Things to Do in Aspen, Colorado

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If you’re dreaming of crisp alpine air, cozy luxury, and nonstop adventure, Aspen, Colorado is one place I always recommend. Tucked right into the Rockies, Aspen has a way of making every visit feel like something special. Whether you’re gliding down snowy slopes in winter or hiking through wildflower-strewn trails in summer, you’ll find the kind of charm and beauty that sticks with you. I’ve come here to ski, unwind, and just breathe in the mountain magic—and I think you’ll fall in love with it, too.

Best Time to Visit

I usually time my Aspen trips for either winter (December–March) if I’m skiing, or summer (June–September) when the weather’s sunny and the hiking trails are at their peak. You’ll also find outdoor concerts, festivals, and breezy afternoons perfect for dining al fresco. If you prefer fewer crowds and golden fall colors, go in October—you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. Spring tends to be quiet, which I love when I just want to relax without an itinerary.

How to Get There

If you are traveling by car: I’ve driven in from Denver and from Glenwood Springs—it’s about 3.5 hours from Denver and 2 hours from Glenwood. The mountain views along CO-82 make the drive worth it.
By Plane: Flying into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is a breeze. It’s only 10 minutes from downtown, and I’ve caught seasonal nonstop flights from cities like Denver, L.A., and Dallas. You’ll be off the plane and in the mountains before you know it.
By Bus: If you’re staying nearby, I’ve used the RFTA buses to get around. They connect towns like Snowmass and Basalt to Aspen, and you can hop on the free in-town shuttles to explore without worrying about parking.

Where to Stay

The Little Nell – When I want the full Aspen experience, I stay here. It’s the only five-star, ski-in/ski-out hotel in town, and everything from the service to the views feels top-tier. You’ll love it if you’re after something truly special.
Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – This historic gem from 1889 has become one of my favorite spots. It blends old-world elegance with modern comfort, and the lounge is perfect for an après-ski cocktail or cozy night in.
Limelight Hotel Aspen – If you want something contemporary and casual but still upscale, I suggest the Limelight. I like staying here when I want to be close to downtown—it’s relaxed, has great breakfast, and the vibe is always welcoming.