Things to Do in Aspen
Plan your days in Aspen, your way
Aspen works beautifully as a sampler — start with the Silver Queen Gondola for the big view with zero effort.
Wander the brick pedestrian malls on Cooper Avenue, coffee from Paradise Bakery in hand.
The Aspen Art Museum is free, small, and genuinely interesting, plus a rooftop worth the elevator ride.
Drive or shuttle up to Maroon Bells for the one postcard moment every visitor should have.
Hunter Creek Trail gives you a real mountain walk in under two hours, starting right from town.
Dinner at White House Tavern for the famous chicken sandwich, or The Red Onion for the 1892 atmosphere.
If it's summer, catch open-air music; if it's winter, watch the skiers pour into après at Ajax Tavern.
The John Denver Sanctuary is a quiet half-hour beside the river that most visitors miss.
End with a drink at the Hotel Jerome's J-Bar, where the whole town's history seems to gather.
A little of everything, nothing too much — Aspen rewards the unhurried.
Top attractions and places to eat in Aspen
White House Tavern
A cozy, rustic tavern in downtown Aspen known for its casual American fare and famously popular fried chicken sandwich. A go-to spot for a laid-back meal and drinks in a charming historic setting.
restaurant · 4.6 rating
Maroon Bells
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.
mountain · 4.9 rating
Aspen Hickory House
A longstanding barbecue restaurant known for smoked ribs and hearty breakfasts. A local institution for BBQ lovers.
restaurant · 4.4 rating
Independence Pass
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.
landmark · 4.8 rating
Matsuhisa
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's acclaimed Japanese restaurant serving signature sushi and Peruvian-influenced dishes. A high-end destination for world-class Japanese cuisine.
restaurant · 4.5 rating
Buttermilk Mountain
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.
mountain · 4.7 rating
Paradise Bakery & Cafe
A busy corner bakery in downtown Aspen famous for its cookies, ice cream and pastries. A popular casual stop for a sweet treat or quick coffee.
bakery · 4.6 rating
New York Pizza Aspen
A casual pizzeria in Aspen serving New York-style slices and pies. A quick, affordable stop for pizza.
restaurant · 4.1 rating
Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection
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.
hotel · 4.7 rating
Steak House No. 316 Aspen
A classic American chophouse serving prime steaks and cocktails in a lively downtown setting. A go-to for a hearty steak dinner.
restaurant · 4.3 rating
French Alpine Bistro - Crêperie du Village
A cozy French Alpine bistro in Aspen serving crêpes, fondue and traditional French mountain fare. A charming spot for rustic European dining.
restaurant · 4.4 rating
Poppycocks Cafe
A cozy, long-standing breakfast and brunch cafe in Aspen known for pancakes and hearty morning plates. A local favorite for a casual start to the day.
cafe · 3.9 rating
T-Lazy-7 Ranch
Working ranch offering horseback riding, snowmobile, and sleigh tours near Maroon Bells.
experience · 4.8 rating
John Denver Sanctuary
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.
park · 4.7 rating
Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop
A farm-to-table restaurant and market in Aspen focused on charcuterie, cheese boards and seasonal dishes. A destination for curated food and provisions.
restaurant · 4.4 rating