The summer season offers visitors the option of enjoying the splendor of the Wood River Valley’s scenic views from the comfort of some of the best patios and decks for dining. Whether it’s post-golfing on the patio of Sun Valley’s Clubhouse or enjoying free music on the deck at Bellevue’s Mahoney’s, these are the best spots to grab a sip or a bite and soak up some summer rays.
Ketchum and Sun Valley
When settling on a deck or patio to enjoy in the Ketchum and Sun Valley area, there are a few questions to consider. How much sun are you looking to get? Are you heading for an afternoon drink or want a full meal? Do you want to hear music?
Lefty’s
For those looking for the most sun for their buck, the deck at Lefty’s can’t be beat. With the afternoon rays hitting the area directly, you’ll find this deck packed with locals and visitors alike on weekday and weekend afternoons all summer. Musicians play here sporadically and fare includes basic pub food like burgers and drinks of the mostly beer persuasion.
Grumpy’s
Another mid-day local’s favorite is Grumpy’s, home of the schooner and classic pub fare. The outdoor deck at Grumpy’s is pretty much crowded rain or shine. Expect to see dogs roaming around and high stoke.
Sun Valley Wine Company
An oft-overlooked spot for mid-day sun and something light is the balcony at the Wine Company, a wine store and restaurant that sells and serves wine, beer, and yummy, gourmet bites of food. There may only be a few tables outside but the west-facing nature of the balcony means you get great sun and views of Baldy.
Sun Valley Clubhouse
Whether you’re just coming off the golf course or just love the vibe, the Sun Valley Clubhouse has great outdoor dining in spades. Shaded or sunny spots cover a patio that looks out onto the beautiful golf green and views of Baldy. Enjoy clubhouse fare as well as access to their full bar.
Grill at Knob Hill
For more upscale outdoor dining, the Grill at Knob Hill (part of the Knob Hill hotel), has a beautiful garden and patio area for enjoying cocktails, appetizers, or a full meal. The Sawtooth Club also has a small outdoor dining section where diners overlook Main Street. New restaurant The Covey was built in an old house, complete with a backyard that the owners have converted into casual, backyard dining.
Warfield Brewery & Distillery
Perhaps the best outdoor spot in Ketchum is the rooftop of the Warfield Distillery & Brewery. You’ll know if it’s happy hour when the blue light on the roof is going off. Head upstairs and enjoy the rooftop bar, numerous tables and several firepits as well.
Limelight Hotel
The Limelight Hotel’s back patio area is a summer delight, with lounge chairs, tables, fire-pits, and even a pool and hot tub area for guests. Whether you’re staying in the hotel or not, enjoy their modern, but casual menu, cocktails, and often free music outside. Dogs are welcome!
Whiskey Jacques
For those on the late-night scene in Ketchum, local bar and music venue Whiskey Jacques has an outdoor, upstairs balcony for taking in the night breeze or for playing a few rounds of beer pong (tables and equipment provided!)
Hailey
If you’re looking to catch some sun down in Hailey, you’re in luck: the entire area is typically quite a few degrees warmer than Ketchum and Sun Valley so you’re almost guaranteed warm days.
Power House
Head to bike and burger shop the Powerhouse for some craft beers under cherry blossom trees on their outdoor patio.
Wicked Spud
For pub food, yard games and free music, the Wicked Spud on Main Street has a large outdoor area complete with a counter for outdoor ordering.
Bellevue
Mahoney’s
In Bellevue, the main spot for outdoor dining and mingling with locals is restaurant Mahoney’s Bar & Grill. Open for lunch and dinner, this spot often has local musicians playing outside as well.