Aspen, Colorado, is breathtaking, and if you can visit in the summer, take full advantage. While known for being a ski town, winter may be the most popular time to visit, but you can experience the calm, green, gorgeous summer version of downtown Aspen and you won’t be disappointed in one of the best towns in the United States.
Whether your Aspen visit centers around outdoor adventures or is just a one-day stop to check out the scene, you will have a Delightful and memorable time.
It was our first time in Aspen, Colorado, and I am so glad we checked it off the bucket list. It offers gorgeous views, tasty food and drinks, a walkable downtown with options for the entire family. Plus, it just has this fun, ritzy, high-end feel. Here are the Best Things to Do in Aspen, Colorado During the Summer:
How to Get to Aspen During the Summer: Drive Independence Pass
Your trip begins before you even get to Aspen! Getting there is a dream drive and one you won’t forget. Take on the scenic drive of Independence Pass, which is a great way to see the Rockies. Beginning in Twin Lakes, Colorado (beautiful in its own right), the 32-mile long stretch takes about an hour with stops to check out the views.
NOTE: It’s only open in the summer due to weather dangers and roadblocks in the winter.
It is completely safe, but drive with caution! Independence Pass is steep, narrow, and twisty, with a few hold-your-breath spots! You’ll cross the Continental Divide, where the summit is 12,095 feet above sea level, and stare at what feels like endless, massive peaks, the Roaring Fork River, and beautiful green trees.
If you are going through Buena Vista on your way, don’t miss The Best Things to Do in Buena Vista!
Where to Get Outside in Aspen During the Summer
Herron Park
Aspen, Colorado, offers the great Herron Park, located on a small street along the Roaring Fork River. There’s a fun play area (including a cool rock climbing gym), a walking path, and a picnic area; it’s perfect for a summer day.
And the best part? The calm, shallow spot of the river to take a dip. While it was early June when we visited, and the water was still freezing, we fully enjoyed our time here—and it helped wear out the baby 🙂
Yellow Brick Playground
It turns out that when you have a baby, seeking out parks is a thing! If you have little ones with you who need to burn some energy, Yellow Brick Playground is another great option. A little quieter setting than Herron Park, this area has everything the kids need to have fun—and keep mom and dad enjoying the sun and views.
Aspen Saturday Market
Who doesn’t love a good Farmer’s market in the summer months? How about one as the base of the Aspen mountain range? Next level awesome! Open on Saturdays from 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM, you’ll find delicious Colorado-grown produce to cool you down in the summer heat, as well as Colorado-made artisan products. In a setting full of natural beauty, you’re sure to find joy—and souvenirs—at the Aspen Saturday Market!
Shopping in Aspen
My joke while here: Where do the poor people shop? Lol. Sure, there is a ton of shopping in this town, but be prepared for maybe a bit more window shopping. High-end stores take over, but it’s still fun to look! And you’ll run into more affordable shops every now and then.
Where to Eat in Aspen During the Summer
For a small town, you will have no problem finding delicious food and drinks in the area. These were the places we stopped and would recommend:
Breakfast at Unravel Coffee + Bar
A great way to start the day is at Unravel Coffee + Bar. One of my favorite spots from our trip, this coffee shop gets an A in aesthetics and an A+ in smoked salmon toast (how millennial lol.) The patterned tile floors, exposed brick, and bright chandeliers have you saying “ooo” right when you walk in the door.
Order your favorite coffee and a bite to eat from a menu of organically sourced ingredients. Then, choose from indoor seating amongst modern designs or a spot on the outdoor patio for some morning sun. It’s a great stop for brunch or lunch as well—and yes, you can get a cocktail.
Lunch at Westy’s Tap & Tavern
All that fresh air while walking through Aspen in the summer season will get you feeling hungry. And what sounds better than pizza and beer? Westy’s Tap & Tavern has you covered. This easygoing taproom and brewpub offers a variety of beers and crispy, thin-crust pizza made with local organic flour and mouthwatering toppings.
While dining with a baby is literally always interesting, the food and beer reminded us that it’s worth it! We enjoyed the Pepperoni pizza (hello, hot honey drizzled on top), and my beer of choice, the Mexican Lager, not only hit the spot for lunch but also made me stop back later in the day to bring some cans back to our hotel.
And a special shoutout to the staff: they brought us a kid’s cup of ice for our baby to shake around. It was a peaceful one minute 😉
Japanese Dinner at Jimoto
A little tradition we’ve had since we became parents is finding a Japanese restaurant in whatever town we’re visiting and enjoying gourmet ramen in the room after the baby falls asleep. We had a few options in Aspen but went with Jimoto, and wooooheeee, am I glad we did.
These ramen bowls and dumplings were on another planet—I’m not kidding. They’re not cheap ($70 for two ramen bowls and a dumpling appetizer for pick-up), but I swear it was worth every penny; you could taste the quality of the ingredients, and I still think about it! One of the best things I will remember about Aspen is this restaurant.
Italian Dinner at Acquolina Aspen
I stumbled into Acquolina solely because it started pouring rain, and I needed somewhere to wait it out. I’m glad it was here! Authentic Italian food in a fine dining setting, Acquolina is a great pick if you’re looking for a sit-down restaurant. While I wasn’t here to eat, the menu looked fabulous and everything I saw come out of the kitchen was drool-worthy.
And as far as what I was here for—my Watermelon Margarita screamed Aspen summer. Refreshing, beautiful, and tasty in an environment that made you feel rich. (I’m far from and had a tough time signing my one-drink bar tab, LOL.) #worthit
White House Tavern is another great option if you are looking for casual, American dining.
Cocktails at The Lounge at Limelight Hotel
Baby napped. Dad watched baseball. And Mom got out for a Spicy Mango Margarita! The Lounge in a swanky hotel was the perfect place to unwind and talk with the friendly bartender. Choose from various high-end drinks and tasty appetizers, and maybe even get lucky enough to catch live music.
Party at Aspen Public House
A lively gastropub that offers a cool vibe (it used to be the Historic Wheeler Opera House) and delicious drinks. While I only sat down at the Aspen Public House bar for a quick Espresso Martini, I would have chosen a full afternoon where the beers continued to flow (but I have a baby lol.) They have a late-night bar scene, local beers, and plenty of cocktail and wine options. Stop here if you’re looking to let loose a little bit!
Where to Stay in Aspen During the Summer: Shadow Mountain Lodge
We intended to make our time in Aspen, Colorado, a Day Trip, but we quickly fell in love, and that changed. So, we needed a last-minute stay (that didn’t cost $700…) and thankfully came across the affordable Shadow Mountain Lodge (for only about $200!)
We snagged the last-minute room, which, though a bit dated, had a comfortable Murphy bed, a loft area (perfect for the baby) with a second bed, a full kitchen, a small patio, and quick access to the pool—no hot tub. The front desk staff was so responsive and helpful and made our stay perfect, even though we booked about 30 minutes in advance of arriving!
More of the Best Things to Do in Aspen, Colorado During Summer
I’d love to go back to Aspen, Colorado, to experience more of the summer outdoor recreation. We weren’t ready to tackle this with a baby in tow for this trip, but here are additional ways to enjoy the area.
Hiking in Aspen
There are plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels to enjoy the great outdoors and beauty of the Rocky Mountains. It’s tough to go wrong in Aspen, but here are some top spots…enjoy the top of the mountain!
The Rio Grande Trail is perfect for casuals. It follows the Roaring Fork River and is mostly flat. If you need something more difficult in the Roaring Fork Valley, go for Smuggler Mountain Trail. And those looking for a crazy challenge can try Aspen Mountain, Lost Man Loop, or Ute Trail.
Trip to Maroon Bells
This area is not known to be one of the prettiest spots in the Aspen area but the world. The Rocky Mountains show off here, and a quick drive on Maroon Creek Road or a hop on the free bus will take you there.
More Outdoor Activities in Aspen
What are family vacations without a few thrills?! Go white water rafting down the Colorado River. Take a scenic Horseback Riding Tour. Experience hot air balloon rides in the spectacular setting that Aspen offers. Or, there are countless options for mountain biking. Local outfitters will get you set up with anything you want to try!
The Best Things to Do During Aspen in the Summer
The town of Aspen offers a calmer experience in the summer months. It’s one of the most amazing places in North America to take a summer vacation, whether it’s with family, friends, or solo. I promise it will be an unforgettable experience!
