A Summer Guide to Visiting Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, Colorado, is an entirely different vibe in the summer than the winter - and wholly worth it. If you’re looking for a getaway to the mountains, Aspen is the spot offering an array of active and leisurely activities. 

Start your trip by getting up early and heading out to Maroon Bells to see the sunrise. (You’ll need a reservation, so book in advance!) 

Active

There is so much hiking you can do in Aspen. Whether you are looking for something easy, moderate or difficult, there is a trail for everyone. Perhaps fly fishing will hit the spot if you’re looking for something else. Book a fly fishing trip and lunch with Pine Creek Cookhouse. You'll enjoy a day on the creek followed by a delicious elk bratwurst at a vibey lodge. Stand-up paddleboarding and rafting on the Roaring Fork river are always options if you don't feel like fishing. Finally, you can always take the gondola (or hike) up Ajax Mountain to the Sundeck for fun outdoor games, gorgeous views, and drinks. 

Shopping

Go to Kemo Sabe for the ultimate Colorado experience to create a custom cowboy hat branded with your own initials. You'll look and feel like a local! 

Concerts

Catch a show at Belly Up. It is a small venue that brings in exciting performers, perfect for a night out on the town. 

Ajax Tavern: The perfect lunch or afternoon snack spot. I always head here post-hike to sit on the patio at the base of Ajax with a glass of frozen rose and their truffle fries. 

Meat + Cheese: Potentially the best restaurant plus gourmet food shop. Get the margarita (it regularly wins “best margarita in Colorado”) and the rotisserie chicken board (with an extra side of the au jus to dip your bread in.)

Clark's Oyster: Cute and cozy bar with a  fireplace. They have a fabulous lobster roll, excellent Crudo and a delicious burger. And don’t forget about their happy hour! 

French Alpine Bistro: The ultimate Swiss chalet restaurant in Aspen, Colorado. It is all cozy vibes, furs, dark wood, candles and fondue. But, of course, you cannot skip the escargot. 

Whitehouse Tavern: Get here when they open at 11am for an early lunch as they do not take reservations. Their chicken sandwich is what dreams are made of. 

Casa Tua: Comforting Italian restaurant, especially after an active day, with chic cozy cabin vibes and a great patio view of the mountains. 

Paradise Bakery: The perfect spot for a midday snack and coffee or ice cream, their muffins and other baked goods are too good to pass up. 

Betula: A light and airy spot with the best upstairs patio and the most clever cocktails.

Escobar: Fun and whacky club; go for great music, dancing, and an all-around wild night.

Living Room at Hotel Jerome: Kick the night off here with an espresso martini and a snack if you're hungry. 

Hooch: Fabulous cocktail bar to start the night or if you're just looking to enjoy some tasty cocktails in a relaxed environment.