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Browsing Aspen
Above It All Balloon Company
Take a ride in a hot air balloon, and experience the spectacular panoramas of the Rockies while sipping champagne or just breathing in the fresh mountain air. It's not often you'll have such a stunning view of Snowmass Mountain and Mt. Daly without having to climb them first! Sit back and enjoy the one hour ride as you experience the tranquility and beauty that only a hot air balloon ride can offer at 13,000 feet "above it all."
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Anderson Ranch Arts Center
A former sheep ranch owned by the Anderson Family, the Anderson Ranch Arts Center is a collection of historic log barns and the family's home in the Brush Creek Valley. It has evolved into a nationally recognized visual arts center with a focus on crafts and fine arts.
Aspen resident Paul Soldner was searching for a pottery studio for his volunteer cooperative in the mid-1960s. At that time the Snowmass ski area developers had bought all the buildings in the area and told Soldner he could use the empty buildings as studio space. The arts center was incorporated in 1974 as a nonprofit organization.
During the summer, more than 100 workshops are offered and taught by well-known national and international artists in residence who come here to work, teach and chat with visitors. Classes are intentionally kept small and there are one, two, and three-week courses on ceramics, book arts, digital imaging, drawing, painting, printmaking, woodworking, photography, and more, including children's programs. More »
Ashcroft Ghost Town
Located deep in the Ashcroft Valley, this ghost town offers access to both stunning mountain beauty and Old West history. In 1883, this former mining town was prospering with 20 saloons, a school and two newspapers. But in 1885, the silver mine went bust and with it went the town's population and its future. Today twelve original buildings that include the Blue Mirror Saloon, the Mercantile Building and Whispering Swede Cabin still stand as silent monuments to a bygone era. Guided tours are available, but in summer only. Follow Castle Creek Road for 10 miles. The ghost town will be on your left, almost directly across the road from the Ashcroft Ski Touring Center.
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Aspen Art Museum
At this center, it is hard to tell if the real art is inside on display or outside. The impressive landscape, with a historic building (an old hydroelectric plant) obscured beneath a small forest of aspen trees and the rushing Frying Pan in the background, could easily grace a frame. It is by far one of the most scenic art museums in the country. The gallery hosts rotating installations year round, and the exhibitions usually focus on contemporary art, from the surreal to the abstract. Recent shows have included the portrait paintings of Elizabeth Peyton. Admission: USD5 adults, USD3 students and seniors, Members and children under 12 are free.
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Aspen Center for Environmental Studies
This family-friendly environmental center is an ideal sojourn for those who are outdoor-curious, but backcountry shy. Located in the Hallam Lake Nature Preserve, which is right in town, it is a perfect introduction to the great outdoors. A self-guided nature trail snakes around the preserve's 25 acres and is a favorite with bird-watchers. You can also check out its resident birds of prey, which include golden eagles and screech owls. The visitor center features an indoor trout stream swarming with native cutthroats, as well as an environmental library and a gift shop full of books, gifts and toys. For a true outdoor education, look for its weekly lecture series, which varies from season to season.
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Aspen Club & Spa
This gym is so nice inside that you wonder if it is okay to sweat. Vast skylights and huge windows create a rare workout environment that makes it feel like you are outside, minus the bugs, of course. Workout junkies can choose from cybex machines, free weights, aerobic classes, lap pools, spinning and Pilates, or play racquetball, squash or tennis.
For those who prefer a bit of pampering, there are complete spa and salon facilities that include massages and facials. Be sure to check out the Relaxation Lounge, which serves herbal tea in front of a crackling Swedish fireplace. Juice bar, pro shop and child care facilities are available. More »
Aspen Fine Art Gallery
If you need a bit of color to spice up the drab, gray Aspen winter, head over to the Aspen Fine Art Gallery. The small gallery, located on the Hyman Avenue Mall, specializes in avant-garde, post-Impressionism, and masterworks from a wealth of contemporary artists, including 14-year-old sensation, Alexandra Nechita.
You can also peruse works from Cuba, Europe, Turkey and the former Soviet Union. Experienced collectors will find a number of important originals and prints from Renoir, Miro, Dali and Chagall. More »
Aspen Golf Course
The biggest challenge with this course is trying to keep focus on golf and not the spectacular views of the famed There are no tee restrictions, so you can call months in advance to reserve a time. Fees start at $70. More »
Aspen Historical Society
The Aspen Historical Society, at 620 W. Bleeker St., includes a museum ($3-$6 depending on age) and offers walking tours through the historic "West End" of Aspen. Here is your chance to learn about landmark buildings, Victorian architecture, and hear fascinating stories of Aspen's past.
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Aspen Ice Garden
Even when the weather outside is frightful, the inside of this rink is always delightful. It is open year-round, so even during July you can still glide around the ice and satisfy your winter fix. Without the ruts and bumps of a frozen pond, the marble-like ice is perfect for beginners, especially with the hockey boards to cling on to. The rink is open to public skating, youth and adult hockey leagues, figure skating, and can be rented out for private parties. Skate rentals are available. Call the rink for schedules, for its availability changes daily.
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Aspen Mountain
The jewel of Aspen's four ski mountains, Aspen Mountain spills right into the streets, making it very convenient for in-town lodgers. Eight lifts, including the Aspen Musical Festival and School
Since 1949, this summer event has attracted some of the world's finest musicians to help celebrate classical music. Students and masters work side-by-side to present concerts, which feature full orchestras and chamber ensembles. There are also lectures, classes and a host of children's events. The true beauty of this festival is the casual setting. Because of its mountain setting, the black-tie formality normally associated with such music is dropped. Many of the concert attendees even arrive on mountain bikes while dressed in shorts!
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Aspen Theatre in the Park
Since 1983 this theatre company has been instilling the valley with the magic of live drama. Contemporary, classical and new plays are all produced and mesh both local and national talent. More than 60 shows are performed each summer and all are staged in a state-of-the-art performance tent in the Rio Grande Park and have included 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change', and 'An American Daughter'. In addition the company provides theatre training programs for kids.
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Aspen Writers' Foundation
Part of Aspen's appeal is that not only is it a world-class resort, but that it also places such strong emphasis on the arts. The Aspen Writers' Foundation helps foster this reputation by attracting some of the world's greatest writers to the Roaring Fork Valley. Authors such as John Irving, Amy Tan and Clive Cussler have read from their works in a small, private setting. It allows fans to meet with authors without feeling like cattle being rushed through a book-signing line. The readings take place throughout the year, but mainly occur during the summer and winter months.
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Aspen-Basalt Campground
Located halfway between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, this full-service campground is within easy walking distance of the Roaring Forks River Gold Medal Fishing area. Nice restrooms, a heated pool, spa, game room, cable TV connections, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet make this facility ideal for those who like a little luxury with their camping. Each of the 43 RV sites have 50amp service, ample room for slideouts, and long vehicles. This also makes a nice base for exploring the environs, whether you enjoy hiking, biking, and Nordic adventure, or you prefer the nearby golf courses and hot springs.
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Battlement Mesa Golf
One of the unknown advantages of Aspen is that thanks to Battlement Mesa, visitors can enjoy golf in the winter. Located just more than one hour away, this ski town favorite offers 18 magical holes of thin-air golf. Its fairways are wrinkled with rolling hills, but do play long. The par-5 seventh hole drops 200 feet from tee to green and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The back nine holes teeter on a mesa, penalizing all players with hooks. Green fees are low; call for exact prices.
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Burlingame Lift
If time is too limited for a hike or bike up the mountain, this handy chairlift provides quick access to the Snowmass mid-mountain area. From there, you can fan out on one of the many biking and hiking trails. For extra convenience, the chairlifts can carry your bike up the mountain. An 18-hole Frisbee disc course is free, and discs and scorecards can be found at the top of the lift.
Cost: $10 for adults; kids under six and seniors over 70 are free. More »
Buttermilk Mountain
Rated as the easiest of Aspen's four mountains, this gem of an area is the perfect environment for beginners to find their ski-legs. Seven lifts service 43 trails that are predominantly rated for beginners and intermediates. Most of the mountain is groomed nightly so as to aid the skiing confidence. It is a great place to drop off the kids while you ski one of Aspen's other mountains. Snowboarders can get radical at two terrain parks and a half-pipe. Lessons are available for all levels. Three restaurants cater to hunger and thirst.
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Christopher Cardozo Fine Photography
This popular gallery looks like someone carved out a room in an art museum and placed it in downtown Aspen. Situated on the Hyman Mall, this small gallery (if you blink you might miss it) is the place to go for vintage Edward Curtis popular Native American photos. Along with the original photos, you can peruse the selection of gold oratones. Curtis invented the technique and it remained a mystery until the gallery owner figured out how to duplicate the craft. The originals and prints range in price from $500-$8000.
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Crater Lake Trail
If time is limited, but you still want to fit in a hike that gives you some hint of Aspen's famed backcountry, wander down this popular path. It is only 1.8 miles long, but offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the country. The trail, which gains less than 500 feet in elevation, begins at Maroon Lake and winds through stands of aspens and pines before dropping down to Crater Lake which glistens at the foot of the famed Curious George Collectibles
This cluttered shop on the Hyman Avenue Mall is a mixture of western jewelry and Old West antiques and oddities. Half of the shop features handmade jewelry and belt buckles in all shapes and sizes. You can shop for simple and ornate turquoise rings or sterling horse head buckles. You almost get the feeling you are in a Wild West museum as you gaze at Arvo Ojala's personal quick draw gun, rare Zuni dolls and authentic Native American peace pipes. The store also has an interesting selection of antique knives, rifles and guns.
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Explore Booksellers
This charming bookstore is situated in a beautiful, old Victorian house with a vegetarian bistro upstairs. The friendly staff will help you find whatever it is you're looking for; or let you be, if you prefer, to just soak up the laid-back atmosphere and browse. When you start getting a bit peckish, head upstairs and peruse the mostly vegan menu for lunch, dinner, or a snack. The cafe also provides wifi internet access for its customers, and offers catering, take-out, and delivery.
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Galerie Maximillian
Galerie Maximillian is a newcomer to the Cooper Street gallery scene. But unlike many of Aspens elite galleries, that can make even an established collector feel out of place, this intimate space manages to juggle an unpretentious air with serious art. Owner Albert Sanford's passion for art, shows in his eclectic displays. He is not afraid to place a budding talent next to an established master. This ultimately brings depth to the collection, and challenges the viewer to forget about conventions. The gallery specializes in Contemporary European Primitivism, but you will find a wealth of great painters on display, including Renoir and Miro.
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Glenwood Caverns
If you grow weary of climbing mountains this attraction allows you to mole inside one instead. Originally deemed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" the caverns shut down during World War I and did not regain attraction-status until the 80s. The guided Family Tour is a great way to get awed by stalagmites and stalactites and lasts about two hours. The adventurous can opt for the guided Wild Tour which explores many of the cave's undeveloped chambers. Advanced reservations are required for the Wild Tour and is restricted to kids over 13. Family Tour admission: USD12 for adults, USD7 kids for children 3-12; Wild Tour: USD50 per person.
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Government Trail
This is a wonderfully appropriate name for a trail, for like the government itself, there are some things you like and other things that will cause you to foam in the brain. It covers 13 miles and, depending on your ability, takes two to five hours to complete. Single tracks, fire roads, stream crossings, mud, steep descents and thigh-burning climbs all combine to make for a great ride. It spills out at Iselin Park on Maroon Creek Road. From Snowmass, take Woods Road to Pine Lane. Follow it to where it dead-ends, pass through the gate and begin pedaling.
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Grizzly Lake Trail
This hike offers a true sense of backcountry wilderness without having to spend an entire day trying to get there. The 3.6 mile-hike gains less than 2,000 feet in elevation and takes only five hours round trip. Camping is allowed around Grizzly Lake, but because of the fragile tundra-like setting, it is best advised to camp down the trail under timberline. Cutthroat trout provide good fishing action. Follow Highway 82 10 miles east out of Aspen. Turn right on unpaved Lincoln Creek Road and follow it 6.1 miles to the Grizzly Creek Reservoir. The trailhead is on the left.
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Grottos Trail
This is a great place to picnic if you want mountain solitude without having to hike six hours to find it. All three picnic spots are within a five minute walk from the trailhead. For true ooh-look-at-this beauty, cross the bridge and follow the Old Stage Road to a picnic spot that borders the Roaring Fork River and includes a fishing dock. Larger groups should follow the left path, just before the bridge, for 200 yards where it spills out upon a huge picnic site.
Follow Highway 82 for nine miles. Just beyond
Hotel Jerome
This hotel is one of Aspen's historic treasures left over from the heydays of the Silver Boom. Macy's president Jerome Wheeler (hence the name) built the hotel, and it opened with a grand gala in 1889. When the silver market crashed, so did the hotel, and it struggled to stay afloat throughout the 1900s. Of course, when Aspen became the ski hub of the stars, the hotel received a second life. But it was not until the late 1980s that a complete restoration catapulted the hotel to new heights of luxury. The rooms range from "Deluxe" to "Grand" to "Premier." The spacious suites look like something straight out of Victorian England. The rooms have individual charm and each feature: huge beds, down comforters, handmade furniture, and period antiques.
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Huntsman Gallery
This three-level gallery couples as a working studio for owner and sculptor, Don Huntsman. Locals are always stopping by to check out Huntsman's latest work in progress and to discuss his collection. While most of Aspen's galleries represent the latest trends in art, this gallery keeps to the typical mountain motifs. So you will find landscape, wildlife and sporting paintings, as well as American Impression. The works of more than 40 artists adorn the walls and are perfect for both the beginning and established collector.
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Independence Ghost Town
Located just four miles below the Independence Pass Summit, this ghost town not only offers a hands-on look at history, but also spectacular mountain scenery. Formed in the summer of 1879, this former mining town hauled out almost 200-hundred thousand dollars worth of gold in a two-year span. By 1890, however, the rush was over and so was the town's future. Today five structures in standing and collapsed conditions serve as weathered reminders to the area's mining past. Admission is free and the surrounding mountain views are spectacular. Follow Highway 82 east out of Aspen for 13.5 miles. The ghost town, which is visible from the road, will be on your right. The highway closes during winter.
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Independence Pass
At 12,095 feet, this pass ranks as one of the highest paved roads in North America. The views from up top are stunning and border on the kind normally only reserved for National Geographic photographers. The drive from Aspen is equally stunning as the highway zigzags past thick stands of pine, towering cliffs, streams and Joel Soroka Gallery
Santa Fe may be the artisan center of the region, but when it comes to art sought after by established collectors, only a handful of places can compete with Aspen. The Joel Soroka Gallery is a fine example of the important art you find around town. And this gallery only deals in photography.
From the dynamic works of Man Ray to the emotional black and whites from Sally Mann, the gallery displays a diverse range of renowned photographers.
Located among the cluster of galleries along Cooper and Hyman Streets, make sure you add this to your list of browsing destinations. More »
Keating Fine Art
If your idea of art leans more toward traditional oil and watercolor paintings of bears and mountain landscapes, then this gallery is your kind of place. The space immortalizes the Colorado lifestyle in simple still-life and dramatic landscapes. You can almost picture where each piece will fit in the den, right next to the buck head. You will find a wide range of artists on display, including Russell Chatham, Gordon Allen, Jin Rey and Shirley Cleary. Located only 20 minutes from Aspen, the gallery resides in the quaint town of Basalt.
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Lincoln Creek Road
This unpaved road that cuts through the backcountry near Aspen is a favorite pathway for hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, fishermen, (and during the wintertime) cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers. It starts at an elevation of 9,785 feet and gains about 1,200 feet over its course, climbing up some steep grades that will entice any off-road vehicle or bicycle. There are various campsites along the road, as well as crystal-clear fishing lakes that are both easily accessible and beautiful.
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Magidson Fine Art
Since 1990, this upscale gallery has been showing some of the biggest names in contemporary art. From the celebrity photos of Annie Leibovitz to the pop culture meanderings of Andy Warhol and the surreal works of Joan Miro, if it is hip, it is here. You will also find original works from Picasso, Juan Kelly and the popular expressionist, Paul Pascarella. Whether you are an experienced collector with a ton of cash or just a causal browser, this collection is as good as any museum.
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Main Street Bakery & Cafe
Located in downtown Aspen, next to Explore Booksellers, this independently owned bakery specializes in fresh pastries, breads, cakes, and croissants. This is the place to go if you've got a birthday or another occasion that calls for something special. While it's a great place to satisfy that persistent sweet-tooth, the cafe also serves sandwiches and salads. And if it's been a long day of sightseeing, you can also enjoy a glass of beer or wine.
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Maroon Bells
If you have to choose one outdoor related activity while in Aspen, put a visit to Maroon Bells at the top of your list. Its three prominent and sharply defined peaks are some of the most photographed mountains in North America. Hike the trail around Maroon Lake, which is easy and offers spectacular views of the mountains reflecting off the shimmering water. Due to heavy traffic, this area is accessible only by bus during the summer, unless you prefer to hike or bike in. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, buses run daily from 8:30am to 5pm. After Labor Day, car traffic is allowed on weekdays up until the road closes for the winter due to snow. Bus fees cost USD5 for adults and USD3 for kids under 16. Pack water and food for there are no refreshment stands.
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Maroon Creek Trail
If time and stamina are lacking, yet you still crave to wander into Aspen's famed backcountry, give this 4.5-mile hike some consideration. Rated moderate, the trail wanders through stands of shimmering aspens and towering lodgepole pines providing rare viewing access to mule deer and elk. Bring your pole and fish for cutthroat trout in Maroon Creek, or the many beaver ponds. The trail culminates by spilling out on Maroon Lake and its spectacular views of the famed Maroon Peak
If you want to hike one of Colorado's famed 14,000-foot peaks, this is one of the more memorable ones to climb. As part of the famed Maroon-Snowmass Trail
This 17-mile hike presents a continuous visual buffet line of amazing mountain scenery. Gin-clear alpine lakes, cascading streams, beaver ponds, and endless mountain peaks are the norm rather than the exception. Time this two-day hike in late July for an amazing wildflower display. Camping options abound in the Minnehaha Gulch area. As an exclamation point to the hike it ends at the base of the famous Mid-Way Creek Trail
If you have a day to hike, and then another day to recover, jot this remote trail down on your 'Things to do while in Aspen list.' This mountain path covers 8.8 miles and zigzags near Mill Street Fountain
Despite all of Aspen's boundless natural attractions of mountains and streams, nothing captures a kid's attention more than this simple fountain. Streams of water geyser out of a street-level grate at alternating intervals making it a huge public sprinkler for kids to run through. On hot days, the fountain is full of kids, many who bring balloons and balls to balance on the geysers of water. Parents can keep an eye on the kids from an adjacent table at the Mount Massive Golf Course
North America's highest golf course is set in the natural surroundings of the Arkansas River Valley and features stunning views of over half of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks - including Mt. Elbert, the highest in the state, and equally impressive Mt. Massive, the second highest. No condos, homes or highways crowd the fairways - the local residents are elk, deer, fox and squirrels. With affordable fees, a family friendly atmosphere, and a meticulously maintained, professionally operated course, it's no wonder Mt. Massive golf courses is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Located less than an hour from Vail and Summit County, less than two hours from Denver metro and Aspen, the drive to historic Leadville/Lake County affords guests the opportunity to cross the "Top-of-the-Rockies" scenic byway and enjoy the best of Colorado's high mountain vistas - all on the way to a memorable golf outing and pleasant stay in and around the quaint, authentic Victorian town of Leadville.
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Pam Driscoll Gallery
If you are in the market for life-size bronzes of children, or just curious as to what one looks like, this gallery has an entire room full of them.
Besides the collection of kids, you can take home a life-sized butler. Nature lovers will dig the overgrown bronze frog and the towering bear. Massive mountain landscapes and Paris street paintings adorn the walls.
If the backyard needs something truly unique, you can check out one of the large fountains and wishing wells. Although this Cooper Avenue Mall gallery is on the small side, the artwork is some of the largest in town. More »
Pismo Fine Art Glass
There are simply some places you would not want to experience the "you break it, you buy it" rule. Pismo Fine Art Glass is one of those places. Specializing in art glass creations, this gallery has been developing a devoted following of collectors for almost 20 years.You will find everything from decorative collectibles like paperweights and vases to fine art pieces made with optical glass. With four Colorado location: Aspen, Vail, Beaver Creek and Denver. More »
Rio Grande Trail
If you are in search of a leisurely walk that does not require hiking boots, wander down this scenic paved path. It follows the twisting Roaring Fork River and is remarkably full of dense forest. Besides the occasional backyards of several homes, the path offers little indication of Aspen's presence. Benches provide perfect perches to absorb the river/forest serenity. The 16-mile path leads all the way to Woody Creek. Most tourists, however, favor it for an easy summer stroll when staying in town. The trailhead is right behind the Aspen Post Office.
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Rocky Mountain Institute
Established in 1982 by resource analysts, L. Hunter Lovins and Amory B. Lovins, this environmentally oriented and constructed think tank is the place to go to be inspired about future resource management, new technologies and ideas. One of the prototypes of "green building," the research center uses passive solar, earth-sheltering and superinsulation and doesn't need a conventional heating system despite the mountain climate.
Stressing market-based solutions, the Institute demonstrates to individuals, businesses, communities, and even to governments, how to encourage job growth, protect human and natural capital, and increase profit and competition, mostly by simply boosting efficiency.
Guided tours of the facilities are available on Fridays at 2 P.M., but you can guide yourself any other day of the week, during business hours.
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Silver Circle Ice Rink
This is the alpine version of New York City's Rockefeller Plaza ice rink, minus, of course, nine-million people. Located in the center of town, it offers a well-maintained ice surface. With the mountains and downtown Aspen as a backdrop, the rink looks like the kind of place where Kathy Lee Gifford would film a Christmas special. While parents shop, it is a great place to leave the kids. Skate rentals are available.
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Silver Queen Gondola
If you want to summit a mountain, but do not want to huff-and-puff up a hiking trail to do so, this gondola ride provides a muscle-happy alternative. It silently glides above tall stands of pine and affords spectacular mountain views as it ascends to the summit of Ajax Mountain at 11,212 feet. The views from up top are stunning, especially during late July when the optic-amazing wildflowers bloom. Pack accordingly because the summit temperature will be cool. Rates: USD16 adults, USD10 kids (4-12).
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Smuggler Mountain Road
If you are seeking a mountain bike trail that does not require driving out of town, pedal up to this old mining road. The opening two miles of loose-graveled switchbacks dominate the ride until you reach the Iowa mine. From there you can either bounce back down, or continue on for the Hunter Creek Loop, which covers just under eight miles and returns you to Aspen via Red Mountain Road. Follow residential Smugglers Mountain Road until you reach the well-marked trailhead.
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Snowmass Club Cross Country Center
Lost amidst all the Snowmass ski hype is its cross-country center. It offers 80 kilometers of groomed double-tracks, making it perfect for enjoying the area's eye-protruding scenery at a leisurely pace. And better yet, it is free. An on-site pro shop rents skis and snowshoes, and offers demo packages by Fisher and Salomon. Tuning and all-important waxing are available. Even when the shop closes, the course is open 24 hours a day. Skiing under a full Colorado moon is something worth experiencing.
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Snowmass Club Golf Course
This Irish links type course will challenge all golfers with stunning scenery and a challenging course. There is a beautiful new club house with a full-service lunch, bar and apres-golf and tennis menus.
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Snowmass Mountain
The youngest of Aspen's four-mountain system is also the most diverse. Twenty lifts service 83 trails which feature bumps and glades for experts, groomed cruising runs for intermediates and beginners, and two Terrain Parks and two half-pipes for snowboarders. Its diversity makes it ideal for families with varying ski levels. Food and beverages can be purchased from five on-mountain restaurants. Lessons are offered for all levels, as well as a parent-happy childcare center. Lift tickets: USD68 adults, USD63 seniors; USD53 kids (13-17), USD43 kids (7-12).
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Snowmass Village
Whether it's skiing, mountain biking, hiking, or some other mountain pursuit, sports are the main reason people generally choose to visit the town of Snowmass. A quiet place to get away from Aspen's glitzy hustle bustle, Snowmass is a resort village composed mostly of condos and definitely geared towards the more adventurous and outdoorsy types. In summer it's a pleasant getaway only 12 miles from Aspen in which to enjoy the lovely mountain setting, while in winter the skiing at Snowmass Mountain is among the best in the state. Don't look for any unique lodgings, fancy nightspots, or historical landmarks here; rather, the spectacular mountain setting makes Snowmass a favorite with skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, and those looking to enjoy Colorado's spectacular mountain scenery.
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T-Lazy 7 Ranch
For over 60 years, this family ranch has been leading vacationers into the pristine Colorado backcountry via horseback. Located only five minutes from Aspen, it offers guided day trips, including one to the famed Maroon Bells. The truly adventurous can arrange for two- to three-day pack trips, which include cooked meals by the staff. During the winter, jingle through the snow on a sleigh ride pulled by a Belgian draft horse (laughing all the way is optional). Reservations are required for all rides.
Times vary due to season and specific trips; office: 9am-5pm daily. More »
The J-Bar
Recalling days in the old west, when miners and cowboys bellied up to the bar looking for a cold one, the Jerome Bar, or J-Bar as the locals call it, has been a favorite in Aspen for over a hundred years. The pigskin covered stools, hand-carved maple bar, pressed tin ceiling, and silver inlaid marble floors all lend to the nineteenth-century frontier ambiance that will have you checking the calendar. The bar offers a full range of drinks including signature cocktails, and local and imported beers. Bottled water, juices, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and espresso drinks are also available to the weary traveler looking for something a little lighter, as well as appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers.
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Toklat Gallery
Given the fact that this art gallery is remotely located in the Castle Creek Valley in an old log cabin that is across the street from the Ashcroft Ghost town, underscores its one-of-a-kind feel. Built in 1948, it has become world renown for earthy, handcrafted art. The gallery houses one of the finest collections of Zapotec rugs in North America. There are also ceramic sculptures, pottery, marble jewelry, custom carved doors and handcrafted wood furniture. Many of the items can be custom made. Just the drive alone through the stunning Castle Creek valley is worth the visit.
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Tube Town
Careening down Snowmass Mountain on your belly does not sound fun if you are on skis. But to a child on an inner tube, it is the pinnacle of winter fun. This new addition to the area, located on Assay Hill, has been a huge hit with both kids and adults. For a mere USD15, you get unlimited runs and full access to a specially designed sledding tube. An adult must accompany kids ages four through six. Tickets can be purchased at the Tube Town yurt.
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Wagner Park
Located in the center of town, this park, which is the envy of every developer, defines Aspen's commitment to athletics. It encompasses almost two blocks and features a large playing field with rugby field goal posts, softball backstops and temporary soccer nets. Local youth and adult teams favor it for practices, and others use it for Frisbee and pick-up football games. Swings and slides border the Mill Street side, as does one of the only public bathrooms in town. It also serves as a great perch for people watching.
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Wheeler Opera House
Since 1889 this landmark has been the center of Aspen's cultural scene. Listed on the National Registrar of Historical Places, the building has experienced two major renovations and looks today like it did when it first opened. Lectures, concerts, musicals, community theater, and foreign and independent film showings keeps its stage occupied almost every day of the year. Do not expect ample legroom when seated. The interior's detailed woodwork, however, will leave you in such awe that you will not even notice the cramped space.
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Wheeler/Stallard House Museum
During the height of Aspen's silver boom in 1888, Jerome Wheeler built this stunning Queen Anne home for his wife. But after his wife refused to live in it, Wheeler was stuck with an empty mansion until 1905, when Edgar and Mary Stallard moved in and occupied the place for 40 years.
The Aspen Historical Society bought the estate in 1969 and it has been a house museum every since. Displays include an 1892 Knabe piano, which Albert Schweitzer played at the 1949 Goethe convocation, Renaissance Revival furniture, 10th Mountain Division uniforms and ski equipment, and dolls dating back to the 1880s.
Admission is free. More »