Things to do · Aspen, Colorado, US

Things to Do in Aspen

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Getting there
Most visitors fly into Denver International Airport, roughly 200 km (about a two‑hour drive) from downtown Aspen, often connecting through a short domestic leg. A smaller but convenient option is Aspen‑Pitkin County Airport, just six kilometers from town, serving seasonal charter and limited commercial flights. Car rentals, shuttle services, and the seasonal Roaring Fork Stagecoach bus provide the main road connection, while Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops in nearby Glenwood Springs for rail travelers.
Who goes
Aspen welcomes roughly half a million guests each year, drawing skiers, hikers, and culture‑savvy travelers alike. Winter months swell the town with snow‑sport enthusiasts, making January and February the busiest, while late summer and early fall see the quietest streets, appealing to those seeking a more relaxed pace. The mix of affluent vacationers and outdoor‑focused families creates a diverse, yet upscale, visitor profile.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend around $80–$120 USD per day (roughly $70–$110 CHF) covering modest lodging, meals, and lift tickets, while a comfortable stay often runs $180–$300 USD (about $160–$260 CHF) with mid‑range hotels and dining. Lift passes and upscale dining tend to dominate the budget; opting for a weekday lift ticket or enjoying a picnic with groceries from a local market can shave a noticeable amount off the total cost. Estimate →

  1. Maroon Bells

    mountain · 4.9 rating

    One of the most photographed mountain landscapes in North America, featuring twin peaks reflected in Maroon Lake near Aspen. Travelers come for iconic alpine scenery, hiking, and photography.

  2. Independence Pass

    landmark · 4.8 rating

    A remote abandoned mine site along Independence Pass reflecting the area's historic mining activity. Travelers come for a glimpse of decayed industrial history amid high-alpine terrain.

  3. Buttermilk Mountain

    mountain · 4.7 rating

    A ski area near Aspen known for its gentle beginner and intermediate terrain and as the home of the Winter X Games. Popular with families and new skiers.

  4. Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection

    hotel · 4.7 rating

    A historic luxury hotel in downtown Aspen dating to 1889, blending Victorian heritage with upscale accommodations, dining and its famed J-Bar. A landmark for those seeking refined mountain-town lodging.

  5. T-Lazy-7 Ranch

    experience · 4.8 rating

    Working ranch offering horseback riding, snowmobile, and sleigh tours near Maroon Bells.

  6. John Denver Sanctuary

    park · 4.7 rating

    A tranquil riverside memorial garden in Aspen honoring musician John Denver, with engraved boulders featuring his lyrics along the Roaring Fork River. Travelers visit for a peaceful, contemplative outdoor stop.

  7. Aspen Mountain / Ajax

    mountain · 4.6 rating

    A prominent Rocky Mountain peak rising above Aspen, offering hiking, sightseeing, and skiing depending on the season. Travelers visit for alpine scenery and outdoor recreation.

  8. Silver Queen Gondola

    attraction · 4.6 rating · $40

    Aspen Mountain's signature gondola carrying visitors to the 11,000-foot summit for panoramic views, dining, and access to hiking and skiing. An iconic way to reach the top of the mountain.

  9. Rio Grande Trail

    trail · 4.8 rating

    A scenic multi-use trail following a former rail line along the Roaring Fork River between Aspen and Glenwood Springs. Popular for walking, cycling, and running with river and mountain views.

  10. Aspen Highlands

    mountain · 4.8 rating

    A ski area near Aspen renowned for its challenging expert terrain, including the hike-accessed Highland Bowl. Skiers come for steep, uncrowded runs and dramatic mountain scenery.

  11. Ashcroft Ghost Town

    historic site · 4.2 rating · $5

    A preserved 19th-century silver mining ghost town in the Castle Creek Valley near Aspen, with standing historic buildings. Travelers visit to explore Colorado's mining history in a scenic mountain setting.

  12. Maroon Lake

    lake · 4.8 rating

    An alpine lake at the base of the iconic Maroon Bells peaks, offering some of the most photographed mountain scenery in Colorado. Visitors come for reflections, wildflowers and easy scenic walks.

  13. Grottos Trail

    trail · 4.6 rating

    A short scenic trail near Aspen leading to ice caves, granite formations, and cascades along the Roaring Fork River. A favorite easy hike for river and rock scenery.

  14. Wheeler Opera House

    theater · 4.7 rating

    A historic 19th-century performance venue in downtown Aspen hosting concerts, theater, and film. Travelers visit for its restored Victorian architecture and cultural programming.

  15. Aspen Music Festival and School

    landmark · 4.9 rating

    Renowned summer classical music festival and training academy with tent performances.

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