- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Aspen
The city's Victorian core, with landmarks like the Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerome, reflects its 1880s silver rush. A lesser-known fact is the major Bauhaus influence from Herbert Bayer, which shaped its post-WWII rebirth as a modern cultural hub.
Beyond the four ski mountains, the Maroon Bells are North America's most photographed peaks. Summer offers Gold Medal fly fishing on the Roaring Fork River and hiking the strenuous Ute Trail, a local favorite for a quick, challenging workout.
The local dining scene is defined by its vibrant après-ski culture, one of the best reasons to visit Aspen. While elk and trout are menu staples, an insider experience is grabbing the famed truffle fries at Ajax Tavern at the base of Aspen Mountain.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Dec-Marcold, peak ski season, busy
- Jun-Augwarm, busy, outdoor activities
- Apr-May & Sep-Novmild, fewer crowds
- #SkiGear
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #LayeredClothing
- #WaterBottle
- #Camera
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-7 with outdoor activities & side trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #AspenMountain
- #MaroonBells
- #IndependencePass
- #AspenArtMuseum
- #SilverQueenGondola
- #JohnDenverSanctuary
- Skiing Aspen Mountain
- Hiking Maroon Bells
- Exploring downtown shops
- Dining at local restaurants
- Attending Aspen Music Festival
Recommended Hotels in Aspen by Experience
Things to do in Aspen
Discover
Exploring Aspen reveals stunning natural wonders like the Maroon Bells and cultural gems such as the Aspen Art Museum. The historic Wheeler Opera House stands in the town center, offering a glimpse into the area's rich silver mining past.
Experience
Hike the scenic Rio Grande Trail or ski world-class slopes on Aspen Mountain. Experience cultural highlights at the Aspen Music Festival or Theatre Aspen. In summer, browse the Aspen Saturday Market for local crafts and produce.
Maroon Bells
Iconic twin peaks, the most photographed spot in Colorado.
Silver Queen Gondola
Scenic ride up Aspen Mountain for panoramic views and hiking.
Wheeler Opera House
Historic Victorian theater hosting concerts and performances.
Aspen Art Museum
Non-collecting museum with contemporary art exhibitions.
Independence Pass
High-altitude seasonal road with breathtaking alpine views.
John Denver Sanctuary
Serene park with perennial gardens and engraved song lyrics.
Aspen Music Festival
Premier summer classical music festival and school events.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Aspen, fly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), just 3 miles out. For the Aspen airport to city center transfer, use free hotel shuttles or taxis. Or, fly to Denver (DEN) and take a shuttle bus. No direct train to Aspen exists.
Getting Around
The free RFTA bus system is excellent public transport in Aspen, linking the town, ski areas, and Snowmass. The downtown is walkable, but consider a car rental in Aspen for flexibility. In winter, ride the Silver Queen Gondola for mountain access.
Local Essentials
As you plan a trip to Aspen, pre-book shuttles and rentals, especially for peak season. Driving in Aspen during winter requires a 4WD/AWD vehicle. An essential travel point for first-timers: stay hydrated to manage the high altitude.
Where to Stay in Aspen
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Aspen's culinary scene, where mountain traditions meet luxury. Taste local dishes like Rocky Mountain trout or a gourmet bison burger. The essential cultural habit is après-ski, where people gather for drinks after a day on the slopes.
Enjoy
Navigate where to eat in Aspen: The White House Tavern has a cozy, upscale vibe, arrive early. For drinks, visit the historic J-Bar at Hotel Jerome, order Aspen Crud. Grab a quick bite at the bustling Paradise Bakery & Cafe, avoid morning rush.
Matsuhisa-Aspen
World-renowned Japanese-Peruvian fusion by Chef Nobu. Book far ahead.
The White House Tavern
Upscale American comfort food in a historic 1883 cottage.
Steak House No. 316
Classic steakhouse with a plush, intimate setting. Pricey but worth it.
Hickory House
Legendary, no-frills spot for award-winning BBQ ribs.
French Alpine Bistro
Cozy, romantic spot for cheese fondue and crepes. Very intimate.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Aspen's heritage through its must-see local events. Wintersköl, a toast to winter since 1951, features snow sculptures and torchlight descents. The Old Fashioned 4th of July includes a downtown parade, picnics, and fireworks over Aspen Mountain.
Enjoy
Discover Aspen's modern creative scene through premier events. The calendar includes the world-renowned Aspen Music Festival, featuring classical concerts, and Theatre Aspen's acclaimed stage productions.
Wintersköl
January's toast to winter with fireworks and on-mountain fun.
X Games Aspen
Top action sports competition every January at Buttermilk Mountain.
Food & Wine Classic
Premier June culinary event with world-class chefs and sommeliers.
Aspen Music Festival
Eight-week summer season of over 400 classical music events.
Old Fashioned 4th of July
Parade, carnival, and fireworks celebrating Independence Day.
Aspen Filmfest
September festival showcasing acclaimed independent films.
Aspen Saturday Market
Seasonal market with Colorado-grown produce and artisan goods.
More Than Just a Ski Town
Aspen is just a stunning place, more than just a ski town. It has this incredible upscale feel but is still so cozy and walkable. We loved strolling through the pedestrian malls and grabbing a coffee. Everything is clean and feels incredibly safe.
Incredible Shopping and Food
The level of luxury here is amazing. All the high-end boutiques you could want are right there. We spent a lot of time browsing the shops along Mill Street. The dining is world-class too, with so many incredible options for a great meal.
Perfect Slopes
Aspen has some of the best skiing I've ever experienced. Being able to ski right down into town from Aspen Mountain is a huge plus. The snow quality was fantastic and the lifts are fast, so you get a lot of runs in. So many great trails.
Great Arts and Culture Scene
There's so much more to do than just hit the slopes. The town is filled with fantastic art galleries, and the architecture is beautiful. We caught a show at the historic Wheeler Opera House one evening, which was a real highlight for us.
Lovely Family Holiday
What a lovely place for a family holiday. It felt very safe, and the kids had a blast. We all enjoyed the outdoor skating at the Silver Circle Ice Rink. It's easy to get around, and the scenery is just beautiful everywhere you look.
Amazing Après-Ski
The après-ski scene is top-notch. After a long day on the mountain, there are so many great places to unwind right at the base of the Silver Queen Gondola. Great drinks, delicious food, and just a really fun, social setting to relax in.