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Deciding Between Aspen and Snowmass Village: Which Is Right for Your Stay and Which Is Better to Move To?

Stephanie Kroll

When planning a trip to the stunning Colorado Rockies, choosing between visiting or living in Aspen and Snowmass Village can be a tough decision. Each destination offers its own unique charm and attractions, catering to different types of travelers. Here's a local perspective to help you decide where to stay during your visit to this beautiful area.

Staying in Aspen

Upscale Atmosphere Aspen is known for its upscale and cosmopolitan vibe. The town offers high-end dining, shopping, and cultural experiences, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere.

Dining and Entertainment Aspen boasts an impressive array of fine dining restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and cultural events. If you're interested in experiencing diverse dining options, attending art galleries, or enjoying live music, Aspen is the place for you. From world-renowned restaurants to chic boutiques and lively bars, Aspen has it all.

Accommodations Aspen offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to boutique inns. While accommodations can be more expensive compared to Snowmass Village, the variety and quality of places to stay are unmatched.

Proximity to the Mountains Aspen offers excellent skiing and outdoor activities, but it’s not as ski-in/ski-out friendly as Snowmass Village. You may need to travel a bit to reach the ski slopes, but the convenience of staying in downtown Aspen and having access to multiple ski areas is a significant advantage.

Staying in Snowmass Village

Skiing and Outdoor Activities Snowmass Village is ideal if you plan to focus on skiing, snowboarding, or other outdoor activities. It offers excellent access to the slopes, with many ski-in/ski-out lodging options. Snowmass Mountain is the largest of the four mountains in the area, providing a wide variety of terrain for all skill levels.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere Snowmass Village has a more family-friendly atmosphere, known for its kid-friendly activities and events. The village offers a range of activities suitable for families, making it a great destination for group vacations.

Accommodations Snowmass Village provides a variety of accommodations, including condos, vacation rentals, and lodges, which can be more budget-friendly than Aspen. The options here are perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and intimate setting.

Scenic Views Snowmass Village is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, offering a more tranquil and natural environment. The picturesque setting is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Rockies in a peaceful atmosphere.

Need to Know: Mountain Culture

Each mountain in the Aspen Snowmass area has a unique culture influenced by its terrain, restaurants, lifts, and legendary patrons. Aspen is anchored by Aspen Mountain (locally referred to as "Ajax") and is within a short distance of Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Snowmass Mountain, the largest of the four, anchors Snowmass Village and offers extensive skiable terrain.

Aspen vs. Snowmass - The Age-Old Debate

Both Aspen and Snowmass Village offer plenty of outdoor activities and cultural events year-round. Aspen tends to offer more cultural experiences and a vibrant nightlife, while Snowmass focuses on family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Regardless of where you choose to stay, both destinations provide a wealth of things to do.

Aspen Highlights

  • Silver Queen Gondola: Offers stunning views, mountaintop yoga, disc golf, and summer concerts.
  • Aspen Art Museum: Showcases contemporary art with rotating exhibitions and a rooftop café.
  • John Denver Sanctuary: A serene park dedicated to the singer, featuring beautiful landscapes and trails.
  • Aspen Saturday Market: A vibrant market with local produce, crafts, and live music.
  • The Belly Up: An intimate live music venue with top-notch performances.

Snowmass Highlights

  • Snowmass Free Concert Series: Summer concerts on Fanny Hill featuring various music genres.
  • Snowmass Rodeo: Colorado’s longest-running rodeo with events and BBQ dinners.
  • Bonus Bike Nights: Evening lift-served biking at Snowmass Bike Park.
  • Snowmass S’mores: Free s’mores in the village during the winter season.
  • Snowmass Luminescence: A winter light display that dazzles and delights.

Aspen or Snowmass: Which Is Right for You?

Both Aspen and Snowmass Village have a lot to offer. If you’re looking for a luxurious, high-energy atmosphere with plenty of dining and entertainment options, Aspen may be your best bet. If you prefer a quieter, family-friendly setting with excellent access to outdoor activities, Snowmass Village might be the perfect choice. The good news is that you can easily visit both places during your stay, as they are just a short drive apart.

Plan Your Vacation or Move With Us

Once you've decided where to stay, contact Avant Garde Aspen to help you find the perfect accommodation for your vacation or your next dream home. We offer rentals in both Aspen and Snowmass that can accommodate any group size. Our properties feature ski-in/ski-out access, private hot tubs, daily housekeeping, media rooms, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, fully-equipped kitchens, and incredible mountain views. We also can help you find a more permanent residence in Aspen or Snowmass Village if you are looking to buy or sell real estate. Contact us today!

Enjoy the best of both worlds and experience everything that Aspen and Snowmass Village have to offer.


Work With Us

Contact the real estate team at Avant Garde Aspen to sell your property, buy luxury ski property, and browse resort homes for sale in Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale, and the rest of the Roaring Fork Valley.