Aspen, in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado, holds something for everyone! Breathtaking mountains, snow play, skiing, food, art, wine, shopping, history, relaxation, river rafting, fishing, biking, hiking and even the Aspen Institute, which is a nonpartisan home for exploring politics, finance, health, social and economic issues.
While most people think of a ski vacation, Aspen is a four season town filled with family fun for everyone, or it can be a cute romantic getaway for two.
WHERE TO STAY
My favorite hotels are The Little Nell, located at the bottom of Ajax Mountain for skiing in and out, and The Hotel Jerome. Yep, you guessed it…both are located right in town and offer an organic small-town Aspen feel. Both have great dining experiences as well as accommodations.
If you’re coming with your family and would like to rent a home, Alpine Property is a great resource for Snowmass.
WHERE TO EAT
Pinons, Casa Tua, Rustique, and The Aspen Kitchen are tremendous. You MUST stop at Paradise Bakery for brownies and ice cream! Sit right outside in the square to visit with family and friends as you nibble on those delightful yummy treats.
WHAT TO PACK
Jeans, fur, ponchos, cowboy hats, boots, ski gear, flannel, pj’s, diamonds, leather, a black or ivory cashmere sweater, chunky bracelets or many bangles, sunglasses, and a smile!
Ralph Lauren, Gorsuch, and Pitkin County Dry Goods are a few of my favorite stores for Colorado looks. Theory, Gucci and Valentino also line the streets.
Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Kirk Douglas, Don Johnson and the Trumps can be seen around town along with Beyoncé and Mariah Carey.
WHEN TO GO
Christmas can be busy, but we love spring break when fun and sun make the skiing a little easier. When you want to take a day off, head to the Aspen Art Museum, the Recreation Center, or to T-Lazy-7 for snowmobiling.
In the summer there is The Food and Wine Classic, The Aspen Music Festival, hot air ballooning, biking, hiking, fishing, or The Aspen Ideas Festival has fun and interesting planned events. Look online for dates, speakers and tickets.
Anderson Ranch Art Center in Snowmass is also a great destination for those wanting a vacation with classes built in!
Local ghost towns are really fun, too, and give history and thrills of a time gone by!
There is a majestic feel among this amenity-rich city.
Our entire family loves Aspen for all sorts of reasons. I get a chance to play like a kid skiing and grounding here in the nature of coyotes, birds and bears. Among the Aspen trees and pine trees I feel grateful for big snowflakes and sun-filled days. I find myself thinking more, writing more and my creative juices flow from being surrounded in the culture that prevails in this small town.
You will not be disappointed with Aspen as a vacation spot. Coming and going you are reminded that there is something greater in the universe than what you bring here.
Randy
P.S. Advil, lots of water, and sometimes oxygen (sold at Carl’s Pharmacy) can take the edge off altitude sickness
