Upscale Aspen

Description:

Set amidst the Elk Mountains in the Ashcroft Valley, the only way to get here in the winter is by sleigh, snowshoe or cross-country skis. Considering its unparalleled reputation for top-notch gourmet fare, its exterior looks like a common cabin. The interior, however, blends elegance with rustic, country charm. Dinner features selections like oven-roasted rack of lamb, Pistachio Crusted Caribou, and Barbecued Flat Iron Steak. The menu varies daily. Be forewarned that it can be a bit pricey and reservations are a must.

Our Local Expert Says:

Superior accommodations and service.

Description:

Located just 17 paces (yes, it's been measured) from the base terminal of the Silver Queen Gondola, the ski-in, ski-out Little Nell boasts the virtues of an intimate country inn as well as the personalized service and amenities of a grand hotel. No two guest rooms are alike, but each has a gas fireplace, Belgian-wool carpeting, down-filled lounge chairs or sofa, oversized bed with down comforter, and marble-finished bathroom with two vanities, separate shower and tub, and high-end toiletries. Some suites have separate Jacuzzi tubs and steam showers. All rooms have a view of either the town or the mountain. The hotel's signature (and dog-friendly!) Montagna restaurant serves "farmhouse cooking" by acclaimed chef Ryan Hardy in an artsy atmosphere with large windows looking toward the hotel courtyard and Aspen Mountain. Both the famed living room and the bar were designed by David Easton, an interior designer of renown. The adjoining bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

Our Local Expert Says:

Ask questions: the explanation of technical production and perfection is fascinating!

Description:

There are simply some places you would not want to experience the "you break it, you buy it" rule. Pismo Fine Art Glass is one of those places. Specializing in art glass creations, this gallery has developed a devoted following of collectors for almost 20 years. You will find everything from decorative collectibles like paperweights and vases to fine art pieces made with optical glass. It has four Colorado locations: Aspen, Vail, Beaver Creek and Denver.

Description:

Imagine Second City meets Julia Childs and you can envision this Aspen landmark. Since 1957 it has combined current comedic satire with top-notch dining to make it one of those "must stops" when visiting. Like many of Aspen's restaurants, the interior exudes a Victorian slant. Intricate stained glass windows and a glittery chandelier create a vintage look that meshes the past with the present. The waitstaff, which also doubles as the talent, performs biting musical satires on all of the most current topics, with a heavy lean toward politics. The menu features A-list entrees such as prime rib, roast duckling, rack of lamb and nightly fish specials. Reservations are a must.

Our Local Expert Says:

Superior accommodations and service.

Description:

Located just 17 paces (yes, it's been measured) from the base terminal of the Silver Queen Gondola, the ski-in, ski-out Little Nell boasts the virtues of an intimate country inn as well as the personalized service and amenities of a grand hotel. No two guest rooms are alike, but each has a gas fireplace, Belgian-wool carpeting, down-filled lounge chairs or sofa, oversized bed with down comforter, and marble-finished bathroom with two vanities, separate shower and tub, and high-end toiletries. Some suites have separate Jacuzzi tubs and steam showers. All rooms have a view of either the town or the mountain. The hotel's signature (and dog-friendly!) Montagna restaurant serves "farmhouse cooking" by acclaimed chef Ryan Hardy in an artsy atmosphere with large windows looking toward the hotel courtyard and Aspen Mountain. Both the famed living room and the bar were designed by David Easton, an interior designer of renown. The adjoining bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

Description:

This gym is so nice inside that you wonder if it is okay to sweat. Vast skylights and huge windows create a rare workout environment that makes it feel like you are outside, minus the bugs, of course. Workout junkies can choose from cybex machines, free weights, aerobic classes, lap pools, spinning and Pilates, or play racquetball, squash or tennis. For those who prefer a bit of pampering, there are complete spa and salon facilities that include massages and facials. Be sure to check out the Relaxation Lounge, which serves herbal tea in front of a crackling Swedish fireplace. Juice bar, pro shop and child care facilities are available.

Description:

It is rare that a restaurant is equally famous for both its breakfast and dinner, but this local treasure pulls it off with nonchalant style and manner. The brown exterior mirrors the interior: basic and stylishly absent. Yet it exudes warmth and character. Its barbecue is world renowned and has won top prize in 43 national competitions. Full- and half-racks of baby back ribs headline its barbecue list. There are also many meat-leaning sandwiches such as barbecued smoke pork and pit-smoked ham. The breakfast menu is traditional and features everything from omelets to oatmeal.

Description:

This is one of the only spots in Aspen where you can gleefully puff at will without worrying that at any moment someone is going to box you across your ears and then haul you off in handcuffs for smoking. Big, stuffed chairs and lamps, with hushed lighting, give the room an elegant feel. A full bar offers a great selection of wines, ports and cognacs. The martinis are so huge that it almost looks like you are drinking a small body of water. A walk-in humidor offers over 100 hand-rolled cigars.

Our Local Expert Says:

Superior accommodations and service.

Description:

Located just 17 paces (yes, it's been measured) from the base terminal of the Silver Queen Gondola, the ski-in, ski-out Little Nell boasts the virtues of an intimate country inn as well as the personalized service and amenities of a grand hotel. No two guest rooms are alike, but each has a gas fireplace, Belgian-wool carpeting, down-filled lounge chairs or sofa, oversized bed with down comforter, and marble-finished bathroom with two vanities, separate shower and tub, and high-end toiletries. Some suites have separate Jacuzzi tubs and steam showers. All rooms have a view of either the town or the mountain. The hotel's signature (and dog-friendly!) Montagna restaurant serves "farmhouse cooking" by acclaimed chef Ryan Hardy in an artsy atmosphere with large windows looking toward the hotel courtyard and Aspen Mountain. Both the famed living room and the bar were designed by David Easton, an interior designer of renown. The adjoining bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere.