Best Happy Hours in Telluride

🥇 The National (4–5 PM)

The National takes the top spot for us — no contest. Their happy hour is short, but absolutely worth timing your day around.

Why we love it:

• $2 oysters (yes, really)

• $10 select cocktails & wine

• A warm, polished atmosphere that feels special without trying

• Service that delivers 100% of the time

• Food that is perfect — every visit, every plate

This is the happy hour that sets the standard in Telluride.

🔥 There (4–5 PM)

There is lively, fun, and buzzing with that small izakaya‑style energy we adore. It’s one of our favorite spots in town, and their happy hour is legendary.

Why it’s a must:

• $10 margarita

• $10 old fashioned

• $16 wagyu smash burger — and this is not an exaggeration: this is my absolute favorite burger on earth

• The burger is usually only available during happy hour, making it even more of a must‑try

If you’re only doing one Telluride happy hour, this is the one that feels like a secret you’re lucky to know.

🍾 Petite Maison (Happy Hour varies seasonally)

Petite Maison brings a cozy French‑bistro charm to Telluride, and when they run happy hour, it’s one of the most delightful in town. The vibe is intimate and warm — the kind of place where you settle in, sip something lovely, and forget you’re in a ski town at all.

Why we love it:

• Rotating wine and champagne specials

• Select small plates at a great value

• A charming, candlelit atmosphere that feels like a tiny European escape

• Attentive, gracious service that makes the whole experience feel elevated

It’s the perfect stop when you want something a little softer, a little slower, and a lot delicious.

🍸 Van Atta (3–5 PM)

Van Atta brings a sleek, modern vibe to Telluride’s happy‑hour scene, and their 3–5 PM window is one of the best ways to ease into the evening. The space feels stylish without being pretentious — the kind of place where you can settle in with a great drink and instantly feel like you made the right choice.

Why we love it:

• A generous 3–5 PM happy hour

• Thoughtfully crafted cocktails at a great value

• A chic, intimate atmosphere perfect for pre‑dinner drinks

• Elevated small bites that pair beautifully with their bar program

It’s the ideal stop when you want something polished and relaxed before heading into the night.