Equally known for its champagne powder on the slopes as for its champagne lifestyle après, Aspen’s reputation as America’s most glamorous ski resort is certainly well-earned. For the best of what this mountain town has to offer, check out our luxe guide below.
To Stay:
Hotel Jerome
This luxe boutique hotel is in the center of town, making it an easy walk to the shops, restaurants, and bars of Aspen. The décor looks like an A-list celebrity’s private mountain lodge. Make sure to grab a coffee at the Ken Fulk-designed Felix Roasting Co. (It’s Insta-worthy to its core).
To Eat:
Meat & Cheese
High-quality cold cuts, soft & hard artisanal cheeses, plus a comfortable atmosphere, whether that be for a to-go order or for-here experience, is what you can expect when coming to this Aspen staple.
French Alpine Bistro
Chamonix, but make it Aspen? Tucked in a cozy room, this spot serves French Alps-style cuisine: brioche, cheese fondue, and crepes are just the start.
To Drink:
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
This place feels refined. You enter the low-lit room and there is a bevy of beautiful booze behind the bar, glistening chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and comfy sofas made for conversations. Order The Last Rose of Oaxaca: Vida Mezcal, Yellow Chartreuse, Habanero Honey, Lemon, Strawberry Preserve.
Escobar Aspen
Warning: This place is not for you if you want to avoid rowdy partying. This underground bar & nightclub is full of attractive 20- & 30-somethings seeking more of a nocturnal après ski scene. Yes, the crowd is inundated with bros. That said, it’s still a fun spot for a night out: DJs playing thumping music, drunk groups of friends dancing, and great cocktails are what you can expect. Also, the bar’s curved ceiling and seductive glowing lights kind of seem — and this is up for interpretation as this is how I perceived it — like a mix between a New York City nightclub and a TWA flight from the ‘50s? I promise you’ll know what I mean if you visit.
To Visit:
Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Snowmass Resort spans four unique mountains, ensuring no lack of challenge or variety for even the most dedicated skier. Plus, physical exhaustion makes the first sip of champagne afterward that much sweeter.
Aspen Art Museum
Spend the morning at Aspen Art Museum in Downtown. The architecture, both inside and outside, is a treat for the eyes. The museum is always putting on great exhibitions — when we went, there was one of Andy Warhol. No matter the show on display, make sure to grab an espresso in their comfy rooftop lounge.
Downtown Aspen
Peruse Downtown Aspen’s boutiques — each one is more high-end than the last. Some splurge-worthy experiences include customizing a cowboy hat at Kemo Sabe and buying comfy-wear at Naked Cashmere. Full or empty wallet, Aspen is a charming mountain-style town that’s great for a two-to-three-hour stroll.
