Things To Do
Maroon Bells
Where we got engaged! Watch the sunrise or hike up to Crater Lake (3.8 miles roundtrip, 692 ft elevation gain). It's not a challenging hike and worth it if you have the time! To get there, head west out of Aspen on CO-82 and take the exit for Maroon Creek Road. You'll take the road all the way to the end/Maroon Bells parking lot. Reservations are required this summer whether you are driving or taking the shuttle. Reservations can be made here starting April 12th: https://aspenchamber.org/plan-trip/trip-highlights/maroon-bells/reservations. You can also rent bikes in town and ride out, but it's 8 miles one-way and almost 1500 ft of elevation gain.
Cathedral Lake
Head west out of Aspen on CO-82. When you get to the roundabout, take the exit for Castle Creek Road. Travel about 12 miles down the road and you'll see a small wooden sign for Cathedral Lake Trail. It's just past Ashcroft Ghost Town and before you reach Pine Creek Cookhouse. The dirt road to the trail is pretty bumpy so make sure you have 4WD and if not, go slow. The hike is 5.6 miles roundtrip and about 2,000 ft in elevation gain from the parking lot. Most of the climb is gradual/not too challenging, except for a series of steep switch backs just before you get to the lake. You're rewarded with a stunning high-alpine lake and there are fish in it!
Sundeck, Aspen Mountain
Take the Silver Queen Gondola ($27 for single ride up) or hike (relentlessly steep) to the top of Aspen Mountain for some more beautiful views. You can enjoy lunch or beverages on the Sundeck (full bar plus cafeteria-style/grab and go food options). Dogs are permitted. The gondola is free to everyone on the way down.
Mi Chola
Grab lunch, dinner, or drinks at our favorite Mexican restaurant in town. If you go early, you can walk in, but it's a good idea to make a reservation, especially on a weekend.
French Alpine Bistro - Crêperie du Village
If you're looking for a fancier, more intimate meal, this is our favorite restaurant in Aspen. Beautiful setting and delicious French food. Reservations required and try to make them as far in advance as possible since it's a small space.
Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection
Grab a drink at the J Bar inside the Hotel Jerome, originally built in 1889. They also have a great outdoor space for drinks or food, but you'll need to make reservations to guarantee a table. The burger is delicious.
Ajax Tavern
"Casual fine-dining" at the base of Aspen Mountain, right near the Silver Queen Gondola. They have a huge outdoor patio and the truffle fries are great. We've always been able to walk in without reservations, but if you're planning to go at the height of the lunch or dinner rush, it wouldn't hurt to make them ahead of time.
Belly Up Aspen
A lot of big-name artists will come to this intimate basement concert venue in the heart of Aspen. Tickets sell out quickly, so be sure to buy in advance.
Poppycock's
A casual breakfast spot serving diner classics like eggs Benedict and pancakes. Some outdoor dining available. Reservations are not required, but it's always packed. Tables turn over quickly though.
Aspen Over Easy Breakfast Club
Great rooftop breakfast spot with classic breakfast dishes and cocktails plus views of Aspen Mountain. Reservations not required.
Pepperjack's Cafe
This is one of the few breakfast spots that is open early (7 AM) if you're looking to grab something before getting an early start on a hike.
Grateful Deli
Grab a sandwich here to pack on a hike. Also, they sell Voodoo chips (if you know, you know).
Aspen Tap / Aspen Brewing Co
Great brewery that serves both their beer and cocktails as well as pizza, salads, and small bar bites. Indoor and patio seating. Reservations not required.
The St. Regis Aspen Resort
Be sure to stop by one day just before 5 to grab a drink and witness the daily champagne sabering. If you're lucky, Kitty—the resident Bernese Mountain Dog—will be in attendance!