The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Aspen in Winter Without Skiing | Avant Garde Aspen Luxury Real Estate

No ski? No problem!

Aspen is world-renowned for its skiing, but what if you don’t ski? Not to worry! Aspen offers an abundance of fun activities beyond the slopes, making it a premier destination for luxury, culture, and outdoor adventure year-round. Whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, here’s your guide to experiencing Aspen without ever putting on ski boots.

1. Explore Aspen’s World-Class Dining Scene

Aspen is home to some of Colorado’s most prestigious restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy fireside meal or fine dining, these spots are must-visits:

• Matsuhisa Aspen – Upscale Japanese fusion by Chef Nobu.

• Element 47 at The Little Nell – Michelin-level dining with an extensive wine list.

• Clark’s Oyster Bar – A must-visit for fresh seafood and cocktails.

• French Alpine Bistro – A charming European-inspired café for fondue lovers.

2. Indulge in Luxury Shopping

Aspen is a high-end shopper’s paradise, featuring designer boutiques and unique local shops:

• Gucci, Prada, and Moncler – High-fashion stores perfect for winter and après-ski attire.

• Kemo Sabe – Custom cowboy boots and Western-inspired luxury goods.

• Pitkin County Dry Goods – One of Aspen’s oldest and most beloved boutiques.

3. Take a Scenic Gondola Ride

You don’t need to ski to enjoy breathtaking mountain views! The Silver Queen Gondola takes you up to the top of Aspen Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas, grab a meal at Sundeck Restaurant, or relax in an Adirondack chair with a warm drink.

4. Relax at a Luxury Spa

Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa experience at one of Aspen’s top wellness retreats:

• Spa at The St. Regis Aspen Resort – Known for its oxygen lounge and signature massages.

• The Spa at Viceroy Snowmass – A serene escape with holistic treatments.

• O2 Aspen Spa – Combining yoga, pilates, and therapeutic bodywork.

• Base State Longevity - hit the ice bath / cold plunge and sauna, cure your high altitude woes with an IV drip, get a lymphatic massage, do compression leg therapy, and more. 

5. Visit the Aspen Art Museum

A hub for contemporary art lovers, the Aspen Art Museum features rotating exhibitions of innovative modern works. Best of all, admission is free!

6. Experience Aspen’s Après-Ski Culture (Without Skiing)

You don’t need to hit the slopes to enjoy après-ski festivities. These hotspots offer lively atmospheres, great drinks, and cozy vibes:

• Ajax Tavern – Famous for truffle fries and mountain views.

• The Snow Lodge – A chic après spot with live music and craft cocktails.

• The Wine Bar at The Little Nell – A high-end après-ski lounge with DJs and champagne.

7. Explore Aspen’s Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing Trails

Trade ski boots for snowshoes and explore some of Aspen’s most scenic winter trails:

• Maroon Bells Scenic Area – A breathtaking hike, even in winter, or take a guided snowmobile tour to see the Bells through a private tour booked through T Lazy 7 Ranch.

• Hunter Creek Trail – A moderate trail with incredible mountain views.

• Ashcroft Ghost Town – A historic, snow-covered mining town with a quiet, mystical charm.

• Smuggler Mountain - A short hike, pleasant even in the snow, with breathtaking views of Aspen Mountain.

8. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

For a magical winter experience, book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow at Pine Creek Cookhouse, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal in a stunning mountain setting. You can also book a sleigh ride through Aspen Carriage and Sleigh

9. Enjoy Aspen’s Vibrant Nightlife

From exclusive cocktail lounges to lively music venues, Aspen’s nightlife is second to none:

• Caribou Club – Aspen’s most exclusive private club.

• Belly Up Aspen – A legendary live music venue featuring world-class performers.

• Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar – A speakeasy-style bar with creative cocktails.

• Madame Ushi - A sushi restaurant owned by Cedric Gervais that turns into a nightclub at night.
• Escobar - Under new ownership, a fun nightclub in a subterranean basement

10. Experience Hot Springs Near Aspen

For a relaxing day trip, visit one of the nearby natural hot springs:

• Iron Mountain Hot Springs – 16+ custom pools overlooking the Colorado River.

• Penny Hot Springs – A free, natural hot spring just outside of Aspen.

• Avalanche Ranch - A large natural hot spring south of Carbondale in the Crystal Valley

Aspen is much more than a ski town—it’s a year-round destination with endless luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining, unwinding at a spa, or taking in the mountain scenery, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences awaiting you.

Ready to explore Aspen without skiing? Contact us for exclusive travel recommendations, luxury accommodations, and insider tips! Stephanie Kroll: 303.345.5886 | [email protected]