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Steamboat Magazine

Nightlife Summer/Fall 2014

09/02/2014 07:01PM ● By Christina Freeman

ON THE BEACH

Cool breezes and the river songs of the Yampa call to walkers, bikers, strollers and kayakers to the restaurants tucked between Yampa Street and the river. Finish your day with a cold brew and app at Sake2U,  Sunpie's,  E3 Chophouse and Sweet Pea Cafe. All have outdoor seating and/or decks with a view.  E3 is planning live music, as is Aurum Food and Wine, opening in the old Sweetwater Grill space.

ALL HANDS ON DECK!

Steamboat Springs is a strong contender among mountain towns with the best outdoor decks. Streetscapes and people-watching are great from the rooftop at Rio Grande, as well as scenic vistas of the ski slopes via the Truffle Pig.  Double Z BBQ and Cugino's have decks overlooking Howelsen Hill and the river -- both serve beers, apps and cool early-evening views. Mambo Italiano’s has a garden setting and great mojitos. Mahogany Ridge Brewery and Grill and the Cantina both have lively happy hours and sidewalk seating in Old Town. Head east to Rex's Backyard Bar at the Holiday Inn to enjoy backyard games and bike access from the Walton Creek extension of the Yampa Core Trail.

DOWNTOWN SCENE

 Carl's Tavern and Old Town Pub have happening bars, affordable and delicious dinners and, occasionally, live music.  The Ghost Ranch features weekend concerts. The brand-new Schmiggity's is a live music venue and tavern. If there's a big game to watch, check the action at the Steamboat Smokehouse and Tap House Sports Grill -- friendly for kids of all ages.

ON THE MOUNTAIN

 Slopeside, Saddles at the Sheraton has a spacious outdoor deck with a superb view of the ski area, and is a popular places to meet on the mountainFor ethnic offerings, select from an extensive tequila menu at La Montaña, or quaff a Guinness with fish & chips at McKnight's Irish Pub.

RELAXED AND REFINED

Taste-sensation apps, a comfy bar, a talented keyboard tickler and an award-winning wine list make Harwig's memorable. The Laundry is a gastro-pub offering comfort food and in-house infused liquors.

On the way to or from the Strings Music Pavilion, check out Three Peaks' elegant lounge and outdoor seating. One of the most photogenic places to see the sunset is atop Thunderhead Peak -- access via the gondola for Sunset Happy Hour.

For a complete list of bars and restaurants with a wide range of nightlife offerings, pick up a copy of the Dining Guide in the Steamboat Springs Visitors’ Guide.