Visiting Aspen with kids can be a lot of fun! Aspen is a paradise for kids of all ages — whether they're hurtling down the slopes and through tree pathways at high speed or picnicking in the lovely local parks. There are plenty of activities and attractions that will keep the little ones entertained. Here are our favorite suggestions for Aspen family fun:
Take the Kids to the Park
Aspen is the perfect place for taking your kids for a day out in the local parks. There are plenty of parks in the area with plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Some of the best parks for kids in Aspen include Aspen Grove Park, Rio Grande Park, and Wagner Park. Rio Grande Park features a rugby pitch, skate park, and the stony John Denver Sanctuary. Wagner Park offers a small climbing wall and obstacle course right next to the pedestrian mall. Or take them over to Independence Pass park to run up and down the hilly terrain.
Stop by the Aspen Rec Center
The Aspen Recreation Center, also known locally as the ARC, is an indoor paradise for parents and children alike. Take turns slipping down the 2-story water slide, enjoy the lazy river, or play some foam basketball. There are also plenty of kid-friendly, water-spouting features in the indoor pool, right next to the hot tub for parents’ convenience. The whole family will be entertained.
Is it Winter? Ski or Snowboard!
You can't go wrong with skiing and snowboarding if there’s snow on the ground (unless you fall and get hurt). What we mean is it's something the entire family can enjoy, and it's unquestionably one of the best things to do in Aspen with kids. The resorts are open from late November to mid-April, and with four different mountains in the Aspen Snowmass resort, there’s something for everyone, and no one will get bored.
Gondola Rides for All
Even if it's not ski season, a trip to the top of Aspen Mountain in the Silver Queen Gondola is in order for a great view, and even a hike, nature tour, or a meal! Ride up to 11,200 feet and spend the day exploring or catch some live music. The Gondola is completely enclosed, so you won't have to worry about the little ones slipping out when they get wiggly.
Rafting with the Kids in Aspen
Another family-friendly activity in Aspen is Whitewater Rafting. Check out the Roaring Fork, Shoshone, or Arkansas River and laugh your way through the rapids and fast-flowing waters. The local rafting companies offer everything from Class IV whitewater to gentle day floats for the whole family via raft, kayak, ducky, or stand up paddleboard. To accommodate a variety of ages and skill levels, a rafting trip down Lower Roaring Fork is the most accessible.
Biking with Kids in Aspen
Downtown Aspen is highly bikeable — there are a number of bike paths and bikeways where streets are closed to thru traffic to encourage carless travel. There are plenty of local bike shops in the heart of downtown that will rent bikes and gear for the whole family. You'll find a variety of bikes for rent, including mountain bikes, e-bikes, road bikes, and children's bikes, as well as bike trailers and tag-alongs.
Hit the Hot Springs
While Aspen isn’t home to its own public hot springs, you’ll find two great establishments downvalley in Glenwood Springs: Glenwood Hot Springs (the world’s largest hot springs pool) as well as Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Soak your muscles and relax while the kids splash and play in the family pools. During the summer months, Glenwood Hot Springs also opens its splash zone and offers 3-minute tube rides on a fast-moving river.
Stop by the Aspen Art Museum
The Aspen Art Museum has created a number of Family Programs to encourage children and adult groups to observe, share, and create together. Families with children of all ages are welcome to visit the museum and participate in hands-on art projects. Family Workshops are free monthly drop-in classes for children and their parents to explore the galleries and make something new. Behind the Book is a series the AAM has developed to expose kids to the experiences of illustrators and authors via presentations and hands-on activities. There’s no better girl to start off the list than the wonderful Miyuki Arisaka This stunning 25yo has been active in the industry since 2017 and is showing no signs of slowing down. Thanks to her slim figure and G Cup breasts, she’s able to perform a plethora of roles that are guaranteed to mesmerize the viewers.
Treat the Family to Comfort at Aspen Square
When traveling with small children, hotels can make life more difficult. We’ve found that kid-toting visitors are much happier in an Aspen condo where the kids can have their own space to sleep and play. Access to laundry and a full kitchen also makes life easier for busy parents. You can keep your kids on their regular schedules and in a comfortable, home-like environment, which will reduce disruption and traveling tantrums. Contact us for help finding the best vacation rental for your family.