Helpful Information

Aspen, Colorado is known for its ski resorts, outdoor recreation, and laid-back mountain vibe, but it’s also home to a thriving food and drink scene. If you’re planning a trip to Aspen and you’re looking for the best cocktails in town, you’re in luck. Here are a few places to check out:

1. The Little Nell: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, The Little Nell is a luxurious hotel that is known for its fine dining and craft cocktails. The hotel’s bar, Element 47, is a popular spot for cocktails, and it features a menu of classic and signature drinks made with top-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Old Fashioned or a modern creation like the Aspen Fizz, you’ll find something to suit your taste at Element 47.
2. Justice Snow’s: Located in downtown Aspen, Justice Snow’s is a cozy bar and restaurant that is known for its creative cocktails. The bar has a well-curated list of spirits, and the mixologists are known for their ability to create unique and flavorful drinks. Some of the standout cocktails at Justice Snow’s include the Old Fashioned variation called “The Judge’s Gavel” and the gin-based “The Englishman.”
3. Aspen Kitchen: Located in the St. Regis Hotel, Aspen Kitchen is a chic and sophisticated restaurant that is known for its modern American cuisine and craft cocktails. The bar features a range of signature cocktails, including the “Aspen 75,” a refreshing blend of gin, lemon juice, and champagne, and the “Smoke on the Water,” a smoky blend of mezcal, lime juice, and agave.

No matter where you go, you’ll find that Aspen has a wide range of options for craft cocktails, and you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. So if you’re looking for a sophisticated drink or a creative twist on a classic, you’ll find it in Aspen.

River tubing is a fun and exciting summer activity that is perfect for people of all ages. If you’re planning a trip to Aspen, Colorado, you might be wondering where to go river tubing and what you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a guide to river tubing in Aspen:

1. Where to go river tubing: There are a number of rivers in the Aspen area that are suitable for river tubing, including the Roaring Fork River and the Fryingpan River. The Roaring Fork River is a popular spot for river tubing, and it’s a great option for those who are looking for a more leisurely float. The Fryingpan River is a more challenging option, and it’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more thrilling ride.
2. Best times of year: River tubing is a summer activity, and it’s typically available from late May through early September, depending on the weather. The water levels can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast and the river conditions before you head out.
3. Things to bring: When you go river tubing, it’s important to dress appropriately and wear water shoes or sandals. You’ll also want to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your face from the sun, and a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry. If you have your own inner tube, you might want to bring it along, but most of the rivers in Aspen have rental equipment available.
4. Safety: River tubing can be a thrilling and fun activity, but it’s important to be safe. Follow all of the rules and guidelines provided by the rental company, and make sure to stay within your ability level. If you’re river tubing with children, be sure to keep a close eye on them and make sure they are wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). And remember to always use caution when you’re on the water.

Whether you’re an experienced river tuber or a first-timer, you’ll find that Aspen is a great place to enjoy this fun summer activity. So if you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to add river tubing to your list of things to do.

Tubing is a fun and exciting winter activity that is perfect for people of all ages. If you’re planning a trip to Aspen, Colorado, you might be wondering where to go tubing and what you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a guide to tubing in Aspen:

1. Where to go tubing: There are a number of places to go tubing in the Aspen area, including the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Center, the Aspen Recreation Center, and the Snowmass Rodeo grounds. The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Center offers tubing on a dedicated hill with a conveyor lift, and it’s a great option for those who want to tube in a more controlled environment. The Aspen Recreation Center has a smaller tubing hill that is perfect for younger children, and the Snowmass Rodeo grounds offer a longer and more challenging hill for those who are looking for a bigger thrill.
2. Best times of year: Tubing is a winter activity, and it’s typically available from late November through early April, depending on the weather. The snow conditions can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast and the snow report before you head out.
3. Things to bring: When you go tubing, it’s important to dress warmly and wear layers. You’ll also want to bring gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm, and a hat and sunglasses or goggles to protect your face from the sun and the wind. If you have your own tubing equipment, you might want to bring it along, but most of the tubing hills in Aspen rent tubes and provide everything you need.
4. Safety: Tubing can be a thrilling and fun activity, but it’s important to be safe. Follow all of the rules and guidelines provided by the tubing hill, and make sure to stay within your ability level. If you’re tubing with children, be sure to keep a close eye on them and make sure they are wearing helmets. And remember to always use caution when you’re on the slopes.

Whether you’re an experienced tuber or a first-timer, you’ll find that Aspen is a great place to enjoy this fun winter activity. So if you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to add tubing to your list of things to do.

Aspen, Colorado is a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re planning a trip to Aspen, you’ll need to figure out how to get there. Here are a few options for traveling to Aspen:

1. Fly: Aspen has its own airport (ASE), and it is served by a number of major airlines. The airport is located just 3 miles from downtown Aspen, and it’s a convenient option for those who are flying from out of town. If you’re flying into Denver (DEN), you can also take a connecting flight to Aspen.
2. Drive: Aspen is located about 4 hours west of Denver, and it’s a scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains. If you’re driving from Denver, you’ll take I-70 west to Glenwood Springs, and then follow Highway 82 to Aspen. The drive is beautiful, but keep in mind that the roads can be treacherous in the winter, so it’s important to be prepared for winter driving conditions.
3. Bus: If you don’t want to fly or drive, you can take a bus to Aspen. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) operates a bus service between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, and there are also a number of shuttle services that operate between Aspen and Denver.
4. Train: Aspen is also accessible by train, and the California Zephyr operates daily service between Chicago and San Francisco, with a stop in Glenwood Springs (about 30 minutes from Aspen). From Glenwood Springs, you can take a bus or shuttle to Aspen.

No matter how you choose to travel to Aspen, you’ll find that it’s a beautiful and convenient destination that has something to offer everyone. So if you’re planning a trip, consider one of these options for getting to Aspen.

Tourism is a vital part of the economy of many small towns, and Aspen, Colorado is no exception. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, and the town’s tourism industry plays a significant role in the local economy. Here’s a look at the economic impact of tourism on small towns like Aspen:

1. Tourism generates jobs: According to the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, tourism is the second largest industry in Aspen, and it supports over 2,700 jobs in the town (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/). These jobs range from hospitality and retail positions to ski instructors and mountain guides, and they help to provide a steady source of income for the town’s residents.
2. Tourism brings in revenue: In addition to generating jobs, tourism also brings in a significant amount of revenue for small towns like Aspen. According to the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, visitors to Aspen spend an average of $340 per day, and this spending supports a number of local businesses (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/).
3. Tourism helps to preserve local culture: Small towns like Aspen often have a strong sense of community and a unique local culture, and tourism can help to preserve these aspects of the town. By attracting visitors who are interested in experiencing local culture, tourism can help to support local traditions and practices, and it can also help to generate interest in preserving local history.
4. Tourism can have negative impacts: While tourism can have a number of positive impacts on small towns, it can also have negative impacts if it is not managed properly. Overcrowding and the strain on local resources can be a concern in small towns

Aspen, Colorado is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is known for its stunning natural beauty and its world-class ski resorts. Here are a few facts about Aspen tourism that you may find interesting:

1. According to the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, Aspen sees an average of 521,000 visitors per year (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/).
2. The Aspen ski resorts (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass) see an average of 1.86 million skier visits per year (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/).
3. The Aspen Music Festival and School is a popular tourist attraction, and it sees an average of 350,000 visitors per year (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/).
4. According to the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, the average length of stay for visitors to Aspen is 3.2 days (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/).
5. In terms of international visitors, the top countries represented are Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia (https://www.aspenchamber.org/visitor-statistics/).
6. The Aspen Institute, a think tank and leadership development organization, is another popular tourist attraction in Aspen, with an average of 19,000 attendees per year (https://www.aspeninstitute.org/about/attendance/).

Aspen is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world for its natural beauty, world-class ski resorts, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in skiing, hiking, or attending one of the town’s many cultural events, there is something for everyone in Aspen.

Aspen, Colorado is a town that has been attracting visitors for over 150 years, and it continues to be a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few ideas for why Aspen has remained such a popular destination:

1. The natural beauty: Aspen is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, and the town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. From the towering peaks of the Maroon Bells to the wide-open valleys of the Roaring Fork Valley, Aspen is a place that inspires awe and wonder in those who visit.
2. The skiing: Aspen is known as a premier ski destination, and the town is home to four ski resorts: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Each mountain offers its own unique terrain and amenities, making Aspen a great place to ski no matter what your ability level.
3. The culture: Aspen is home to a thriving arts scene, with a number of galleries, museums, and performance venues that showcase the work of local and international artists. The town also hosts a number of annual events, including the Food & Wine Classic and the Aspen Comedy Festival, making it a great destination for those who love culture and the arts.
4. The luxury: Aspen is known for its luxury resorts and high-end restaurants, making it a popular destination for those looking for a little indulgence. The town is home to a number of spas and wellness centers, as well as a wide range of outdoor activities, from golf to hiking and biking.
5. The location: Aspen is located just a few hours from Denver, making it an easy destination to get to from a number of major cities. The town is also located near a number of other popular destinations, including Vail and Glenwood Springs, making it a great place to base yourself for a longer vacation in the Rockies.

In the 1960s, Aspen was a hub of counterculture activity, with a number of influential figures from the world of art, music, and politics making the town their home. Here’s a look at some of the key players in Aspen’s 60s counterculture scene:

1. Hunter S. Thompson: Writer Hunter S. Thompson was a fixture of the Aspen counterculture scene in the 60s, and he is perhaps best known for his book “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.” Thompson was known for his wild and unconventional lifestyle, and he was a regular at Aspen’s clubs and bars.
2. John Denver: Singer-songwriter John Denver was a resident of Aspen in the 60s and was a key figure in the town’s burgeoning folk music scene. Denver’s career took off in the 70s, but he remained connected to Aspen throughout his life and was a passionate advocate for the town and its environment.
3. Wavy Gravy: Wavy Gravy is a counterculture icon and was a key figure in the 60s hippie movement. He was a fixture of the Aspen scene in the 60s and was known for his playful and irreverent personality.
4. Jerry Garcia: Jerry Garcia, the frontman of the Grateful Dead, was a regular visitor to Aspen in the 60s and was known for his love of skiing. Garcia and the Grateful Dead played a number of concerts in Aspen and were a key part of the town’s counterculture scene.
5. Janis Joplin: Singer Janis Joplin was a frequent visitor to Aspen in the 60s and was known for her powerful voice and her wild and unconventional lifestyle. Joplin was a key figure in the Aspen counterculture scene and is still remembered as one of the most iconic and influential figures of the era.

Aspen’s 60s counterculture scene was a vibrant and influential part of the town’s history, and it left a lasting impact on the town and its culture. Today, Aspen is a much more upscale and polished destination, but the spirit of the 60s counterculture scene lives on in the town’s arts, music, and political scenes.

New Year’s Eve in Aspen is always a celebration to remember, with a number of exciting events and activities taking place throughout the town. Here are some fun things to do in Aspen on NYE:

1. Attend a NYE party: Aspen is home to a number of high-end clubs and bars that host elaborate NYE parties, complete with live music, DJs, and champagne toasts at midnight. Some popular venues to check out include the Belly Up Aspen, the Aspen Art Museum, and the Hotel Jerome.
2. Watch the fireworks: Aspen puts on a spectacular fireworks show on NYE, with fireworks launched from Aspen Mountain and other locations around town. You can watch the fireworks from a number of vantage points around town, including the base of Aspen Mountain, Gondola Plaza, and the Aspen Recreation Center.
3. Go ice skating: The Aspen Ice Garden is open on NYE and is a great place to spend the evening skating with friends and family. They also offer skate rentals for those who don’t have their own skates.
4. Go cross-country skiing: Aspen is home to a number of cross-country ski trails that are open on NYE, and this is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery. You can rent skis and other equipment at one of the local ski shops.
5. Have a fancy dinner: Aspen is home to a number of high-end restaurants that offer special NYE menus and events. This is a great way to celebrate the end of the year in style.

No matter how you choose to spend NYE in Aspen, you’re sure to have a memorable and exciting celebration. So come and ring in the new year in this beautiful mountain town.

Aspen is home to four ski resorts: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass, and each mountain offers its own unique terrain for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. Here’s a look at the terrain on each mountain:

1. Aspen Mountain: Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax, is known for its steep, challenging terrain and is a favorite of advanced skiers and snowboarders. The mountain has a number of double black diamond runs, as well as groomed cruisers and tree skiing for those looking for a more relaxed experience.
2. Aspen Highlands: Aspen Highlands is known for its wide-open bowls and steep chutes, making it a favorite of expert skiers and snowboarders. The mountain also has a number of groomed cruisers and terrain parks for those looking for something a little more mellow.
3. Buttermilk: Buttermilk is known for its wide-open groomers and terrain parks, making it a great mountain for beginners and intermediates. The mountain has a number of easy runs and several terrain parks with a variety of features for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy.
4. Snowmass: Snowmass has something for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, with a mix of groomed cruisers, steep chutes, and wide-open bowls. The mountain is also home to a number of terrain parks, including the High Alpine terrain park, which is known for its challenging features.

No matter what kind of terrain you’re looking for, you’ll find it on one of Aspen’s four ski resorts. So whether you’re an expert skier or a beginner, you’ll find something to love on the slopes of Aspen.