*Blog Post updated on July 10, 2024
Killington Ski Resort in Vermont is renowned on the East coast having earned the nickname "The Beast". It's not hard to see why; with six peaks, challenging terrain, and the region's lengthiest skiing season, it's a mecca for skiers and snowboarders from all over. The allure of Killington, Vt can be attributed to its proximity to major cities like Boston and New York, making it the ultimate skiing destination for those seeking the biggest and best skiing experience. However, the fun doesn't stop when the lifts shut down for the day. The Killington après-ski scene is just as beastly as the skiing and snowboarding, providing plenty of options at the day's end.
Killington Après Ski: As Beastly as the Skiing
Although skiing is one of Killington's prime attractions, the resort has more to offer and for good reason. The five-mile access road is dotted with well-known restaurants and bars, providing an unbeatable après-ski experience to complement the skiing. Whether you need a few drinks and a bite to eat, or you're in the mood to party all night, the Killington après-ski has so much to offer. Join me now, as we travel down the Killington access road to discover the top après-ski destinations at this amazing resort.
7 of the Best Bars and Restaurants to Après Ski Killington
Still on the Mountain - Killington Distillery
Photo Credit: Killington Distillery Instagram @stillonthemtn
The name says it all here. Not only are you still on the mountain but this also happens to be Killington's only distillery. Situated right at the base of Killington Ski Resort, it is hard to beat the location making this your first stop on your trek down the Killington access road.
A relative newcomer to the Killington après-ski scene, Killington Distillery distills all their own spirits including Bourbon, Vodka, Gin, Tequila and Rum. They then use their spirits to stir up their many creative craft cocktails like the Maple Old Fashioned we made on episode 21 of the Beyond the Après Podcast.
Pair this cocktail or any others with a delicious dish or two from their creative farm-to-table menu. And the best part is that if you happen to get a little too tipsy to leave, they even have their Mountain Inn on-site for you to spend the night.
The Lookout Tavern
Photo Credit: Lookout Tavern Instagram @lookoutkillington
The building that houses the Lookout Tavern has some serious history. It was Killington Ski Resort's first lodge back when it opened in 1958. Now it is family-owned and operated and has been a Killington après-ski institution since 2000.
Looking to create a burger and beer joint in a building that had 13 different Killington restaurants and bars fail, owners Phil and Joy Black wanted to keep it simple. In their efforts to create a great place for a burger and a beer, their strategy was simple. Great people, delicious food, cold drinks and a friendly welcoming atmosphere are the key ingredients to The Lookout's success.
Their U-shaped bar is optimal for hanging with friends while making new ones. Order up a beer and a plate of their wings. They are some of the best that you'll find in any of the Killington access road restaurants.
The Wobbly Barn Steakhouse
When it comes to Killington après ski, you could argue that no restaurant or bar is more legendary than The Wobbly Barn. It first opened its doors back in 1963 and has been a staple in the Killington après-ski scene ever since.
Man if these walls could talk. The stories they could tell.
The Wobbly Barn makes perennial appearances on best après-ski bar lists nationwide and with good reason. As a steakhouse (an often forgotten component to their success) they offer incredible food for anyone looking to enjoy a great dinner. However, where the Wobbly Barn really excels is in its nightlife.
With live music throughout the weekend, you and your friends will find it easy to drink and dance the night away like the many patrons who have come before you.
Pickle Barrel Nightclub
Photo Credit: Pickle Barrel Instagram @picklebarrelnightclub
If The Wobbly Barn is 1, then The Pickle Barrel is 1A when it comes to Killington nightlife. Centrally located on the Killington Access road, The Pickle Barrel (or at least the building) has been around since the 1960's. At that time it was known as the Sugar Shack and was a dance hall for skiers to congregate at the end of the day. Since that time, The Pickle Barrel has evolved into one of the Northeast's premier concert venues.
The Pickle Barrel boasts three levels of entertainment spaces, four bars, dance floors and multiple stages. Over the decades, it has been dubbed The House that Rocks Killington and has hosted major music artists such as Snoop Dogg, The Roots, Gin Blossoms and more.
When it comes to seeing live music, whether they are an established performer or a budding star, The Pickle Barrel is one of Killington's most exciting places for après ski.
Jax Food and Games
Photo Credit: Jax Food and Games Instagram @jaxkillingtonvt
If you are at the Pickle Barrel, you won't have too far to get to Jax Food and Games. It's right next door. Open seven days a week, this is a highly popular place for locals and visitors alike.
Being toward the base of the access road, Jax Food and Games is an excellent place to make your last stop coming off the mountain or your first on your trip up for the weekend. Order from an array of local beers to help take the edge off then play one of the arcade games. They also have live music, usually on the weekends, and feature many fun local acts.
The food there is eclectic and tasty. Jax proclaims to have the best grilled cheese in Killington. Featuring caramelized onions and apples it is to die for. And don't worry if you get some of those onions on your shirt, you can always walk downstairs to Killington's only laundromat "Scrub-a-Dub Pub and wash it.
Casey's Caboose
Photo Credit: Casey's Caboose Instagram @caseyscaboose
Growing up, Casey's Caboose was always one of my favorite places to visit. Housed inside an early 1900 railroad snowplow car it is one of the most unique Killington restaurants and bars there is. It's also fun for the whole family.
The atmosphere at Casey's Caboose is super cool. If you are lucky, you'll get to dine inside the observation deck on the plow car or maybe even the caboose itself. However, the wait or reservations for those seats are tough to come by but worth it.
No matter where you dine inside, you really cannot go wrong if ordering from the burger menu. It's extensive and DAMN those burgers are good. Many are equally as unique as the location itself. Shifting away from the burger menu, Casey's Caboose is also known for its seafood. This is kind of odd given Vermont isn't a coastal state but somehow Casey's Caboose consistently delivers on fresh seafood and they make it work.
Overall, if you are looking for a Killington access road restaurant that the whole family can enjoy, Casey's Caboose is always a solid choice.
Sushi Yoshi
Photo Credit: Sushi Yoshi Instagram @sushiyoshikillington
Free wings at après ski, Killington's only Vermont craft beer garden and sushi...sign me up! It's not often that a Chinese & Japanese Hibachi comes up on a "best of" après-ski list but Sushi Yoshi is definitely deserving.
If you are from a major city, the sushi is good but may not be up to your standards. However, the hibachi is fun and entertaining, tasty and what you'd expect.
Let's be real though, you're there because they have 20 taps. Yes, that's right, 20 taps flowing with some of the best Vermont craft beer and even a few good ones from the surrounding areas. Sushi Yoshi also runs après-ski specials, like free wings which when combined with a tasty beer or three from their menu makes a stop there totally worth it.
Après Ski Killington In the Best Attire
Coming off the mountain and taking a ride down to hit the many Killington Access Road restaurants requires the perfect après-ski clothing. There's no better choice than one of our comfortable ski hoodies. Our Raised on Apres Ski Hoodie is a solid choice for the occasion. Let everyone know that you have been doing this for years while you stay warm and comfortable every step of the way.
Do you enjoy finding out about the best places to hang out post-ski day around the country? If so, then our après-ski blog is for you. Sign up today and never miss another post. You won't be disappointed.
