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Best Activities to do in Aspen, CO

Diane profile pictureDianeJan 26, 2024

Welcome to Aspen, Colorado - the sweetheart of America’s skiing culture. It’s a glamorous winter wonderland, famous for world-class skiing, snowboarding, dining, nightlife, and nature. But it's just as charming during the summer with its vivid wildflowers and thrilling hiking trails. 

No matter what time of year you visit, Wander Aspen Summit is an idyllic luxury home to base yourself in as you explore the best of this gorgeous mountain town. When you aren’t hitting the slopes or unwinding at home, be sure to check out these activities to make the most out of Aspen.

Summer Activities

Despite Aspen’s reputation as a winter playground, it’s a fantastic place to visit during the summer too. The powdery slopes are replaced with meadows full of flowers, and it’s the perfect time to explore the trails!

These are the 3 best summer activities to try while in Aspen:

Maroon Bells

Photo courtesy of Aspen Chamber

The Maroon Bells are an iconic landmark in Colorado - and one of the most photographed mountains in North America. Aptly named for its dramatic maroon-tinted, bell-shaped mountains that formed over 300 million years ago, the Maroon Bells promises an incredible experience that immerses you in nature. 

These scenic mountains are home to a diverse array of landscapes and natural habitats that are best explored by hiking or mountain biking. There are several trails in and around the Maroon Bells, suitable for every fitness level. Dogs are welcome, too - just keep your buddies on a leash. 

Don’t miss out on Maroon Lake, a magical alpine lake and the most famous attraction in Maroon Bells. The lake sits on a basin formed by Ice Age glaciers. Lay out your picnic basket along the banks, enjoy some snacks, and take in the amazing beauty all around you. Just be sure to make reservations when visiting Maroon Lake anytime from May through October!


Tip: Check out the event calendar for fun and hip happenings in Aspen!


Aspen Farmer’s Market

Photo courtesy of Aspen Chamber Resort Association

Saturday mornings in the summer are best spent exploring the Aspen Farmer’s Market. Discover Colorado’s seasonal produce and try excellent homemade jams, bread, artisanal products, meats, and tons more - all made locally.

The Aspen Farmer’s Market has been a well-loved tradition among frequent visitors as well as locals, since its establishment in 1998. Take a leisurely stroll through the market with a coffee in hand as you shop for goods to bring back home or enjoy onsite. The market is open on Saturday mornings from June through October, 8:30 AM to 2PM but be sure to check the website for the updated schedule. 

Silver Queen Gondola

Photo courtesy of AspenSnowmass.com

  • Distance from Wander Aspen Summit: 2.3 miles

  • Location: 611 E. Durant Ave.

  • Hours: 8AM to 5PM daily

  • Phone: ( 877) 318-9233

  • Website: https://www.aspensnowmass.com/ 

Aspen Snowmass is your gateway to adventure throughout Aspen. They offer professional skiing and snowboarding lessons, gear rental, as well as tickets to the most sought-after activities including rides aboard the Silver Queen Gondola. 

This iconic lift is the most scenic way to get around. Of course, you get to enjoy an unparalleled view of vibrant wildflowers throughout Aspen in the summer, and the sparkling white peaks during the winter. Whether you’re traveling as a solo, as a pair, or with a group, let Aspen Snowmass take care of the lift tickets and rentals for you.

Winter Activities

Make the most out of winter with these fun activities!

Aspen truly comes alive during the winter months. Along with the snow comes the vibrant holiday atmosphere, and for many people, it’s the best time of year to experience Aspen. 

This charming town buzzes with activity everywhere you look. Aspen is famous for thrilling snow sports but there are also many ways to enjoy the winter here. Explore the local art scene, savor the local produce, or immerse in the magic of a sleigh ride - the possibilities for fun and adventure here are endless!

Check out these top 3 winter activities that you can do near Wander Aspen Summit:

Aspen Snowmass: Skiing and Snowboarding Lessons

Photo courtesy of AspenSnowmass.com

  • Distance from Wander Aspen Summit: 2.3 miles

  • Location: 611 E. Durant Ave.

  • Hours: 8AM to 5PM daily

  • Phone: ( 877) 318-9233

  • Website: https://www.aspensnowmass.com/ 

The best way to get to know Aspen’s four mountains is through skiing and snowboarding lessons. There are different terrains suitable for various skill levels, and having a friendly, knowledgeable instructor is key to growing as a successful skier - safely! Aspen Snowmass is renowned for its team of amazing instructors, with programs tailored for every age. 

No matter what your skill level is, Aspen Snowmass will guide you through it - and make sure you have fun at the same time! They’ve got you covered when it comes to ski and snowboard gear rental too. 

Aspen Art Museum

Photo courtesy of Michael Moran at the Aspen Art Museum

  • Distance from Wander Aspen Summit: 2.2 miles

  • Location: 637 East Hyman Avenue

  • Hours: 10AM - 6PM, Tuesday to Sunday

  • Phone: (970) 925-8050

  • Website: https://www.aspenartmuseum.org/ 

Art has always been an integral aspect of Aspen’s culture. Learn all about it by visiting the Aspen Art Museum, an artist-founded and run institution, to have a glimpse into the work of its roster of artists. Art aficionados may also appreciate the upscale gallery tour. 

The Aspen Art Museum showcases the very best of local artists, who contribute so much to the shaping of Aspen’s culture. Be sure to check out the museum’s Rooftop Cafe too: they serve an incredible array of farm-to-fork dishes - care of a partnership with food producers in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Tip: Check out the calendar for upcoming events and lectures during your stay in Aspen!

Aspen Carriage: Sleigh Rides

Photo courtesy of Aspen Carriage

  • Distance from Wander Aspen Summit: 3 miles

  • Location: 1560 S Ute Avenue

  • Hours: 10AM - 6PM, Tuesday to Sunday

  • Phone: (970) 925-3394

  • Website: Aspen Carriage

Few things are as magical as taking a sleigh ride through the winter wonderland of Aspen! Let Aspen Carriage make the dream come true: the sleigh rides take through the pine tree forest, down the mountain, and across a stunning meadow before heading back up again. 

These memorable sleigh rides last 45 minutes long, and includes stops for photo ops with the horse. You’ll also get time to relax with a cup of hot chocolate. Aspen Carriage has options for public ($60+) and private ($375+) sleigh rides and you also have the option of going on a breathtaking daytime sleigh, or a sleigh ride underneath the starry nighttime sky.


Along with world-class skiing, Aspen has so much to offer the adventurer within. If you need more suggestions, our 24/7 Wander Concierge is always ready to help you so that you have the best possible time while staying with us. Just message them directly through the Wander app or send them a text via 737-377-3205. Enjoy your trip!

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