Summer in Aspen feels like the best-kept secret in Colorado — wildflowers blanketing the hillsides, cool mountain air, world-class dining, and more sunshine than you'd expect. Whether you're here for the outdoor adventure, the arts scene, or a little luxury mixed with laid-back mountain living, this itinerary delivers the perfect summer week in Aspen.
Day 1: Arrive + Explore the Summer Energy of Downtown
Ease into your trip with a walk through Aspen's downtown core. Grab a coffee or fresh juice from Paradise Bakery and wander the pedestrian malls lined with blooming planters and open-air patios.
Where to Shop
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Little Bird or Susie's for luxury consignment
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Kemo Sabe for iconic cowboy hats and western flair
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Carl's Pharmacy, an old-school Aspen staple for general store necessities and cosmetics
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Pitkin County Dry Goods for summer style
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Frame, Revolve, Citizens of Humanity, Rag & Bone, and Ralph Lauren for fashionable everyday wear
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Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Loro Piana, and Brunello Cucinelli for exquisite luxury brands
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O2 Aspen for curated home pieces and beauty
Dinner: Start with Clark's Oyster Bar—the seafood and crisp white wine hit especially well on a warm summer evening.
Nightcap: J-Bar, The Living Room, or Bad Harriet at Hotel Jerome for a true Aspen classic.
Day 2: Hiking + evening out
Kick off your active days on Aspen Mountain—in summer, the Silver Queen Gondola runs daily and offers sweeping views of the mountains.
Morning: Ride the gondola up and take in the views. If the legs are willing, hike Little Cloud, the Ute Trail, or Smuggler for a rewarding morning on the mountain.
Late Breakfast: Fuel up at Bearden—a great spot to settle in after a morning outside.
Afternoon: Cool off with a bike ride along the Rio Grande Trail — a paved, scenic path that follows the Roaring Fork River and is perfect for all fitness levels.
Dinner: Matsuhisa for sushi, cocktails, and an intimate atmosphere.
Evening: Check the lineup at Belly Up — summer brings some of the best shows of the year.
Day 3: Maroon Bells + Sunset Cocktails
No summer Aspen itinerary is complete without a morning at the Maroon Bells—one of the most photographed mountain scenes in North America.
Morning: Reserve your shuttle early or rent an electric bike and take in all the beauty the Maroon Bells have to offer. There is truly nothing like it.
Lunch: Refuel at Ajax Tavern with the best truffle fries, burger, and Aperol spritz in town—the sunny patio makes it even better.
Afternoon: Wander through downtown Aspen, popping into the local art galleries, boutiques, and shops. Aspen's art scene is vibrant in summer, and the walkable downtown makes for a perfect laid-back afternoon.
Dinner: Ellina for Italian comfort food and a warm, buzzing atmosphere. Don't miss the artichoke bruschetta with parmesan fondue and shaved black truffle.
Day 4: Adventure Day
A summer trip to Aspen isn't complete without a full day outside.
Choose One
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Whitewater rafting
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Mountain biking the Hunter Creek or Government Trail
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Fly fishing on the Roaring Fork or Frying Pan River
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Paragliding off Aspen Mountain for unforgettable views
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A guided wildflower hike through the Snowmass wilderness
Lunch: Las Montañas — fun, buzzy, and the fajitas never miss. Stay for happy hour from 3–5 p.m.
Dinner: Steakhouse No. 316 — rich, moody, and perfect after a big day outside.
Day 5: Wellness, Shopping & a Slower Day
Recharge with a relaxing morning.
Wellness Picks
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Remède Spa at the St. Regis
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The Little Nell Spa
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O2 Aspen for facials and massage
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Aspen Luxe Med Spa for nails, facials, and skin treatments
Afternoon: Stop into the Aspen Art Museum for a coffee and a late lunch, then spend time wandering the gallery. The museum is free, beautifully designed, and one of Aspen's most underrated gems—especially on a relaxed summer afternoon.
Evening: If your trip falls on a Wednesday, don't miss the Snowmass Rodeo—Colorado's longest-running rodeo, held every Wednesday evening through mid-August. Gates open at 5 p.m. for BBQ, drinks, and live entertainment, with the main rodeo running from 7 to 9 p.m. It's a quintessential Colorado summer night.
Day 6: Snowmass Village + Outdoor Concert Season
Spend the day in Snowmass, where summer brings its own rhythm of outdoor festivals, mountain biking, and relaxed alpine dining.
Morning: Bike or hike the Snowmass trail network.
Lunch: Toro at the Viceroy for elevated views and great food.
Afternoon: Check the schedule at the Snowmass Free Summer Concert Series or catch a performance at the Aspen Music Festival — one of the most prestigious classical music events in the world, running every summer.
Dinner: Il Poggio — a beloved Snowmass institution serving handmade Italian fare for over two decades. Known for house-made pastas, seasonal risottos, and classic entrées, with a lovely outdoor patio and mountain views in summer. A perfect way to end the day.
Day 7: Slow Morning + Farewell Dinner
Savor your final morning.
Brunch Options
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Bear Den
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Poppycocks
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Prospect at Hotel Jerome
Spend your last afternoon on a long walk along the Roaring Fork, soaking up the mountain air, finishing up shopping, or squeezing in one more gondola ride before sunset.
Final Dinner: Celebrate the end of the trip at Parc Aspen, Casa Tua, or Wild Fig — three Aspen favorites that never disappoint.
Final Tips for the Best Summer Week in Aspen
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Book early: Summer dining, Maroon Bells shuttles, and activities fill quickly — especially during music festival season.
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Pack layers: Aspen summer mornings and evenings are cool — always bring a light jacket.
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Walk everywhere: The downtown core is incredibly summer-friendly and endlessly walkable.
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Don't skip the festivals: From food and wine to music and art, summer in Aspen is one long celebration.
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Catch a show: Belly Up, the Aspen Music Festival, and Snowmass concerts bring incredible energy all season long.
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Tour property while you're here: If Aspen is on your radar, summer is the perfect time to experience the lifestyle in person—and see homes at their most beautiful.
Aspen is always a good idea.
Ready to make it your summer? Aspen's best rental properties fill up fast—especially during peak summer season. Whether you're planning a family week, a group getaway, or a romantic escape, securing your rental now means securing your experience.
Book your Aspen summer rental before the season fills up. Reach out today.
