Aspen is a beautiful mountain town that is a popular destination for skiing in the winter. However, it is also an ideal summer destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities, stunning views and world-class dining. As a part-time Aspen resident for decades, I know all the best places to eat, stay and play in this mountain paradise.
Where to Eat in Aspen: Curated Picks for a Mouthwatering Experience
Ajax Tavern, located at the bottom of Aspen Mountain, is the perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying the scenery. Sit on the patio with a glass of Veuve Clicquot and order a lobster roll or the famous Ajax Wagyu double cheeseburger, along with a heaping amount of parmesan truffle fries. Veuve Clicquot regularly partners with Ajax Tavern for winter and spring après-ski events and various picnic and outdoor movies in the summertime.
thelittlenell.com/dine/ajax-tavern
For authentic Italian cuisine, head to Acquolina, located next to Jing on Main Street. The menu includes all the classics, as well as a variety of gourmet wood-fired pizzas. The octopus appetizer is tender and delicious, and the prosciutto pizza is fired to perfection. Numerous cocktail libations are available, and the all-Italian wine list is also a find.
acquolinaaspen.com
Catch Steak Aspen is the latest outpost of Catch Hospitality Group’s New York staple, Catch Steak. The restaurant features a fresh take on steak, including a curated selection of Truffle Butter Filets, Prime Tomahawk and Dry-Aged steaks, as well as a focused selection of Japanese Wagyu. The Sushi is light, fresh and has incredibly bold flavors and is great for sharing if you want to try various menu options.
catchrestaurants.com
Betula features a sexy interior, a lounge area with a DJ and a gorgeous expansive exterior patio space with a fireplace to dine al fresco in the summer. The French-Pan American cuisine changes with each season and you can’t go wrong with anything you order. The cocktail list is also impressive, with unique and creative drinks that perfectly complement the menu.
betulaaspen.com
For an upscale night out, head to The Caribou Club, Aspen’s first members-only club. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails, a delectable meal and dance the night away to the club’s DJ at 10 p.m. The Caribou Club is known for its creative and decadent dishes, and they also offer off-site catering services featuring luxury menu options with sustainable ingredients.
caribouclub.com
For a total experience, visit Casa Tua, which resembles a charming ski lodge from the outside. This restaurant has a large outdoor patio and is perfect for people-watching and celebrity sightings. Try their Tuna Tartare or Burrata for starters and save room for their deconstructed Key Lime Pie. They also have a private club on top of the restaurant, which offers stunning views of downtown Aspen and Ajax Mountain.
casatualife.com/aspen
Peak Accommodations: Where to Stay in Aspen for a Memorable Mountain Getaway
For the “home away from home” feeling. The Gant offers comfort, privacy and convenience with its accommodating concierge services, privately owned condominiums and full-sized kitchens. Additionally, it provides the services and amenities of a luxury hotel. You’ll be within walking distance of the Silver Queen Gondola and the heart of downtown Aspen, giving you outdoor excursions, exceptional cultural events and historic downtown Aspen. The Gant was recognized as a Condé Nast Traveler’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Award recipient, placing in the top 25 hotels in The Southwest and West category.
gantaspen.com
The Limelight Hotel provides a new level of vibrancy with its 126 refreshed guestrooms and suites, expanded continental breakfast, Kids Club area, complimentary in-town transportation, adventure concierge, free activities for guests and an outdoor pool and hot tubs. The resort is next to Wagner Park and offers spacious suites with different floor plans and amenities. Plus, your furry friends are welcome at this pet-friendly hotel.
limelighthotels.com/aspen
If you’re looking for the ultimate Aspen-chic experience, The St. Regis Aspen Resort is the place to be. The resort is a 5-star luxury destination nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain and just minutes from world-class skiing and charming downtown Aspen. The St. Regis offers spacious guest suites, marble bathrooms and custom furnishings by Ralph Lauren. You’ll also enjoy Remède Spa, one of the world’s premier hotel spas and the services of a St. Regis butler, who stands ready to assist you 24 hours a day.
st-regis.marriott.com
Built in 1889, Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection, is a luxury landmark in Aspen. The hotel features a sophisticated combination of contemporary and authentic Western furnishings and historic charm. Additionally, it offers Auberge-style amenities like an elaborate bar, a spa and two full-service restaurants. The spa perfectly combines traditional relaxation with cutting-edge technology and a yoga studio. You’ll also love the plush heated outdoor pool in the luxurious garden.
aubergeresorts.com/hoteljerome
W Aspen is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious, playful experience in Aspen. With its happening atmosphere, this boutique hotel is perfect for couples, groups and skiers who want to be right in the middle of all the action. Guests can also enjoy the unparalleled location by relaxing on the rooftop WET Deck and bar area, which features a heated pool and spa, fitness facility, fire pits, food service, lounge seating and cabanas.
marriott.com/en-us/hotels/asewh-w-aspen
If you’re looking to stay in the center of it all, The Little Nell is the perfect option. The resort is located at the base of Aspen Mountain and is steps away from world-class skiing, shopping and dining. The Little Nell offers stunning mountain views, spacious guest rooms and suites and exceptional service.
thelittlenell.com
Summertime Bliss: Your Ultimate Guide to Aspen’s Best Activities and Hotspots
A leisurely bike ride is a great way to take in the beauty of Aspen’s surroundings. One of the most iconic stops on the route is Woody Creek Tavern, a rustic establishment known for its delicious food and eclectic atmosphere. What sets this restaurant apart, however, is its extensive collection of customer photos that adorn the walls.
woodycreektavern.com
The J Bar, located in Hotel Jerome, is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the town. Its rustic atmosphere, complete with wooden beams and leather barstools, creates a warm and inviting ambiance that is hard to resist. And during happy hour, the bar comes alive with the chatter of people sipping cocktails and nibbling on small bites.
aubergeresorts.com/hoteljerome/dine/j-bar
Aspen is known for its unique and luxury shopping experience. Kemo Sabe is the go-to destination in Aspen. Known for their high-end, custom cowboy hats, boots, and western wear, Kemo Sabe offers a range of stylish and unique products that capture the spirit of the American West. From handcrafted jewelry to leather jackets, belts and bags, you’ll find everything you need to complete your Western look. Whether you’re a cowboy at heart or simply love the Western aesthetic, Kemo Sabe is a must-visit store in Aspen.
Jazz Aspen Snowmass is an annual Labor Day Weekend event that takes place every summer in Aspen. This three-day festival brings together some of the world’s most renowned musicians for an unforgettable weekend of music and entertainment. The festival takes place outdoors in the beautiful mountains of Aspen, providing a stunning backdrop for incredible performances. With multiple stages, food and drink vendors and a lively atmosphere, Jazz Aspen Snowmass is a must-attend event for anyone visiting Aspen during Labor Day Weekend.
jazzaspensnowmass.org
The Maroon Bells are one of North America’s most-photographed landscapes. They’re also a great location to hike, bike, camp and simply reflect. Reservations for visitors are open for summer and fill up quickly. Guests can either book private parking permits or take a daily shuttle through the middle of October.
aspenchamber.org/plan-trip/trip-highlights/maroon-bells
Aspen Mountain is open to hiking in the summertime, offering nature lovers the chance to climb the notorious mountain. If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, you can still enjoy the beautiful views and fresh mountain air by taking the Silver Queen Gondola. This scenic ride will take you to the top of Aspen Mountain, where you can take in the panoramic views of the surrounding Mountains. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at the Sundeck restaurant or take a yoga class with a breathtaking view.
aspensnowmass.com/four-mountains/aspen-mountain
