Big Sky may be known for its sweeping vistas and powdery slopes, but after a day of hiking, biking, or skiing, there’s nothing quite like settling in with a craft cocktail. Whether you’re craving a fireside Old Fashioned or a spritz, Big Sky’s bar scene is small but mighty—packedwith creativity and mountain charm. Here are our top picks for where to sip in style:
Horn & Cantle at Lone Mountain Ranch
📍750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd
A cozy-yet-elegant experience nestled at Lone Mountain Ranch, Horn & Cantle delivers the quintessential Western lodge vibe—with cocktails to match. Their menu leans into whiskey-forward classics and locally inspired seasonal specials. Snag a seat near the roaring fire and order the Smoked Montana Manhattan, which arrives under a glass cloche filled with hickory smoke. Rustic, refined, and unforgettable.
BYWOM
📍77 Lone Peak Dr, Suite G
BYWOM—short for “By Women”—is a wine bar first and foremost, but their cocktail list is not to be overlooked. The intimate, design-forward space feels like it belongs in a big city, yet it’s right in the Town Center. The rotating cocktail menu features thoughtful infusions, fresh herbs, and small-batch spirits. Try the Sage Advice—a gin-based drink with muddled sage, lemon, and elderflower liqueur.
The Waypoint
📍50 Ousel Falls Rd
A hidden gem, The Waypoint feels like your stylish friend’s mountain cabin. Their cocktail list is approachable but elevated, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and balance. In warmer months, the patio is the place to be. Don’t miss the Mountain Mule—a local twist on the classic, featuring huckleberry vodka and house-made ginger syrup.
Michaelangelo’s Ristorante Italiano
📍145 Town Center Ave
This romantic Italian spot isn’t just for red wine and pasta—Michaelangelo’s surprises with a tight, curated list of cocktails that pair beautifully with dinner. Try the Negroni Toscana made with barrel-aged gin and orange bitters, or the Amalfi Lemon Drop, a zesty nod to southern Italy. It’s an ideal date night destination, from aperitivo to digestivo.
Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge
📍99 Town Center Ave
Bright lights, bold flavors, and a modern, energetic vibe make Blue Buddha a go-to for groups and celebrations. The cocktail menu mirrors the sushi—playful and adventurous. Sip on the Tokyo Drift with yuzu and jalapeño-infused tequila, or order a Buddha’s Delight for something sweet, strong, and dangerously smooth. Bonus: They’ve got sake flights, too.
Whether you're winding down after a day in the wilderness or starting your night out on the town, Big Sky’s cocktail scene has a pour for every palate. Just remember—at 7,200 feet above sea level, one drink can go a long way.
