Aspen and Vail are two iconic Colorado destinations, each offering a memorable experience on and off the slopes. While our roots and passion are deeply embedded in Aspen, we respect and appreciate Vail as a resort town with its own individual charm, excellent skiing, and vibrant atmosphere.
Let’s explore what makes each destination unique, from the skiing to the nightlife, to help you choose the perfect vacation spot.
Aspen
World-famous for its celebrity allure and upscale charm, Aspen offers a sophisticated yet welcoming appeal that is difficult to replicate. Nestled in a small valley against a stunning backdrop of majestic peaks, the town offers exceptional dining experiences, high-end shopping, and luxurious accommodations in a compact Victorian-era city.
Aspen offers an unparalleled experience in skiing, nightlife, and culture. With four mountains spread between two towns of Aspen and Snowmass Village, it seamlessly blends world-class outdoor adventure with a buoyant atmosphere.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Aspen Snowmass
One of the biggest advantages of skiing at Aspen Snowmass is its unmatched variety, with thousands of acres of terrain that satisfy every type of skier and snowboarder. With four distinct mountains - Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass - visitors can experience a different adventure each time they hit the slopes.
Aspen Mountain (AJAX) is known for its steep terrain and challenging runs, making it perfect for advanced skiers and riders who love moguls, glades, and groomers with breathtaking views of downtown Aspen. The 15-minute gondola ride to the summit is an adventure on its own with stunning views of the Elk Mountain Range.
Aspen Highlands is a local favorite and home to the famous Highlands Bowl, a must-do for skiers seeking steep terrain and deep powder. With some of the most intense inbound skiing in the country, Aspen Highlands is perfect for skiers and riders seeking a challenge.
Buttermilk is beloved as Aspen’s beginner mountain, as well as the long-time host for the Winter X Games for more than two decades. The mountain is made up of three distinct areas: Tiehack, well-loved by uphillers throughout the day; main Buttermilk with its terrain parks, including the Olympic-sized halfpipe, and West Buttermilk, a mellow beginners' paradise. A gem often overlooked, Buttermilk is one of the most beautiful mountains in the country.
Snowmass is the largest of the four mountains, offering everything from long rolling groomers to expert terrain, making it ideal for everyone from families to those who enjoy wide-open runs. Drop off the kids at Snowmass’s superb ski school and grab some parent time. Snowmass’s vast acreage ensures plenty of terrain to explore with minimal lift lines.
Dining
Alongside its remarkable skiing experience, Aspen offers an abundant variety of world-class restaurants, in addition to small places to pop into for a bite. Local ingredients are combined with international flavors in a wide range of cuisines suitable for every taste and preference. Grab a snack to take along on an adventure, people-watch with a glass of rosé on a restaurant patio, ride a horse-drawn sleigh to an isolated cabin in the woods, or eat at one of the dozens of restaurants downtown.
Après and Nightlife
Aspen takes the après scene to elevated heights during ski season, and après in Aspen can be just as fun as a great powder day. For craft cocktails and a chic atmosphere, a spot like Hooch Aspen provides the perfect setting to unwind after a day on the slopes. With a serious mix of bars and restaurants from which to choose, après is a great way to find a new favorite spot, or return to an old mainstay.
Aspen’s nightlife is energetic, with upscale bars, clubs, and live music. The Belly Up offers an intimate concert experience with world-class performances from top artists, making it a must-visit venue for music lovers. The historic Wheeler Opera House also produces live concerts during the winter, as well as theater, films and local programs.
With sophisticated lounges, lively après-ski spots, and high-energy venues, Aspen's nightlife has something to offer everyone.
Recreation
Beyond skiing and riding, Aspen offers a nearly endless variety of things to do. From its bustling downtown scene offering dining, shopping, and entertainment, to abundant outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Winter activities off-mountain include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling, sleighrides, and even sledding, while the warmer months offer chances to explore the trails hiking, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing, fishing, and more.
Vail
Vail’s newer European-style village captivates with its old-world ambiance and charm. Cobblestone streets, Swiss chalet-style architecture, high-end boutiques, and cozy cafes welcome visitors with a charming alpine atmosphere.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Vail
Vail boasts one of the largest ski resorts in the country, featuring vast, well-groomed runs and its famous Back Bowls that draw skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Vail Village provides guests with a charming setting and a mix of luxury and more accessible accommodations, making it a favorite among families and larger groups.
Dining
Vail offers an eclectic dining scene with something for every palate, from casual cafes and family-friendly restaurants to upscale bistros and elegant fine dining. Whether you are looking for a great burger or an elevated culinary adventure, Vail has plenty of options. Many restaurants also offer outdoor seating, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains while you dine.
Après and Nightlife
When it comes to the après and nightlife scene, Vail offers a bit of everything with a more casual vibe. Vail’s relaxed ambiance includes upscale cocktail bars, wine tasting rooms, and intimate bistros that serve gourmet cuisine. Establishments cater to sophisticated tastes, but the prevailing theme is that of a more casual mountain town atmosphere.
Recreation
Much like Aspen, Vail offers plenty to do off the mountain. There are opportunities for thrill seekers such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and more in the winter. The warmer months offer hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, gondola rides, fly fishing, and more.
Aspen Versus Vail: Which Is Right for You?
Both Aspen and Vail offer terrific opportunities for exploration both on and off the slopes. While Vail offers upscale dining and a touch of indulgence, the après scene tends to be more laid-back, often centered around cozy bars with acoustic performances and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Aspen boasts the advantage of exploring four distinct and thrilling ski mountains, complemented by a town brimming with a lively après scene, high-end shopping, and an energetic nightlife. The vibrant social atmosphere offers a chic “see and be seen” experience, if that is what you’re seeking. But if what you’re really seeking a great vacation and a wealth of diverse things to do, you can’t beat a visit to Aspen. And you have the additional benefit of exploring neighboring Snowmass Village, with its own excellent restaurants and shops, during your Aspen stay.
Making Aspen Your Ski Vacation Destination
Experience the magic of Aspen when you stay downtown with us. Our condominium hotel offers all of the amenities of home with the convenience of being just steps from the Aspen Mountain Gondola. Whether you are hitting the slopes, exploring downtown, or dining at one of Aspen’s many delicious restaurants, you’ll have everything within easy reach.
Make your Aspen getaway unforgettable and enjoy the charm that our city is known for. Contact us at 970-925-1000 x3515 or concierge@aspensquarehotel.com to plan a winter vacation you’ll always remember!