48 Hours in Aspen

This past weekend we packed up and headed west to a little ski town called Aspen. Growing up, my family spent our winter vacations skiing in Utah; so this was my first time exploring the Colorado mountains. It was a quick trip- spending only two full days in town. But I was able to get a quick lay of the land and find some precious little gems that I would highly recommend. 

Stay

I was lucky enough to stay in the super luxe Residences at The Little Nell. Nestled right at the side of Ajax Mountain, you can't beat the beautiful views and easy access to the town of Aspen. The service was incomparable- with complimentary car services, 24-Hour concierge, ski concierge, and complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the day. The amenities were top notch- including Molton Brown products, thank you very much- and a much-needed laundry room, state-of-the-art kitchen, and private balcony. And the rooftop pool and hot tub weren't too shabby either.

Eat

What's a vacation without a tasty meal? Nada. And Aspen has a wealth of fabulous spots for a delicious meal or a bite aprés ski. Our first meal in the mountains was at J Bar at Hotel Jerome, where we enjoyed delicious apps including Hummus served with Brussels Sprouts, Wok Charred Edamame, and Spinach-Artichoke Dip.  

All of our breakfasts took place at the Little Nell- not out of convenience, but because it was just that good. Element-47 has a great variety of breakfast options from green juices to house smoked salmon and the best lemon soufflé pancakes I've had.

And for lunch, we spent a sunny afternoon on the patio of Ajax Tavern enjoying fondu and oysters. And for a main, I got the burger. Definitely do it.

Ski

After roughly ten years away from the slopes, I spent the afternoon skiing at Aspen Highlands. It was obligatory, as we had a much anticipated reservation at Cloud Nine mid-mountain. But it was definitely the mountain I would have chosen. Ajax boasts a bit too many black diamonds for this skier; so if you're like me, and are partial to blues, I'd go to the Highlands or Snowmass.

drink

Because we were there to celebrate my baby sister's Bachelorette Party, there was definitely a drink or two consumed. The first night, we happened upon the Vodka Ice House at Hotel Jerome.  The seasonal ice house serves up a variety of tastings, and if you ask real nice they'll even let you try out the shotski.

My favorite après ski drink was fireside at the super-laid back Shlomo's, right outside The Little Nell. It has a super chill vibe, and serves up all the drinks, from house Margaritas to bottles Veuve.

And speaking of Veuve, if you're into perpetual champagne showers, you won't want to miss Cloud Nine at Aspen Highlands. The food is "eh," but if you like dancing on tables and spraying bubbly, this is your place.

shop

Shopping is definitely one of the preferred activities in Aspen. There are so many cute shops- from the iconic  Kemo Sabe to the ultra luxe Gorsuch. I didn't spend too much time shopping for myself this trip, but I did make out like a bandit for MM at Lil' Boogies. They have everything a little kid could want, from high end clothing to super cute toys and trinkets.

Have ya'll been to Aspen? Share your go-to stops below...