Explore the Best Attractions Near Aspen, CO: A Scenic Mountain Adventure

Day 1: Aspen Town Exploration

Aspen, CO on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Victoria's Espresso and Wine Bar

Enjoy a fresh, locally roasted coffee and a light breakfast in a cozy mountain-town setting, perfect to start your day in Aspen.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Aspen Art Museum

Explore contemporary art in a stunning modern building, featuring rotating exhibitions from local and international artists.
USD10, 1h30m

11:30am

Aspen Historic Walking Tour

Discover Aspen's rich mining history and architecture on this guided or self-guided walking tour of the town's key historic sites.
Free or USD20 for guided tour, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes featuring charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, and locally sourced ingredients in a casual setting.
USD30, 1h0m

3:00pm

John Denver Memorial Park

Relax in this peaceful park dedicated to the famous musician with beautiful mountain views and walking trails.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Element 47

Dine upscale with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced Rocky Mountain cuisine in an elegant setting inside The Little Nell hotel.
USD60, 2h0m

Day 2: Maroon Bells and Nature Hiking

Maroon Bells, near Aspen, CO on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Paradise Bakery & Cafe

Start your day with freshly baked pastries, coffee, and hearty breakfast sandwiches near downtown Aspen.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Shuttle to Maroon Bells

Take the official shuttle (open 8am-6pm) as private vehicles are limited; enjoy a scenic 15-minute ride to the iconic Maroon Bells Wilderness area.
USD12, 0h15m

9:00am

Maroon Bells Scenic Hike

Hike the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail (3.3 miles round trip) or extend to Crater Lake for spectacular alpine views of the famous Maroon Bells peaks.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch at Maroon Lake

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch by the lake surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. Stop by Aspen to pick up supplies beforehand.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return Shuttle to Aspen

Relax back on the shuttle ride and enjoy the picturesque mountain scenery returning to Aspen.
USD12, 0h15m

4:00pm

Relax at Aspen Brewing Company

Unwind with a local craft beer or cider in a friendly atmosphere.
USD10, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Clark's Oyster Bar

Enjoy fresh seafood and oysters with a mountain town twist, perfect for an evening meal.
USD50, 2h0m

Day 3: Glenwood Springs Hot Springs

Glenwood Springs, CO on June 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Glenwood Canyon Brewpub

Early breakfast and coffee to fuel your drive to Glenwood Springs, known for its local beers and hearty meals.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Glenwood Springs

A scenic 45-minute drive west of Aspen through stunning mountain passes to Glenwood Springs.
Free, 0h45m

10:00am

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Relax in the world's largest hot springs pool featuring therapeutic mineral water and spa facilities; open 9am-9pm.
USD30, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Pullman

Enjoy creative New American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy downtown setting.
USD35, 1h0m

3:00pm

Hiking or Biking along the Glenwood Springs Trail System

Explore the extensive trail system that follows the Colorado River with beautiful views and access points; suitable for walking or renting a bike.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Slope & Hatch

Enjoy southwestern-inspired small plates and tacos with a vibrant atmosphere before heading back to Aspen.
USD40, 1h30m

7:30pm

Drive back to Aspen

Return drive to Aspen, ending your mountain adventure day.
Free, 0h45m