Mammoth Lakes doesn’t have just one “best” happy hour—it has several, depending on what kind of afternoon or evening you’re looking to create.
For Craft Beer Fans
If locally brewed beer is your go-to, Mammoth Lakes has you covered with relaxed brewery vibes and solid midweek deals.
Distant Brewing
Typically offering mid-week happy hour specials in the afternoon, Distant Brewing is a favorite for craft beer lovers. Expect rotating house beers, guest ciders, kombuchas, and wines, often with simple, no-frills discounts that make it easy to sample a few styles. The atmosphere is casual and social—great for winding down after outdoor adventures.
For Cocktail Lovers
Looking for classic cocktails, quality whiskey pours, or a more elevated bar experience? These spots balance mountain character with thoughtful cocktail menus and well-curated spirits.
Liberty Bar
Liberty Bar is a longtime Mammoth Lakes favorite for après drinks, thanks to its generous weekday happy hour, regular live music, and central location. The menu covers classic cocktails, local beers, and a well-rounded wine selection, making it a great stop for meeting friends or settling in before dinner. Live music nights bring extra energy to the space, and the indoor-outdoor layout keeps the atmosphere social and lively without feeling overwhelming.
Clocktower Cellar
Clocktower Cellar leans into a cozy, underground neighborhood-bar vibe that locals have loved for years. Happy hour typically runs in the afternoon with straightforward drink specials, creating an easy, low-key spot to unwind after a day outside. The intimate setting, relaxed pace, and familiar crowd make it a good choice if you’re looking for conversation and comfort rather than a busy après scene.
Shelter Distilling
Shelter Distilling is a go-to stop for thoughtfully crafted spirits and a slower, more intentional après experience. As Mammoth Lakes’ local distillery, Shelter is known for its house-made spirits, rotating beers, and seasonal cocktails, all served in a warm, modern space that works just as well for post-adventure unwinding as it does for a low-key afternoon meet-up.
Happy hour is offered seasonally during the shoulder season, typically in the early afternoon when available. When running, specials may include discounted cocktails or featured pours, making it a great time to sample Shelter’s house-made spirits without the evening crowds.
If your ideal happy hour leans toward quality ingredients, locally made spirits, and a relaxed mountain atmosphere, Shelter Distilling offers a distinctly Mammoth take on après.
For Foodies on a Budget
Happy hour is one of the best ways to eat well in Mammoth Lakes without committing to a full dinner reservation.
Mammoth Pizza Co.
A longtime local staple, Mammoth Pizza Co. is all about easy bites at a good value. Happy hour usually means discounted slices and drink specials, making it a reliable stop if you want something filling without committing to a full sit-down meal. It’s quick, casual, and especially convenient if you’re fueling up between activities or grabbing an early bite before evening plans.
Black Velvet
Black Velvet is best known as a local coffee shop, making it a great daytime stop that transitions easily into early evening. With two locations in Mammoth Lakes—one in The Village and one on Main Street—it offers a relaxed, familiar atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Happy hour is available only at the Main Street location, where select drink specials create a low-key, neighborhood-style setting. It’s a good option if you’re easing into the evening, catching up with a friend, or looking for something mellow without the energy of a full bar scene.
For Big Groups & Social Atmosphere
Traveling with friends or looking for a spot that feels lively and communal? These venues shine with groups.
Bar Sierra
Located at Outbound Mammoth, Bar Sierra has a social, come-as-you-are feel that makes it especially popular with groups. Happy hour pairs well with shared seating, an open layout, and an on-site, family-friendly arcade room, which adds a playful element to the space. It’s a welcoming option for groups with kids, or for anyone looking for a relaxed stop before heading elsewhere for dinner.
Austria Hof
A classic après-ski stop, Austria Hof delivers cozy lodge vibes with an alpine twist. Happy hour typically runs earlier in the evening, making it a natural place to wind down after a day on the mountain. Expect a warm, European-style atmosphere that invites you to slow down, warm up, and swap stories from the slopes.
Après-Ski / Post-Adventure Happy Hour
Some happy hours are especially well-suited for post-ski boots, trail dust, and relaxed layers.
Mammoth Tavern
Mammoth Tavern strikes a comfortable balance between casual and polished. With daily afternoon specials and a welcoming mountain-town feel, it works well as a post-adventure pause, whether you’re grabbing a drink before dinner or settling in for a relaxed early evening.
Smokeyard
Smokeyard’s happy hour is focused around the bar area, giving it a more energetic, social feel. It’s a good fit for smaller groups who want to grab a drink, share a bite, and soak up the buzz without committing to a full dining experience. The atmosphere leans lively, especially as the afternoon rolls into evening.
Outlaw Saloon
Outlaw Saloon keeps things simple in the best way. Known for its no-frills approach and local crowd, happy hour here is casual, social, and unpretentious. It’s an easy place to pop into after a long day outside if you’re looking for a relaxed drink and an easygoing atmosphere.
