Aspen is a small mountain city with a giant character and a good greater repute. The city is understood for its large mountain snowboarding and has 4 mountains for skiers to select from – it’s no marvel it’s thought-about a world-class winter vacation spot.
That stated, Aspen is a dream for outside lovers all yr spherical. When the snow disappears, you may have horseback driving, mountaineering, biking trails, and climbing trails. Aspen additionally sits in the course of White River Nationwide Forest, so you might be by no means wanting wilderness to discover. One factor is for certain; there are many issues to do in Aspen.
This information will cowl the easiest issues to do in Aspen. From scenic gondola rides to artwork museums, these sights will hold you entertained and content material.
1. Ashcroft Ghost City
Visiting a ghost city might be not the very first thing you count on to do in Aspen. Nonetheless, Ashcroft Ghost City is definitely probably the most entertaining sights within the Aspen Space. As soon as a silver mining city, Ashcroft Ghost City is now utterly uninhabited. As an alternative, the Aspen Historic Society opens the city up for guests yearly between June and October.
You may discover previous historic buildings, together with the previous submit workplace, Blue Mirror Saloon, and a former lodge constructing. Ashcroft Ghost City is a novel alternative to step again and immerse your self in Previous Western historical past. Ashcroft Ghost City is a improbable attraction for those who’ve by no means visited a ghost city earlier than, need an uncommon day trip, or have an interest within the Previous West. Strolling between the log cabins and wood public buildings is type of creepy and enjoyable.
The city is situated on Citadel Creek Highway, about eleven miles south of Aspen. It took us about 25 minutes to drive to Ashcroft Ghost City, and we noticed loads of folks biking, which we discovered is barely an hour and a half a technique. Not dangerous for a day trip.
Don’t Miss these Nice Excursions in Aspen, Colorado
2. Wheeler Opera Home
In the event you love reside music, watching films, or attending festivals, visiting the Wheeler Opera Home is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Aspen. The 1889-built theater is a prized native attraction and is taken into account the house of performing arts in Aspen. A mix of Romanesque and Italianate structure, Wheeler Opera Home is a shocking venue and particular place to benefit from the arts. Test the Opera Home’s schedule to see what reside music occasions and performances coincide together with your journey. Catching a present is a improbable strategy to unwind within the night after a busy day outdoor.
within the historical past of the Opera Home? Aspen Historic Society runs excursions of the venue, so you possibly can at all times bask in an informative exploration of the Opera Home, not only a efficiency. And, as an additional tip for reside music lovers, Aspen Music Competition runs between late June and August. Summer time is stuffed with concert events and performances, so examine that schedule as properly for those who’re visiting Aspen throughout this era.
3. Go snowboarding
You may’t go to one of many US’s finest snowboarding locations with out snowboarding. Going snowboarding is definitely probably the greatest issues to do in Aspen, and, as we stated, you may have loads of slope choices. The 4 principal ski areas are Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk Mountain. Between them, there are 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, however let’s take a fast take a look at every choice individually.
- Aspen Mountain (previously Ajax Mountain) is for skiers with expertise underneath their belt. The runs are reasonable to troublesome, so count on a difficult time on the slopes – good for perfecting your talent and pushing your self out of your consolation zone. Aspen Mountain is located within the coronary heart of Aspen, which is great for these wanting a central location.
- Snowmass is a small ski village a couple of twenty-minute drive outdoors of Aspen. It’s the biggest of the 4 mountains and is family-friendly. You’ll discover a wide range of slopes and cross-country snowboarding, making it an excellent ski space for learners to intermediates. Snowmass additionally has the Treehouse Youngsters Journey Middle, which gives state-of-the-art childcare providers and ski faculties. The one draw back of the Aspen Snowmass space is that it’s the furthest from Aspen city middle, whereas the others are inside strolling distance.
- Aspen Highlands is one other mountain for knowledgeable skiers. Aspen Highlands ski space is understood for the Highland Bowl, which summits at 12,392 toes above sea degree and has among the steepest descents within the space. If you would like adrenaline, the Highlands is the place you’ll discover it. And even higher? You solely need to stroll just a few miles alongside Maroon Creek Highway to achieve Aspen city middle from the Highlands Ski Resort.
- Lastly, Aspen has Buttermilk Mountain. Buttermilk Mountain ski space is famed for the Winter X Video games, which might make you observed that it’s for knowledgeable skiers solely. The mountain truly caters to all ranges exceptionally properly, although, and even learners can get pleasure from steadily zipping by means of Aspen timber on light ski slopes.
So, which of those ski areas will you select? The selection is yours, however we beloved Snowmass one of the best. Snowboarding/snowboarding are among the most enjoyable issues to do in Aspen, and the vary of ski resorts means it appeals to anybody, no matter your expertise degree.
4. Grottos Path
Grottos Path is commonly described as otherworldly, and also you’ll rapidly see why. The path is stuffed with surprises, together with waterfalls and funky ice caves. A bit of the observe resembles a darkish gray model of Antelope Canyon. You’ll scramble by means of ribbon-like canyons and crevices to finish the hike.
Grottos Path is good in order for you an thrilling and rewarding hike close to Aspen. Whereas only one km lengthy, the path has lots to admire alongside the best way, and it is without doubt one of the prettiest trails within the area. It’s appropriate for any hikers of reasonable health – simply remember that Grottos Path can get slippery when you’re scrambling over moist rocks. Sturdy sneakers with good grip are a should when tackling the hike.
Additionally, we advocate both getting there early within the day (earlier than 9 am) or late within the day (after 6 pm) as this path is absolutely common and there are restricted parking spots.
5. Aspen Middle for Environmental Research
All these adventures are good enjoyable, however what concerning the academic facet of nature? Aspen Middle for Environmental Research is the place to go to to study extra concerning the city’s pure environment and the naturalists who prioritize native conservation.
Aspen Middle for Environmental Research has a little bit nature reserve with a lake and quite a few birds of prey to identify. There’s additionally the prospect to e-book one of many middle’s excursions. On its mission to attach humanity with the pure world, the middle runs excursions like snowshoeing, wildflower walks, beaver recognizing walks, and tree identification periods. It’s price dropping by to take a look at what’s on.
The middle is situated on Pet Smith Road and sits within the northern area of the city. It’s simply visited on foot from Aspen city middle and is a good way to spend just a few hours.
6. Independence Go
Visiting Independence Go lets you mix a number of sights in a single expertise. The go is a scenic drive situated on the Continental Divide of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. You may tick off standing on the Continental Divide, visiting the Rocky Mountains, and exploring probably the most scenic locations in Aspen – all in just a few hours.
Don’t be fooled although; Independence Go can be one heck of a drive. The street zig-zags up the mountain, with hairpin turns and sections so slender that only a single automotive can squeeze by means of. Independence Go is ideal for many who love scenic drives; simply be ready to make the most of all of your finest driving abilities. You ought to be conscious that this a part of Colorado State Freeway 82 is restricted to camper trailers and leisure autos over 35ft in size.
Independence Go is well-combined with a go to to Twin Lake or a climb up Mt Elbert. In any other case, you would sort out Independence Go on the drive again to Denver for those who fly into Denver Worldwide Airport and rent a automotive. You’ll want nerves of metal, however the expertise is price it.
7. Aspen Theatre
Aspen Theatre is the city’s theater firm, and the crew is to thank for excellent performances all year long. If the Opera Home appeared a bit too formal, Aspen Theatre might be far more up your alley. The pop-up venue is a big tent situated within the John Denver Sanctuary. You can count on motion and expertise in bucket hundreds – no matter which efficiency you attend.
Previous performances have included Gypsy and Jersey Boys. There’s additionally an annual Solo Flights Competition each September, the place you possibly can fairly actually watch one-man reveals. The competition focuses on internet hosting single-actor performs, though you may also catch particular talks and discussions.
One factor to notice is that the tent will get chilly (and sometimes too scorching). Layers are a should as you might be uncovered to the temperature and sometimes draughts through the performances. Nonetheless, we expect that this aspect provides to the dramatic enchantment of the reveals.
8. Aspen Artwork Museum
Visiting Aspen Artwork Museum is without doubt one of the most traditional issues to do in Aspen. Aspen Artwork Museum is a mecca for up to date artwork within the area, internet hosting exhibitions and shows of worldwide and native artists. You may spot sculptures, work, sketches, and even digital items.
Aspen Artwork Museum is free to enter and even has a rooftop terrace with wonderful views over Aspen. In Downtown Aspen, Aspen Artwork Museum is definitely added to an Aspen itinerary. And, in chilly and drizzly climate, guests can relish the heat of an indoor attraction. The museum is only a five-minute stroll from the bottom of Aspen Mountain Ski Resort, so an ideal place to sprint for a style of the artwork on a chilly day. You’ll simply spot it. In true up to date type, the constructing has an enormous copper lattice façade.
9. Go paragliding
Have you ever ever been paragliding? If not, Aspen is the place to attempt it. Aspen’s surroundings is beautiful, and there’s no higher strategy to take all of it in. Paragliding is without doubt one of the most adventurous issues to do in Aspen, and we expect that you just’ll find it irresistible.
Aspen Paragliding is the most well-liked firm to go paragliding throughout the space, and also you’ll take to the skies with an authorized pilot. This implies you chill out as a passenger and benefit from the journey whereas your information handles all of the tough stuff. Aspen Paragliding has been operating since 1990 and is without doubt one of the most trusted paragliding corporations within the US.
The entire expertise lasts round two hours – so wrap up heat and ready for the climate circumstances. You’ll gently glide previous among the most beautiful scenes in Colorado. In winter, you would possibly even have the ability to spot the skiers on the slopes under.
Trying to hold the adventures going? Take a look at the actions that Blazing Adventures has on provide right here. Blazing Adventures focuses on outside adventures that get your adrenaline pumping. You would even proceed your ‘flight theme’ with a scorching air balloon journey.
10. Stroll the Rio Grande Path
The Rio Grande Path is not any straightforward feat. The path runs for a formidable 42 miles and is often tackled over two to 4 days. Health lovers and anybody decided sufficient to tackle the problem can get pleasure from unequalled views alongside the path. You’ll primarily comply with Roaring Fork River, however you’ll have snow-capped mountain views and wildlife galore – so hold your eyes peeled. Don’t simply march by means of both; you must also make time to swim or fish alongside the Roaring Fork River.
So, the place does Aspen come into this? Properly, the little ski city occurs to be the place you’ll discover the Rio Grande trailhead. The path stretches from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, the place the Roaring Fork River merges into the Colorado River. In the event you love multi-day hikes, add just a few days to your Aspen vacation to finish the path. It is usually price permitting a few days to remain in Glenwood Springs, as town is understood for its scorching springs. Bathing in scorching springs at Glenwood Springs is perhaps exactly what you want after climbing 42 miles.
The path itself cuts by means of Roaring Fork Valley. Anticipate to share the observe with horseback riders, canine walkers, and cyclists, and word that horses have the suitable of manner. Many individuals get pleasure from sections of the path with out tackling your complete size, so you need to discover it fairly busy.
11. Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are probably the most photographed mountains in Aspen. The 2 peaks are Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, and the mountains are solely cut up by 0.5 km. The Maroon Bells are situated in a glacial valley within the Elk Mountains. They’ve quick turn out to be a sought-after day journey vacation spot amongst guests to Aspen. Maroon Bells are most famed for the enduring shot of the 2 mountains with a reflective lake between them, which varieties the last word alpine postcard picture.
Questioning the way you attain this lovely view? The excellent news is that there are a number of climbing trails to select from to go to the Maroon Bells. You may hike Maroon Lake Scenic Path, which is barely a mile lengthy. You would additionally sort out Maroon Creek Path for a combination of lakeside views and alpine meadows. The Maroon Creek Path is a little bit longer, at 3.2 miles a technique.
The longest choice is Crater Lake Path, at 3.6 miles, with a detour to Crater Lake and a gorgeous forest. It’s price noting that swimming is prohibited at Crater Lake, so save your swimming costume for a spot alongside Roaring Fork River and pack loads of water to maintain refreshed. This route is arguably the most well-liked, if not additionally probably the most difficult.
Climbing on unfamiliar trails alone might be daunting, and transportation might be a problem for those who don’t rent a automotive. Blazing Adventures provide guided hikes across the Maroon Bells, so contemplate a guided stroll in case you are a little bit not sure. Lastly, keep in mind a digital camera – although photos by no means do it justice.
12. Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro
Talking of the Maroon Bells, Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro has probably the greatest views of the peaks. The small European-style cabin is perched on high of a mountain within the Aspen Highlands Ski Resort. To entry your scenic high-quality eating expertise, you’ll need to ski elevate to the highest of the mountain after which discover the particular chair elevate to achieve the restaurant. Visiting is definitely probably the most indulgent, enjoyable issues to do in Aspen.
Cloud 9’s environment is okay eating meets après ski. The restaurant has the menu to draw these on the lookout for a fancy, refined expertise, but the character to host among the most boisterous events. It’s stated that Cloud 9 brings the European alpine scene to Aspen, and we agree.
Time your go to with a transparent day for the last word views, and deal with your self to a glass of champagne (or two). If you wish to sit inside, play it protected and make a reservation. Nonetheless, it’s price bagging a desk outdoors for those who overlook to make a reservation, simply keep in mind to wrap up heat and select your visiting day properly. You’ll be eating on a mountain summit in spite of everything.
13. Aspen Brewing Firm
You actually can discover breweries in probably the most unassuming of locations. Aspen Brewing Firm is tucked away on Galena Road in Downtown Aspen. Half pizzeria and half pub, the venue serves fifteen craft beers brewed in-house. Simply think about tucking right into a sourdough pizza and a tasting flight of craft beer after a full day of snowboarding – bliss, proper?
Aspen Brewing Firm was based in 2008 with the motto ‘make world-class beer, downstream from no person’. Many awards later, Aspen Brewing Firm has turn out to be a giant title. Technically, the corporate is cut up between two places: the taproom and pizzeria in Downtown Aspen after which the brewery close to Aspen Airport. The craft beers are all brewed on the second web site, with some being transported to the primary for guests to get pleasure from.
Aspen Brewing Firm names most of its beers after sights and places round Aspen. You would pattern a Cloud 9 Saison, Independence Go, or a Brown Bear Ale. Plus, beer tasting doesn’t get significantly better than being surrounded by museums, galleries, and stylish hospitality venues on the foot of Aspen Mountain.
14. John Denver Sanctuary
John Denver Sanctuary is a gorgeous nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary simply north of Aspen city middle. Paying a go to to John Denver Sanctuary is without doubt one of the most peaceable issues to do in Aspen, and nature lovers will adore the tranquil environment and pure surroundings.
John Denver Sanctuary was arrange in reminiscence of the late singer John Denver in hopes that guests might discover peace, meditation, and solace in nature. You may stroll the maze of well-maintained trails, recognizing engraved rocks that pay tribute to John Denver’s music as you stroll. After all, the snow-capped mountains round Aspen are by no means out of sight and make a gorgeous backdrop when you wander the park.
Lyrics and quotes aren’t the one inventive factor in John Denver Sanctuary. Keep in mind the Aspen Theatre group? Properly, the theater tent is ready up in the course of the John Denver Sanctuary and gives a gorgeous place to get pleasure from performing arts. Combining a leisurely stroll round John Denver Sanctuary and an Aspen Theatre efficiency is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Aspen.
15. Silver Queen Gondola
Skiers get entry to among the most spectacular summits in Aspen, as do hikers in heat months. However what for those who don’t ski and don’t really feel snug climbing lengthy distances? The Silver Queen Gondola is the reply.
The Silver Queen Gondola is improbable because it makes Aspen Mountain accessible for everybody. Whether or not you might be touring with kids or simply don’t belief your health ranges, the Silver Queen Gondola is a good way to zip as much as Aspen Mountain summit – experiencing a thrill and all one of the best views concurrently. The journey to the highest takes round fifteen minutes. There may be loads of time to snap pictures and recognize the novelty of racing up a mountainside.
On the high, we advocate grabbing a desk on the sundeck and treating your self to meals and a scorching drink from the restaurant. Eating overlooking the slopes is an expertise you’ll keep in mind. And, for those who aren’t a skier, you need to benefit from being in ski territory.
You may e-book tickets for the Silver Queen Gondola on-line or flip up on the day. The gondola service runs from 10 am till 4 pm day-after-day (climate permitting), so it’s straightforward to fit right into a busy itinerary. Plus, the gondola station sits simply on the outskirts of Downtown Aspen. You would simply pop by for a spontaneous expertise.
16. Aspen Golf & Tennis Membership
Aspen Golf & Tennis Membership is without doubt one of the finest sporting venues within the city. Between the views and high-quality services, visiting is definitely probably the greatest issues to do in Aspen – particularly in case you are a golf or tennis fanatic.
Guests can get pleasure from an 18-hole championship golf course backed by Aspen’s beautiful mountain ranges. You’ll get a style of {golfing} in alpine surrounds, which is undoubtedly a memorable expertise. There are additionally seven units of tees, catering to totally different ranges and which means all golfers can come alongside to get pleasure from.
The tennis courts are equally spectacular. There are six clay courts, once more with beautiful mountain views. You may simply e-book a tennis court docket on-line or ring to order a slot. If not, it’s price dropping in to see if a court docket is free with out reserving. If it’s important to wait, simply be ready to deal with your self to a meal on the membership’s restaurant, Purple Mountain Grill.
Winter normally spells the tip of the golf season, particularly in snowy locations like Aspen. Nonetheless, the Aspen Golf & Tennis Membership has a improbable answer: a Golf Stimulator. Utilizing the top-of-the-range, newest know-how, you possibly can play on over fifty totally different programs and obtain suggestions in your approach. Who knew you would head on a winter getaway to Aspen and return even higher at snowboarding and golf?
Aspen Widespread FAQs
Now that we’ve lined one of the best issues to do in Aspen, let’s check out some fast FAQs. These are a very powerful issues to know earlier than you go to Aspen.
Methods to get to Aspen
One of the best ways to get to Aspen is to fly to Aspen-Pitkin County Airport or Denver Worldwide Airport. Flying into Denver is the most well-liked choice, as it’s cheaper, has extra frequent flights, and is finest for worldwide vacationers. Touring from Denver is easy too, and also you simply catch a shuttle service or hire a automotive to drive the 4 hours to Aspen.
These flying internationally ought to contemplate including an in a single day keep in Denver since there are many issues to do within the metropolis.
Getting round Aspen
As a small mountain city, Aspen is hardly troublesome to get round. Most locations are accessible on foot, particularly in Downtown Aspen. A dependable bus service additionally operates across the city and the broader Aspen space. Don’t fear about renting a automotive until you wish to take day journeys to distant trails and sights.
When the snow disappears, many individuals cycle round Aspen. It could be price seeing in case your lodging rents out bikes or visiting a motorbike rental retailer within the city middle.
Finest time to go to Aspen
Colorado is without doubt one of the US’s finest winter getaways. In the event you like winter sports activities, we advocate visiting Aspen whereas there’s snowfall. The ski season runs from November to April. Nonetheless, we advocate visiting Aspen in March for one of the best snowboarding expertise. The again finish of the season is a little bit cheaper and quieter, and you’ve got extra daylight for snowboarding.
After all, Aspen is an ideal all-year-round vacation spot for an energetic vacation – filled with climbing trails, horseback driving, and mountaineering whereas the snow melts. If winter sports activities aren’t your factor, discover Aspen through the spring shoulder season. Could is the quietest month, and you need to have lots of the climbing trails to your self. Plus, Aspen is cheaper throughout this time.
The place to remain in Aspen
It’s no secret that lodging could make or break a visit. Listed here are our high suggestions on one of the best locations to remain in Aspen.
Finances: St. Moritz Lodge
St. Moritz Lodge could also be a self-described ‘easy lodge’, however its excessive quantity of constructive evaluations speaks volumes. Guests can get pleasure from dormitory rooms, personal rooms, and condos. For versatile and budget-friendly lodging, St. Mortiz Lodge is definitely one of the best in Aspen.
You may dip within the heated outside pool, chill out within the scorching tub, and begin each morning correctly with a complimentary breakfast. St. Moritz Lodge is each snug and handy.
Mid-range: Aspen Sq. Condominium Resort
Aspen Sq. Condominium Resort is a wonderful mid-range lodging choice in Aspen. The property gives condos, which vary from studios to three-bedroom items. The condo-only format means you’ll at all times have homely facilities like a kitchen and a comfortable seating space. You additionally get entry to a health club and enterprise middle. Nonetheless, the profitable issue of the Aspen Sq. Condominium Resort is its outside services.
Benefit from the heated outside pool all yr spherical, swimming lengths with snow-capped mountain views. Alternatively, take it straightforward and soak in one of many two outside scorching tubs whereas having fun with the views.
Luxurious: The Little Nell
The Little Nell is luxurious lodging at its best. The stylish resort gives ski-in/ski-out services – good for snowboarding lovers wanting to maximise time on the slopes. The Little Nell sits proper subsequent to the Silver Queen Gondola base station and is a handy five-star base for a luxurious ski vacation.
You may bathe in an outside spa tub or swim within the heated outside pool. All rooms characteristic marble loos and balconies with metropolis or mountain views. And sure suites embrace personal jacuzzis and steam showers, so you possibly can splash out on further luxurious in order for you.
Searching for a VRBO property as a substitute of a traditional lodge expertise? You could want to learn our information on one of the best cabins in Colorado.
Closing Ideas
There are such a lot of unbelievable issues to do in Aspen. Its location is dreamy for anybody who loves outside adventures. You may chill out surrounded by the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Roaring Fork River, and White River Nationwide Forest. Decide a climbing path or ski slope of your selection and let the contemporary air do the remainder. We all know that you just’ll have a improbable time in Aspen.
