Aspen or Snowmass - Where Should I Stay?

Aspen and Snowmass are two premier destinations in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, both known for world-class skiing, luxurious accommodations, and a rich array of year-round activities. While they share the same beautiful valley and are often mentioned in tandem, Aspen and Snowmass can offer distinctly different vacation experiences. Whether you are seeking a vacation filled with dining, nightlife and shopping or are all about first chair to last chair understanding the key differences between these two neighboring resorts can help you plan your perfect getaway.

1. Vibe and Atmosphere

• Aspen: Aspen is the epitome of action and convenience. It's famous for its upscale, sophisticated atmosphere, incredible dining and shopping and easy access to Aspen Mountain from anywhere you choose to stay. The town exudes historic charm with chic boutiques, gourmet restaurants, art galleries, and a lively nightlife scene. If you’re drawn to a cosmopolitan mountain town with a rich cultural scene, Aspen is the place to be.
• Snowmass: In contrast, Snowmass is more relaxed and family-oriented. It offers a laid-back, outdoorsy vibe that’s perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and groups looking for a low-key escape. Snowmass is more about immersing yourself in nature, whether through skiing, hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning mountain views while also offering incredible dining options.  

2. Skiing and Outdoor Activities

• Aspen: Aspen is home to four different mountains (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass) that make up the Aspen Snowmass resort, but Aspen Mountain (or Ajax) itself is a destination for intermediate to expert skiers. Its challenging terrain and steep runs are best suited for the more experienced skiers. Buttermilk, though located closer to Aspen, is known for being the home of the Winter X Games, offering terrain for beginners and freestyle enthusiasts alike. The ski experience in Aspen often blends with après-ski.
• Snowmass: Snowmass Mountain is one of the largest ski areas in Colorado, with more than 3,300 acres of terrain that caters to all levels of skiers. Snowmass is an excellent option for families and beginners due to its wide-open slopes, variety of terrain parks, and family-friendly services like ski schools and dedicated children’s zones. The ski-in/ski-out accommodations make it easy for families to hit the slopes without the hassle of commuting to the mountain. Snowmass also has a reputation for being less crowded than Aspen, providing more relaxed and spacious skiing.  The experienced skiers in your group will certainly be challenged on Snowmass as well by visiting the Hanging Valley Wall or The Cirque areas.

3. Accommodation Options

• Aspen: With accommodation options available throughout this charming town, visitors have a wide variety of options to choose from while still being in the heart of the action and just a short walk to the mountain.  You will find a few ski-in/out properties however these are limited and therefore go for a premium.  Staying a few blocks from the base of the mountain is more economical and the walk through the charming town on the way to the gondola is a great way to start your day.
• Snowmass: While Snowmass also offers a wide range of accommodation options. There are a variety of vacation rentals with ski-in/ski-out access, short walk to the lift or accessed via the very convenient and free Snowmass Shuttle system.  The vibe here is more casual, and many properties are designed with families in mind. You can expect comfort and convenience, though without the premium price tag of Aspen.

4. Dining and Nightlife

• Aspen: As a high-end destination, Aspen is home to a thriving culinary scene that rivals major cities. From Michelin-starred chefs to trendy bars, Aspen has no shortage of gourmet dining experiences. Matsuhisa (by Nobu Matsuhisa), Element 47 at The Little Nell, and Steak House No. 316 are just a few examples of Aspen’s world-class dining establishments. After dark, the nightlife in Aspen is equally vibrant, with upscale cocktail lounges, clubs, and bars for those who enjoy socializing and dancing into the night.
• Snowmass: Snowmass has a much quieter and more casual dining scene, although there are still plenty of excellent restaurants and bars, most notably Kenichi and Aurum in the Base Village and Toro Kitchen at the Viceroy. The focus here is more on family-friendly eateries, laid-back après-ski spots, and local joints with hearty mountain fare. It’s perfect for travelers who want to relax after a day of outdoor activities without diving into a sophisticated nightlife scene.

5. Culture and Events

• Aspen: Aspen is a cultural hub with a packed calendar of events throughout the year, ranging from the Aspen Music Festival, which draws world-class musicians, to the Aspen Ideas Festival, where thought leaders from around the globe converge. The town also has a rich arts scene, with galleries, museums, and theaters offering everything from contemporary art to classical performances. If you’re interested in cultural experiences beyond outdoor activities, Aspen is the ideal destination.
• Snowmass: Snowmass, while more low-key, also offers a variety of events, especially in the summer months. Outdoor concerts, athletic competitions and the Snowmass Balloon Festival are popular attractions that draw locals and visitors alike. Snowmass is more focused on community-driven events that highlight outdoor recreation, making it a great choice for families and those looking for a more relaxed itinerary.

Both Aspen and Snowmass offer unforgettable vacation experiences, but one area may be better suited to your vacation needs than the other. Aspen is best suited for those looking for an outdoor mecca with a vibrant city scene. Snowmass, on the other hand, is the perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more relaxed and approachable mountain vacation. Whether you're drawn to the cosmopolitan allure of Aspen or the laid-back charm of Snowmass, these two Colorado gems promise a memorable retreat in the heart of the Rockies.