The origins of Après & skiing have been intertwined since the advent of sliding down a mountain. But in Truckee, it's a thing all year long. Summer Après is a time to celebrate the day and all you accomplished. Maybe you rafted the Truckee River or went fly fishing for the first time. Summited Castle Peak or enjoyed a day on the shores of Donner Lake. Whatever the day has in store for you, at the end make it a point to soak up the culture, the sun, and of course enjoy your favorite libation. From the best patios to live music and weekly midweek events, here’s the best spots to get your summer Après on.
Enjoy A Refreshing Pint
Well earned beers taste so much better. Truckee is home to a collection of breweries that run the full spectrum of flavor profiles. Taste history at Good Wolf Brewing as they’ve brought back a lager produced during the Gold Rush era in Truckee. Savor a hazy IPA at Truckee Brewing Company’s restaurant patio which offers you views of the iconic Castle Peak. Sip on the legendary Eclipse brew - an Imperial Stout aged in whiskey and spirit barrels at FiftyFifty Brewing. Don’t forget to make a stop at Donner Creek Brewing, a pico brewery that features half a dozen of their beers as well as a variety of wines, ciders, hard booch, and even CBD drinks to enjoy.
Sun, Views, And Patios
With plenty of sunshine and comfortable temps, Truckee is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor dining or even a drink. Start by checking out RMU, a Certified California Green Business in Downtown Truckee (you can't miss the blue Kruger House!) More than just “a store.” It’s a combination retail and tune shop complemented by a bar, restaurant, and a lively outdoor patio next to the Carriage House. Catch live bands and events almost every day of the week. For an up close and personal view of the Truckee River, mosey on over to the 1882 Bar & Grill (named after the year the building was built). Featuring a cozy deck perched on the river, their menu features BBQ dishes with meats smoked daily on their authentic Texas smoker. Moody’s, inside the Truckee Hotel, might be known for their up-to-snuff cocktail menu, but we’ll let you in on a secret - it’s their patio. On a sunny summer day, you can enjoy those creations on their large shaded patio in the back. For those that want to take in the views of downtown Truckee while sipping on a beverage, head over to the Cottonwood. Situated on the ridgeline, the old rustic ski lodge’s patio overlooks the town and is a great spot to take in the sunset. And last but not least, you can’t go wrong with enjoying a frosty pint in the Alibi Truckee Ale House beer garden or the deck at Truckee Tavern & Grill.
We All Scream For Ice Cream
Summer Après doesn’t have to involve beer or wine. Rather, it’s about the mindstate and taking time at the end to “cheers” a day of fun. If you’re on the shores of Donner Lake, visit the Truckee Creamery on the northwest corner where they make all their scrumptious flavors in-house including ones for vegans. In downtown? Stop by their food truck situated in the Tahoe Dave’s parking lot. For those that want nostalgia along with their scoop, stop by Bud’s on the main drag in historic downtown Truckee.
Live Music
Dance the summer afternoon away with live music. As the warmth of the season kicks into gear throughout Truckee, music festivals such as the Truckee Reggae Fest and free concert series’ kick in. On Wednesdays, grab a seat or spot on the lawn in the Truckee River Regional Park as bands play at the “Salty” Gebhardt Pavilion while the sun sets around you as dusk falls. Thursdays are about Truckee Thursdays. Throughout June, July, and August, downtown Truckee shuts down Donner Pass Road and throws an event that both locals and visitors have come to enjoy. You’ll find a stage with live music, a food court with an eclectic selection of eats, children’s activities, a beer garden, and a wide variety of artisan vendors.
Settle In For Fun
Sharpen your pencils and practice those high notes at Truckee’s fun night outings. Whatever floats your kayak in terms of a fun night out you’ll find it in Truckee. Those that want to listen to local talent or are musically inclined, head over to “Open Stage Mondays” at the Alibi Ale Works Truckee Public House. Be a part of the alpha pack as you get your knowledge tested at The Good Wolf trivia night on Wednesdays. Or just finish it off at one of the many historic bars in a late 19th century building such as the Bar Of America for a nightcap.
