It's no secret that alongside St. Moritz, Gstaad, and Courchevel, Aspen is the place to be during the ski season. Annually, people from across the globe flock to the charming town nestled in the heart of Colorado, USA, seeking days filled with lively Aprés Ski parties, champagne celebrations, and skiing, of course. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Colorados skiing hotspot or a seasoned regular, this travel guide unveils all the essentials about the small town amidst the Rocky Mountains.
Hotels
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The Little Nell
Established in 1989, The Little Nell quickly garnered a reputation as the premier luxury five-star hotel in town. Featuring an unrivaled location and an exceptional ski concierge team, the hotel offers exclusive services such as overnight heated ski boots and early access to the slopes, making it the ultimate destination for ski enthusiasts. Additionally, with its unique ski-in, ski-out concept situated at the base of Aspen Mountain, guests enjoy unparalleled access to world-class skiing. On sunny days, you can relax or socialize on the spacious mountainside patio of Ajax Tavern, indulging in casual fine dining or a glass of champagne. Consider dining at their on-site restaurant, Element 47, known for its locally sourced Wagyu beef.
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St. Regis Aspen
When it comes to wellness and relaxation in Aspen, look no further than the St. Regis. With its renowned, award-winning 15.000 square-foot RAKxa Wellness Spa, alongside a round-the-clock heated outdoor pool and hot tubs, the hotel offers the perfect retreat after a day on the slopes. In addition to its extensive amenities, the hotels rooms and suites feature furnishings by Rottet Studio, plush beds dressed in luxurious 400-thread-count Frette linens, and bathrooms adorned with elegant marble touches.
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Mollie Aspen
Located near Paepcke Park and away from the crowds, keep an eye out for this newly opened boutique hotel. Following fifteen years of planning and constructing, Mollie welcomed guests in early 2024, marking one of the year's most anticipated hotel openings. From its inviting in-house café, bar, and restaurant to its beautifully designed rooms and suites, Mollie's interior design exudes a calm and cozy ambiance with wooden accents and Japanese-Scandinavian inspired furnishings. Make sure to head upstairs to the minimalistic outdoor roof terrace and its spa pool (opening in spring 2024) and enjoy the views of Aspen's surrounding mountains.
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Restaurants
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Matsuhisa
Cuisine: Japanese | Sushi
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Chef Nobu's first expansion beyond Beverly Hills, serving innovative Japanese dishes within a 120 year old historic Victorian house.
Location | 303 E Main St, Aspen, CO 81611-2292
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The White House Tavern
Cuisine: American
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options
Known for: Cozy restaurant with lively ambiance, celebrated for its "premium sandwiches and cocktails".
Location | 302 Hopkins, Aspen, CO 81611
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J Bar
Cuisine: American
Vegetarian Options
Known for: Historic bar with wooden bar counter and leather bar stools inside Hotel Jerome, known for their signature burger and vintage-inspired cocktails.
Location | 330 E Main St, Aspen, CO 81611-1930
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Clarks Oyster Bar
Cuisine: American | Seafood
Gluten Free Options
Known for: Beloved seafood restaurant, open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.
Location | 517 E Hyman Road, Aspen, CO 81611-1921
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Casa Tua
Cuisine: Italian
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Elegant dining room with Alpine design elements and intimate atmosphere with members-only area upstairs.
Location | 403 S Galena St, Aspen, CO 81611-1825
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Betula
Cuisine: French | American
Vegetarian Options
Known for: Chic, centrally located restaurant serving a blend of French-American cuisine in an elegant setting.
Location | 525 E Cooper Ave 201, Aspen, CO 81611-2825
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Activities
Après Ski
A trip to Aspen wouldn't be complete without partaking in Après Ski activities. When it comes to on-mountain parties, Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is the go-to destination for lively champagne gatherings and pulsating beats that echo across the slopes. Alongside its offerings of traditional Swiss delicacies like fondue and truffle dishes, the ambiance reminds of the charm of a cozy cabin in the Swiss Alps. Due to its immense popularity, securing a reservation ahead of your visit is recommended. Back in town, secure a ticket for a show at Belly Up, Aspen's renowned live music venue. Despite its intimate size, this spot consistently hosts top-tier musicians and artists, creating a vibrant setting that's always buzzing with energy. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed evening, stop by at Bad Harriet, a stylish cocktail bar with Art Deco interiors within Hotel Jerome. Next to a variety of classic cocktails, explore their a la carte experience or try a few of their exquisite snacks.
Skiing & Snowboarding
There are four main ski areas in and around Aspen, each offering its own unique experience. Starting with Buttermilk, a smaller mountain situated near Aspen Airport, it serves as an excellent starting point for beginners or those looking to refine their carving skills. This area is also renowned for hosting the Winter X Games, an annual contest that takes place at the local terrain parks.
Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax or the 'town mountain', mostly is the first choice for skiing enthusiasts visiting Aspen, being conveniently located right at downtown Aspen. Here you'll find a variety of steep slopes and challenging terrain, making it ideal for advanced skiers seeking an exciting challenge.
At Aspen Highlands, the highlight is without a doubt The Highland Bowl, an expert skiing area offering challenging terrain, primarily accessible via a lengthy hike. Lastly, Snowmass is the biggest ski area of all four, even larger than all three mentioned mountains combined. Just a short drive from downtown Aspen, Snowmass attracts larger groups, families, and friends alike, thanks to its diverse range of ski levels and varied terrains.
Cross-Country Skiing
If downhill skiing isn't your thing, make your way to the Pine Creek Cookhouse, hidden in the Elk Mountains. As you slip into your cross-country skis or strap on your snow-shoes, heading towards the chalet-style restaurant amidst the beauty of nature is well worth the journey from Aspen. Moreover, Aspen and its surroundings offer with the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Ski Trail System one of the largest free cross-country ski systems in the USA. While many trails can vary from beginner to expert, a popular route is the scenic path from Aspen to Snowmass Village.
For more adventurous cross-country ski route recommendations visit the official site of Aspen Snowmass:
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