No Colorado experience is complete without a trip to Aspen. Whether you’re visiting for outdoor adventures, world-class skiing, or Aspen’s legendary après-ski culture, we’ve got a few suggestions to ensure your trip is exceptional.
Top Five Must-Do Aspen Activities for All Seasons
Whether you’re road-tripping from Denver or coming from afar, Aspen has something for everyone year-round. Though it’s challenging to narrow it down from all the possible activities, we came up with what we feel are the best ways for new visitors to experience the best Aspen has to offer.
The thing to remember here is that Aspen is a four-season destination (check out our Colorado fall adventures guide). As locals, we highly recommend coming in the summertime as there are things to see and do that you won’t get any other time of year. The culture and vibe here are second to none, and whether you’re traveling with your family, as a couple, or taking a solo trip, there’s something here for you.
1. Discover America’s Most Awarded Single Malt
The Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge, nestled against a backdrop of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, is a must-visit in any season. The Whiskey Lodge is open year-round for lodge-exclusive whiskey flights, classic cocktails, and delicious alpine-inspired eats to please every palate. Plus, you’ll have access to distillery-only limited-edition whiskies, including our Aspen Exclusive Calvados Cask, finished in barrels previously used to mature France’s famous apple brandy. Our Whiskey Lodge Patio often features live music in the summer, so it’s the perfect place to wind down the day, meet up with friends, and fill your senses with deliciousness.
2. Indulge in Luxury, Aspen-Style
Nobody does luxury like Aspen. Whether you rent a private mountain lodge or choose a spa resort with all the amenities, this is the sweet life at its finest. For the ultimate in service, luxury, fine dining, and après-ski, we suggest checking out the top recommended stays in Aspen; you’ll find a range of options to suit your preferences, from private and pampered retreats to centrally located accommodations.
3. Toast to Winter at Wintersköl™
Aspen has been celebrating Wintersköl since 1951. Every year since, Aspen puts on a multi-day festival that takes place in mid-December on the mountains and around Aspen and Snowmass. It’s a celebration of winter and all its glory! Visitors can enjoy incredible snow sculptures, a craft beer festival, an infamous soup contest (Soupskol™), and a torchlight parade descent down the mountain that can be seen for miles around. Visitors can see films, attend a disco dance party on the skating rink, and cap off the night at the bonfire while you watch the fireworks and enjoy sweet treats from local vendors. It’s free to walk through. Movies, live music performances, beer, wine, and spirits samples require tickets, which can be purchased in advance or on site.
4. Revel in Aspen’s Après-Ski Scene
It’s no secret people don’t always come to Aspen to ski. And even if skiing is the main event, the après-ski is the real hot ticket. Imagine gathering around a roaring fire with a whiskey cocktail, surrounded by friends old and new. A local musician fills the room with tunes you love as the snow falls outside, powdering the slopes for tomorrow’s run. Your thoughts drift to the hot tub, where you’ll melt the day away in preparation for another day on the slopes.
5. Take a Gondola Ride to the Top of a Mountain
Gondola rides and Aspen Snowmass are a must-do when you’re in Aspen any time of year. Springtime wildflower viewing, get access to high-altitude hiking trails and ziplining in the Lost Forest, enjoy incredible outdoor dining, go fishing in a mountain pond, play disc golf, take in top-of-the-mountain events, ride an alpine roller coaster, and take in the view from 11,000 feet. The gondola is open year-round, and if you don’t think you can get it all done in a day, they offer three-day tickets, so you don’t have to choose.
Visit the Aspen Whiskey Lodge
Now that we’ve piqued your curiosity for all things Aspen, we’d bet you’re already planning your next trip! Sign up for alerts to be informed of the latest news and happenings at Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge. We welcome visitors in spring, summer, fall, and winter, and our local staff will be happy to help you make the most out of your trip. See you in Aspen!
