Lonely PlanetAug 7, 2026
The best things to do in Aspen, Colorado
Explore the rich arts and culture scene and outdoor fun that make Aspen more than a glamorous ski town.
25 things in this story
- Maroon BellsSightIconic reddish-brown peaks reflecting in an alpine lake.
- Hallam LakeSightNature preserve home to dozens of species of resident and migratory birds.
- Aspen Center for Environmental StudiesNature reserveManages Hallam Lake and hosts educational programs.
- Aspen MountainSightFrom groomers to bump runs, Aspen Mountain delivers town-to-summit skiing and unforgettable après steps from the…
- Aspen HighlandsSightThe Aspen Skiing Company operates Aspen Highlands.
- ButtermilkSightLearn, progress and play at Buttermilk—gentle terrain, great lessons, family zones and famous terrain parks at Aspen…
- Silver Queen GondolaSightRises from downtown Aspen to Aspen Mountain's high alpine landscape.
- Bonnie'sRestaurantCozy mid-mountain spot known for pancakes and apple strudel.
- SundeckRestaurantOffers lunch, drinks, people-watching and mountain views.
- Roaring Fork ValleyTrailDesignated a gold-level ride center with over 300 miles of trails.
- Snowmass Bike ParkTrailOffers 25 miles of purpose-built downhill trails for all skill levels.
- Elk Camp GondolaSightTransports bikers to the top of Snowmass Bike Park.
- Rio Grande TrailTrail42-mile paved, relatively flat route between Aspen and Glenwood Springs.
- Aspen VeloPlaceOutfitter for e-bike rentals.
- Wheeler / Stallard MuseumMuseumAHS offers a regular schedule of guided tours during the summer and winter seasons AND à la carte experiences by…
- Holden / Marolt Mining & Ranching MuseumMuseumBrings Aspen's mining and ranching heritage to life.
- Wheeler Opera HouseTheatreHistoric 1889 venue hosting diverse performances.
- Independence PassSightHighway traversing the Continental Divide with sweeping mountain views.
- GrottosSightShort hike leads to ice caves, waterfalls, and smooth boulders.
- Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer StudiesGalleryExplores the legacy of artist Herbert Bayer on the Aspen Institute campus.
- Aspen InstituteSightCampus designed by Herbert Bayer, blending architecture, art, and landscape.
- Aspen Meadows ResortHotelOffers immersion into Herbert Bayer's vision.
- Aspen Music Festival and SchoolFestivalEight-week summer event with hundreds of performances.
- Michael Klein Music TentSightVenue for Aspen Music Festival performances.
- SnowmassSight
