An Aspen Thanksgiving
If you’re thinking of taking a break from your traditional Thanksgiving routine this year and considering getting away, Aspen is an ideal location because of its holiday-like atmosphere and abundance of things to do. With a variety of dining options, many offering special holiday menus, there are many opportunities to enjoy your ideal Thanksgiving dinner. Thanksgiving weekend also marks the opening of winter skiing season, a day of celebration for many in the community.
Here are some of our favorite ways to spend Thanksgiving in Aspen to help make it one you won’t soon forget.
THE START OF SKI SEASON IN ASPEN SNOWMASS
Thanksgiving marks the start of the winter ski season in Aspen Snowmass. Snowy winter flurries replace crisp fall air, and ski and snowboard enthusiasts rejoice at the impending opening day. Aspen Mountain and Snowmass are set to open on November 28th, as has been the tradition of the past eight or ten seasons.
Opening Day at Aspen Snowmass
While opening day is a popular celebration in the Aspen Snowmass area, the weekend tends to be quieter, with smaller crowds and shorter lift lines, translating to more time on the mountain. Explore the available open terrain, reacquaint yourself with your equipment, and enjoy the slower pace; it’s sure to get busier once ski season is in full swing. And, après ski is always a fun way to celebrate, with the holiday making it particularly festive.
Go to the Aspen Snowmass website for more information on opening day, lift tickets, and equipment rentals.
Nordic Skiing
Nordic skiing on one of the many cross-country trails is a great option if you want a workout while avoiding lift lines. Availability depends on the snowpack, so do some research before embarking upon any trails. Access is free, and the experience can be a great escape and a fun way to get some cardio in before that big turkey dinner. Lessons are also available at the Aspen Nordic Center in the Aspen Golf Club in the winter.
OTHER OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
While Aspen is largely known for its skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other things to enjoy if you are an outdoor enthusiast. Since it’s early in the season, the weather might even allow you to partake in fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, or hot air balloon rides.
If you are looking for excitement, the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster is the perfect rush for thrill seekers. Going up to 28 mph as it winds its way through over a mile of forest, this exciting ride is located adjacent to Elk Camp Restaurant. Reservations are required. Buy online, call 866-857-8769, or purchase in person at any ticket office. Activities are weather-dependent and subject to cancellation; tickets are non-transferable.
Ice skating at the Aspen Ice Garden or Lewis Ice Arena is another fun holiday activity available to the public in the late fall/winter season. The ice rinks are open daily from mid-November to mid-March. Rental skates and lockers are available, and tickets can be purchased online or in person.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Thanksgiving in Aspen typically offers milder weather with sunny days and cool but comfortable temperatures. If you are interested in getting out and being active before diving into your Thanksgiving feast, here are a few of our recommendations:
Basalt Education Foundation Turkey Trot
This annual tradition is an enjoyable race designed to raise funds for Basalt Elementary students, teachers, and administration. Participants can compete for the best costumes, raffles, and more.
Aspen Turkey Trot
Hardcore and recreational runners can participate in the local Aspen Turkey Trot, a great way to stay in shape before Thanksgiving Day. This 5k run is a fun way to spend time with family and friends and work up an appetite for Thanksgiving dinner!
THANKSGIVING DINING IN ASPEN
If you are visiting the Aspen area for Thanksgiving, you have multiple options for your holiday dinner. Whether you enjoy a wonderful meal at one of our local establishments, order take-out, or use the kitchen in one of Aspen Square’s condominium rentals, we have you covered.
If you plan to dine out, the Aspen Chamber’s website is a good place to check out for up-to-date information on availability.
In-Restaurant Dining
Several restaurants in the Aspen area offer Thanksgiving dinner options, but the selection varies from year to year. Ajax Tavern, Element 47, and Prospect at the Hotel Jerome are among the establishments offering special menus for the 2024 holiday. Book early, as spots tend to fill up quickly.
To Go Dining
Plato’s at Aspen Meadows, The Little Nell, Mawa’s Kitchen, Prospect at the Hotel Jerome, and Home Team Aspen all offer Thanksgiving to-go menus this season. Make your reservation for an easy holiday meal prepared by chefs!
Preparing Your Own Meal
If you prefer to cook yourself, each of our Aspen condo rentals includes a well-equipped kitchen and spacious living area so that you can prepare your Thanksgiving meal in the comfort of your vacation home. Plus, gathering food for your feast is easy with City Market just across the street from Aspen Square.
ENJOY THANKSGIVING IN ASPEN SQUARE
At Aspen Square, we offer the perfect space to get away and enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday in style. When you choose Aspen Square, you get the benefit of hotel services combined with the comfort of home in a fantastic downtown Aspen location with easy access to the mountain, entertainment, and dining.
Our condominium hotel in downtown Aspen includes luxury features such as well-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces for winter, and private balconies with the convenience of hotel services such as a front desk, concierge, bell staff, and daily housekeeping.
Contact the concierge at Aspen Square to plan your trip to Aspen for this Thanksgiving. Call (970) 925-1000, and let us help you celebrate Thanksgiving the Aspen way!