No matter the time of year, there’s nothing better than cozying up to an outdoor fire. In a contained environment, there’s something magical about the mesmerizing, heat-providing flames dancing around. While campsites are often the best places to take-in this original caveman television, there are alternative ways to get your fix. There are plenty of Ketchum and Sun Valley establishments with their own outdoor fireplaces for patrons to gather around while enjoying a drink, waiting for a table, or after a long day on the mountain. We’ve compiled a list of the best outdoor fireplaces in town enjoy.
The Warfield
This restaurant, distillery, and brewery serves up elevated pub fare in its two-story establishment. The first floor is indoor dining (with its own cozy indoor fireplace section) but the second floor is dedicated to its rooftop dining, complete with its own bar and three outdoor fireplaces to gather around pre, during, or after-dinner.Outside Magazineeven described the rooftop bar as “the best spot in town to catch sunsets, especially while enjoying a Toothy Grin British Bitter.” The rooftop operates from roughly May through September, making it a go-to spot for long summer days!
Rickshaw
A funky neighborhood spot serving Asian fusion, Rickshaw is a local favorite. A small establishment, the place is usually packed and doesn’t take reservations; instead, a chalkboard is set up at its door where parties write down their name and how many in their party. While waiting for your name to be called, enjoy sitting by their cozy outdoor fire pit or, depending on the season, their side courtyard complete with benches and ping-pong. Enjoy a beer or glass of wine by the fire until your name is called and you can enjoy small dishes and entrees inspired by various Southeast Asian cuisines!
River Run Lodge
River Run Lodge is one of two lodges at the base of Bald Mountain; the River Run one located at the south end of Ketchum. The Lodge is in operation all-year but truly comes alive with the winter season when the mountain is open Thanksgiving Day through the spring (typically Easter). In the winter, take a cold beer and a long break by their large outdoor fireplaces on the patio. The outdoor fireplaces run all winter, no matter the weather, and its gas power ensures that the snow won’t dampen the flames or your spirit.
Limelight Hotel
The Limelight Hotel is one of Ketchum’s newest lodging options and features modern, luxury accommodations both for those staying there or those simply wanting to come enjoy their bar, restaurant, large lounge, or open outdoor plaza area with fire pits and heat lamps. Those staying there also have access to the heated pool and two hot tubs located on the plaza but all are welcome to stay and enjoy the warmth of the fire during summer days when live music is often played outside or during winter, when a long day on the mountain deserves a break by the fire.
The Covey
This new-comer restaurant serves up eclectic, inspired food in a cozy, modern atmosphere reminiscent of your favorite friend’s house. During the summer, the restaurant expands by almost twice its size by offering a backyard patio complete with several fire pits meant for dining around. With yummy bites and their aperol “slushies”, this backyard spot is the perfect summer destination for fire-side dining.
Make Your Own
If enjoying these outdoor fire pits is inspiring you to want your own, you’re in luck! There are numerous versions on the market if you’d like to have a firepit at home or you can head into the woods to build your own fire. There are various fire-burning restrictions throughout the Wood River Valley, particularly in summer when wildfires are a risk, so make sure to check on any current fire restrictions before having a fire.
