Aspen offers peak experiences for adventure seekers, foodies, nature lovers, and culture fans. But what about a tough-to-please set of needy travelers – toddlers?
Visiting Aspen with toddlers is a treat for the whole family, with many options for outdoor adventures, indoor fun, and stress-free dining. Read on to learn about all the ways to enjoy Aspen with toddlers.
Our concierge can help you prepare! When you book a Frias Properties condo, our concierge can help you reserve pack'n'plays, cribs, high chairs, hiking backpacks, and other essentials for enjoying Aspen with a toddler.
Summer and Fall Activities in Aspen with Toddlers
Outdoor play abounds during summer and fall in Aspen, and finding the perfect recreational zone for toddlers is as easy as strolling downtown. Here are our top recommendations for outdoor activities in Aspen with toddlers:
The Dancing Fountain
Created by computing genius Nick DeWolf and sculptor Travis Fulton in 1979, the Dancing Fountain still delights visitors of all ages with its completely random pattern of dancing water. Located at the corner of Galena Street and the Hyman Avenue walking mall, this zone is a haven for toddler play in Aspen.
Herron Park
Your kids will love spending a day at Herron Park! It's a great way to get their energy out, plus, you can enjoy the scenery. It's located on the eastern edge of downtown Aspen and has the perfect playground for toddlers (roughly ages 1-3). Little ones delight in the shallow rover here, and also love the toddler swings.
Aspen Recreation Center Pool
Toddlers have their own designated area here, with a toddler waterslide and fountain features. Pack up the floaties and enjoy the lazy river!
Guests of Frias Properties receive complimentary passes to the Aspen Recreation Center.
Note: the ARC pool will be closed Summer of 2026.
Visit "The Beach" at Northstar Nature Preserve
Located on Highway 82, east of Aspen, this beach abuts the still-water section of the Roaring Fork River. Bring some sand toys and enjoy the serenity of the nature preserve. It's one of our favorite swimming holes near Aspen Snowmass.
Ride the Aspen Mountain Gondola
Open daily during peak summer months and weekends in the fall, the ride up to the top of Aspen Mountain is a great activity in itself. Once at the top, enjoy easy hiking along Richmond Ridge and a great toddler play area just below the summit. Grab a bit to eat at the Sundeck and snap a family photo with the epic view!
Head Out On a Hike
Rent a toddler-carrying hiking backpack and explore the trails around Aspen with your tyke in tow. We recommend Smuggler Mountain Road for an uphill exertion, Rio Grande Trail for a flatter stroll, or Weller Lake Trail for a mix of toddler walking and some backpack time.
Visit Snowmass's Family-Friendly Attractions
Just 20 minutes from Aspen and accessible by free bus service, we recommend spending a day in Snowmass with your toddler. From the splash pad at Snowmass Base Village to the Elk Camp Lost Forest attractions, there are many daytime activities for little kids. Plus, the evening events like the Snowmass Rodeo and Thursday Night Concerts are fun for the whole family.
Winter Activities in Aspen with Toddlers
While a winter visit may include some extra layers, there are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Aspen with toddlers.
Ski with your toddler
While this activity might be more ceremonial than anything else, parents delight at this rite of passage. The Snowmass Skittles lift and Buttermilk's Panda Peak lift are the perfect places to take your toddler for their first foray into skiing.
Sign Up for Ski School
Aspen's Snowmass Ski & Snowboard Schools have programs for kids starting at 2.5 years old. If your child is younger than 2.5, the Treehouse Kids' Adventure Center offers engaging childcare services in a state-of-the-art facility.
Go Sledding at the Aspen Recreation Center
The sled hill outside the ARC is a great place to find kids and parents delighting in the simple joys of gravity and snow. Buy a sled at the Miner's Building or Carl's Pharmacy and join in the fun!
Warm Up at the Pitkin Public Library
What's more cozy than the library? With scheduled story times and a dedicated children's room, the Pitkin Public Library is a perfect place to take your kiddos to unwind for a bit and even learn something new.
Play at the Red Brick Recreation Center
The perfect way to work out the wiggles! Toddlers can enjoy safe play on inflatable bounce houses with other young kids at the Red Brick Recreation Center. Frias Properties guests receive complimentary access to the Red Brick Recreation Center.