What Can I Do Besides Skiing in Aspen?
When you think of Aspen, a winter wonderland likely comes to mind. The area does have some of the best skiing in the world, and near perfect conditions. While it may be known as a top skiing destination, there are a ton of things to do other than ski in Aspen!
If you’re planning a trip out here sometime soon but you’re not a skier, don’t worry. We’ve gathered a list of the top things to do other than ski in Aspen right here! Let’s explore them now so you can have an unforgettable trip.
Get Spooked and Visit A Ghost Town
Okay, so skiing isn’t your thing (or maybe you just need a break for the day and want something new to explore). Have you ever thought about visiting a ghost town in Aspen?
Many people don’t know of Aspen’s rich history. There are several historical sites and ghost towns worth visiting here!
Several towns in and around Aspen experienced huge booms in the 1800-1900’s due to silver mining. The towns crashed just about as quickly as they formed though, leaving behind a ghostly presence.
You can visit Ashcroft and Independence on your stay in Aspen, and learn about these former mining communities. They’re quite popular tourist destinations now, and you can get a true feel for what life was like for people in the early days of the mines.
Other historical sites in the area include Ute City, Red Butte Cemetery, and the Wheeler/Stallard Museum. Learn more about the history of Aspen when you visit these sites!
White Water Rafting
Even if you can’t head out on the ski slopes, you can still add some adrenaline to your itinerary when you go white-water rafting! It’s a classic activity here in Colorado, and you won’t want to miss out.
Never been white-water rafting? That’s okay! It sounds scarier than it is. Some companies even have calmer options for kids to head out on the rapids. If you’re traveling with small children, you can take a mild family-friendly rafting trip and enjoy a slower pace —local companies have trips for people of all ages.
Friend groups, couples or families with older children may want to check out Aspen White-water Rafting’s “wild rafting trips” or “adventurous trips” for a more exciting ride. There are rides for everybody!
Aspen Art Museum
For a dose of local culture and art, head over to the Aspen Art Museum. The building itself is a work of art, and you’re sure to be impressed by all of the incredible pieces inside.
The Aspen Art Museum is an artist-founded institution dedicated to truly supporting artists in their brave and bold artistic ideas. They focus strongly on exhibitions over collections, meaning you have the chance to see something new each time you visit!
This museum has been open since the 1970’s, bringing decades of amazing art to the Aspen Community. You never know what exhibits they’ll have when you go visit. Check out this incredible staple in the Aspen art community while you’re here!
Take A Hike
The mountains are for more than skiing! Check out some of the breathtaking trails in Aspen when you head out for a hike.
We can’t gush enough about the many amazing trails you can take in Aspen. No matter your hiking skill, you can find the perfect trail for you. Popular sites include the famous Maroon Bells and an easier path, Smuggler Mountain. Check out resources like Alltrails iand Aspen Trail Finder to help find even more noteworthy options.
Go Off-Roading
Ready to take a risk and go off-roading? Sounds like fun to us!
We will offer a hint of caution, though; please don’t try to off-road in a vehicle that does not have four-wheel drive. People have tried it before, and it never goes well, trust us.
The safest option for offroading is going on a tour! There are several local companies that will take you off-roading in Aspen that can guide you along with their expertise.
If you do insist on heading out on your own, though, we strongly urge you to check out our guide to off-roading in Aspen. Stay safe, and, like we said, make sure your vehicle has four-wheel drive!
Spend the Day at the Amusement Park!
There’s no better way to spend a vacation day than hopping on thrilling rides and enjoying other amusement park fare! You’ll definitely want to visit Glenwood Caverns when you’re here.
Glenwood Caverns is America’s only mountaintop theme park, so it’s worth the stop! Not only can you spend your time on fun and exciting rides, you’ll have incredible views while you’re at it.
You can also head out on an underground cave tour at Glenwood Caverns. Choose from several options to explore the area from a whole new perspective! Your little ones will love their time here.
Book Your Stay in Aspen with McCartney Properties!
See? We told you there were plenty of things to do in Aspen besides skiing! When you’re looking for the perfect vacation rental to return home to in Aspen after you’ve explored all the city has to offer, look no further than McCartney Property Management.
With high-quality amenities to choose from like luxury rentals with hot tubs, long-term rentals so you can spend as much time here as you want, and pet-friendly rentals so you can bring your favorite furry friend along, you’ll find exactly what you need when you stay with us. Our vacation rentals were designed with your needs in mind!
What are you waiting for? Browse our available vacation rentals now and book your next ski trip in Aspen directly with McCartney Properties!