Welcome to Aspen
A world-class mountain town nestled in the Rockies’ playground
Surrounded by the Rockies, Aspen is the Roaring Fork Valley’s place to be. Colorado’s famous Fourteeners line the valley and create an intimate feel—in wintertime there is only one way in or out of this mountain oasis.
Following the arrival of Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke in the 1940s, Aspen adopted “The Aspen Idea” as a new community vision focused on mind, body, and spirit that still influences the town’s culture today.
Its rich mining history dating back to the 1880s and proximity to the mountains inspire a welcoming mix of preserved Victorians alongside mountain modern homes and estates which, combined with luxury condos and cottages, offer styles for any and all tastes and needs.
What To Love
- A mountain oasis with something for everyone
- Outdoor adventure from your doorstep
- World-class shopping, dining, and arts.
People & Lifestyle
Aspen locals are laid-back adventurers with a well-rounded appreciation for outdoor activities, arts and culture, and community. The surrounding mountains and rivers create incredible opportunities for both adventure and serenity that really draw the locals in.
Highly-regarded public safety, endless recreational opportunities, and exceptionally-rated schools make Aspen a great place for family. Retirees also find Aspen to be a perfect post-professional location to unwind and enjoy a simpler pace of life without sacrificing big-city dining and cultural amenities.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Mountain terrain demands the attention of Aspen vacationers and locals alike, but don’t worry—the shopping and dining here are also first-class! Boutique stores and high-end restaurants offer amazing opportunities for more laid-back days in Aspen’s downtown core.
Whether grabbing a quick espresso and a fresh-baked muffin from Paradise Bakery—their “Locals Favorite” breakfast burritos are otherworldly good—or dressing up for Betula’s French Pan-American cuisine, you won’t be disappointed by Aspen eats.
After filling your belly, you’re sure to want to fill up a couple of shopping bags as well. Although Aspen’s core is compact, there are still over 200 stores to browse. With high-end designer stores and art galleries sitting alongside locally-owned outdoor supply stores, there’s something for every shopper.
Things To Do
Everyone can find something they like to do in Aspen. While it’s most known for its outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, cycling, and rafting, there is also a great deal of opportunities to experience arts and culture.
Established in 1998, the Aspen Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays from 8:30 AM to 1 PM from mid-June to early September and is packed full of local products and artisan goods. There’s also the Food & Wine Classic, a three-day premier event usually held in July. Media lovers won’t want to miss the Aspen Music Festival or Aspen Film Festival.
For those who want to explore the outdoors, there’s something for every season. Aspen is most known for its beautiful ski slopes. In warm months, hike the Ute Trail and Smuggler Mountain Trail or cycle up toward the Maroon Bells, Ashcroft, and Independence Pass. There are many different options for whitewater rafting, such as Elk Mountain Expeditions and Blazing Adventures.
Schools
Aspen is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Aspen School District, K-12, top-rated public school system, student-teacher ratio of 12:1
- Wildwood School, preschool, deep focus on artistic development and exploration of the environment
- Aspen Country Day School, K-8, in a mountain landscape, distinct focus on mind, body, and soul with two yearly outdoor expedition
