Aspen, Colorado is a hugely popular tourist destination that welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Aspen is well known throughout the world for its ski slopes, its mountains and its friendly people. With a terrific arts and culture scene, fabulous outdoor activities and friendly hounds everywhere you turn it’s no wonder more and more people are vacationing in Aspen. Staying in aspen vacation rentals or in one of the local hotels each of the visitors are guaranteed to have a great time.
1. Skiing
Aspen offers world-class skiing and a unique après ski culture that everyone is sure to love. Aspen has 4 mountains that are nothing short of paradise for the skiing fanatic and snowboarders too. Regardless of whether you’ve been skiing for 50 years or you’re about to give it a go for the first time, the slopes and mountains are ideal. If you’re a bit of an expert you may want to spend some time on the expert-only terrain, which can be pretty challenging at times. Offering more than 5,000 acres of terrain that you are free to ski on and approximately 330 marked trails, you really are in for the time of your life. When you’re not showing off your moves on the slopes you may want to make use of the local restaurants, bars and clubs which are all well worth a visit. Who knows, you may even make friends with some other ski fanatics.
2. The Mountains
Aspen is home to 4 different mountains: Snowmass, Buttermilk, Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands. Each of these mountains is different from the rest and they can all be reached by car. The mountains really are a sight to behold and are ideal if you want to go skiing or enjoy a spot of hiking. Make sure you take your camera with you as you’ll grab some amazing pictures that you can show off to your family, friends and your social media followers.
3. The Apres Ski Scene
Home to more than two hundred micro-breweries, Aspen really does have it all. The après ski scene is quite unlike any other scene you would find elsewhere. The people here are really friendly as they are used to spending their time with strangers who also love the great outdoors.
Enjoy some tasty champagne in the local pop-up bar, or sip some craft beers at East Hopkins Avenue where one of the local brewing companies lives. There are a lot of bars and clubs in the area that are more than happy to welcome skiers and snowboarders alike. The bars and clubs are ideal if you want to celebrate a great day on the slopes or find like-minded people to talk to.
4. The Outdoor Activities
While Aspen is famous for its ski slopes and magnificent snow-covered mountains it’s also well-known for its outdoor activities. If you are lucky enough to be born and raised in Aspen you’ll have access to lots of different activities from the moment you can walk. Offering horseback riding, golf, cycling, hiking and rock climbing this part of the world really does have it all.
At the height of the season when Aspen is at its busiest you may have to book your ticket or spot on a hike in advance but you shouldn’t have to wait too long. You may want to think about booking your tickets before you jet off to Aspen so you know you can partake in a spot of horseback riding and rock climbing no matter how busy the area is.
5. The Arts and Culture
There’s more to Aspen than the ski slopes and the local ski culture. The area is also home to a lot of art and culture-related venues. There are quite a few theatres, art museums and film and music venues too. The Aspen Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art-lovers everywhere. Showcasing modern and not-so-modern works of art this museum offers free entry (Correct at the time of writing) and will help you indulge in a bit of culture away from the slopes.
Don’t forget to pop along to The Aspen Institute, which is the ideal destination if you’re a lover of books. With different events taking place throughout the year if you love the written word The Aspen Institute is the place to be.
6. The Luxurious Spas
Aspen offers some very luxurious spas to anyone who feels a little bit sore after a day on the slopes. The pampering you’ll receive at the local spas is nothing short of world-class and you’re almost guaranteed to feel revitalised. Head to the Spa at Viceroy Snowmass or the Remede Spa at St. Regis Aspen, and be prepared to be pampered. Regardless of whether you’ve hit the slopes or you want to indulge yourself a visit to one of the local spas is a must!
7. For The Dogs
If you are a lover of our four-legged friends you’re going to love your time in Aspen. Aspen seems to be one of the most dog-friendly places you’ll ever come across. While dogs are not supposed to join their owners on the hiking trail chances are you’ll see at least one as you make your way up the mountain. Known as the ‘Promised land for pooches’ Aspen is home to many dogs who are more than happy to greet you. Meet your furry new best friend in one of the local bars or on a ski slope and resist the urge to take them home, as hard as it may seem!
