At Sierra-at-Tahoe, the Sierra Pub is the place to swap tales, listen to live music and indulge in happy hour specials.

If your going near Heavenly, head to Chevy's immediately after skiing. If you want quieter apres-ski with a flickering fireplace, stop in at Christiana Inn across from the Heavenly ski area.

Later in the evening, blu in the Montbleu Resort Casino and Spa is a spectacle of light, sights and sounds as their DJs provide the rhythm track for an evening of hip-pswinging.The Pub at Tahoe, a great Irish pub near the state line, has terrific live music (listenable rather than danceable), pool tables on the first floor, and is packed every night.

If you've been to rocker Sammy Hagar's legendary Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, or always wished you could visit, you'll want to head to his Tahoe nightclub inside Harveys Resort Casino. Everyday drink specials make this a great gathering spot. Try one of the many selections of premium tequilas straight up or in an innovative tequila-based cocktail. It really starts rocking at 10 p.m. Live entertainment most nights sometimes means impromptu appearances from big-name musicians in the area to perform in concert at other venues.

Another spot recommended by locals is Mulligan's. The Goalpost Restaurant & Bar in Stateline is the hot spot for the late-late crowd.

And of course, the casinos have musical reviews that are extravaganzas of sight and sound. Some shows run through the season; others are top-name singers and comedians who do one or two shows. Check a local newspaper for up-to-date listings.