Aspen hotels

Aspen Meadows Resort is an art and architecture lover’s dream. Designed by Herbert Bayer, who trained at the famed Bauhaus art school in Germany in the 1920s, the grounds are brimming with sculptures, installations, and grassy mounds called “earthworks.” Though it’s just a few blocks from downtown, this is one of the top boutique hotels in Aspen, and feels like a secluded wilderness escape – it’s set on 40 lush, wooded acres along the banks of the Roaring Fork River.
With massive, floor-to-ceiling windows and bold primary colors, the hotel’s 98 guest suites are sunny and spacious, with plenty of room for families or groups to get comfortable. I love dining at Plato’s, the on-site restaurant, and snagging a seat on the patio, where I’ve witnessed many spectacular orange and pink sunsets light up the sky.
Aspen Meadows also has a handy free shuttle, plus bike-share stations for pedaling around.

From your guest room or suite at the Little Nell, you can watch skiers and snowboarders ride to the top of Aspen Mountain aboard the red-and-black cars of the Silver Queen Gondola – or ski right out and join them. Founded in 1989, this slope-side property is one of the most desirable places to stay in Aspen, thanks to its prime location, high-end amenities, and top-tier ratings from travel companies like AAA (five diamonds) and Forbes Travel Guide (five stars).
The Nell is also known for its impressive wine cellar, which features more than 20,000 bottles – many of them rare. You can sip some yourself while dining at Element 47, the hotel’s elegant, full-service restaurant, or by booking a private wine tasting or dinner hosted by one of The Little Nell’s knowledgeable sommeliers.
The more casual Ajax Tavern, located on the property, is famous for its truffle fries and for apres-ski people-watching.

More than just a hotel, the Limelight is like Aspen’s living room. It has a cozy, main floor hangout called the Lounge, where locals and visitors alike flock for wood-fired pizza and live music (and, for guests, complimentary breakfast each morning).
Upstairs, its 126 recently renovated guest rooms and suites are decorated with bold pops of color and practical amenities. I love soaking in the Limelight’s heated outdoor pool and hot tubs, which have a view of Aspen Mountain. It’s also located in a quiet part of town, but still close enough to walk to Aspen’s restaurants and shops.
You don’t need a car, either – The hotel’s shuttle will pick you up at the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, then take you anywhere you need to go around town. If you want to go car-free, borrow a cruiser or fat bike from the front desk.