Neighborhood Taverns: Tunes and Tales from North to South
Story by Haley Watkins
The Swinging Lights, a band from Utah, performs at Lupita's Cantina as part of the restaurant's live music series. Courtesy of Paula Jo Jaconetta.
Steamboat Springs boasts a vibrant live music scene but it's not just contained to city limits. The mountains are alive with the sound of music – from local acts to touring bluegrass bands, one of the best things about Routt County is that you can find live music everywhere – from North Routt to Oak Creek. Check out these off-the-beaten-path spots for great tunes, views and brews.
Tavern at the Glen
Fridays | 6-9 p.m. | Elk Lounge
Saddle up and settle in – Tavern at the Glen is where Old West charm meets modern flavor. Whether you’re a dust-covered ranch hand or a weekend wanderer, you’re welcome 'round this fire. Grab a seat in the cozy Elk Lounge and order a local brew. Then dig into Colorado native Chef Pete’s grilled elk sausage or a grass-fed American Wagyu burger from their neighbors at The Home Ranch. It’s the kind of place where stories are swapped and strangers become friends – all to a live soundtrack every Friday night.
Hahns Peak Café
With cold beers, homemade eats and music echoing off the mountains, Hahns Peak Café is the heartbeat of North Routt. On warm summer evenings, grab a spot on the patio, catch local favorites like Paul Geppert or Carol ‘N’ Kat and soak in those sweeping views of Steamboat Lake. Friendly folks, mountain air and a cold one in hand – this is as close to heaven as a rancher gets.
Steamboat Lake Outpost
Live music with a mountain backdrop? Yes, please. From open mic nights to foot-stomping monthly performances, Steamboat Lake Outpost isn’t just a stop – it’s a full-blown Rocky Mountain experience. Whether you’re trail-weary from a horseback ride, fresh off the lake or sipping a drink on the porch of your cabin, the Outpost offers a slice of authentic Colorado living. Music here is just the icing on the (locally baked) cake.
Oak Creek Tavern
Since 1908, Oak Creek Tavern has been slingin’ drinks and serving as South Routt’s unofficial town hall. Hunters, hippies, cowboys, coal miners and ski bums have all bellied up to the bar here – and you can too. From top-shelf cocktails to no-fuss beers and shots, this joint has something for everyone. Live music fills the saloon most weekends, featuring bands like Apple Pie and a Guy or the foot-tappin’ sounds of Jay Roemer. If you’re looking for the kind of place where the beer is cold and the locals are warmer, this is it.
Franciosi Brothers
Thursdays | 6-8 p.m. | Live Music
Tucked into the heart of Oak Creek, Franciosi Brothers is where Italian roots meet small-town soul. Known for their dang good pizza and neighborly vibes, this is your Thursday night go-to for local music. Tyree Woods, Eric Delaney and others fill the air with mountain-grown jams under the summer sky. Whether you’re sitting inside or spread out under the stars, this is where community and melody meet.
Lupita’s Cantina
Sundays | 2-5 p.m. | Live Music
Family-owned and lovingly named after their daughter, Lupita’s Cantina is a cozy little spot in downtown Oak Creek where tacos, burritos and good times come together. Tucked on the corner with sunny outdoor seating and a margarita always within reach, it’s the kind of place where locals gather and live music fills the air every Sunday. Stop by – you’ll feel right at home.