s offers a cozy bar, innovative apps, occasional piano music and wine tastings, plus an award-winning wine list. The Laundry is Steamboat’s only restaurant specializing in small plates and in-house infused liquors.

Three Peaks’ elegant lounge and outdoor seating make a great stop on the way to or from the Strings Music Pavilion. One of the most photogenic places to see the sunset is atop Thunderhead Peak. On select nights, ride the gondola for Sunset Happy Hour.