Five Reasons Why Aspen is a Fun Five Star Summer Getaway
There’s an old saying in the Rockies…“I came to Aspen for the winter, but stayed for the summer.”
Nestled between Aspen trees, the Rocky Mountains, and the white waters of the Colorado River, the town of Aspen, with a year-round population of 7,000, while most famous for its world-class skiing and apres-ski glitz and glamour scene, is even better in the summer!
Aspen’s downtown core may seem perpetually under construction, with restaurants opening and closing each season, but the dining scene remains as vibrant as ever. Summer in Aspen officially kicks off with the Food & Wine Classic and unfolds into a packed calendar of events, including the Aspen Ideas Festival, Aspen Music Festival, Old Fashioned 4th of July, Aspen ArtWeek, and Theatre Aspen’s Broadway and Cabaret Series, among others. If you find yourself in this ultimate outdoor playground this summer, here are the top spots—whether fancy, fast-casual, or al fresco—to keep you fueled for every mountain adventure ahead.
#1 Celebrity Sightings
Aspen has always attracted an international “A-list” crowd. The hottest and hippest celebs and the power players of the financial world of Wall Street descend upon this town to escape city life. Many have “not-so-modest” second homes here too. Cruise around and check out how the rich and famous live! Keep an eye out for the likes of Elle Macpherson, Kevin Costner, Heidi Klum, and Mariah Carey who are locals and have been known to ski, shop and dine in the area. There’s eople watching for days….
#2 The Great Outdoors
A hiking, biking, rock climbing and river rafting mecca, Aspen is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise. The stunning Rockies in all their flowering glory in the summer are a photographer’s dream.
No better place to begin your day with a cup of joe in the sun or a peaceful and quiet meditation while inhaling the heavenly mountain air. Ommmm…. Take a gondola ride up Aspen Mountain and enjoy the vast and breathtaking views or grab your boots and backpack and hike to your heart’s content. AND, if you are missing your four-legged friends, the local Aspen animal shelter will even loan you a hiking companion.
With river rafting galore, there are tons of options from raging rapids for the adrenaline junky, to calmly floating your cares away on some of the milder streams for the more light-hearted. Historic site stops along the way, rejuvenating side creek dips. Day and overnight trips also offer Class 2 and Class 3 rapid excursions.
If a scenic drive is on your must-do list, the perfect Instagram shots await at Maroon Bells, southwest of Aspen. If a nail-biting, edge of your seat and heart-stopping road trip is your thing, put your seatbelt on and check out Independence Pass, which is just west of the city.
#3 World Class Cuisine
After a day of exploring and working up your appetite, the “foodie” will not be disappointed. An abundance of vibrant, hip dining hot spots litter the town, showcasing classics like farm-to-table fresh produce to regional favorites such as Colorado river trout.
From world-renowned chefs to all-star winemakers, area restaurants are able to offer a combination of sophisticated casualness and impeccable dining experiences with unique highlights that echo the spirit of hospitality.
#4 Star Treatment
After a long day of hiking or biking, options abound for those looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating “pamper yourself” experience. From champagne to Zen treatments, the local spas in Aspen are world renowned and luxurious and will literally dissolve your aches and pains or stress. Most spas are partnered with local hotels, offering packages including signature facials, massages, yoga, pilates, performance programs, and more exclusive treatments such as Light Stim.
#5 Five Star Hotels
Encompassing only 1.99 square miles, the area has maintained a charming small-town vibe. Long known for accommodating guests at the highest levels, Aspen is known for catering to those searching for the perfect adventure-filled or romantic vacation. Whether you are looking for a secluded B&B or wanting to stay at an ultra-hip luxury hotel that allow pets, you will find the best of both worlds in the premiere and private properties here. Hint: if you really want to treat yourself, reach out to us for some exclusive deals and ideas!
Ready to make this summer spot your next “must do?” If you’re ready to hit the outdoors 5 Star style, jump on it and book your vacation with Dollar Travel Group today!!!