Gypset Travel ~ Aspen During the Holidays

I’ve been to Aspen a number of times and love it year round. However, my very favorite time to visit is Christmas time. It the perfect canvas for all the colorful trimmings and cheer! So I’m really looking forward to my trip there for New Years in the coming days, and I thought it would be nice to share with my readers the Gypsetgirl take on this amazing winter getaway.

Getting there is an easy flight into Denver International Airport with a connecting flight directly into Aspen. For me however, it’s almost always worth the four-hour drive time from Denver. The drive is breathtaking as you climb deep into the Rocky Mountains. And as it meanders towards Aspen, you really start to get a feel of the old West. Which ever way you choose to arrive there, keep in mind that aspen is at an altitude of just under 8000 ft, so drink plenty of water to help avoid altitude sickness!

Source: Flickr- Sierrian

Aspen has long been a winter playground for celebrities, artists, writers, and skiers. It was the favored home of literary great Hunter S. Thompson, who settled in Aspen (after a life of travel) in the 1960s. He made his home in Woody Creek, located just northwest of Aspen. Other celebrities who have chosen to call Woody Creek home include Don Henley, Ed Bradley, Don Johnson and Democratic Leader of the House Nancy Pelosi (winters in Woody Creek).

Source: Flickr- Chris

So, what draws such a diverse crowd to this city located on the Roaring Fork River in a remote are of the Rocky Mountains Sawatch range? The city gets its name from the large number of aspen trees that populate the area. Originally a mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom, it became popular as a winter gypset getaway in the 70’s and grew into a celebrity getaway as time moved on. However, it still has that creative energy and gypset feel.

There are many things that draw visitors to Aspen, one of which is the skiing. It is on the smaller side compared to other ski mountains, covering 673 areas, but it is part of the Aspen/Snowmass organization with three nearby ski mountains. Part of the charm of skiing Aspen is the nostalgic feeling of an old school ski resort.

Source: Flickr – Aspen/Snowmass

The mountain gets an average of 300 inches of snow each winter, and it can produce up  to 210 more with its snow making abilities. The longest run on the mountain is 3 miles (there are 76 trails total), and there are 8 lifts to help skiers explore the mountain.

In addition to the skiing, there is an extremely vibrant art community in Aspen. There are more than 20 galleries within 16 blocks of downtown Aspen showcasing many different types of art. There is also the Aspen Art Museum, whose collection consist mainly of contemporary art. If  you fall in love with the art in Aspen, you can return in August for Art Aspen, an exclusive art festival.

Source: Flickr – Aspen/Snowmass

Aspen is also known for its entertainment scene. There are over 100 restaurants, bars, and clubs in Aspen! If you are looking for great live music (including big name acts), try the Belly Up. Looking to go clubbing? Check out Club Chelsea and the Fly Lounge. If you are in search of a good bar, be sure to visit Justice Snow’s, The Red Onion, The Regal Watering Hole, the Caribou Club (members only), or 39 Degrees.

Source: Flickr – BT

There is no shortage of excellent restaurants in Aspen. Some perennial favorites include Ajax Tavern (always a favorite for celebrity spotting)and a great apres ski scene, Cloud Nine, Matsuhisa, Montagna, L’Hostaria Ristorante, Cache Cache, Above the Salt, and Steakhouse 316.

Aspen has a little something for everyone. If you prefer not to hit the slopes for skiing, you can always visit its many fine shops or go antiquing. There is also snowmobiling, snow shoeing, dog sledding, ice skating and many more activities for non-skiers.

So head off to Aspen for a beautiful winter gyspet vacation!