Less than a two hour flight from Dallas, Aspen is known for its fabulous food, designer shopping, and four different mountains to explore. Between the mountains of Buttermilk, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Aspen Mountain, the adventures are limitless.  

Updated December 2021

THINGS TO DO IN THE WINTER

SKI ALL FOUR MOUNTIANS

With four mountains to choose from, skiing has never been more riveting. Challenge yourself by hiking the highlands bowl or head on over to Buttermilk for beginner runs. A single lift ticket grants you access to all of the mountains, so go explore over 5000 acres of terrain!

CLOUD 9

You're going to need an extra set of clothes for this one. At the top of Aspen Highlands Mountain is a bistro called Cloud 9. Enjoy raclette fondue for lunch, but stay for the epic dance party where everybody gets a champagne shower.  

DOG SLEDDING

There is no better way to experience Colorado backcountry than on the back of a dog sled. Krabloonik offers both daytime and twilight tours with a restaurant for an intimate dining experience with snowy views. 

SNOWMOBILING 

If you're an adrenaline junky, this one's for you. Go for an adventurous snowmobiling tour on the T-Lazy-7 Ranch. Power through the snowy scenery of the White River National Forest with several tour options to choose from!

SLEIGH RIDES 

Aspen's horse-drawn sleigh rides will make you feel like you're starring in a Hallmark Christmas movie. Picture yourself sipping hot cocoa on the back of a sleigh gliding through a winter wonderland. Aspen Carriage & Sleigh offers both public and private rides, while Pine Creek Cookhouse serves alpine cuisine after your magical sleigh ride. 

THINGS TO DO IN THE SUMMER

HIKING TRAILS

With four fantastic mountains, there are hikes for all skill levels. Some of the most well known hiking trails are Smuggler, Ute, Sunnyside, Rim and Capitol Creek, all with breathtaking mountain views from lakes and creeks to an overlook of downtown Aspen.

MAROON BELLS

You can't leave Aspen without seeing the most photographed peaks in North America. The best way to see the Maroon Bells is hiking the trails beyond the lake or biking down Maroon Creek Road.

WHITE WATER RAFTING

Take the whole family on an aquatic adventure! White water rafting is one of the best summer activities, with a professional guide to help you navigate Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers with unmatched views of Glenwood Canyon.

LOST FOREST ADVENTURE PARK

Hidden among the trees is the Lost Forest Adventure Park at Elk Camp in Snowmass Village. Take a ride on the alpine coaster or conquer the climbing wall and rope challenges for an adventure the whole family will love!

INDEPENDENCE PASS

Bike or drive down Independence Pass and take in the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Go camping, swimming, fishing or boating on Twin Lakes and enjoy the relaxing scenery. Before heading back to Aspen, check out the Twin Lakes ghost town!

FARMERS MARKET  

Saturdays are for the fruits & veggies! Locals gather for farmers market in downtown Aspen every Saturday during the summer from 8:30am-3:00pm for live music and fresh produce.

TO EAT

Photo courtesy of Betula

BETULA

As soon as you walk through the doors of Betula, you feel as though you've been transported to Saint Barth, with fresh seafood and the neutral color scheme. Sit in the intimate lounge for a post dinner drink and some DJ entertainment!

CASA TUA

This rustic chic cabin has a cozy feel with phenomenal Italian cuisine, from cacio e pepe to lobster risotto. If you're looking for more of a private dinner setting, sit at their chef's table for the ultimate Casa Tua dining experience. 

FRENCH ALPINE BISTRO

It's about to get cheesy up in here. Their menu showcases authentic French dishes such as the French onion soup, gruyère fondue, and the black truffle gnocchi. End with an espresso martini for a delicious drink and dessert combo. 

CLARK'S OYSTER BAR

Clark's is THE neighborhood seafood spot. With fresh oysters, lobster rolls and burgers, their menu will have you wanting one of everything. The Nantucket style decor and retro cocktail bar gives off major Hudson House vibes.  

WHITE HOUSE TAVERN 

This quaint spot is from the same family as Honor Bar, R&D and Hillstone, so you already know it's good. Their menu has the classic dip duo, smoked trout dip, and crispy chicken sandwich, which could never get old. 

MATSUHISA 

From the same chef as Nobu, Matsuhisa serves fresh sushi and Japanese dishes with signature items such as the yellowtail sashimi and crispy rice with spicy tuna. Be sure to order the fruity crushed ice & lava cake to end the meal with a bang. 

BEAR DEN 

An eatery with a French twist on the classics, Bear Den is a solid spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner. On the weekends, make it a boozy brunch, with a bloody mary and their eggs benedict.

TO DRINK

Photo courtesy of Hooch

HOOCH

Underneath Meat & Cheese is a moody bar with a speakeasy feel, picture chandeliers and velvet couches. Try one of their signature cocktails or a glass of wine for a night cap. If you're feeling snacky, munch on their small bites and dips on the menu.

MEAT & CHEESE

Not only does Meat & Cheese serve the best charcuterie boards in town, but it is the optimal place for a daytime drink. Choose a glass of wine from their extensive menu or for an afternoon snack, check out their après menu for a biscuit or rotisserie chicken board.  

ERIC'S BAR

If you want to find the local drinking spot, this is it. Eric's Bar is a modern space, with shuffleboard to play with friends and comfortable lounging areas. Kick back and have a mixed drink or one of their refreshing beers on tap. 

AJAX TAVERN

Want to be a part of the action without actually skiing down the mountain? Ajax Tavern at The Little Nell is positioned right next to the gondola, overlooking the stunning Ajax Mountain. Grab a drink and watch the skiers glide down the sloped for the perfect après ski moment.

ASPEN TAP & BREWING

For a post ski day drink, sip on a pale ale or share a beer flights with friends. Split a delicious sourdough pizza with the table and take in the mountain views in the distance.

TO STAY

Photo courtesy of St. Regis

ST. REGIS

 The moment you step in the St. Regis, you feel right at home. Warm up by the cozy fireplace or by the outdoor fire pits in the courtyard. After a day of skiing, drink a cup of tea or a martini in the lobby and snack on their signature honey roasted nut mix. For dining, try the Velvet Buck for a tender steak, or the Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in the lobby for the best truffle pizza of your life, seriously it's divine.

HOTEL JEROME 

In the heart of Aspen's town center sits the historic Hotel Jerome. Whenever you get hungry for breakfast, head on down to the Felix Roasting Company that is attached to the hotel. For a late night drink, sit in the "Living Room" area right off the lobby in the dimly lit bar, decorated with rich velvets and beautiful paintings.

THE LITTLE NELL

The Little Nell is the place to stay in Aspen for a contemporary and upscale experience, with a sleek interior and beautiful art that make you feel as though you have your own private art gallery. Dine at Element 47 for an elegant dinner or drink a glass of wine at the Ajax Tavern for an après ski moment.

ASPEN ALPS

Should you want a little bit more privacy, these condos are perfect for you. The Aspen Alps are private condominiums right at the base of the Ajax Mountain so you can ski in and ski out as you please. You would even have your own kitchen to cook a nice meal with family and friends in the comfort of your own home away from home. 

W ASPEN 

As Aspen's newest luxury hotel, the W is about a two minute walk from Aspen Mountain, making for a convenient ski day. The hotel decor features a playful style with fun colors and textures that bright life to the space. After a long day of skiing or rocky adventures, head up to the "Wet Deck" to relax. Their new rooftop has a pool, a hot tub, a full bar and even a DJ. Chill in the hot tub with a drink in hand and take in the 360 mountain view of Aspen. 

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