Aspen is one of the most family-friendly mountain towns in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. This collection of tips and tricks will give you local insights into how to create an Aspen vacation every member of the family is sure to enjoy.
In this guide, we’ll look at where to play, where to eat, where to stay and what you don’t want to forget when vacationing in Aspen with kids.
Where to Play
Top Summer Activities for Kids in Aspen
Gondola Ride - Jump on the Silver Queen Gondola and ride it to the top of Aspen Mountain for a memorable alpine experience. The Sundeck Restaurant at the top of the mountain has great food and there are dozens of mountain-top activities from hula hooping to nature walks.
Dancing Fountain - Across from the historic Wheeler Opera House is one of Aspen’s most popular summertime attractions, the Dancing Fountain. Let the kiddos run through it in a bathing suit and don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes for them.
Saturday Market - From kettle corn to puppies and an alpaca, there is no shortage of kid-friendly fun to be had at the Aspen Saturday Market. There are plenty of artisan treats for parents to enjoy, too.
Visit Maroon Bells - A trip to Maroon Bells is one the most memorable activities for any family when visiting Aspen. Walk around Maroon Lake and soak in the view of the Maroon Bells. If your family is feeling ambitious, do the 3.6-mile round trip hike up to Crater Lake for a closer look.
Top Winter Activities for Kids in Aspen
Skiing - Although it is many things, Aspen is known as a ski town above all else. Take the kids skiing at Buttermilk Ski Area, the most kid-friendly of Aspen’s four mountains. Buttermilk is great for all skill levels and is set up with families in mind. Don’t miss the Cliffhouse restaurant for amazing views and family-friendly eats.
Sledding - Swing by Alpine Ace Hardware or True Value in the Miner’s Building and pick up a sled. Jump on the bus to the Aspen Recreation Center and look for all the kids whizzing down the hill behind it.
Aspen Recreation Center - Go for a swim and enjoy the lazy river or the giant water slide. Then try to scale the indoor climbing wall or jump into a freestyle ice skating session. The Aspen Recreation Center (ARC) is a perfect place to go when your kiddos want a break from the skiing or it’s too cold to play outside. Guests of Frias Properties receive complimentary passes to the ARC!
Catch a Movie - Who doesn’t love a good movie and some delicious popcorn. Visit the Metropolitan Isis Theater for a matinee showing of the latest blockbuster. Enjoy the deep, reclining seats and newly updated surround sound system.
Where to Eat
CP Burger - This centrally located restaurant serves up delicious gourmet burgers with a side of mini golf in the summer and a side of ice skating in the winter. CP Burger is the perfect place to take the kids for lunch or dinner.
Brunelleschi’s - Who doesn’t love pizza? Bruno’s, as locals call it, is the go-to restaurant for local and visiting families seeking delicious Italian food that both parents and kids will agree on. Ask about the make-your-own pizzas!
Home Team BBQ - Let the kids run around while you enjoy delicious North Carolina BBQ and great views of Buttermilk ski area from the deck during summer or winter.
Paradise Bakery - Ice cream and cookies worth writing home about are what Paradise Bakery is known for. It is the perfect place for an afternoon pit stop or an after-dinner treat the whole fam will enjoy.
Without The Kids - You love your kids, but a night out on the town without them might be nice too. Check out Aspen Babysitting Company to hire a sitter.
Where To Stay
There are thousands of options when it comes to accommodations for your next Aspen vacation. If you are visiting with your family, you might want the flexibility of a place that fits your specific needs. Search Aspen vacation rentals based on what your family hopes to find in one.
Don’t Forget
Sun Protection - Colorado gets 300 days of sun every year on average. Keep the kiddos from getting burned with a bit of sunscreen, hats and long sleeves no matter what time of year you visit.
Extra layers - Bringing an extra layer for every member of your family is always a good idea when you are out and about in Aspen. Weather can change quickly and temps can get chilly when the sun sets.
Water bottles - Aspen sits at 8,000 feet above sea level. At that elevation, it’s possible to succumb to elevation sickness. And while it’s far from life-threatening, it sure can put a damper on your trip. Make sure everyone in your family drinks lots of water during your entire visit.
Snacks - With all this fun, snacks are a must to keep energy levels up and smiles on faces. Stock up at City Market or Clark’s Market.
Gear - Make sure to bring all the gear your kiddos will need for a great trip. If you do end up forgetting something, you can rent all sorts of kids gear from Mountain Baby Gear Rentals. For winter vacations, rent your ski equipment in advance! For added ease, our preferred partners at Ski Butlers can deliver skis, boots, and even helmets to your condo!
Ready for your next trip to Aspen with kids? Start planning your Aspen vacation by browsing our vast selection of centrally located vacation rentals. Or contact our reservations specialists to get recommendations on where to stay.