Choosing where to stay in Aspen can make or break your mountain getaway experience. I’ve spent countless seasons exploring every corner of this legendary Colorado resort town, from the glitzy downtown core to the family-friendly slopes of Snowmass Village.
Whether you’re planning a luxury ski vacation or hunting for budget-friendly summer lodging, each area offers something completely different. This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods in Aspen, helping you pick the perfect base for your adventure without the usual tourist traps and overpriced mistakes.
🏠 Best Hotels:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: St. Regis Aspen Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: W Aspen
- 🏨 4-Star: Limelight Hotel Aspen
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Aspen Square Condominium Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Tyrolean Lodge
- 🏢 Apartment: Aspen Stash Pad with Fireplace, Parking, W/D
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Aspen Mountain Lodge
- 🏩 For Couples: Lift One Condominiums - Adjacent To Downtown Aspen
Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋
- 🛍️ For Shopping and Dining: Downtown Aspen
- 🏔️ For Skiing: Aspen Mountain Base Area
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Snowmass Village
- ⛷️ For Luxury Skiing: Aspen Highlands Area
- 💰 On a Budget: West End Aspen
- 🔰 For Beginners: Buttermilk Area
1. Downtown Aspen – Best Area for Shopping and Dining
Location Benefits. The area puts you within walking distance of over 100 restaurants and the town’s premier shopping district. I’ve found this area perfect for visitors who want to experience Aspen’s legendary dining scene without needing transportation.
Dining Scene. The culinary landscape here ranges from casual spots like Ajax Tavern with their famous Wagyu burger to upscale establishments like Matsuhisa Aspen. White House Tavern at 302 E. Hopkins offers excellent gastropub fare in an 1883 historic building, while L’Hostaria provides affordable bar menu options for budget-conscious travelers.
Shopping Access. Staying downtown means luxury boutiques, art galleries, and local shops are steps from your hotel room. The pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore without a car, especially during Aspen’s busy summer and winter seasons.
Nightlife Hub. This area transforms after dark with craft cocktail lounges like Hooch and wine bars such as Bear Den Aspen. The concentration of entertainment venues makes downtown ideal for visitors seeking Aspen’s famous après-ski scene and nightlife.
| Dining Price Range | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Casual Dining | $15-30 per person |
| Mid-Range | $40-70 per person |
| Fine Dining | $80-150 per person |
| Bar Menu Items | $12-25 per dish |
Practical Considerations. Downtown accommodations typically cost more but eliminate transportation expenses. Parking can be challenging during peak seasons, making the walkable location particularly valuable for visitors without rental cars.
Best Accommodation
- W Aspen – A chic hotel in the heart of Aspen, featuring a rooftop pool, modern rooms, and direct access to shopping and nightlife.
- Limelight Hotel Aspen – A contemporary hotel with spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool, steps from Aspen’s best dining and shops.
2. Aspen Mountain Base Area – Best Place for Skiing
Ski Access. The area offers the closest proximity to Ajax Mountain’s gondola and ski lifts. I’ve stayed here multiple times during powder days, and the convenience of walking to the slopes in ski boots cannot be overstated.
Slope Proximity. This location eliminates the morning shuttle rush and provides direct access to Aspen’s most challenging terrain. The Silver Queen Gondola operates from 9 AM to 4 PM during ski season, making early morning runs effortless from nearby accommodations.
Après-Ski Scene. The base area buzzes with energy after skiing hours, featuring outdoor fire pits and mountain bars. Ajax Tavern’s outdoor deck becomes a social hub where skiers gather to share stories from the day’s adventures.
Summer Activities. During warmer months, the gondola provides scenic rides to the summit for hiking and mountain biking. The area transforms into an outdoor recreation hub with trail access and mountain adventure companies operating from the base.
Transportation Benefits:
- Direct access to ski school meeting points
- Equipment rental shops within 100 yards
- Shuttle connections to other mountains
Weather Considerations. Base area accommodations face more wind exposure than downtown locations but offer unobstructed mountain views. Morning temperatures can drop 10-15 degrees below downtown Aspen during winter months.
Best Accommodation
- St Moritz Lodge and Condominiums – A relaxed lodge with affordable rooms, a pool, and a friendly atmosphere just a short walk from mountain lifts.
- Aspen Mountain Lodge – A cozy lodge with mountain views, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor hot tub, close to the base of the mountain.
- Aspen Square Condominium Hotel – Spacious condo-style suites with fireplaces and balconies, right across from the Silver Queen Gondola.
3. Snowmass Village – Where to Stay in Aspen Snowmass for Families
Family Infrastructure. The village caters specifically to families with the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center for ages 1-4 and comprehensive ski programs. The village layout keeps everything within walking distance, making it easier to manage kids and gear.
Ski Terrain Variety. This area provides access to Snowmass Mountain’s 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, including beginner slopes like Fanny Hill and Assay Hill. The mountain offers more diverse skiing options than Aspen Mountain, particularly for intermediate skiers.
Village Amenities. The pedestrian village features grocery stores, equipment shops, and casual dining options. The Mall houses essential services including a post office, pharmacy, and several restaurants under one roof.
| Family Services | Location | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Treehouse Kids’ Center | Base Village | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Ski School | Base Village | 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Equipment Rental | Multiple Locations | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Grocery Store | Snowmass Mall | 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Summer Programming. The village maintains year-round family activities including an alpine slide, scenic chairlift rides, and organized children’s programs. The Recreation Center offers indoor swimming and fitness facilities with a heated outdoor pool available year-round.
Budget Advantages. Accommodations in the village typically cost 20-30% less than equivalent downtown Aspen properties. The village also provides free shuttle service to Aspen during peak seasons and daily s’mores at 3:30 PM during winter.
Best Accommodation
Upscale Hotels
- Viceroy Snowmass – This five-star resort in Snowmass Village offers ski-in/ski-out access, a full-service spa, heated outdoor pool, and elegant mountain-view suites.
- Limelight Hotel Snowmass – A modern hotel featuring spacious rooms, rooftop hot tubs, a vibrant après-ski scene, and direct access to the slopes.
- Timberline Condominiums 1 Bedroom plus Loft Deluxe Unit C3B – Stylish condo accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen and mountain views perfect for families and groups.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Stonebridge Inn – A cozy inn with comfortable rooms, a pool, and a convenient location just steps from the Snowmass ski lifts.
- Timberline Condominiums 1 Bedroom plus Loft Deluxe Unit C3B – This well-equipped condominium is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, offering a full kitchen, living area, and easy access to hiking trails.
4. Aspen Highlands Area – Where to Stay in Aspen for Luxury Skiing
Terrain Reputation. Aspen Highlands attracts expert skiers seeking challenging terrain and the famous Highland Bowl. The mountain’s steep pitches and deep powder stashes make it a favorite among locals and advanced skiers seeking authentic Colorado skiing.
Exclusive Atmosphere. This area maintains a more intimate feel with 125 trails across 1,028 acres compared to Aspen’s busier mountains. The smaller crowds and local following create an authentic Colorado skiing experience away from tourist masses.
Highland Bowl Access. The legendary Highland Bowl requires a 45-minute hike but rewards skiers with some of Colorado’s most pristine powder skiing. Staying near the base provides early access before crowds arrive from other areas.
Luxury Amenities:
- Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro – mountaintop dining at 11,212 feet
- Private ski instruction and guiding services
- Exclusive terrain access through guided programs
- Premium equipment rental and ski storage
Local Knowledge. The Highlands community includes many longtime Aspen residents who share insider knowledge about snow conditions and hidden terrain. The area’s local vibe provides authentic mountain culture experiences away from resort commercialization.
Transportation Links. Free shuttle service connects Highlands to downtown Aspen and other ski areas. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes during peak hours, making it easy to explore multiple mountains without driving.
5. West End Aspen – Where to Stay in Aspen on a Budget
Affordable Options. West End Aspen offers the most budget-friendly accommodations while maintaining walking distance to downtown attractions. I’ve found this area perfect for travelers who want Aspen access without premium location pricing.
Residential Character. This neighborhood features tree-lined streets with historic homes and local businesses. The area feels more like a Colorado mountain town than a resort destination, providing authentic local experiences.
Walking Distance. Most West End locations require a 10-15 minute walk to reach downtown restaurants and shopping. The flat terrain makes walking easy, and many visitors enjoy the quiet evening stroll back to their accommodations.
| Budget Comparison | West End | Downtown | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Nightly Rate | $180-280 | $350-550 | 35-40% |
| Parking Fees | Often Free | $25-45/night | $25-45 |
| Restaurant Proximity | 0.5-0.8 miles | 0-0.2 miles | Walk vs. Steps |
Local Businesses. The area includes neighborhood cafes, a local market, and service businesses that cater to residents rather than tourists. These establishments often offer better value and more authentic experiences.
Quiet Environment. West End provides peaceful evenings away from downtown’s nightlife noise. The residential setting appeals to families and visitors seeking restful accommodation after active mountain days.
Best Hotels in West End Aspen
- Tyrolean Lodge – A budget-friendly lodge with vintage ski decor, large rooms, and free parking, located on Main Street in Aspen’s West End.
- Shadow Mountain Lodge – A quiet lodge with condo-style units, a pool, and easy access to Aspen’s downtown and ski slopes.
- Aspen Stash Pad with Fireplace, Parking, W/D – A modern apartment with a fireplace, full kitchen, and private parking, perfect for longer stays in a peaceful neighborhood.
6. Buttermilk Area – Where to Stay in Aspen for Beginners
Beginner-Friendly Terrain. Buttermilk Mountain specializes in learning terrain with 35% easy runs including Panda Peak and West Buttermilk across 470 acres. The mountain’s patient, encouraging atmosphere makes it ideal for families with children learning to ski.
Ski School Excellence. The place houses Aspen’s premier ski instruction programs, recognized as having the best ski and snowboard schools in the United States. The newly renovated 9,000+ square-foot Guest Services building acts as a one-stop shop for lessons, rentals, and tickets.
X Games Legacy. The area hosts the Winter X Games annually, featuring world-class terrain park with over 40 jumps, 25 rails, and a 25-foot superpipe. The mountain offers five terrain parks plus progression features designed for all ability levels.
Specific Learning Features:
- Panda Peak: Gentle, short run perfect for absolute beginners
- Teaser: Smooth, slow run ideal for building confidence
- Fort Frog attraction for kids at The Hideout learning center
Summer Operations. The area opened for summer operations in recent years, offering sightseeing via Summit Express chairlift, disc golf, hiking trails, and dining at Cliffhouse restaurant with views of 14,018-foot Pyramid Peak.
Uphilling Hub. The Tiehack side has become central for “uphilling” fitness enthusiasts, offering easy uphill skiing access with breathtaking views and less crowded conditions.
FAQ
What are the best things to do in Aspen?
Aspen offers world-class skiing and snowboarding across four mountains including Snowmass Mountain, Buttermilk and Snowmass areas. During summer, visitors enjoy hiking, biking, live music festivals, and scenic gondola rides with stunning views.
Which luxury hotel offers the best spa services?
The St. Regis Aspen Resort features the renowned Remède Spa with comprehensive wellness treatments and relaxation services. Hotel Jerome, an Aspen landmark since 1889, also provides exceptional spa facilities in a chic historic setting.
Where can I find heated pool and hot tub facilities?
Limelight Hotel Aspen features an outdoor heated pool and hot tubs along with two rooftop lounges for relaxation. The Little Nell and W Aspen also offer pool and hot tub amenities with spectacular views.
What ski resort access do top hotels provide?
Hotels at the base of Aspen Mountain like The Little Nell offer direct access to Aspen Mountain slopes. Many luxury hotels provide ski pass assistance, equipment storage, and shuttle services to all four ski areas.
Which boutique hotel offers the most spacious accommodations?
Hotel Jerome provides generously sized rooms and suites ranging from 525 to 1,265 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows. The historic property combines contemporary luxury with authentic mountain charm and chic Western-inspired décor.
How far is the drive from Aspen airport?
Aspen Airport sits just 3 miles from downtown, making it a quick 10-minute drive to most hotels. The convenient location eliminates long transfers, allowing visitors to head to Aspen accommodations quickly after arrival.
What places to stay offer rooftop dining experiences?
W Aspen features a rooftop pool and hot tub with panoramic views and innovative dining at 39°. Limelight Hotel provides two rooftop lounges with food and beverage service overlooking the heart of Aspen.
Which Aspen hotel features the famous Element 47 restaurant?
The Little Nell houses the acclaimed Element 47 restaurant, known for exceptional fine dining and extensive wine selection. This luxury hotel sits at the base of Aspen Mountain, offering ski-in, ski-out convenience.
What cross-country skiing options exist around Aspen?
The Roaring Fork Valley provides miles of cross-country skiing trails with unparalleled Elk Mountain scenery. Aspen offers a wide variety of Nordic skiing experiences, from groomed tracks to backcountry adventures.
When did Hotel Jerome open as an Aspen landmark?
Hotel Jerome opened in 1889 and has remained a historic Aspen landmark for over 130 years. The boutique hotel seamlessly blends its Victorian heritage with modern luxury amenities and world-class service.
