Curator’s statement
Aspen holds a special place in my heart as a true home away from home for my family. Its year-round appeal — offering everything from world-class skiing and hiking to vibrant arts, dining, and culture — makes it an exceptional destination in every season. We've created lifelong memories here, whether exploring mountain trails in summer or enjoying fireside evenings after a day on the slopes. Aspen’s unique blend of natural beauty, luxury, and small-town charm makes it an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds.
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Where to stay in Aspen
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Things to do in Aspen
Skiing across the four mountains: Aspen Snowmass includes four distinct ski areas, each catering to different skill levels:
Aspen Mountain (Ajax): Best for intermediate to expert skiers. No beginner terrain.
Aspen Highlands: Ideal for advanced skiers and home to Highland Bowl for expert terrain.
Buttermilk: A favorite for beginners, families and terrain park lovers — also the site of the Winter X Games.
Snowmass: The most versatile mountain with runs for all levels, plus excellent on-mountain amenities.
Summer hiking & biking: Trails like the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop or the Rio Grande Trail are great for all ages. Many paths that are stroller-friendly and easily accessible for families. For those seeking a bit more adventure, Smuggler Mountain offers rewarding views of Aspen from its moderately challenging trail, while Little Cloud Trail provides a quieter, scenic ascent with panoramic vistas — perfect for a peaceful escape or a family-friendly workout.
Dining at world-class restaurants: Aspen’s culinary offerings range from fine dining to family-friendly spots. Hops Culture and White House Tavern are great for casual meals with kids.
Shopping in downtown Aspen – Downtown Aspen combines luxury boutiques with charming, family-owned shops. Kids love Explore Booksellers, and parents enjoy the mix of fashion, art and home design.
Visiting the Maroon Bells: These iconic peaks are perfect for families to explore together. The flat, scenic trail around Maroon Lake is ideal for little legs and photo ops.
Fly fishing & river activities: The Roaring Fork River offers calm stretches perfect for family float trips. The beginner fly-fishing lessons are widely available for kids and adults.
Children's activities & camps: Aspen and Snowmass offer fantastic programs for kids. This includes the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center in Snowmass, with ski school, indoor play zones and nature programs. In summer, you’ll find science camps, rock climbing and guided nature walks designed for younger explorers.
Relaxing at a Spa or Wellness Retreat: While adults unwind at places like Remède Spa or O2 Aspen, many hotels offer babysitting services or kids’ activities, making it easy to enjoy personal time.
Cultural events & festivals: Events like Aspen Filmfest, Snowmass Balloon Festival and family concerts at the Aspen Music Festival make culture accessible and fun for all ages.
Riding the Silver Queen Gondola: This scenic gondola is a hit with kids and adults alike. At the top, enjoy family-friendly dining, lawn games, and mountaintop yoga or nature walks.
Places to eat & drink in Aspen
Aspen’s culinary scene is as dynamic and refined as the destination itself, offering everything from elevated fine dining to relaxed après-ski hangouts. Here are some of my favorite places to eat and drink in Aspen.
Dining
Casa Tua: An elegant, Alpine-meets-Mediterranean dining experience with impeccable service. This members’ club and restaurant is known for its intimate ambiance and beautifully executed Northern Italian cuisine.
Matsuhisa Aspen: World-renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa brings upscale Japanese-Peruvian fusion to the heart of Aspen. The black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeño are must-tries in this stylish, contemporary setting.
Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop: A local favorite for artisanal, farm-to-table cuisine served in a casual, community-centered space. Ideal for lunch or a relaxed dinner, with a focus on charcuterie boards, fresh produce and global comfort food.
Aspen Public House: Located in the historic Wheeler Opera House, this gastropub offers approachable, flavorful dishes with Colorado-sourced ingredients. A great spot for a casual lunch or evening out with friends.
Las Montañas: A newer addition to the Aspen dining scene. This modern Mexican restaurant offers elevated takes on classic dishes, complemented by a well-curated tequila and mezcal selection. The rooftop views and vibrant design make it a standout.
Prospect at Hotel Jerome: A sophisticated dining experience that celebrates the flavors of Colorado through innovative dishes and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s intimate ambiance and exceptional service make it a must-visit for fine dining in Aspen.
Drinks & après-ski
J-Bar at Hotel Jerome: A quintessential Aspen experience. This historic bar dates back to the silver mining days and offers handcrafted cocktails, an inviting atmosphere and the iconic “Aspen Crud” milkshake cocktail.
Aspen Mountain Club: An exclusive, members-only club atop Aspen Mountain with sophisticated après offerings and sweeping views. If you have access, it’s one of the most refined ways to enjoy the mountain.
ASPENX Beach Club: A chic, high-altitude après-ski lounge that blends Aspen glamor with relaxed, beachy vibes — set against snow-covered peaks. Think champagne toasts, lounge seating and a curated DJ scene.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro: Legendary for its energetic, European-style après-ski parties. Cloud Nine combines Alpine charm with indulgent raclette, fondue and a lively champagne-fueled afternoon scene.
Need to know
Stay hydrated: Aspen’s high altitude can be challenging for some travelers. It's important to drink plenty of water before you arrive and throughout your stay. Oxygen canisters are also a great way to alleviate any symptoms of altitude sickness that many first-time visitors experience.
Make dining reservations early: Aspen’s renowned dining scene can get busy, especially during peak seasons. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, particularly at the top restaurants, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Book hotels in advance: Aspen is a highly sought-after destination, and accommodations can sell out, especially during the busy winter and summer seasons. Booking your stay well in advance ensures you secure the best spots.
Experience Aspen year-round: While Aspen is famous for its winter ski season, the destination offers incredible experiences year-round. Summer offers outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, while fall is breathtaking for those looking to see the vibrant fall foliage.
Consider alternate airports: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is small, so flights can be limited and expensive. A great travel tip is to check rates at Eagle County Airport in Vail, which is about a 1.5-hour scenic drive to Aspen. It can often offer more flight options and potentially lower fares.
Transportation tip: While some of Aspen’s stunning hiking trails may require a car to access, the town has an excellent bus system that makes it easy to get around once you’re in the area. If you’re planning to stay in the heart of Aspen, you may not need a car at all, as the free shuttles and buses can take you to many popular spots.
By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, your visit to Aspen will be smooth, memorable and stress-free.
Travel Advisor
Nicole Shamis
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