Aspen, CO :

When we think of iconic towns in the United States, Aspen has to come to mind in some form, especially as a winter destination. It is the most expensive town in America, with last year’s lowest single-family home priced at $559,000 (which, by the way, was located in a trailer park). It is also the location of America’s most expensive house, which was on sale a few years ago for $135 million. 

So what does that mean for tourists? Well, it’s expensive, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. Visiting and skiing the slopes of Aspen should be on every skier’s bucket list, even if you have to crack open the piggy bank to do it. Below, you’ll find a range of hotel options for different price brackets and travel styles, as well as a brief rundown on the four different mountains. Restaurant recommendations, as well as a local tip for saving money are also included below.

The best time of year to go? We think the during the holidays -- assuming there's snow (we got 15 inches during our stay in early December). Here's a rundown to help you plan your trip: 

Hotels:
Sky Hotel • Deluxe Guest Room - Rates Starting at $199 - $525 Per Night: Located downtown in Aspen proper, this Kimpton property is the place to party. It’s 39 Degrees Lounge is hugely popular with locals, as well as is its steamy pool season during the warmer months (although we’re sure the hot tub gets exciting during après). All the guestrooms were remodeled in 2012 to reflect the retro vibe of a 70s ski lodge. The rooms are on the small side, which Director of Sales Alan Cardenas says attracts active, outgoing guests who prefer to spend time socializing by the pool or in the bar than in the room. The pool and hot tubs are open to the public so long as they purchase a cocktail.

Amenities:
90 Guest Rooms
Ski in access from Aspen Mountain
Heated Pool and Hot Tub
Free Wifi
Free Ski Valet
In-house Ski Shop
Fitness Center
Free coffee/tea in lobby each morning
39 Degrees Lounge
Daily Free Wine Hour in Lobby (Seasonal)
Complimentary Morning Newspapers

Contact:
Sky Hotel
709 E. Durant Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
(800) 882-2582
www.theskyhotel.com

Westin Snowmass • Deluxe King Valley View Guest Room - Rates Starting at $199 - $469 Per Night:: This brand new 254-room ski in/ski out opened at the beginning of the season and is located just above the main lift of Snowmass Mountain, which obviously makes the ski in/ski out concept a lot more convenient. The Westin offers free ski valet, slope-side hot tubs, and is adjacent to the shops of Snowmass village, giving the place a resort feel. While there is hope that the new hotel will bring a new vibe to the traditionally quiet part of town, Snowmass is still considered to be the sleepy part of town. 

That said, Snowmass is the largest of the four mountains in Aspen – bigger than the other three combined. For a skier looking for long days on the slopes and quiet nights by the fire, the Westin will be the way to go.

Amenities:
254 Guest Rooms
Ski in/Ski out to Snowmass Mountain
Adjacent to Snowmass Village
Free Ski Valet
Mountain-view Rooms
Westin Heavenly Bed 
On-site Spa
Fitness Center
Apres Ski Menu at Vue Lounge
Snowmass Kitchen Restaurant

Contact:
Westin Snowmass
100 Elbert Lane
Snowmass Village, Colorado 81615
(800) 525-9402
sales.03730@westin.com

Slopes:
Snowmass: Larger than all three of the other mountains put together, Snowmass is a destination in itself considering its location about 15-20 minutes from downtown Aspen. Although there is a shuttle bus into town, the only reason to go off-site is for late-night entertainment or cheaper dining options. 

Aspen Mountain: Considered the “best” mountain for skiers due to steeper terrain, Aspen Mountain (often referred to as Ajax by locals) provides ridiculous views of the city from the slopes. The main gondola leaves right from the streets downtown Aspen, truly engraining it as part of the community. Many locals will hop a few rides during their lunch break, and tourists have the town at their ....