Travel to Aspen

Travel to Aspen

Once a rustic silver mining town, the Aspen of today still sparkles with all the glamour of visiting celebrities, movie stars and well-heeled holidaymakers. Aspen is surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, with scenery unparalleled anywhere else in the US. Aspen is the perfect place for an energetic ski holiday or for simply enjoying the views, with a mug of hot chocolate, in front of a roaring fire.

Transportation to Aspen

If you cant drive to the remote valley, and youre not a jet-setting celebrity with a private helicopter, the cheapest way to get to Aspen is by Greyhound bus from Denver. Alternatively, there are daily flights from Denver and Phoenix.

What to see

Aspen has all the charm of a small mountain town with added cosmopolitan chic. You can walk everywhere you need to go in town and your wanderings will take you along broad streets, past Victorian houses and by the windows of major designer shops and beautiful boutiques. One of the most notable buildings in town is the Wheeler Opera House, built during the booming days of the silver industry. The best way to enjoy the beautifully restored building is to take in a show here.

The four main ski areas around Aspen are: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. While the skiing at the resorts is among the best in the world, there are other outdoor attractions. Several groups such as the Aspen Historical Society and the Aspen Centre for Environmental Studies can offer tours and provide information about hiking and camping in the area. Snow-shoe and cross-country tours are also available during the winter.

Daytrips

Aspen is located in a fairly remote valley so once you are here, you will want to make the most of it. Its a good idea to get out of the city centre however and enjoy the mountains on the many hiking and ski trails. The less active can take a bus tour to Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in the world.

Activities and leisure

In addition to the world-class shopping and the amazing skiing, Aspen is also known as one of the best places to party. In fact, you may not want to waste your energy skiing or hiking, as the nights are long and full of promise. From calm cocktails by the fire to clubs with the hottest DJs and the best live music, Aspen stays alive and vivacious late into the night.

Safety issues

Aspen is so safe that the locals claim to leave their doors unlocked at night. Most of the danger involves outdoor pursuits, the dramatic weather and the steep slopes. Weather can change suddenly in the mountains, so if you are hiking, be prepared for anything and be sure to bring and drink plenty of water.