Curator’s statement
Staying in Aspen for Christmas is a great trip. It has the charm of a winter wonderland and the luxury of a top resort. The town's picturesque setting, with snow-covered mountains and charming, festively decorated streets, creates a magical holiday atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at four distinct ski areas, ensuring diverse terrain for all skill levels. The "12 Days of Aspen" event adds to the festive spirit with activities like caroling, ice skating and holiday workshops. Luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining options and upscale shopping make for a cozy and indulgent holiday experience. Aspen's unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant holiday events and top-notch amenities make it an ideal destination for a memorable Christmas getaway. Below, we will check out some of the highlights in this haven for the holidays-
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Where to stay
Hotel Jerome Aspen
An Aspen icon on Main Street, done up in a winning mix of Old West-style and modern amenities.
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The Little Nell
At the base of Ajax Mountain, Aspen’s only ski-in/ski-out hotel is the spot for a lively après scene, top people watching and personalized service.
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The St. Regis Aspen Resort
This Aspen icon is walking distance to both the gondola and town highlights. It's also home to an award-winning spa and Ralph Lauren–designed rooms.
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W Aspen
Sophisticated luxury hotel just steps from the slopes in downtown Aspen.
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Viceroy Snowmass
Upscale ski-in/ski-out resort with modern studios and suites, plus a restaurant and café at the base of Snowmass Mountain.
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Aspen has many fancy hotels that provide great comfort and service. This will make your stay in Aspen memorable during Christmas. Here are some of our festive favorites:
Hotel Jerome
Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort, is a historic landmark that combines the charm of Aspen's past with modern luxury. Its cozy lobby, adorned with holiday decorations, is the perfect place to relax by the fireplace with a hot cocoa or cocktail. Established in 1889, this iconic hotel seamlessly blends its rich heritage with contemporary elegance. The well-appointed rooms and suites have a perfect mix of old-fashioned charm and modern features, so you can stay comfortable and relaxed. Guests can enjoy many great dining options, from the fancy Prospect restaurant to the lively J-Bar. Both locals and visitors like the J-Bar. The hotel also features a renowned spa, a heated outdoor pool and personalized concierge services to cater to every need. Hotel Jerome is a great place to stay in Aspen. It is close to Aspen's best attractions, small shops, and lively nightlife. It offers luxury and history in one of the world's most famous mountain towns.
The Little Nell
The Little Nell is Aspen's only five-star, five-diamond hotel, renowned for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service. Nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain, this elegant hotel offers ski-in/ski-out access, making it a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The rooms and suites are spacious and beautifully designed, featuring modern amenities and stunning mountain views. The Little Nell also has the award-winning restaurant Element 47, which serves delicious food with ingredients from local farms. It is also home to the popular Ajax Tavern, which is known for its casual yet fancy atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy a world-class wine cellar, a heated outdoor pool and hot tub and personalized concierge services. With its blend of luxury, convenience and impeccable service, The Little Nell provides an unparalleled experience in Aspen.
St. Regis Aspen Resort
The St. Regis Aspen Resort is a top luxury hotel near Aspen Mountain. It is close to the slopes and Aspen's lively downtown. The resort has fancy guest rooms, suites and luxury homes. They are all designed with fancy decor, special furniture and new things to do. Guests can enjoy various dining options, including Velvet Buck for contemporary mountain cuisine and Mountain Social for cocktails and light bites. The Remède Spa offers a range of treatments, and the resort includes an outdoor heated pool, multiple hot tubs and a ski concierge service. Year-round activities range from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and fly fishing in summer. Famous for exceptional service and attention to detail, the St. Regis Aspen Resort is a top choice for weddings, events and luxurious getaways, consistently receiving high praise for its accommodations, dining and personalized guest experiences. The hotel's Christmas decorations and holiday events, like the yearly tree lighting ceremony and gingerbread house display, make the Christmas atmosphere even more magical.
W Aspen Hotel
W Aspen Hotel brings a chic and contemporary vibe to the Aspen luxury hotel scene. Known for its vibrant social scene and stylish design, the W Aspen features modern rooms and suites with breathtaking mountain views. The hotel's rooftop WET Deck offers a unique experience with heated pools, hot tubs and panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. During the holiday season, guests can enjoy special events, live music and festive cocktails, making it a lively and exciting choice for a Christmas getaway.
Viceroy Snowmass
The Viceroy Snowmass is a fancy resort in the center of Snowmass Village. It has a great mix of comfort and style. This elegant resort features beautifully appointed rooms, suites and residences with modern decor and stunning mountain views. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a full-service spa, heated outdoor pool and fitness center. The resort's dining options are also impressive. TORO Kitchen & Lounge serves Latin-inspired food and the Nest Bar & Grill is more casual. The Viceroy Snowmass also offers convenient access to the slopes, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its combination of luxury, convenience and top-notch service, the Viceroy Snowmass provides a memorable and indulgent mountain retreat.
Spend Christmas in Aspen, Colorado: A Winter Wonderland Experience:
Aspen, Colorado, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season, making it a premier destination for holiday celebrations. Known for its world-class ski resorts, picturesque scenery and vibrant cultural scene, Aspen offers a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. Here are some compelling reasons and activities that make spending Christmas in Aspen an unforgettable experience.
Skiing and snowboarding
Aspen is home to four distinct ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. Each offers unique terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Aspen Mountain, known for its challenging runs, caters to advanced skiers, while Buttermilk is perfect for beginners and families. Snowmass, the largest of the four, provides a wide variety of slopes and terrain parks, ensuring there's something for everyone.
12 days of Aspen
The "12 Days of Aspen" is a signature event that brings the holiday spirit to life with a series of festive activities and events from December 20th to 31st. This celebration features a wide range of free and family-friendly activities, including:
Santa's Village: Meet Santa Claus, take photos and enjoy holiday-themed crafts and activities.
Carolers and Live Music: Enjoy performances by carolers and local musicians throughout the town.
Ice Skating: Glide on the ice at the Silver Circle Ice Rink, beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Holiday Craft Workshops: Participate in crafting sessions to create holiday ornaments and decorations.
Winter Wonderland Community Party: Join the community for a festive gathering with hot chocolate, treats and holiday cheer.
Fireworks Display: Experience a spectacular fireworks show to ring in the New Year.
World-Class Dining and Shopping
Aspen's culinary scene is renowned for its diversity and quality, offering everything from cozy cafes to gourmet fine dining. Here are some top dining spots to enjoy during Christmas:
Element 47: This restaurant is at The Little Nell. It offers a great dining experience with local ingredients and a wine list that has won awards.
Matsuhisa: Renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa's restaurant offers exquisite Japanese cuisine with a creative twist, perfect for a special holiday meal.
The Wild Fig: A charming bistro serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting.
Ajax Tavern: Known for its casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, Ajax Tavern offers delicious comfort food with stunning views of Aspen Mountain.
Casa Tua: An intimate restaurant offering Northern Italian cuisine, ideal for a romantic holiday dinner.
For shopping enthusiasts, Aspen's upscale boutiques and galleries offer a wide range of luxury goods, unique gifts and holiday treats. Explore stores like Gorsuch, Moncler, Louis Vuitton and Aspen Emporium and Flying Circus for unique finds.
The Magic of Aspen During the Holidays
Aspen is a special place for the holidays because it has beautiful natural scenery, a happy atmosphere, and a strong sense of community. The snow-covered mountains provide a stunning backdrop for holiday celebrations, creating a picturesque setting that feels straight out of a winter postcard. Aspen is dedicated to making the holidays a happy and fun time for everyone. This is shown in its beautifully decorated streets, exciting events and the warm hospitality of its residents.
From the thrilling winter sports to the cozy fireside gatherings, every moment in Aspen during Christmas is infused with a sense of wonder and delight. Whether you're exploring the town's charming shops, enjoying gourmet meals or partaking in the festive activities of the "12 Days of Aspen," you'll find that the spirit of the season is alive and well in this idyllic mountain town.
Need to know
This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Aspen. Looking for further travel inspiration? Check out Kat Saval's guide, Aspen Colorado Hiking: From Easy Strolls to Epic Mountain Treks.
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Kris Weir
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