Things To Do In Aspen: Aspen Activities and Attractions
If you're staying at the Ritz Carlton Residence Club Aspen Highlands, then you already know about the amazing ski-in/ski-out fun to be had at Aspen Highlands Mountain, or the trendy apres ski scene at the Ritz's Willow Creek Bistro. If you are thinking about seeing the town and participating in some of the fun local activities, here are some suggestions:
1. Foodie Food Tours: This walking tour of Aspen takes tourists to various Aspen eateries and shops. Foodie Food Tours provides tastings, local's tips on where to go and what to eat, and the opportunity to meet restaurant owners and chefs.
Food tours take place Wednesdays and Fridays - comfortable shoes recommended!
2. Stillwater Ranch's Aspen Carriage and Sleigh Tours: Stillwater Ranch offers horse drawn sleigh, carriage and wagon rides around the ranch and around Aspen. Public and private rides are avaible.
3. Expert Skiers: Make sure to visit the legendary Aspen Mountain/Ajax, well known for its challenging terrain.
4. Visit the John Denver Sanctuary, a peaceful Aspen park commemorating the late musician.
5. Take a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain and enjoy the spectacular views.
6. Go hiking during the summer, or snow shoeing/cross country skiing in the winter, on one of Aspen's many scenic trails - Grottos Trail, Hunter Valley Trail, Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, Crater Lake Trail, and many more.
7. Dare to visit the famous Caribou Club!
8. Krabloonik Restaurant & Dog Sledding: Take a ride through the mountains and arrive at the Krabloonik Restaurant. Enjoy game dishes and picturesque Snowmass views of Mt. Daly and Capitol Peak.
9. Enjoy dinner and a show at the Crystal Palace Dinner Theatre.
10. Visit the Aspen Art Museum, located on the Rio Grande Trail.
11. Peruse the Wheeler/Stallard Museum and learn about Aspen's modern history.
12. Hang out at Eric's Bar. There are 3 rooms - The Cigar Bar, Su Casa (a Mexican restaurant) and Eric's Bar. Play pool, eat some Mexican food, or have some scotch while smoking a cigar.
13. Go ice skating at the Silver Circle Ice Rink at the base of Aspen Mountain.
The Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands is the most luxurious Aspen ski resort in the popular ski vacation spot, Aspen, Colorado. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Aspen vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Private Residence Club luxury ski condo. These spacious Aspen luxury rentals are two to four bedrooms and are perfect for group ski vacations. Each Ritz Carlton Aspen luxury rental features master bed and bathrooms, stone fireplace, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands are granted full use of the resort amenities, like outdoor heated pool, ski valet, 5-star dining, fitness center and spa, and Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Aspen Restaurants: Italian Cuisine and Aspen Pizzerias
Aspen has a variety of Italian restaurants to choose from, from fine dining to pizzerias.
Photo Credit: Mezzaluna Aspen
Mezzaluna Aspen is a very popular Italian restaurant, especially during happy hour and apres ski. The bar scene is lively and there is a patio for outside dining. Mezzaluna serves delicious wood oven burned pizzas and Italian appetizers during happy hour and apres ski, and typical Italian entrees during lunch and dinner.
Brunelleschi's Pizza serves gourmet thin-crust pizza, paninis and pasta. This casually elegant Italian eatery has a fun atmosphere and is a local's favorite. They have live music on occasion, and during the summer months open the patio for outdoor dining. Try the basil pesto pizza with spinach, pine nuts and gorgonzola, the Paisano (jalapeno chorizo, onions, cilantro, and avocado) or the truffle pizza.
Campo de Fiori in Aspen is a reliable Italian restaurant with a lively atmosphere and traditional Italian fare at a reasonable price. The bar scene is energetic, making this a great place to grab some food and wine and relax after a long day of skiing.
Photo Credit: Taster's Pizza
Taster's Pizza serves gourmet pizza, calzones, and stromboli, as well as salads, sandwiches, pizza rolls and garlic bread. Try their Powder Pie, an all white pizza. Taster's also has beer and wine.
Photo Credit: Ski Town Restaurants
Aspen Highlands Pizza Company is located at the base of Aspen Highlands Mountain. They serve big slices of cheese pizza for $4, or $5 with a topping. They also have draft beers and microbrews, including selections from local Aspen Brewing Company. There are live bands, local specials, and drink specials to keep patrons entertained and satisfied. Try their Chicago deep-dish style pizza. They also have a very lively apres ski scene.
New York Pizza serves a variety of slices, giant salads, and hot sandwiches (meatball subs, chicken parm subs, etc.). They have a good selection of beers, including some on tap. New York Pizza is open late night.
The Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands is the most luxurious Aspen ski resort in the popular ski vacation spot, Aspen, Colorado. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Aspen vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Private Residence Club luxury ski condo. These spacious Aspen luxury rentals are two to four bedrooms and are perfect for group ski vacations. Each Ritz Carlton Aspen luxury rental features master bed and bathrooms, stone fireplace, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands are granted full use of the resort amenities, like outdoor heated pool, ski valet, 5-star dining, fitness center and spa, and Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Aspen Restaurants: Mexican Cuisine
Can Aspen have good Mexican food? Aspen locals and tourists have agreed that these Mexican restaurants are pretty delicious.
La Cantina is one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in Aspen, frequented by locals and tourists alike. They provide free WiFi and TVs are located at the bar. Try their Queso Fundito, a bowl of melted cheese with fresh tortillas, or their chicken tortilla soup. Vegetarians can try the vegetable tower.
Photo Credit: Zocalito Latin Bistro
Zocalito Latin Bistro serves delicious tapas for lunch and dinner. Their menu features dishes like shrimp and tilapia ceviche, chicken mole with beans, and stuffed poblano peppers. Try one of their raspberry or strawberry margaritas.
La Palapa serves traditional Mexican cuisine. This casual restaurant is more affordable than many places in Aspen. Their menu includes Mexican classics, such as raw oysters topped with shrimp ceviche and avocado.
Photo Credit: Su Casa
Su Casa is part of Aspen Billiards/Eric's Bar, so when you're done having some Yucatán style tacos, burritos, carnitas, enchiladas, camarones, or chips and salsa, you can head over and play some pool, smoke a cigar, or have some cocktails.
The Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands is the most luxurious Aspen ski resort in the popular ski vacation spot, Aspen, Colorado. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Aspen vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Private Residence Club luxury ski condo. These spacious Aspen luxury rentals are two to four bedrooms and are perfect for group ski vacations. Each Ritz Carlton Aspen luxury rental features master bed and bathrooms, stone fireplace, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands are granted full use of the resort amenities, like outdoor heated pool, ski valet, 5-star dining, fitness center and spa, and Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Aspen Restaurants: Casual Dining - American Cuisine
Sometimes you just want a big, hearty meal right off the slopes. These Aspen restaurants will satiate your appetite and replenish your energy so you can make the most out of your ski vacation!
To view a restaurant, scroll down to see the complete list of restaurants.
N9NE Steakhouse
Jimmy's An American Restaurant & Bar
Pitkin County Steakhouse
Little Annie's Eating House
The Restaurant
Pine Creek Cookhouse
The Red Onion
Poppycocks
Woody Creek Tavern
Bad Billy's Restaurant & Bar
Aspen Brewing Company
Hickory House
N9NE Steakhouse
Photo Credit: Eater
This test kitchen allows diners to watch as the chefs prepare unusual concoctions in the demonstration kitchen. Using fresh local ingredients, chefs prepare dishes like applewood smoked salmon dish with cream cheese "snow," (made with liquid nitrogen), sous vide harissa lamb with yogurt, prime aged steaks, Kobe burgers, sashimi, tuna tacos, truffle chicken, and a variety of seasoned veggie sides. Eating at N9NE Steakhouse is definitely an interactive dining experience.
Jimmy's An American Restaurant & Bar
Photo Credit: Jimmy's Aspen
Jimmy's serves classic American cuisine in a Rocky Mountain setting. The bar features knowledgeable bartenders and an award winning selection of tequilas. Jimmy's features live salsa on Saturdays. Try the Rocky Mountain trout, ahi tuna, rotisserie chicken, and freshly baked pretzel sticks brushed with warm butter and accompanied by a side of mustard.
Pitkin County Steakhouse & Tavern
Photo Credit: Pitkin County Steakhouse
This restaurant recently opened this Summer 2010, and has quickly become a local's hangout. There are two separate spaces, the Tavern and the main Dining Room. The Tavern features TVs, shuffle board, 12 beers on tap, live music on occasion, and a separate menu. The Dining Room serves prime, dry aged steaks, fresh fish and other seafood, local produce, and a salad bar. The salad bar features local products like Avalanche cheese and heirloom tomatoes. They also have an extensive wine list and nightly $5 dinner specials.
Little Annie's Eating House
This local's spot serves American classics like BBQ spare ribs, chicken fried steak, Colorado lamb chops, pasta, prime rib, fresh trout, salads, delicious Reubens, and burgers. Little Annie's has a great selection of beers on tap. The ambiance is very rustic and has a lot of character. Patrons always feel that Little Annie's comfort food, ambiance, and prices are a great value.
The Restaurant
Photo Credit: St. Regis Aspen
Diners can eat breakfast, lunch and dinner here and enjoy the cozy atmosphere and exhibition kitchen. They have a prix fixe menu for $45 and Happy Hour Thursday - Sunday from 5 -7pm ($3 beers and $5 wines by the glass).
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Go to the Pine Creek Cookhouse for a real, unpretentious, Rocky Mountain dining experience. The restaurant is located about 20 minutes outside of Aspen at the base of Elk Mountain, and is accessible via skiing, snowshoeing, or horse drawn carriage. Their lunchtime "Skiers Banquet" features salads, bread, and pasta. For dinner, Pine Creek Cookhouse serves plenty of game, including Porcini Dusted Elk, Jack Daniels Marinated Caribou, Alaskan Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Game Meatloaf, as well as vegetarian options.
The Red Onion
Photo Credit: Flickr
This historic Aspen establishment was originally opened in 1892 and had been shut down for the past few years. It was recently re-opened this past summer and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is open until 1 am. The Red Onion's menu features American comfort food like a 1/2 lb Angus Chuck Burger with cheese and fries for $10, Jalapeno Poppers, Chicken Waffles, Steak and Eggs, the Chef's own grandfathers recipe for Meatballs and Sauce, and many other old time Aspen recipes.
Poppycocks
Poppycock's is a breakfast and lunch spot has a main dining room, bar and patio and is dog friendly. Great place to fuel up before hitting the slopes! Their menu includes delicious breakfast fare like oatmeal buttermilk pancakes, homemade pistachio sausage, cornbeef hash, and fruit smoothies.
Wood Creek Tavern
Photo Credit: Woody Creek Tavern
This funky, hippie joint was founded in 1980 and soon became notorious for its anti-establismentarian clientele, one of whom was the famous Hunter Thompson. Woody Creek Tavern is located a few miles from Aspen and is one of the few places that has maintained a true, old school Aspen vibe. The walls are lined with old magazine and newspaper articles, photographs and souvenirs. The menu features free range organic meats and vegetables, steaks, burgers, ribs, chicken, enchiladas, fish tacos, and line caught seafood.
Bad Billy’s Restaurant & Bar
Bad Billy's is a down to earth "dive bar" that has plenty of games to keep you entertained, like shuffle board, foosball, pool table, and video games. You can also watch sports on one of their big flatscreen TVs and eat what the Aspen 2010 Locals Choice Awards claim is the "Best Burger," and grab a beer or cocktail from the "Best Bartender." Check out Bad Billy's Happy Hour from 4 - 6 when well drinks are only $4.50. Highly recommended are the burger, of course, the fish tacos, and sake sangria.
Aspen Brewing Company
Serving local microbrews, light lagers and dark ales at 7,822 ft. above sea level, Aspen Brewing Company is open for tasting and tours every day. There is no kitchen, so bring your own lunch from a nearby restaurant or deli and throw back a cold one.
Boogie’s Diner
Photo Credit: Aspen Skollie Magazine
Boogie's is a retro diner that has a full bar and patio for outside dining. They serve burgers, sandwiches, salads, heart-healthy dishes, homemade desserts, and milkshakes. Thanks to the fun atmosphere, old-school decor, and full beer, wine and cocktail list, this place is fun for kids and adults.
Hickory House
Photo Credit: Hickory House Ribs
This casual local's favorite claims to have the best ribs in Colorado. Hickory House serves BBQ chicken, ribs, pork, Louisiana catfish, and more BBQ specialties as well as a great breakfast.
The Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands is the most luxurious Aspen ski resort in the popular ski vacation spot, Aspen, Colorado. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Aspen vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Private Residence Club luxury ski condo. These spacious Aspen luxury rentals are two to four bedrooms and are perfect for group ski vacations. Each Ritz Carlton Aspen luxury rental features master bed and bathrooms, stone fireplace, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands are granted full use of the resort amenities, like outdoor heated pool, ski valet, 5-star dining, fitness center and spa, and Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Beaver Creek Mountain Cams
Are you curious what Beaver Creek looks like right now? Check out these cameras that stream images of Chair 8, Centennial Lift, the BC Ranch, and the Family Ice Arena. The images are updated every 5 minutes, so you can get an idea of what the weather will be like when you visit.
Aspen Bars and Restaurants with the Best Apres Ski
Aspen is full of places to go grab some food and cocktails after skiing! Here are some of most popular Aspen bars and restaurants with the best apres ski.
To view a restaurant, scroll down to see the complete list of restaurants.
Willow Creek Bistro
Ajax Tavern
Mezzaluna Aspen
39 Degrees
La Cantina
J Bar
Eric's Bar
Red Onion
Willow Creek Bistro
The Ritz Carlton's Willow Creek Bistro is a great apres ski spot. It's located right at the bast of Aspen Highlands Mountain and serves contemporary American cuisine. Try favorites like the pulled BBQ pork sandwich, gourmet grilled cheese, truffle parmesan fries, or gruyere burger.
Ajax Tavern
Photo Credit: Little Nell
Ajax Tavern at the Little Nell is another great choice for apres ski. It is famous for its spectacular views from the base of Aspen Mountain. Ajax Tavern is a great scene for people watching, and they serve French food influenced by local Colorado ingredients. Their menu features dishes like Colorado Lamb Bolognese, Crispy Kurobuta Pork Belly, housemade charcuterie, a raw bar of oysters, crab and shrimp, fondue, bugers, truffle frites, crab gazpacho, and fresh salads.
Mezzaluna Aspen
Photo Credit: Mezzaluna Aspen
Mezzaluna Aspen has a great scene during apres ski. Their apres ski menu features Italian appetizers and a variety of pizzas made in a wood burning oven. Happy Hour is served from 3pm to 5:30pm or until 6:30 at the bar.Read our review of Mezzaluna Aspen.
39 Degrees
Photo Credit: Sky Hotel
The Sky Hotel's lounge, 39 Degrees, has cozy sofas and a fireplace that make it the perfect spot to come and have a drink and some food after a long day of skiing. 39 Degrees serves creative cocktails and delicious burgers, as well as club sandwiches and Venison pot pie. They also serve a late night menu.
La Cantina
La Cantina is a fun Mexican restaurant that many people flock to after skiing for some margaritas and great Mexican food. Try their Queso Fundito - a giant bowl of melted cheese served with fresh tortillas. Read our review of La Cantina.
J Bar
J Bar at Hotel Jerome is a saloon style bar that serves great wings and burgers in a cool atmosphere. Jack Nicholson frequents J Bar.
Eric’s Bar
Photo Credit: Eric's Bar
Eric's Bar has several rooms, the Aspen Billiards room, Eric's Bar, and The Cigar Bar. Perfect for people who want to continue on after apres ski.
Red Onion
The newly re-opened Red Onion is a fun place to grab a bite and some drinks with locals and tourists alike. The Red Onion is a historic Aspen establishment that had been open since 1892, but had closed down in recent years and was just re-opened this past summer. The Red Onion is open late night until 1am and serves classic American and old time Aspen recipes, like burgers, chicken waffles, steak and eggs, and meatballs and sauce. Read our review of the Red Onion.
Related posts:
Aspen Restaurants: Fine Dining in Aspen
Aspen Restaurants: Casual Dining
Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Vacation Rentals
The Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands is the most luxurious Aspen ski resort in the popular ski vacation spot, Aspen, Colorado. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Aspen vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Private Residence Club luxury ski condo. These spacious Aspen luxury rentals are two to four bedrooms and are perfect for group ski vacations. Each Ritz Carlton Aspen luxury rental features master bed and bathrooms, stone fireplace, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands are granted full use of the resort amenities, like outdoor heated pool, ski valet, 5-star dining, fitness center and spa, and Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Colbie Caillat and Michael Bolton to Perform in Lake Tahoe
The Lake Tahoe Music Festival has added two new stars to it's lineup, in addition to the popular Blues Traveler.
Colbie Caillat will be performing at 7pm in Northstar Village. General admission is $35, and preferred seating is $55.
Michael Bolton will perform on August 25th at 7pm. General admission is $45 and preferred seating is $70.
For more information about the Lake Tahoe Music Festival, visit their site: http://tahoemusic.org/
Vail Soul Music Festival
Top R&B, hip hop, alternative rock, blues, and neo soul artists from around the world will join together this August 19-20th in Vail. Some of the artists are Grammy nominees and favorites from last year's event.
On Friday the 19th, Chaz Shepard, Lalah Hathaway, Alex Cuba and Natalie Stewart will perform. Saturday the 20th Ledisi, Ryan Shaw, Liv Warfield, and Lee Englad Jr. will perform. Events include:
- Happy Hour Kickoff Party at the Cascade Lobby
- Family Zone Soul Village Expo at the Lower Green Field.
- Main Stage Performances at 7pm
- VIP Experience Tent at the Ford Amphitheater
- Official After Party
- Soul Strollin' Around/Celeb Meet and Greet
Gourmet on Gore
Gourmet on Gore is a culinary event that takes place during Labor Day Weekend, September 3rd through the 5th. Experience Vail's best restaurants along Gore Creek Drive, as well as wine, beer, and internationally sourced spirits. The gourmet samples are complimentary and the beverage tasting is reasonably priced. The samples will showcase the special dishes served at Vail's popular restaurants.
All ages are welcome, although you must be 21+ to participate in beverage tasting.
This year they will host a new event, a Monday morning brunch!
Gourmet on Gore takes place in the heart of Vail Village, so if you are staying at the Ritz Carlton Vail or Four Seasons Club Vail you will have direct access to this delicious event!