Aspen packs a lot into a small town, and winter is when it comes fully alive. Four mountains within reach of one walkable downtown, a gondola that doubles as a night out, and some of Colorado's best chefs and bartenders a few blocks from wherever you're staying. Figuring out what to do in Aspen this time of year comes down to how you want to spend the day: first tracks on Aspen Mountain, a slow gondola ride up for the view, or a wander through downtown galleries before the sun drops and après takes over. These are the things to do in Aspen, Colorado we'd point a friend toward — where to go, what to book, and when to just wander.
New Year's in Aspen is its own kind of tradition. Skiers and riders carrying torches wind down Aspen Mountain after dark, fireworks light up the sky over town, and downtown fills with a crowd that's equal parts locals and visitors who plan their whole trip around this one night. Restaurants and hotels book out weeks ahead, so if Aspen's New Year's Eve is the plan, lock in dates and dinner reservations well before you land.
Skiing in Aspen, Colorado means choosing between four distinct mountains, not just one. Aspen Mountain rises straight out of downtown for steep, in-town runs; Aspen Highlands has the terrain locals brag about; Buttermilk is built for beginners and terrain park laps; and Snowmass rounds it out with the most acreage of the four. Choosing which of the four Aspen Snowmass mountains to ski usually comes down to snow conditions and how far you want to drive — and staying at Limelight Aspen puts you walking distance from the first of the four.
Après-ski in Aspen starts the moment the lifts close and doesn't let up. The Lounge at Limelight Aspen is steps from the gondola, pouring drinks and playing live music before you've even changed out of your boots, and downtown's bars and restaurants carry the night from there. Some of the best après-ski in Aspen doesn't require leaving the block you're staying on.
You don't need skis to ride the Silver Queen Gondola. Aspen gondola rides run all winter for anyone who just wants the view — the Elk Mountains stacked up in every direction, downtown shrinking below — with lunch or a drink waiting at the Sundeck once you're up top. It's one of the easiest ways to do some real Aspen sightseeing without strapping into anything.
Art in Aspen doesn't take a season off. The Aspen Art Museum sits right downtown with rotating contemporary exhibitions, and the surrounding blocks are dense with galleries showing everything from Western landscape painting to contemporary photography. It's one of the better answers to what to do in Aspen besides skiing, especially on a day when the weather calls for something indoors.
From snowshoe treks and first tracks on the mountain to fireside gatherings and live music, there's always something happening at Limelight. Explore the adventures that put you right in the winter landscape, or check out our lineup of events — open to guests and locals alike.
