Aspen is home to some of the best hotel names in the country, adding to the glamorous reputation of this small town. Whether it’s your first—or seventh—trip, concierges at these luxury lodges hold the key to the town’s best-kept secrets. It takes time to master the inner workings of the area, but skip the line and go no further than the concierge to get these insider tips.
The Hotel Jerome has been catering to guests since 1889 in its historic landmark hotel on Main Street. Today, concierges craft unique itineraries for each visitor. In the summer, the streets of Aspen are filled with live music as the town celebrates the Aspen Music Festival, says Betty Rivera, a concierge for the Hotel Jerome. A series of complimentary concerts, performances at the Wheeler Opera House and the Benedict Music Tent provide a variety of genres for a diverse audience also. Some suggested local activities include whitewater rafting and paddleboarding with a professional guide, which the concierge can arrange. In the winter, they can sometimes snag reservations at Cloud Nine, grabbing front-row action for its legendary Champagne-filled parties on Aspen Highlands.
Aspen’s only five-star luxury hotel, The Little Nell, just turned 30 years old. With its location at the base of the Silver Queen Gondola, guests are in the middle of all the downtown action. As head concierge, Carol Hooper arranges excursions for guests through her property, like adventure stargazing tours up Aspen Mountain or cycling trips; or First Tracks, giving skiers and riders early turns on the groomed trails of Aspen Mountain. Fly-fishing the area’s Gold Medal waters or booking a private Snowcat Powder Tour is also on her local bucket list. The St. Regis Aspen Resort is a base camp for adventurers and relaxers of all kinds. A trip to the Maroon Bells by horseback or snowmobile, depending on the season, is at the top of concierge Ariel Lyons’ list. She also suggests a daytrip to Snowmass Village to enjoy the Lost Forest, packed with fun activities for all ages, such as a zip line and Alpine Breathtaker Coaster. The ride up Elk Camp Gondola to the Lost Forest Adventure Center alone is rewarded with 360-degree views.
Photography by: THE LITTLE NELL
