Be sure to try these one-of-a-kind experiences.
Off the beaten path
Dining can be an adventure
Summer Experiences
Mine N' Dine with Elk Mountain Expeditions
Head over to the Smuggler Mine and enjoy an adventure-filled dinner in one of Aspen's most scenic locations. Upon arrival you'll tour the historic Smuggler Mine, the oldest operating mine in Aspen, and learn the history as an experienced guide takes you 1,250 ft inside the mountain- hard hats provided! After the tour you'll be greeted with drinks, a BBQ buffet, lawn games, and smores by the fire as you enjoy sunset views sweeping over the Roaring Fork Valley. Private groups are available upon request.
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Road bike up Castle Creek road from downtown Aspen to this rustic mountain dining experience (approx. 13 miles). Dine with incredible mountain views then coast down the valley returning to downtown Aspen.
Sundeck Restaurant on Aspen Mountain
Ride the gondola or for more of an adventure, hike up Aspen Mountain. There are a variety of hiking routes, some more difficult than others, from switchbacks up a road to rocky vertical climbing. Reward yourself with a meal at the sundeck and a cold beer while soaking in the 360 degree views. The gondola ride back down into Aspen is free.
Bike down the Rio Grande Trail from Aspen to Woody Creek. Take a break at the Woody Creek Tavern, a former hangout of the late Hunter S. Thompson, to enjoy their famous margaritas and delicious Mexican food. This local's favorite is eclectic, with walls covered in photos, original art and other "stuff". Either ride the slight incline back to Aspen, or catch a ride back with your bike on a car rack from one of our local transportation companies. Woody Creek Tavern is cash only and does not take reservations.
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Winter Experiences
After a day on the slopes, enjoy our version of Happy Hour with outdoor cocktails or couch lounging by the fire and live music or DJs entertaining until it's far too late to still have your ski boots on.
Cloud Nine at Aspen Highlands
This alpine ski hut offers fine dining with an outdoor deck that boasts majestic views of the Maroon Bells. The European-style restaurant offers lunch daily and Snowcat Dinners on Wednesday & Thursday nights with a 6pm pickup at the base of Highlands Mountain with an approximate 10:30 pm return time.
Call for reservations and details 970-923-8715
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Cross-country ski, snowshoe, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the historic ghost town of Ashcroft to enjoy mountain gourmet cuisine at the Pine Creek Cookhouse. Located 11 miles from downtown Aspen and accessible by private car, or taxi, call for reservations. 970-925-1971.
Sundeck Restaurant on Aspen Mountain
Easily reached by a 15-minute gondola ride, and especially enjoyed after a few laps on the slopes, The Sundeck offers guests rustic mountain splendor combined with incomparable alpine cooking and unmatched service. Lunch Daily. Call for ticket information 970-925-1220
With over 80 restaurants to choose from, you won't go hungry while you visit Aspen.
Photo Courtesy Aspen Skiing Company
