Aspen
People don’t just visit Aspen once – they return again and again to enjoy this resort town’s many charms. The skiing is undoubtedly amazing!
Aspen in a nutshell
People don’t just visit Aspen once – they return again and again to enjoy this resort town’s many charms.
The skiing is undoubtedly a major attraction – there are 4 stunning mountains, part of the legendary Colorado Rockies, offering endless terrain – but there’s so much more, including superb art museums, a fabulous summer festival, the Aspen Ideas Festival, in the warmer months, not to mention excellent dining offerings, plenty of shopping and nightlife and superb outdoor activities in the summer, such as hiking, horse riding and biking.
Aspen may be a small town, but it certainly offers a big city feel, because of the variety of facilities on offer year-round. It’s a bucket-list destination whether you’re planning to ski or enjoy its summer pursuits. So come and visit this world class destination. You won’t be disappointed.
Best time to visit: Ski season is from December to March, and if you want to visit when it’s less expensive and exceptionally scenic, come in the fall, September specifically or the spring, before the crowds arrive. The summer months, June to August, are a popular time to visit, but it’s very busy in peak season.
Best Area for Sightseeing: There is so much to see and do in Aspen, so see Things to do in Aspen, below, for great ideas.
Shopping in Aspen: Head for Downtown Aspen to scour its designer boutiques or, for something a little unique, visit the art and antique galleries and stores on East Hyman Avenue and East Cooper Street.
Food & Restaurants in Aspen: As it’s such a popular year-round destination, Aspen’s restaurants are numerous and diverse, offering everything from casual dishes to fine dining. In the summer, the town holds a fabulous culinary festival, the Food and Wine Classic in Aspen, well worth attending if you’re visiting at that time.
Nightlife: The town’s numerous bars, live music venues, pubs and clubs are lively places after dark. In winter, Apres Ski life is lively and exciting, too.
Things to do in Aspen:
- Enjoy world class skiing in Buttermilk, Snowmass or Aspen.
- Browse the Aspen Saturday Market, held from June to October.
- Hike to explore the caves on Independence Pass.
- Enjoy swimming at the Conundrum Hot Springs.
- Explore the Aspen Art Museum to see enthralling contemporary art.
- Ride the Silver Queen Gondola for a bird’s eye view of the town below.
Best way to get around: Explore on foot, or take a bus. There are regular shuttle services to and from the slopes including the ride from Aspen to Snowmass, which is complimentary. You can also rent a car.