Aspen
What you might think of as a winter destination, due to its world-renowned ski resorts and iconic snow-capped mountains, is actually a year-round destination that offers an abundance of outdoor recreation, culinary delights, and impressive arts and culture scene.
When it comes to outdoor recreation, Aspen's hard to beat. While biking, hiking, fishing, rafting, skiing, and snowboarding at 8,000 ft would typically occupy your to-do list, thrill-seekers can go even higher, by flying in tandem with a paragliding certified pilot. You get to go up to 18,000 ft. for a stunning bird’s eye view of Aspen real estate. Rock climb at Gold Butte Climbing Area or Independence Pass. You can even book an hour-long sunrise hot air balloon and start your day with breath-taking scenery.
After you've stoked your appetite, head to the many restaurants around town for gourmet bites and sophisticated eats. Hailed as the “finest spot to wine, dine and unwind,” Element 47 in the Little Nell Hotel received its first Five-Star Restaurant Award in 2015. Aspen also hosts the annual FOOD & WINE Classic where celebrity chefs gather to treat guests with gourmet delights.
Enjoy their seasonally-inspired dishes concocted from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by wine from the restaurant’s cellar that houses more than 20,000 bottles. And for a break from traditional sushi, indulge in an haute Japanese fare in Chef Nobu’s Matsuhisa restaurant. Located in a 120-year old Victorian house, this avant-garde restaurant serves creatively prepared spicy tuna rolls and Wagyu beef served alongside your choice of cocktail.
The 3,000 square meter Aspen Art Museum features exhibitions of paintings, drawings, sculptures, multimedia installations as well as immersive activities that engage its audiences. It's one of the world’s best contemporary art destinations. Theatre Aspen raises curtains for outstanding plays every year. And in between their shows in New York City, Russia, and Italy, the famed Aspen Santa Fe Ballet will entertain audiences with their contemporary performances. You can also catch live entertainment at the historic Wheeler Opera House or the Belly Up and get your fill of concerts, shows, and music festivals.
Shopping in Aspen is an adventure on its own with quaint shopping districts that could rival retail landmarks such as Rodeo Drive and Madison Avenue. From designer labels to boutiques, you'll discover everything from clothing & accessories, to artwork & home goods, to gfts & souvenirs.
And since you’re in ski country, you can take advantage of the many sporting shops for gear and apparel you’ll need for your outdoor activities.
Families looking for an action-packed day can go horseback riding to explore the beautiful backcountry of Aspen or take scenic hikes via the Hunter Creek Trail or Smuggler Mountain Road. Aspen Recreation Center is a one-stop shop for kids and kids-at-heart. And thanks to clowns, street performers, and face painters, strolling around town will never be a bore.
Whether renting or buying an Aspen home, Aspen real estate offers a mix of luxury condos, cottages, ranches, private estates, mansions, and ski homes that capture the town’s charm and sophistication — offering picturesque views of snowy mountains and landscapes, with dining, shopping and cultural amenities within easy reach.