The Aspen center is about the area of Downtown Aspen and the area of Aspen Art Museum.
Since Aspen is a ski resort, the best time to visit is from December to February when the city is covered in freshly fallen snow. Aspen experiences up to 200 inches of snowfall each year, which helps lure winter sports aficionados from across the world. Keep in mind, though, that winter is the most expensive and most crowded time to visit Aspen. Hotel prices are sky-high, lift tickets are at a premium, and you'll have to wait in line just about everywhere you go. Despite the downsides, if you can afford to brave the chilly temperatures and influx of tourists, spending the winter in Aspen is one experience you'll never forget.
Springtime in Aspen is short and tends to be rainy, but prices start to plummet as soon as the winter crowd leaves. Finding a room can also be a challenge since some properties close down for the spring season. If you do manage to find a hotel from March to May, you can enjoy several local events, including the Bud Light Spring Jam and the Audi FIS Alpine World Cup Finals.
Summer marks a surge in tourism, as travelers hope to take advantage of hiking, golf, and other outdoor activities. While not as crowded or costly as during the winter months, summer rates do climb because of the revived tourism, so you'll want to book your hotel months in advance to get the best prices. A few events to experience during the summer include Snowmass Mammoth Fest, Aspen Food & Wine Classic, and the Aspen Arts Festival.
Autumn is another one of Aspen's slow seasons, which results in some properties closing shop from September to November. Prices are incredibly reasonable during the fall, though, and you won't have to worry about booking a room months in advance to snag a good deal. While the weather can be chilly, it's perfect for a downtown stroll — just be sure to bring plenty of layers. Key events that occur during the fall include Oktoberfest, Aspen Filmfest, and John Denver Week.
If you plan your trip carefully, you might be able to take advantage of special discounts during your trip to Aspen. Most of the city's properties, including Hotel Aspen on Main Street, offer seasonal specials that help you save as much as 20 percent off the cost of your stay. In some cases, Colorado residents may even save 25 percent off best available rates simply by booking the current special. These special promotions do vary depending on the hotel and the season, so keep an eye out on your favorite properties to see when new discounts are available.
Other properties, such as The Sky Hotel, extend special rates to certain demographics. Seniors, AARP members, AAA members, and government employees, can take advantage of special rates. Simply book the special rate and present your proof of eligibility at check-in to save as much as 20 percent off the best available rates.
Aspen offers many moderately priced hotels that give you plenty of value for your dollar. The family-owned and operated Hotel Durant is just four blocks from Main Street and the Silver Queen Gondola. Guest rooms are cozy and laid-back with mountain-inspired decor, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and flat-screen televisions. Upgraded rooms and suites add balconies with mountain views, fireplaces, or microwaves. This property also includes a free continental breakfast, complimentary afternoon wine and cheese, an outdoor hot tub, lounge, and on-site parking.
Downtown's Hotel Aspen is a modern ski hotel boasting mountain views and a convenient location. The stylish guest rooms feature en suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen televisions with DVD players, iPod docking stations, alarm clocks, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. Suites add outdoor hot tubs on private patios or fireplaces. Hotel Aspen also features a free hot breakfast buffet, an early evening wine and cheese reception, a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, free parking, and an airport shuttle service.
While you may come to Aspen for skiing and other outdoor activities, you may be surprised to learn the city offers a nice variety of museums. The Aspen Art Museum boasts stunning architecture as well as an important collection of international contemporary art. The Holden Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum is a rustic historic site detailing the city's silver mining period. If you love historic homes, visit the Wheeler-Stallard Museum on West Bleeker Street to experience the lovely Queen Anne architectural style. Other notable sites in Aspen include Valley Fine Art, Galerie Zuger, and the Aspen Fine Art Gallery.
Exploring the natural beauty of Aspen is a tall order, but no matter what your itinerary includes, you'll love every minute of it. Whether you're looking to splurge on a luxury resort or you prefer an affordable family-owned property, Aspen offers the perfect hotel to meet your needs and budget.