Aspen

Every winter season, Aspen continues to live up to its name as one of the world’s best ski destinations. Its mountains are usually reserved for intermediate- to expert-level skiing, but that’s not to say the slopes are completely off-limits to beginners. For those who are starting out, Buttermilk and Snowmass have assigned “learn to ski” areas and excellent facilities, while those who want more action have the high slopes of Aspen Mountain and Highlands waiting for them. 

There’s more to dining in Aspen than cheese fondue and other après ski favorites. Almost every cuisine is well-represented in town, from beloved Italian classics to inventive New American takes on familiar comfort food. Essential restaurants to try in Aspen include Matsuhisa, because who said you can’t enjoy world-class sushi up in the Rockies; Cache Cache, best known for French-American fine dining; Ellina, which serves contemporary Italian-American food and an extensive wine menu, and Casa D’Angelo, where you feast on elegant Italian fare al fresco.

Throughout the year, Aspen plays the gracious host to a bevy of annual festivities. These include the Aspen Music Festival and School, which has been around since 1949 and is typically held in the summer. Every year, the Aspen Institute also gathers thinkers in different fields for the Aspen Ideas Festival. Let’s not forget the Aspen Food and Wine Classic, which is three whole days dedicated to the culinary arts, with top food and wine experts from around the world in attendance. Jazz Aspen Snowmass also hosts a series of summer concerts every year.

There is always opportunity for play and recreation in Aspen even as the snows have disappeared. The town enjoys 300 days of sun each year, granting ideal weather for outdoor pursuits like hiking, rafting, horseback riding, golf, climbing, and biking. And in a place as naturally blessed as Aspen, you’ll always want to be outside