Downtown Aspen

Welcome to Downtown Aspen

In the heart of Aspen, the downtown area is a mix of up-scale homes, luxurious penthouses, and condominiums. The neighborhood offers premier dining, entertainment, nightlife, shops, world-class skiing, hiking, biking, fishing and other activities all within walking distance. The area is surrounded by the spectacular Red Mountain, Independence Pass, and Aspen Mountain and the gondola for Ajax Mountain is a short walk from all properties in this neighborhood. The downtown and mall area boasts a spectacular array of world-class shops, boutiques, bars, bistros, spas, and fine art galleries. In addition to the year-round amenities, there are numerous festivals, farmers markets, and special events such as the Aspen Food & Wine Classic, Aspen Music Festival, and Ideas Festival that attract a global audience. Living in downtown Aspen offers an experience of luxury, convenience, and proximity unlike any other.

History

Settlers to the Roaring Fork Valley came in droves after discovering one of the richest silver lodes the world has ever known. Victorian capitalists Jerome Wheeler and David Hyman invested heavily in the area, and Aspen quickly became an urban, industrialized community with impressive architecture. In 1893, Aspen’s fortunes fell with the return to the gold standard. Yet, Aspen survived as a rural county seat and ranching center.

In 1947, Aspen Mountain opened with the world’s longest ski lift. In 1949, Walter Paepcke led the Goethe Bicentennial Convocation to Aspen where international leaders, artists, and musicians convened. Aspen’s role as a cultural center was assured by the music, art, dance, theater, and international studies programs. Known for its deep roots and rich history, Aspen brings a distinct mix of recreation and culture, landscape and activity. Surrounded by four world-class ski mountains and miles of groomed backcountry trails, Aspen is one of Colorado’s favorite year-round resort areas. Luxurious spas, chic art galleries, world-class dining, and a mecca for spectacular, award-winning cuisine and entertainment all within a 3.66 square mile radius. Aspen is touted as the playground for the rich and famous, but it genuinely offers something for everyone.

Location

Aspen is located 40 miles southeast of Glenwood Springs on Highway 82.

Climate

At an altitude of 7,815 feet, Aspen enjoys an alpine climate with warm summers, cool winters and warm winter sun.

Population

The population of Aspen is 6,680 as of the 2012 census. The population of the immediate area, including El Jebel, Old Snowmass, and the Frying Pan Valley is approximately 14,872. The average daily population in Aspen is 20,871. This number can reach 27,000 during July and August.

Education

Aspen is in the Aspen School District. There are several daycare centers and pre-schools in the area. Private schools in Aspen include The Aspen Country Day School and Aspen Community School.

Medical Services

Medical facilities nearby include Aspen Valley Hospital and Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs.

Recreation

While Aspen is commonly known for downhill skiing and snowboarding, you will find many other winter activities in this year-round resort area. Backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and winter hut trips to name a few. In the summer months, outdoor activities are endless…hiking, biking, backpacking, camping, climbing, fly-fishing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, kayaking, to paragliding. Aspen offers outdoor enthusiasts the ability to rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit.