One of Aspen's most storied bars — the J-Bar at Hotel Jerome has been serving après-ski since 1889, with the Jerome Sling (the house cocktail) and a mix of ski patrollers, real estate brokers, celebrities, and visitors with an atmosphere that is distinctly Aspen.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The J-Bar at Hotel Jerome is the axis around which Aspen social life rotates — open since 1889, it has served Hunter S. Thompson (who lived and died in Aspen), the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, countless politicians, and three generations of Aspen ski community. The bar retains its mahogany back bar and Victorian atmosphere while serving the Jerome Sling (its famous house cocktail — gin, grapefruit, green chartreuse), Colorado craft beers, and a full bar food menu. The conversation is excellent. Go between 4pm and 7pm on a powder day for the full experience of post-ski Aspen at its best.
What Stands Out
- Aspen's most legendary bar — open since 1889
- The Jerome Sling — the house cocktail
- a genuine American classic
- Hunter S. Thompson's regular haunt — Gonzo history in every booth
- Victorian mahogany back bar — one of the best-preserved in the West
- Go 4–7pm on a powder day for the full experience