Aspen, Colorado has been on our must-go list since the moment we moved to Colorado! In celebration of Tylers birthday, we carved out some time over a long weekend to adventure as a family. We packed up and set off on our –hour adventure from Denver to Aspen.
Let me just start by saying Aspen is truly the most luxurious mountain getaway. From the picturesque mountains, world-renowned skiing, designer shopping, fine dinning and overall prestige…this is by no means a typical mountain destination.
Aspen is a place where people want to be “seen” and every venture out on the town is a statement. Obviously it would have been awkward to snap photos of people on the street, but man it was a sight. Every (I mean every) person we saw was decked out in designer and I’m not talking well-known winter wear brands like North Face, Patagonia, Helly Hansen, Arc’teryx, etc. I am talking about Prada, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Balenciaga, Channel, etc. From the hats and gloves, all the way to the jackets and snow boots! Yes, we felt very underdressed in our still very nice winter gear.
It is also no surprise it is celebrity and who’s-who getaway destination. Arriving into town, we passed the airport which was lined with maybe a hundred private jets all parked on the jetway. We have always heard about how incredible Aspen is, but we were definitely surprised by how at times over-the-top the location really is.
Walking downtown, you will find streets and streets of designer shopping. It is definitely not a typical mountain town with fun restaurants and “boutique” shops….think more Rodeo Drive, but in the mountains. Luxurious, four-wheel drive sports cars and private “black” SUV’s shuffling passengers all over town. Upscale, fine dining restaurants offering a unique ambiance and unparalleled food quality. Also, not the most kid-friendly. When we entered a new restaurant, we were never offered a high chair and often felt like it was an “inconvenience” for us to have Hudson with us. Personally, we didn’t mind at all, but if you have more than one child (requiring a high chair) don’t expect the royal treatment.
Unless you have a nanny who can watch your kids while you go “out”, just expect it to not be the most family-friendly destination particularly in downtown Aspen; however, when we popped over to Snowmass (also a part of Aspen, 10 minutes from downtown) that had a much different atmosphere. Families where everywhere! There is an entire separate village and community over there, so if you are looking for a more family-friendly spot…head to Snowmass.
Overall, it was an incredible trip and we will definitely be back in the summer-time to enjoy the lakes, fly-fishing, hiking, biking and so much more! We are also so looking forward to seeing all of the beautiful Aspen trees change color in the fall. It truly is a year-round destination. Check out our favorites below.
Where to Stay
W Hotel ($$$)
We stayed at the W hotel located right at the base of the mountain and steps from downtown. It was recently built and offers a swanky, modern feel. Clean lines and minimalist decor in the rooms offer a luxurious feel. It is definitely a “hip” location, with music jamming as you walk into the lobby, a regular DJ mixing, lobby cocktail lounge and rooftop bar/ swimming pool. You will typically find a bit of a younger crowd who are looking for some action and nightlife, but also have the means to stay at an upscale hotel.
- Valet Parking | $52 per night (no self-parking available)
- Resort Fee | $50 per night
- Kid Friendly | Yes, cribs available for setup in the room. Bathroom is “open”, so please note there is no ideal separate space for sleeping baby.
- Book Here!
Let’s Eat
If you are looking for a place to be a bit more economical, Aspen is not your place. Like I said, it is the vacation destination for the who’s-who, so that comes with a price tag. Honestly, most places were a bit over-priced for the basics; however, there are two places that are a must-go and well worth the premium.
- French Alpine Bistro ($$$)| If you have read any other blogs about “best restaurants” in Aspen, one place that is always at the top of the list is this place! Everyone praises this place including: The New York Times, Vogue, Food Network and many others! It is absolutely incredible! From the unparalleled ambiance to the quality of the food, you will not be disappointed. From French onion soup, croque madame, crepes, fondue, seafood…not one thing on the menu is not divine. It is small and intimate, you be sure to make reservations for dinner! If you are looking to pop-in for lunch, try to go right when they open so you get a table. You can not leave Aspen without eating here!
- The White House Tavern ($$$)| When I think “tavern”, I think more of a rugged, hole-in-the-wall escape….not this place. From the moment you walk in and smell a delicious smoky aroma, look up to the beautiful exposed vaulted ceiling and see chefs preparing gourmet food in front of you, you will understand this is no hole-in-the-wall place. Beautiful leather seating, exposed brick and white linens make this place more upscale dining experience, but absolutely delightful. They are known for their premium sandwiches, shareable snacks and selection of distinctive wines, beers and cocktails. It is also a small location with limited seating, so plan accordingly!
Another place we heard is an incredible “experience” is The Pine Creek Cookhouse. Nestled in the scenic Castle Creek Valley (30 minutes outside of Aspen), The Pine Creek Cookhouse is a remote American Alpine culinary experience. What is so unique about it is that you book an experience on their property and then eat! For example in the winter, enjoy a Ski, Snowshoe or Horse Drawn Sleigh tour around the property and then sit down for lunch or dinner. Be sure to book in advance and designate a day of your trip to fully immerse in this experience!
Explore
Aspen is such a fun place to explore. From walking/shopping downtown, skiing the multiple mountains, playing in the snow, to venturing through multi-million dollar residential neighborhoods…there is something for everyone! Traveling with Hudson does have its limitations, but that just means we get to enjoy different activities in this particular season and look forward to new memories/ different experiences in the future!
- Shop | As I mentioned, Aspen is a renowned shopping destination with various designers offering unique collection offerings specific to their clientele in Aspen. From Montclair, Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Channel, Prada and many more!
- John Denver Sanctuary | Have you ever heard of John Denver or the song “Rocky Mountain High”? If so, stop by the sanctuary honoring him just a few steps from downtown. The sanctuary features beautiful gardens, bridges crossing the Roaring Folk River, picnic benches and more! The beautiful walking path also connects to other parks and is at the center of high-end surrounding neighborhoods.
- Gondola Ride | Take the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of the mountain to the Sundeck Restaurant. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and opportunity to see a birds-eye view of the charming downtown. (It is operating year-round, with a few select closure dates. You don’t have to purchase a lift ticket in the winter, simply opt for the “sightseeing” pass)
- Snowmass Village | Jump in the car or take hotel transportation to Snowmass Village. It is a beautiful drive into the village nestled back into the canyon. Along the way, you will see cross-country ski courses, snow-mobiling, ice skating and much more! Inside the village you will find fun places to eat or simply enjoy the ski-in and ski-out atmosphere.
- Residential Neighborhood Exploration | Tyler and I absolutely love driving around new places and exploring the local neighborhoods. Aspen has some of the most prestigious and expensive real estate in the world. With many places close by starting at 10 million and working their way up from there! Enjoy a drive seeing the neighborhoods, while enjoying the beautiful views surrounding the town. (Also, if you are like us with a little one, drive around while your little one takes their nap…don’t get stuck in the hotel room when you could be out adventuring!)
Crist Adventures 