Summer in Aspen, Colorado

Bike the Rio Grande Trail: I suggest renting bikes, or e-bikes, near the trailhead at Aspen Velo, just outside of Downtown Aspen. This trail is stunningly pleasant, great for all ages and leads to the perfect lunch at the iconic and rustic Woody Tavern.

Rent stand-up paddleboards: A must-do in the summer for a more relaxing excursion. Take a mild float through North Star Nature Preserve, just 5 minutes from Downtown Aspen. I recommend Elk Mountain Expeditions, which provides transportation to and from the river.

Shopping in downtown Aspen: Of course you’ll find your favorite luxury brands, but Aspen has fabulous local boutiques as well. Pitkin County Dry Goods is a long-standing local favorite. I also believe that the increasingly popular custom luxury hat store, Kemosabe, is worth the hype, and very fun.

Take a sunset backcountry Jeep tour: An unforgettable family or group activity. Drive through the beautifully lit mountains in an open-air Jeep during sunset, followed by a family BBQ prepared in a cabin while live music is playing by the campfire. This tour, called Backcountry Sunset Dinner, is by Blazing Adventures.

See Maroon Bells: One of the most beautiful sites in Aspen that can’t be missed. Only accessible by the RFTA bus or bike for conservation purposes. I’d recommend buying tickets in advance. There are many easy hikes at this park. However, it can be very crowded, and since the uneven trails can require your focus, you don’t get many chances to look ahead at the scenery.

Enjoy a walk through The John Denver Sanctuary: Peaceful gardens, rivers and song lyrics create a beautiful memorial for singer John Denver.

See a show at Belly Up or Snow Lodge: As a seasoned concert-goer, I believe Belly Up Aspen is one of the best intimate venues in the country. Always check the schedule in advance for a wide range of music genres and comedy acts. If you’re more into house and electronic music, check out the Snow Lodge schedule for a lineup of popular and up-and-coming DJs.

Spend time in Snowmass: About 20 minutes away from Downtown Aspen by car, there are great summer activities in Snowmass Village. Take the gondola up the mountain for a ride on their Alpine Coaster. You can also explore Anderson Ranch Arts Center, which features outdoor installations and a rotation of incredible resident artists.

Trail ride by Horseback with T-Lazy 7 Ranch: Take a beautiful 90-minute trail ride surrounded by Aspen trees through White River National Forest.

Have a spa day in nearby Carbondale at True Nature Healing Arts: Raise your vibrations at this luxurious and tranquil spa. Featuring stunning imported facilities, a full spa menu, yoga and meditation classes, a gift shop and a delicious cafe, True Nature is worth the trip from Aspen. Recommended if you are renting a car, the drive from Aspen will typically take 50 minutes. If you’d like something easier to access, O2 has fantastic fitness classes in their Downtown Studio.

Clarks Oyster Bar: My favorite restaurant. Delicious seafood in a relaxed, yet fashionable atmosphere.

Las Montanas: Beautiful Mexican restaurant with outstanding fajitas and a fun happy hour menu.

White House: Part of the Hillstone Restaurant Group, White House is set in a 19th-century miner’s cottage and serves American classics.

Aspen Tap: My favorite casual option, Aspen Tap has great pizzas, beers and apps that you can enjoy on their pleasant front patio.

Kenichi: A great downstairs sushi spot in town that rivals Matsuhisa. A little more laid back, their impressive menu and high quality is always paired with the warmest service.

Woody Creek Tavern: A rustic tavern that serves great lunch and bar food, covered with nods to their most famous patron, Hunter S. Thompson. A 20-minute drive from Downtown Aspen.