You can use a number of adjectives to describe Aspen, Colorado, but one that is rarely used is “free.†Aspen’s reputation as a luxury resort town in the Rocky Mountains is well documented, and there’s endless adventures in town for those with a bottomless wallet or purse - 5-star dining and nightlife, the finest in cultural and outdoor activities, and of course the shopping! But, believe it or not, there are actually free things to do in town on an Aspen vacation, too. This week, our blog team set out with one goal in mind: Find the Top 5 FREE Things to Do in Aspen.
5. Free events at the Belly Up Aspen - The Belly Up Aspen is known to bring some of the biggest names in entertainment to town, but they also have a number of free events, ranging from movie nights to local artists showcases. If you’re planning to come to Aspen, be sure to check out the Belly Up website for a current schedule of shows. (Tickets for pay events are available for purchase online. Some events are “no cover until†a specific time, typically 9 or 10 p.m..) Seating at the venue is limited, and tends to fill up fast for free events. We recommend getting to the venue as early as possible for your show. The Belly Up is located in the heart of downtown Aspen near the Independence Square hotel. For more information, call the Belly Up box office at 970-544-9800 or visit the Belly Up Aspen website.
4. Free yoga at the Top of Aspen Mountain - Downward dog, anyone? How about trying it at 11,000 feet? Now is your chance. Experience the ultimate in high-altitude yoga at the top of Aspen Mountain on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from June through August. Classes usually begin at the top of the gondola (known as the Sundeck) at 10:20 a.m. (A gondola lift ticket is required. If you are a Frias Properties guest, contact our Concierge Desk at 970-429-2449 and they will handle everything. Our Concierge Desk can order your gondola ticket in advance, making it easier for you and saving you time and money!)
3. Rock Bottom Ranch Farm tour - Looking for a great family-friendly outdoor adventure for kids of all ages? The Rock Bottom Ranch offers a free tour where staff and educators guide visitors through a variety of ranch adventures, including vegetable production and livestock rotational grazing. Usually open Mondays through Saturdays from May through mid-October. Prefect for school groups and groups larger than one family. (There is a $10 suggested donation per family.) To make a reservation, call 970-927-6760.
2. Free guided hikes - The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) has a number of interesting programs available, including free guided hikes and other free events. Join ACES naturalists for a free nature hike or walk at either Aspen Mountain or Snowmass Mountain during the summer months. The 45-minute hike on Aspen Mountain travels along Richmond Ridge from the top of Aspen Mountain. The Snowmass Rabbit Run Nature walk is roughly two miles and meets at the top of Elk Camp gondola. (Gondola ticket required.) There’s also a 3.5-mile walk in Snowmass that is easier: only 400 feet in elevation gain and takes about 2 hours. (For this hike, meet in the Snowmass Village Mall) Hike and events are scheduled annually from early June through September. Learn interesting facts about the sub-alpine environment, including state wildflowers, observing animals and tracking birds. For more information, call ACES at 970-925-5756 or visit the ACES website.
1. Free outdoor music - There’s nothing better than music in the mountains! First, enjoy the Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series produced by Jazz Aspen Snowmass. Join acclaimed artists, family and friends in the sun for some great outdoor music. Parents and adults can relax and enjoy the sunset and great music, while children can check out the Kids’ Zone - with hula-hooping, face painting, and even a bouncy house. Concerts are at Fanny Hill at Snowmass (mostly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.) Also, check out Bluegrass Sundays in the summer on top of Aspen Mountain at the Sundeck. Or head to the Sundeck on Saturdays in the summer for Classical Music on the Mountain.