The knower of all things about Aspen.
For ski lovers, Aspen is the place to be during the winter months. The city boasts four world-class mountains and an incredibly unique dining scene. Cultural activities are virtually endless and the shopping scene is a treat for fashion enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for the best ski resorts in the world or the ultimate getaway, Aspen is an ideal destination for a ski vacation.
About Aspen
Located in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is one of the country's most beautiful and unique ski resorts. With four mountains to choose from, Aspen offers a variety of activities year-round. In addition to skiing, Aspen also hosts the X Games and an annual music festival.
Aspen's history dates back to the Ute Indians, and the town experienced a silver rush in the late 1800s. In the 1940s, the town experienced a cultural renaissance, sparked by the arrival of Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke. They brought with them a vision for the community, which they called "The Aspen Idea." This vision still drives the city's unique character today.
Located over 8,000 feet above sea level, Aspen receives a reliable blanket of snow each winter, making it one of the nation's premier ski resorts.
Why Go to Aspen
Aspen, Colorado, is a mountain town that strikes a rare balance between neighborliness and cosmopolitanism. It's home to shopping malls, upscale restaurants, and the world's most extensive wine list. The town also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene and a top-notch police station. While its mining days may be over, Aspen has maintained its fast pace of growth while maintaining its mountainside character.
While the town's ski slopes draw lots of visitors, the fall season offers much lower hotel rates and less crowded trails. You can hike and bike around the town during the lull, and some venues are closed for a few weeks due to the mud season. Despite the lower prices, however, there's still plenty to do in Aspen during this season.
Aside from skiing and snowboarding, Aspen also boasts a wide range of career opportunities. The area boasts numerous world-class businesses and world-class schools that cater to all levels of experience. The City of Aspen is a major employer and frequently posts different job openings.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Aspen is during the months of June through August when the weather is comfortable and almost rain-free. The highest average temperature in Aspen is 69 deg F in July, and the lowest is 24 deg F in January. These figures are based on climate data for the last 30 years.
While the mountain town remains relatively uncrowded during the first part of December, the days leading up to Christmas see Aspen's peak tourist season. Hotels and restaurants in Aspen become busy during these times, and prices rise sharply. To plan your vacation in Aspen, consider these tips. You may also be interested in learning more about Aspen's history.
Although Aspen is famous for its winter sports, the fall is also a good time to visit, as temperatures are a little higher than in the spring. The mountain town is also less crowded, which is good for those who want to see its spectacular fall colors. Although some venues close down for a few weeks during this period, there's still plenty to do in Aspen.
How to Get Around
One of the most fun ways to get around Aspen is on a bike. There are plenty of bike lanes and paved paths throughout the town. There are also 20-minute rest stops and child seats available, so you can even take the kids with you! The Roaring Fork Transit Authority runs a bus system that offers free rides throughout Aspen and the surrounding area.
Another fun way to get around town is by taking the free Downtowner shuttle. This is an eco-friendly way to travel around town and can take you anywhere in the city, including the gondola. You can download an app and set pickup and drop-off points in advance. From there, you can enjoy a ride in an electric vehicle around town.
Alternatively, you can call a cab or hail an Uber driver and ask them to take you to where you're going. However, these private ride services are not very cheap and are not recommended for people who don't like public transportation. If you're on a budget, consider walking or biking instead.
Best Restaurants
If you're looking for some of the best dining experiences in Aspen, Colorado, you've come to the right place. From a fine dining restaurant to a casual cafe, Aspen has a wide variety of options for all tastes and budgets. The Hillstone restaurant group owns the White House, a popular spot that is always packed. You'll want to make reservations at least half an hour ahead of time. Other favorites in the town include Meat and Cheese, which is a favorite lunch spot. The restaurant features a charcuterie board. Another great restaurant is J Bar, which is located inside Hotel Jerome and has an old-fashioned bar. They also have a delicious burger menu.
The town has many excellent restaurants that serve everything from contemporary American fare to traditional American cuisine. There are also many options for vegetarian and Latin dining. Aspen is known for its upscale restaurants and many use organic ingredients and locally-sourced ingredients. Before you make your reservation, call ahead to ensure the restaurant's hours.
Things to Do
There are a number of activities for the whole family to enjoy in Aspen, Colorado. Whether you want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains or take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, Aspen has something for you. You can spend the day skiing or snowboarding on local slopes, or explore the quaint town center on foot. If you enjoy shopping, Aspen has over 200 stores and boutiques, from consignment shops to high-end designer offerings. You can find everything from vintage clothing to the latest trends in fashion and art. Even if you're not into shopping, you'll find unique souvenirs and gifts for friends and family.
The city's high elevation is ideal for taking a scenic ride by air. The Silver Queen Gondola offers scenic rides that take you to the top of Aspen Mountain. The flight lasts about an hour and gives you the chance to take in the beautiful scenery. The gondola also features free yoga and exercise classes and a Sundeck, where you can enjoy the view.
Neighborhoods to Know
If you're interested in purchasing a home in Aspen, Colorado, consider buying in one of the city's most desirable neighborhoods. Several of these neighborhoods are surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, making them an ideal place to call home. Some of the neighborhoods in Aspen include McLain Flats, Old Hundred, and Star Mesa. Residents enjoy the wide-open views and peaceful landscape from these neighborhoods.
The central area of Aspen is the city's central core, where you can enjoy upscale shopping and dining. The city's gondola is nearby, and you'll find many boutiques, bars, and restaurants in the neighborhood. This neighborhood is also convenient to downtown Aspen's grocery stores and other amenities.
East Aspen is another neighborhood with a more laid-back vibe. The area is surrounded by beautiful mountain views and has plenty of recreational opportunities. The area also features low-rise apartments and single-family homes with large yards. Many of the houses here were built in the 1960s or 1970s. Some of the subdivisions in East Aspen include The Preserve, Stillwater, Chateau Blanc, and Clarendon.
Weather
The climate in Aspen varies greatly based on the time of year. Generally, the rainiest months are June and July. However, it is also possible to experience rain in any month. The wettest month is July, which averages 7.6 days with at least 0.04 inches of rainfall. Conversely, the driest months are May and June, with only 4.3 days with at least this level of precipitation each month.
Aspen's cold season lasts for about three and a half months, and the average high temperature is just under 36 degrees. January is the coldest month, with lows of 7degF and highs of 28degF. In the figure below, the percentage of time the sky is cloudy is represented by thin dotted lines, which indicate the temperature perception of the local residents.
The weather is mostly cloudy with periods of sunshine. Winds will be light. The temperature will increase to 63 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday, with temperatures reaching a high of 61 degrees in the following two days.
