If there is one thing that Aspen, Colorado, is best known for, it's skiing.
This tiny little mountain town tucked away in the heart of the White River National Forest
and surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Elk Mountains makes for one killer vacation
destination.
But it's not just the winter sports that makes this town such a great place to visit.
Aspen has so much to offer.
From its extensive selection of world-class restaurants and shops to its many cultural
landmarks and beloved institutions, Aspen is a place that you won't leave feeling unfulfilled.
With breathtakingly beautiful mountains as its backdrop, Aspen is undoubtedly a town
that is easy on the eyes.
It seems like everywhere you look, picturesque vistas can be found.
Regardless of what your reason is for visiting this alluring Colorado town, you'll find more
than enough to keep you busy and entertained for days.
If you're curious as to what some of the best attractions in and around Aspen are, keep
watching.
Of course, we'll cover all the obvious draws, but you'll probably be surprised by some of
the sights and attractions that made our list.
Maroon Bells
At more than 14,000 feet above sea level, these beautiful twin peaks are popular among
wildlife watchers and hikers.
There are very good reasons why Maroon Bells is one of the most photographed places in
the county.
Its breathtakingly beautiful multi-colored slopes, jagged peaks, and magnificent views
will make you feel like you stepped inside a painting.
There are numerous campsites and trails, so don't forget your hiking boots.
And since this awe-inspiring locale is only 9 miles from the city center, you can easily
spend the day here and still have enough time to make it back to town for cocktails and
tapas.
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Independence Pass
Aspen is a very walkable town, but we still recommend renting a car just to take this
incredible 20-mile drive.
Independence Pass is one of the highest scenic roads in America.
It stretches along the Continental divide at a staggering 12,000 feet above sea level.
You'll feel like you're a Hollywood stunt driver as you traverse around tight turns
that take you within feet of tumbling over massive cliffs.
Around you, you'll be surrounded by lush forest.
If you need to pause to stretch your legs a bit, there are several trails that lead
you to overlooks and viewing platforms where you'll be treated to unparalleled views of
the Continental Divide.
Silver Queen Gondola
For easy access to the top of the majestic Aspen mountain right from the center of town,
the Silver Queen Gondola is definitely worth experiencing.
As you rise high above the trees to make your way to the top of the mountain, you'll see
some truly jaw-dropping views of the mountainous scenery.
It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Sundeck, which sits about 11,000 feet above sea level.
Come wintertime, this area is one of the premier skiing areas in the Aspen area.
But you definitely don't have to be into skiing to take a gondola ride and enjoy incredible
views.
During the summer months, you can simply appreciate the scenery on its own or even go for a hike.
If all of that sightseeing has got you feeling a bit peckish, check out the Sundeck Restaurant
at the top of the mountain.
It's a wonderful place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the mesmerizing views that
surround you.
Crater Lake
This destination is without a doubt one of the most striking mountain lakes in the Aspen
area.
It can be found just minutes away from the previously mentioned Maroon Bells and requires
a bit of trek to get there, but if you don't mind the hike, it's worth it.
Crater Lake might not be quite as popular as Maroon Bells, but it is definitely just
as photo-worthy.
If you happen to go on a day when there is very little wind, you'll get to see some pleasing
reflections out on the lake as well.
The region around Crater Lake is packed full of a wide variety of plant and animal life.
During the less crowded and noisy months, you'll probably even get to see a moose.
Be advised though, this is bear country, so it might be good idea to bring some bear mace
with you on your hikes.
And it really shouldn't have to e said, but if you do come across any wildlife, appreciate
it at a distance.
It's never a good idea to bother wild animals, especially when you're miles away from town.
Grottos Trail
When driving to and from Independence Pass, make sure you set aside some time to check
out this pit stop.
Grottos Trail can be found along the road roughly 9 miles southeast of the town center.
It's a fairly easy and short woodland hike that takes you to several waterfalls and ice
caves.
It's also fortunately a trail that is relatively flat, so most visitors will be able to make
it through the 1-mile loop fairly quickly.
The rock formations found here are said to be hundreds of millions of years old.
They were likely formed by the movement of glaciers.
The scenery here is very distinct, and there are ample photo-opts for photographers.
Word of advice, however, if you go in the warmer months, you can go ahead and skip the
ice cave, as it will likely be too muddy and wet to access.
The Aspen Art Museum
If you're on the lookout for something to do in Aspen that doesn't involve the great
outdoors, then we highly recommend visiting the Aspen Art Museum.
This is likewise a great place to go on rainy days when hiking and exploring is less than
ideal.
The first thing that you'll notice upon arriving at the museum is just how distinct the building
looks.
It's an architectural marvel and worth visiting just for that alone.
Once inside, you'll find a contemporary art museum featuring the works of some of the
most renowned artists in the world.
Each floor features works by different artists, and everything is presented in a very creative
manner.
There are also quite a few hands-on exhibits, films, and other captivating displays.
If you get hungry, the museum has a delightful and affordable cafe.
In the summer months, it transforms into an outdoor dining space that offers truly spectacular
views of the surrounding area.
Admission is free, but donations are recommended.
Check out their website before arriving to see what their current line-up of exhibits
are.
The museum also hosts several events throughout the year as well.
Snowmass
As one of Aspen's biggest and most popular ski areas, Snowmass is winter sports lover's
dream come true.
Spanning over 3,000 acres of skiable slopes and terrain, this enormous complex boasts
more than 150 miles of trails, numerous lifts, and an endearingly quaint little village with
a wide range of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
About half the trails are suitable for intermediate-level skiers, while more advanced skiers will find
no shortage of more difficult slopes to try out.
It's also noteworthy that Snowmass has one of the highest-rated snowboarding schools
in the country.
Aspen Highlands
This ski area has been a local favorite for more than half a century now.
If you're up for a bit of a challenge, this is the perfect ski area for more advanced
skiers, as the majority of trails are designed for more expert skiers.
Some of the best stretches include Highland Bowl, Olympic Bowl, and Golden Horn.
Rarely ever crowded, visitors say that they especially appreciate the local vibe of this
mountain.
After you've spent a few hours out on the powder, consider dining at the highly-recommended
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, which offers its guests beautiful views of the nearby Maroon
Bells.
Glenwood Springs Hot Springs Pool
Just forty or so miles northwest of Aspen, you'll find the charming town of Glenwood
Springs.
While this town offers many hiking, dining, and shopping opportunities that are certainly
worth checking out on their own, one of the town's biggest draws is their hot springs.
Previously known by the First Nation tribes as the Yampah Hot Springs, the Hot Springs
Pool has been used by indigenous peoples for hundreds of years.
For just 15 to 22 dollars, depending on what time of year you visit, you'll be able to
soak in the warm, bubbling waters as long as you please.
After several days of skiing or snowboarding, there is nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating
than taking a dip in these mineral-rich waters.
We especially love this spot in the evening as it's less crowded and the view of the stars
on a clear night only makes the experience more magical.
Buttermilk
If you're a beginner skier or visiting Aspen with children, Buttermilk Is the perfect place
to learn or teach the ropes.
There are 21 miles of open, entry-level trails that are easy for novice skiers to maneuver.
You can also opt for private snowboard or ski lessons if you need a helping hand to
get a knack at it.
Once you feel a bit more comfortable, this mountain also has several intermediate and
advanced trails in addition to a 22-foot super-pipe and X-Games-inspired course complete with
ramps and rails.
Wheeler Opera House
Built in the late 19th century by business magnate Jerome Wheeler, this opulent opera
house has been providing Aspen residents and visitors with entertainment for more than
a hundred years.
Today, this Roaring Fork Valley performance venue is still revered as one of Aspen's finest
local gems.
It was built with Victorian architecture, features ornate doors and a striking electrically
illuminated chandelier, and regularly hosts events ranging from movie screenings to musical
concerts to plays.
Well, we're just about out of time for this video, but we can almost guarantee that a
few of you out there that have already been to Aspen know of a few attractions and sights
that we didn't have time to mention.
Let us know in the comments what your favorite things to see and do in Aspen are.
And if you've never had the pleasure of visiting Aspen before, let us know what you're most
excited to see on your upcoming visit.
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As always, thanks for watching and safe travels!