Best 5 Bars and Saloons in Telluride
Top Telluride Bars and Saloons
Partaking in libations has long been a Western tradition, whether that be in a chic, modern bar or an old-timey saloon, and nowhere is this more true than in Telluride. This tiny mountain town is packed full of places to imbibe, alpine-style, and most of them are within walking distance of each other for your convenience. So no matter if you’re hoping to get dressed up for a night on the town or you’re looking for a dive bar to take in the local color, there’s a bar or saloon that’s perfect for you.
Join us as we dive into 5 of the best bars and saloons in breathtaking Telluride, Colorado.
Go Old-School at the Last Dollar Saloon
Looking to really lean into that Old West vibe while you’re staying in Telluride? Don’t miss out on the Last Dollar Saloon, an old-school bar housed in a historic 1899 building that’s been operating since the late 70s. Although it originally opened as a clothing store back in the late 1800s, by the early 1900s it had already become known as a saloon, and in 1978 the owners restored it to its original purpose.
With over 60 different types of beer on tap to try out, Last Dollar Saloon is a great place to try out some new brews while getting to know the locals. Before you leave, be sure to head up to the second story rooftop bar to get a great view of town while you enjoy your favorite mixed drink or beer. Don’t forget to fill up on food before you go, as this bar doesn’t serve food or allow any outside food in.
Imbibe on Some Local Brews at Smuggler’s Union Restaurant and Brewery
Since 1996, Smuggler’s Union Restaurant and Brewery has been a favorite of Telluride locals and tourists alike for its locally-sourced food and its incredible selection of award-winning brews.
With a focus on using only fresh ingredients from farms in the area, the food is out of this world, with reviewers raving about the crispy and delicious fish and chips and the tasty deep-fried empanadas. But where this brewpub really shines is in its beer, especially its classic style lagers and ales. In fact, this spot took home the bronze in the 2018’s Great American Beer Festival in Denver for its brew, “Blonde Betty”, a Belgian-style ale with notes of banana and clove. After a long day of hiking or skiing the slopes, a stop by Smuggler’s Union is the perfect pick-me-up.
Enjoy Some Top of the Mountain Libations at Tomboy Tavern
Heading to Mountain Village for a day filled with skiing or snowboarding but still want to enjoy some brews or a tasty mixed drink? Check out Tomboy Tavern, located conveniently at the base of Lift 4, for a delicious drink and some scrumptious eats to break up your skiing adventure. This charming little bar offers a great atmosphere, crispy wings, and decor reminiscent of a Wild West dance club. It may be a little hard to find, but that’s all part of the Tomboy Tavern adventure.
Partake in Delicious Brews at the Award-Winning Stronghouse Brew Pub
When you’re in Telluride, drink like the locals do, and the locals love nothing more than a brew at Stronghouse Brew Pub. Not only are the beers to-die-for and the food delicious, but this pub also has the honor of being known as USA Today’s #1 Best Brewpub in America.
Housed in a historic warehouse that was once used to store goods that came in by railroad, Stronghouse has been home to many other businesses in years past, but in 2020, it was subject to a long restoration in order to become the award-winning pub that it is today. Craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the huge mahogany bar to the manual-powered lift to the 1909 cash register, and taking a trip here is like stepping back into time. Enjoy the Old West vibes while still enjoying some modern and delicious brews at Stronghouse.
Listen to Some Live Music at O'Bannon's Irish Pub
Want to have fun with some live music and dancing while you’re out for a night on the town in Telluride? Take a look at O’Bannon’s Irish Pub, an underground dive bar with great beer specials, frequent concerts, a floating dance floor, and a plethora of arcade games for you to enjoy.
This spot is a great place to meet the locals and party the night away, but be aware that there’s a 30% tip minimum when you pay your tab, so plan for that in advance. And for those of you that are fans of pinball, this is the place to come spend your quarters, as the arcade portion of the bar is well-preserved and well-maintained.
Discover Even More Things to Do in Telluride
Telluride may be small, but that doesn’t mean the nightlife isn’t up to par with other mountain towns around Colorado. Whether going to a chic bar like Tomboy Tavern is your idea of a good time or you want to enjoy some live music in one of the best dive bars in town at O’Bannon’s, you’ll have plenty of choices.
Hoping to find more Telluride activities while you’re staying in town? Check out our guide to the best breakfast, lunch, and dinner spots in town or take a look at our list of the most stunning day trips from Telluride.