Luxe Scout's Guide to Aspen in Summer

Aspen - the very name evokes images of a winter wonderland, with snow-capped peaks and world-class skiing, but Aspen is a gem year-round. Despite its glamorous shops and five-star accommodations, Aspen still embraces its mining town roots and independent spirit, giving it a distinctly Western feel. Cowboy hats and boots are standard attire. You’ll find it’s surprisingly small and friendly for its huge reputation. With direct two-hour flights from LAX, getting there is a breeze.

Why go?

Between June and September, Aspen celebrates summer with a packed calendar of events focused on art, music, and gastronomy. The Aspen Music Festival, running from late June to mid-August, is a highlight featuring free concerts, recitals, and masterclasses by world-renowned musicians. Foodies flock to the Food & Wine Classic, a multiday event that showcases the best in culinary arts. If you’re still considering a Labor Day getaway, don’t miss the Aspen Jazz Festival. The 3-day event held is an outdoor, music-lovers extravaganza. This year, the lineup includes Sting, One Republic, Tim McGraw, Brandi Carlile, and many others. Tickets can be purchased for a single day, allowing you to tailor your experience to your schedule.

If big events aren’t your thing, Aspen offers plenty of free music and small-scale events almost every day in summer. Stroll the Farmers Market, check out local shops like Kemo Sabe, and grab a gelato at Paradise Bakery. Take a ride up the Silver Queen Gondola to take in the majestic views and some live music. They also offer mountain-top yoga.

Aspen is as kid-friendly and dog-friendly as they come. Most hotels allow dogs (and not just small ones), and there are numerous restaurants with dog-friendly patios. Fret not about entertaining the kids and teens all day – Aspen offers single-day summer camps and specialty camps for biking, rockets, and mountain skills. In the heart of Aspen’s pedestrian-centered downtown, you’ll find a play structure and a splash fountain that the little kids will love. 

No trip to Aspen in the summer would be complete without a visit to the Maroon Bells. These iconic twin peaks offer breathtaking views, and while no hiking is required to enjoy their beauty, reservations are needed to access the area. Aspen offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including horseback riding, fly fishing, and paintballing. The surrounding White River National Forest provides an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Where to Stay

My personal favorite, the St. Regis Aspen Resort, brings hospitality to an entirely new level and is ideally located within walking distance of pretty much everything. The hotel's resident mascot, a Bernese Mountain dog named Kitty, can often be found lounging in the lobby, adding a touch of homey charm to the elegant surroundings. Mountain Social Bar & Lounge is the heart of the hotel, offering guests a spot in the living room to see and be seen. Don’t miss the daily champagne sabering!

For a more modern and vibrant atmosphere, The W Aspen offers cool décor and a lively social scene. For those traveling in groups or with kids, they offer bunk-style rooms. The W’s rooftop pool offers guests (21+) themed pool parties, live DJ performances, and refreshing cocktails while soaking up the sun.

Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort, has been a local landmark since 1889. If you want to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Wild West without giving up 5-star accommodation and gastronomy, look no further. Don't miss Bad Harriet, the hotel's chic speakeasy-style bar. Perfect for craft cocktails and a sophisticated ambiance, it offers a variety of menu items.

Where to Eat                                                             

There is no shortage of fabulous restaurants in Aspen. One of the best meals I had on my last visit was at Catch Steakhouse. Begin your meal with oysters or sushi, but be sure to save room for the main attraction: the meat. Choose from Japanese wagyu cooked-tableside or shareable large cuts like a 40-ounce tomahawk. Dine outside by the fire with stunning views of Aspen Mountain. For lunch or dinner, check out French Alpine Bistro. The sharable fondu was an indulgent highlight of our trip. After getting to sample West End Social’s Colorado Lamb “Tataki” at the Food and Wine Classic, we made dinner reservations. We loved their revamped sharable menu, craft cocktails, and the sweeping views of the Rockies.

If you like Aspen in Winter, you’ll love it in summer. Every season offers something unique, making it a perfect destination no matter when you visit. Don't miss out on the chance to bask in Aspen's summer splendor.