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Things to do in Aspen

Bluebird ski days and Maroon Bells summer wildflowers.

Aspen, CO, USA· Airport: ASE
Aspen — Things to do | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Aspen's four ski mountains (Aspen, Highlands, Buttermilk, Snowmass) cater to all skill levels.
  • The Maroon Bells, a prominent natural landmark, are accessible by shuttle or reservation during summer and fall.
  • Summer offers extensive hiking and mountain biking trails; the Rio Grande Trail is popular for cycling.
  • The Aspen Art Museum and Wheeler Opera House provide cultural enrichment beyond outdoor activities.
  • The free RFTA bus system connects Aspen to Snowmass and other Roaring Fork Valley communities, reducing the need for a car.
  • Independence Pass (seasonal) offers scenic driving and access to high-alpine hiking east of town.
  • Book accommodations and popular restaurant reservations well in advance, especially during peak ski season and summer festivals.

Aspen is recognized globally for its ski slopes, but the town offers year-round activities extending beyond winter sports. Your experience in Aspen can range from high-altitude outdoor adventure to sophisticated cultural engagement, depending on the season and your interests. The town's compact center makes exploring on foot or via its efficient bus system straightforward, connecting visitors to various attractions and trailheads.

During the ski season, naturally, the focus is on the four surrounding mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Each offers distinct terrain, from beginner-friendly slopes to expert runs. Off the slopes, winter visitors can enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, or exploring the town's upscale boutiques and diverse dining scene.

Summer in Aspen transforms the landscape into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing. The iconic Maroon Bells are a popular destination for photography and short walks, while numerous trails provide access to alpine lakes and panoramic views. Cultural events, including the Aspen Music Festival and School and the Aspen Ideas Festival, draw significant crowds, offering a different dimension to a summer visit.

Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage, particularly along Castle Creek Road or Independence Pass (weather permitting), making it an ideal time for scenic drives and photography. Spring offers a quieter period, often referred to as 'mud season,' but can be excellent for those seeking fewer crowds and discounted rates before the summer rush. Planning your activities around the season you visit is key to making the most of Aspen.

Consider your preferred pace and activities when planning your trip to Aspen. For detailed itinerary assistance or specialized bookings, contacting a travel agent could be beneficial.

In this guide

  • Top sights
  • Free things to do in Aspen
  • Best with kids
  • Day trips from Aspen
  • Food experiences

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do activities for first-time visitors to Aspen?
For first-time visitors to Aspen, consider experiencing the main mountain, Aspen Mountain, either by skiing/snowboarding in winter or taking the Silver Queen Gondola for panoramic views in summer. A visit to the Maroon Bells is highly recommended for its iconic scenery, though access often requires a shuttle or reservation. Exploring the town's core, with its boutiques, galleries, and diverse dining options, provides a good sense of the local atmosphere. Depending on the season, attending a performance at the Wheeler Opera House or exploring the Aspen Art Museum can add a cultural dimension to your visit.
Are there things to do in Aspen if I'm not interested in skiing or snowboarding?
Absolutely. Aspen offers numerous activities beyond skiing and snowboarding. In winter, you can enjoy ice skating at the Silver Circle Ice Rink, snowshoeing on groomed trails, or taking a scenic sleigh ride. Year-round, the Aspen Art Museum provides rotating contemporary art exhibits, and the Wheeler Opera House hosts various performances. The John Denver Sanctuary is a peaceful spot for a walk. During warmer months, hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting are popular. The Aspen Music Festival and School and the Aspen Ideas Festival draw significant cultural audiences in the summer.
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What can families with young children do in Aspen?
Families visiting Aspen with young children have several options. In winter, Buttermilk Mountain is known for its beginner-friendly slopes and ski school, while Snowmass also offers extensive family-oriented terrain and activities. Snow tubing at Snowmass is a popular choice. During summer, the Lost Forest adventure park at Snowmass provides ziplines, an alpine coaster, and a climbing wall for various ages. In town, parks like Rio Grande Park have playgrounds. The Aspen Recreation Center (ARC) offers swimming pools, including a lazy river, and an indoor climbing wall, suitable for active families.
What free activities are available in Aspen?
Several activities in Aspen can be enjoyed without a cost. Hiking and biking on the many trails, such as the Rio Grande Trail or various U.S. Forest Service paths, are free. The Aspen Art Museum offers free admission year-round. Strolling through the historic downtown area, exploring public parks like John Denver Sanctuary, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains are all free. Window shopping along Main Street, visiting the Aspen Chapel, or simply relaxing by the Roaring Fork River are also options that don't incur an expense.
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How can I get around Aspen to access different attractions?
Aspen is quite walkable, especially its downtown core. For destinations further afield, the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides an extensive free bus system that connects downtown Aspen to the ski mountains, neighboring Snowmass Village, and other points in the valley. This bus system is efficient and reduces the need for a personal vehicle. Rideshare services are also available. During winter, many lodges offer shuttle services to the ski slopes. For access to the Maroon Bells in summer and fall, a dedicated bus service or reservation is typically required.
What are some unique cultural or historical experiences in Aspen?
Aspen offers several unique cultural and historical experiences. The Aspen Historical Society operates multiple sites, including the Wheeler/Stallard House Museum and the Holden Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum, providing insights into the town's silver mining past. The Wheeler Opera House, a Victorian-era landmark, hosts a variety of performances and films throughout the year. During summer, the Aspen Music Festival and School attracts world-class musicians, offering both ticketed concerts and free student performances. Additionally, the Aspen Institute frequently hosts public lectures and discussions on a range of global topics.
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