Attractions
Top Attractions in Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado, is a world-renowned destination that offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all interests. From natural wonders to historical sites, cultural experiences to entertainment venues, Aspen has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top 25 attractions that make Aspen a must-visit destination.
The best time to visit Aspen depends on your interests. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers mild temperatures perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. Fall is a beautiful time to see the changing foliage, and spring is a quieter season with fewer crowds.
To get to Aspen from the city center, you can take a bus or shuttle, rent a car, or hire a taxi. Many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the town on foot.
The Maroon Bells are two 14,000-foot peaks in the Elk Mountains, known for their stunning beauty and iconic reflection in Maroon Lake. The area offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Address: Maroon Creek Road, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 945-2521
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails
- Best time to visit: Summer and fall for hiking and leaf-peeping
- Safety tips: Be prepared for high altitude and changing weather conditions
Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax, is a world-class ski resort that offers challenging terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. In the summer, the mountain is open for hiking, biking, and sightseeing.
- Address: 601 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 920-0755
- Amenities: Ski rentals, ski school, restaurants, parking
- Best time to visit: Winter for skiing, summer for hiking and biking
- Safety tips: Always ski or ride within your ability level and obey all posted signs and warnings
The Wheeler Opera House is a historic theater that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including music, dance, comedy, and film. The building dates back to 1889 and features stunning Victorian architecture.
- Address: 320 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 920-5770
- Amenities: Box office, concessions, restrooms
- Best time to visit: Year-round, depending on the performance schedule
- Cultural significance: The Wheeler Opera House is a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of Aspen’s rich cultural heritage
The Aspen Art Museum is a non-collecting institution that presents rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from around the world. The museum’s unique architecture, designed by Shigeru Ban, is a work of art in itself.
- Address: 637 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 925-8050
- Amenities: Gift shop, rooftop café, free admission
- Best time to visit: Year-round, closed on Mondays
- Unique features: The museum’s woven wood screen exterior is a stunning example of innovative design
Independence Pass is a scenic mountain pass that reaches an elevation of 12,095 feet. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and leaf-peeping in the fall.
- Address: Highway 82, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 945-3319
- Amenities: Scenic overlooks, hiking trails, restrooms
- Best time to visit: Summer and fall, closed in winter
- Safety tips: Drive carefully and be prepared for high altitude and changing weather conditions
Aspen Highlands is a ski resort known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of the Maroon Bells. In the summer, the resort offers hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic chairlift rides.
- Address: 1600 Maroon Creek Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 925-1220
- Amenities: Ski rentals, ski school, restaurants, parking
- Best time to visit: Winter for skiing, summer for hiking and biking
- Safety tips: Always ski or ride within your ability level and obey all posted signs and warnings
Smuggler Mine
Smuggler Mine is a historic silver mine that operated from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the mine and learn about Aspen’s mining history.
- Address: 110 Smuggler Mountain Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 925-2049
- Amenities: Guided tours, gift shop, restrooms
- Best time to visit: Summer, tours operate daily
- Local legend: Smuggler Mine was one of the most productive silver mines in the area, and its success helped put Aspen on the map
Buttermilk is a ski resort known for its gentle slopes and family-friendly atmosphere. In the summer, the resort offers hiking and biking trails, as well as a disc golf course.
- Address: 38700 CO-82, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 925-1220
- Amenities: Ski rentals, ski school, restaurants, parking
- Best time to visit: Winter for skiing, summer for hiking and biking
- Good for families: Buttermilk is an ideal resort for beginners and families, with plenty of easy terrain and a relaxed atmosphere
The John Denver Sanctuary is a memorial park dedicated to the memory of the famous singer-songwriter, who called Aspen home. The park features rock gardens, a perennial flower garden, and several bronze sculptures.
- Address: 470 Rio Grande Pl, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 920-5120
- Amenities: Benches, walking paths, restrooms
- Best time to visit: Year-round, open daily from dawn to dusk
- Cultural significance: John Denver was a beloved figure in Aspen, and the sanctuary is a tribute to his life and music
Aspen Saturday Market
The Aspen Saturday Market is a weekly farmers market that takes place in downtown Aspen from June to October. The market features local produce, artisanal foods, crafts, and live music.
- Address: E Hopkins Ave & S Hunter St, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 379-1346
- Amenities: Food vendors, restrooms nearby
- Best time to visit: Saturdays from June to October, 8:30 am to 3:00 pm
- Shopping and dining: The market is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as fresh local produce and prepared foods
Grottos Trail
The Grottos Trail is a short but scenic hiking trail that leads to a series of unique rock formations and waterfalls. The trail is located just outside of Aspen and is a popular spot for picnicking and exploring.
- Address: Grottos Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 945-2521 (White River National Forest)
- Amenities: Picnic areas, restrooms nearby
- Best time to visit: Summer and fall, open daily from dawn to dusk
- Safety tips: The rocks can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes and use caution when exploring the grottos
Aspen Recreation Center
The Aspen Art Walk is a self-guided tour of the town’s many art galleries and public art installations. Visitors can pick up a map at the Aspen Chamber of Commerce and explore the town’s vibrant art scene at their own pace.
- Address: Throughout downtown Aspen
- Contact: (970) 925-1940 (Aspen Chamber of Commerce)
- Amenities: Map available at the Chamber of Commerce
- Best time to visit: Year-round, check gallery hours
- Unique features: The Art Walk showcases Aspen’s thriving art community, with a wide range of styles and mediums represented
The Aspen Saturday Market is a weekly farmers market that takes place in downtown Aspen from June to October. The market features local produce, artisanal foods, crafts, and live music.
- Address: E Hopkins Ave & S Hunter St, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 379-1346
- Amenities: Food vendors, restrooms nearby
- Best time to visit: Saturdays from June to October, 8:30 am to 3:00 pm
- Shopping and dining: The market is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as fresh local produce and prepared foods
The Grottos Trail is a short but scenic hiking trail that leads to a series of unique rock formations and waterfalls. The trail is located just outside of Aspen and is a popular spot for picnicking and exploring.
- Address: Grottos Rd, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 945-2521 (White River National Forest)
- Amenities: Picnic areas, restrooms nearby
- Best time to visit: Summer and fall, open daily from dawn to dusk
- Safety tips: The rocks can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes and use caution when exploring the grottos
Aspen Chapel
The Aspen Chapel is a non-denominational chapel that offers services and events for Aspen’s spiritual community. The chapel is known for its stunning stained glass windows and peaceful atmosphere.
- Address: 0077 Meadowood Dr, Aspen, CO 81611
- Contact: (970) 925-7184
- Amenities: Worship services, parking
- Best time to visit: Year-round, check website for service times
- Architecture: The Aspen Chapel features beautiful stained glass windows and a unique A-frame design
Tips For Visiting
- Make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season. Aspen is a popular destination, and hotels, restaurants, and activities can book up quickly.
- Don’t try to do too much in one trip. With so many attractions to choose from, it can be tempting to try to see and do everything. But sometimes less is more. Pick a few must-see attractions and take the time to really experience them.
- Be prepared for the altitude. Aspen sits at an elevation of 7,908 feet, which can take some getting used to. Drink plenty of water, take it easy on your first few days, and listen to your body.
- Dress in layers. Aspen’s weather can be unpredictable, with cool mornings and evenings even in the summer. Pack layers so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.
- Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Aspen is a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy all that life has to offer. So take a deep breath of that crisp mountain air, soak in the stunning scenery, and let yourself be fully present in the moment. You won’t regret it.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado, is a truly unique and special destination that offers something for everyone. From world-class skiing and outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and culinary delights, Aspen has it all.
One of the things that makes Aspen so special is its stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking through wildflower-filled meadows in the summer, watching the leaves change color in the fall, or carving fresh powder on the slopes in the winter, Aspen’s scenery is sure to take your breath away.
But Aspen is more than just a pretty face. The town is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with world-class museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. From the Aspen Art Museum to the Wheeler Opera House, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the best in visual and performing arts.
And let’s not forget about the food. Aspen is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, with everything from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal or just want to grab a quick bite, Aspen has something to satisfy every craving.
Of course, no trip to Aspen would be complete without experiencing some of the town’s famous outdoor activities. In the winter, Aspen is a skier’s paradise, with four world-class ski resorts offering terrain for every ability level. And in the summer, the options are endless, from hiking and biking to golfing and fly fishing.
As you explore Aspen’s top 25 attractions, be sure to take the time to really experience each one. Whether you’re marveling at the stunning beauty of the Maroon Bells, learning about Aspen’s mining history at the Ashcroft Ghost Town, or sipping a locally brewed beer at the Aspen Brewing Company, each attraction has its own unique story to tell.
And don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Some of Aspen’s most special moments happen when you least expect them, whether it’s stumbling upon a hidden waterfall on a hike or striking up a conversation with a friendly local at a coffee shop.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Aspen today and discover all that this incredible destination has to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, world-class amenities, and endless opportunities for adventure, Aspen is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.