10 must-see attractions in Aspen for first-time visitors

As a popular tourist destination, Aspen has no shortage of attractions to keep visitors entertained. If you’re a first-time visitor to the area, here are ten must-see attractions to add to your itinerary.

  1. The Maroon Bells: These iconic peaks, located just outside of Aspen, are some of the most photographed mountains in the world. Whether you take a scenic drive or hike to the top, the Maroon Bells offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  2. Aspen Mountain: This popular ski resort is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer, you can ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  3. The Aspen Art Museum: Located in the heart of downtown, this museum features a range of contemporary art exhibitions and programs. Past exhibits have included work by artists such as Cindy Sherman, Yoko Ono, and Paul McCarthy.
  4. The Aspen Music Festival and School: This world-renowned classical music festival takes place every summer and features a range of concerts, events, and educational programs.
  5. The John Denver Sanctuary: Located in downtown Aspen, this peaceful park is a tribute to the singer-songwriter and features a bronze statue of Denver and a series of inscribed granite benches.
  6. The Aspen Institute: This nonprofit organization hosts a range of cultural and educational events, including lectures, workshops, and conferences.
  7. Aspen Mountain Powder Tours: For a unique winter experience, try a guided backcountry skiing tour with Aspen Mountain Powder Tours.
  8. The Aspen Chapel: This historic chapel, located just outside of town, is a popular wedding venue and features a beautiful stained glass window designed by Marc Chagall.
  9. The Aspen Historical Society: Located in the historic Holden Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum, this organization hosts a range of exhibits and events exploring the history of the Aspen area.
  10. The Aspen Saturday Market: Held every Saturday in the summer, this popular market features a range of local products, including produce, crafts, and more.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor adventure, Aspen has something for everyone. These ten attractions are just a sampling of what the area has to offer.

Relax and rejuvenate: The best spas and wellness centers in Aspen

Aspen is known for its luxurious ski resorts and high-end shopping, but it’s also home to some of the best spas and wellness centers in the country. If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate on your vacation, here are a few options to consider.

The St. Regis Aspen Resort is home to the Remède Spa, a luxurious oasis featuring a range of treatments and services. From massages and facials to nail care and hair styling, the Remède Spa has everything you need to feel pampered and relaxed. The spa also has a fitness center, outdoor pool, and a hot tub, making it a great place to spend the day.

Another top choice is the Aspen Club & Spa, a health and wellness center located just outside of town. The club features a range of fitness classes, including yoga and Pilates, as well as a 25-meter lap pool and a variety of spa services. The club also has a juice bar and a restaurant, making it a great place to refuel after your workout.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, the Aspen Meadows Resort is home to the Spa Anjali, a peaceful oasis offering massages, facials, and other spa services. The spa also has a hot tub and a sauna, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

No matter what type of spa experience you’re looking for, Aspen has something to offer. From luxurious resorts to more intimate wellness centers, there are plenty of options for relaxing and rejuvenating on your vacation.

Aspen in the fall: Leaf peeping and other seasonal activities

As the leaves start to change color, Aspen becomes a prime destination for leaf peeping and other seasonal activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fall in this beautiful mountain town.

One of the best ways to experience the fall foliage in Aspen is by taking a scenic drive. The Maroon Bells, located just outside of town, are particularly stunning in the fall, with their golden aspen trees set against the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks. Another great option is Independence Pass, which takes you over 12,000 feet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

If you prefer to get out and explore on foot, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the Aspen area that offer great opportunities to take in the fall colors. The Maroon Bells trail is a popular choice, as is the Castle Creek trail. Both offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

In addition to the natural beauty, Aspen also has a number of events and festivals to enjoy in the fall. The Aspen Filmfest is a popular event for film buffs, and the Aspen Food & Wine Classic is a must-attend for foodies. The Aspen Arts Festival is another popular event, featuring work by local and national artists.

With so much to see and do, Aspen is the perfect destination for a fall getaway. Whether you’re looking to take in the stunning foliage or enjoy the town’s cultural events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The art scene in Aspen: Museums, galleries, and exhibitions to visit

As a popular tourist destination, Aspen is home to a thriving art scene. From museums and galleries to public installations and events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the premier art institutions in Aspen is the Aspen Art Museum. Located in the heart of downtown, the museum features a range of contemporary art exhibitions and programs. Past exhibits have included work by artists such as Cindy Sherman, Yoko Ono, and Paul McCarthy. In addition to the galleries, the museum also has a sculpture garden and a rooftop deck with views of the surrounding mountains.

Another must-see art destination in Aspen is the Aspen Chapel Gallery. Located in the historic Aspen Chapel, this gallery features exhibitions by local, national, and international artists. The gallery hosts a variety of events, including artist talks and workshops, making it a great place to connect with the local art community.

If you’re looking for more outdoor art experiences, Aspen is home to several public installations. The Aspen Sculpture Park, located just outside of town, features works by artists such as Beverly Pepper and Mark di Suvero. The town of Aspen also has several murals and other public artworks on display throughout the year.

In addition to the museums and galleries, Aspen also hosts a number of art festivals and events. The Aspen Music Festival and School is a world-renowned classical music festival, and the Aspen Filmfest is a popular event for film buffs.

With a wide range of art experiences on offer, it’s no wonder that Aspen is a haven for art lovers.

Golfing in Aspen: The best courses and clubs in the area

Aspen is known for its luxury ski resorts and high-end shopping, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the best golf courses in the country? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are plenty of options for hitting the links in the Aspen area.

One of the top-rated courses in the area is the Aspen Golf Club. Located just minutes from downtown Aspen, this course offers stunning views of the Maroon Bells and the surrounding mountains. The club also has a full-service pro shop and a restaurant, making it a great place to spend a day on the greens.

Another highly rated course is the Maroon Creek Club. Located in the heart of Aspen, this club offers a challenging course and a variety of amenities, including a driving range, putting green, and a clubhouse with a restaurant and pro shop.

If you’re looking for something a little more exclusive, the Aspen Valley Golf Club might be for you. This private club is located just outside of town and boasts a challenging course and a variety of amenities, including a full-service pro shop and a restaurant.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are plenty of options for golfing in Aspen. With breathtaking views and top-notch facilities, it’s no wonder that the area is a golfer’s paradise.

Aspen in the spring: Ski season wrap-up and other activities

As the ski season winds down in Aspen, it’s time to start thinking about all the other activities the area has to offer in the spring. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s plenty to keep you busy as the weather starts to warm up.

One of the main attractions in the spring is the annual Aspen Food & Wine Classic. This event brings together top chefs, winemakers, and culinary personalities for a weekend of cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and more. It’s a great opportunity to try out new flavors and learn from some of the best in the business.

For those who love the outdoors, the spring is a great time to hit the trails. Hiking and biking in the Aspen area are popular activities year-round, but the spring offers milder temperatures and beautiful blooms. The Maroon Bells, located just outside of town, are particularly stunning in the springtime.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back activity, Aspen is home to several world-class golf courses. The Aspen Golf Club and the Maroon Creek Club are both highly rated, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Another popular spring activity in Aspen is fly fishing. The Roaring Fork Valley is home to several streams and rivers, making it a prime destination for this popular pastime. There are several guides and outfitters in the area who can help you get started.

No matter what you’re interested in, Aspen has something to offer in the spring. From culinary events to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A guide to Aspen’s winter festivals and events

Aspen, Colorado is a winter wonderland, with world-class ski resorts, picturesque snow-capped mountains, and a vibrant cultural scene. And with a variety of winter festivals and events happening throughout the season, there’s always something fun and exciting to do in Aspen. Here are a few highlights:

  • Winter X Games: Every January, Aspen hosts the Winter X Games, a high-energy event featuring the world’s top action sports athletes competing in events such as snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling.
  • Winter Food & Wine Classic: This annual event, held in mid-January, brings together top chefs, winemakers, and foodies for a weekend of culinary delights. The event includes cooking demos, wine tastings, and gourmet dinners.
  • Aspen Gay Ski Week: Held in late January, this annual event celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a variety of ski and apres-ski events, including pool parties, music performances, and comedy shows.
  • Aspen Filmfest: This annual film festival, held in late January, features a variety of independent and international films, as well as panels with filmmakers and industry professionals.
  • Aspen Snowmass Freeskiing Open: This annual freeskiing competition, held in early February, features top skiers competing in slopestyle and halfpipe events.
  • Aspen Comedy Festival: This annual event, held in late February, features a lineup of top comedians performing stand-up and sketch comedy.
  • Aspen Music Festival and School: Every summer, Aspen hosts one of the premier classical music festivals in the country, featuring world-class musicians and rising stars.

No matter what time of year you visit Aspen, you’re sure to find a winter festival or event that will help you make the most of your trip. So, come join in the fun and make some lasting memories in this stunning mountain town.

Top Ski Resorts and Runs in the Aspen Area

Aspen, Colorado is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with four world-class ski resorts in the area: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Each mountain offers a unique terrain and vibe, so you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences. Here’s a closer look at each mountain:

  • Aspen Mountain: Located in the heart of Aspen, this mountain is known for its steep and challenging terrain, making it a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders. It also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a cozy base village with a variety of dining and shopping options.
  • Snowmass: Located just a few miles from Aspen, Snowmass is the largest ski resort in the area, with 3,332 acres of skiable terrain. It’s known for its wide-open groomers and challenging terrain parks, making it a great option for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
  • Aspen Highlands: Located just outside of Aspen, this mountain is known for its steep, ungroomed terrain, making it a favorite among experts. It also offers a variety of terrain parks and a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain.
  • Buttermilk: Located just outside of Aspen, this mountain is known for its beginner- and intermediate-friendly terrain, making it a great option for families and new skiers. It’s also home to the X Games and the annual Winter Food & Wine Festival.

No matter which mountain you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on the slopes in Aspen. Just be sure to come prepared with the right gear and a good understanding of the ski resort’s policies and safety guidelines. Happy skiing!

Exploring Aspen’s Arts and Culture Scene

Aspen, Colorado is much more than just a ski town. It’s also a thriving cultural hub, with a vibrant arts and culture scene that draws visitors from all over the world. If you’re interested in exploring Aspen’s cultural offerings, here are a few highlights:

  • The Aspen Art Museum: This contemporary art museum is housed in a stunning building designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban. It features a rotating selection of exhibitions by local, national, and international artists.
  • The Aspen Music Festival and School: Every summer, Aspen hosts one of the premier classical music festivals in the country, featuring world-class musicians and rising stars. In addition to the festival, the Aspen Music School offers year-round music education and performance opportunities.
  • The Aspen Institute: This world-renowned think tank hosts a variety of lectures, seminars, and cultural events throughout the year, covering topics ranging from politics and policy to art and literature.
  • The Wheeler Opera House: Built in 1889, this historic theater is a cornerstone of Aspen’s cultural scene, hosting a variety of concerts, films, plays, and other events.
  • The Aspen Fringe Festival: This annual performing arts festival features a diverse lineup of theater, music, dance, and comedy, with a focus on experimental and emerging artists.
  • The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies: This non-profit organization offers educational programs and events focused on environmental conservation and sustainability, including lectures, hikes, and workshops.

In addition to these cultural institutions, Aspen is also home to a number of galleries, studios, and boutique shops featuring the work of local artists. So, whether you’re interested in classical music, contemporary art, or environmental issues, you’ll find plenty to explore in Aspen’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Where to Find the Best Après Ski in Aspen

  1. After a long day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than kicking back with a drink and some good company. If you’re looking for the best après ski in Aspen, here are a few spots you won’t want to miss:
  • The Little Nell: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this luxurious hotel offers a cozy fireplace and a selection of craft cocktails and fine wines.
  • The Cliffhouse: Located at the top of Aspen Mountain, this upscale restaurant and bar offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a menu of creative cocktails and light bites.
  • The Aspen Brewing Company: This local brewery and taproom is a popular spot for après ski, with a laid-back atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers.
  • Hiking trails to Ashcroft or Conundrum Hot Springs. On the way, there are plenty of great spots for a drink, including the Pine Creek Cookhouse and the Haydens Post.
  • The J-Bar: Located in the historic Hotel Jerome, this classic ski town bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and strong cocktails.