Food & Nightlife
Alta is not party-central and you won’t find any discos or nightclubs. Nightlife doesn’t seem important to most people who visit Alta and are serious about their skiing. Many go to bed early to rest up for the skiing adventure of the next day. Jokes have been made that the nightlife at Alta is so boring that the book shelf at the Alta Peruvian is the highlight of the evening activities. This is a gross exaggeration as there is definitely an après and bar culture at Alta, it’s just not too over the top.
Dining is largely limited to the lodges, with most guests partaking in meals at their accommodations since these are included in the nightly rates. These restaurants are also open to non-guests with reservations.
Alta RestaurantsMost of the lodges have multi-course gourmet feasts for dinner with price tags to match (unless you’re a guest and it is included). The
Alta Peruvian Lodge has a good wine list and incredibly appetizing food. The menu changes regularly but examples of dishes include New Zealand lamb and home-made ravioli in a decadent sauce. The first three courses will more than satisfy you, but you’ll always find room for one of the amazing desserts.
The Shallow Shaft, across the street from the Alta Lodge, is also a fancy restaurant with fancy prices. They have a large wine list and a creative menu.
For budget meals out, the only option is the bars.
Alta Bars & Nightlife
The saloon at the Goldminer’s Daughter is a great place for après and bar food such as pizzas. The views across the slopes are fantastic, and the ambience of the bar is marred only by the big television screen. The peculiar Utah liquor laws are not evident in this place. Conversely, don’t try to get into the
Alta Peruvian Lodge bar without a drinking membership. Same state, same ski resort, but different rules - don’t try and figure it out, just accept it because this bar is definitely worth a visit. A locals’ favourite that is also frequented by the lodge guests can become quite lively during après and continue on into the evening.
The Sitzmark bar at the Alta Lodge is also popular for après joviality, or if you’re frocked up and in need of a quiet yet sophisticated drink then visit the Eagle’s Nest Lounge (Alta Rustler Lodge).
Salt Lake City is the other alternative for nightlife. You could also go to Snowbird ski resort down the road, but it is just as mellow as Alta.