iStock International
The fun continues off the slopes
Telluride
This Rocky Mountain resort is reminiscent of its rowdy mining-town roots (notorious outlaw Butch Cassidy robbed his first bank here), but not without a splash of 21st-century sophistication. While sister Rockies towns like Vail and Aspen demand refinement both on and off the slopes, Telluride invites visitors to dig into the rugged slopes and to throw one back at a neighborhood pub. But that’s not to say it’s a town without class – in fact, the Chicago Tribune wrote, "Telluride has more good restaurants per person than any resort in the Rockies." And when it comes to nightlife, it’s an unparalleled experience when this National Historic District hosts the party. A central district of historic Victorian buildings, since converted into bars, shops, and eateries, and all shadowed by the majestic scenery of the San Juan Mountains, make for a picture-perfect night on the town. Not to miss après-ski spots include the landmark, century-old New Sheridan Bar, with its mahogany paneling and hand-carved bar that conjure images of the Wild Wild West over happy-hour specials; Fly Me to the Moon Saloon, with its regular roster of live music performances; and the laid-back Last Dollar Saloon (dubbed “the Buck” by locals), home to a jammin’ jukebox, a great selection of beer, and the best margaritas in town.
$290/nt+: Luxury Telluride stay with 2 adult lift tickets Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge