Aspen Travel Guide: A Winter Getaway Itinerary
Aspen in February is pure magic—powdery slopes, chic après-ski scenes, and a food scene that rivals any cosmopolitan city. If you’re planning a trip, this Aspen Travel Guide is packed with the best spots to ski, sip, and savor every moment plus our exact weekend itinerary during Palm Tree Fest.
Day 1: Arrival & Indulgence
We arrived in Aspen just after noon, ready to kick off a luxury mountain escape.
Lunch: French Alpine Bistro
After touching down, we headed straight to French Alpine Bistro, an absolute must. If you can, grab a heated table on the front patio for the ultimate cozy après-lunch experience, DO IT. Order the Truffle Fondue for Two, the Croque Monsieur, or the Wild Mushroom Tartiflette. Pair it with a glass of Sancerre to set the tone for your trip.
Alternative lunch options:
- White House Tavern – Get the Crispy Chicken Sandwich or Thai Steak & Noodle Salad.
- Meat & Cheese – Their Farm Board is legendary, and the Rotisserie Chicken is a must.
Drinks: J-Bar @ Hotel Jerome
A legendary spot with a classic Aspen vibe. Order their Aspen Crud (a bourbon-spiked milkshake!) or a Negroni to warm up before dinner. They also make some mean martini’s!
Dinner: Aosta
This Northern Italian gem stole the show. Pizza is the way to go here—think perfectly charred crusts and fresh ingredients. The Wild Mushroom & Truffle Pizza is a must. And don’t sleep on their Espresso Martini—so good, we came back every night for one.
Day 2: Palm Tree Fest Kickoff
Our friends started the day on the slopes early. (Tip – Aspen Mountain’s lifts open at 9 AM) And I enjoyed sleeping in to savor up energy for the festivities to come!
Après: Ajax Tavern
Classic après vibes right at the base of the mountain. Order the Truffle Fries (iconic), the Wagyu Double Cheeseburger, or the French Onion Soup.
Dinner: Las Montañas OR Matsuhisa (If You Can Snag a Spot)
- Las Montañas – Elevated Mexican fare. The Short Rib Birria Tacos, Lobster Enchiladas, and Margarita Flight are top picks.
- Matsuhisa – Chef Nobu’s Aspen outpost. If you can get in, go for the Yellowtail Jalapeño, Black Cod Miso, and the Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna.
Palm Tree Festival
Time to let loose and dance under the snowy sky at Palm Tree Fest!
Day 3: The Party Continues
Morning: St. Regis Spa Experience
We indulged at the Remède Spa at St. Regis for a morning of pure relaxation. The Oxygen Lounge, Cold Plunge, and Hot Stone Massage are perfect for rejuvenation. Book the CBD Sports Recovery Massage to ease any soreness from the slopes. Afterward, sip on a signature Bloody Mary at the St. Regis bar.
Après: Eleven212 (Top of the Mountain)
This spot delivers high-altitude après with panoramic views. Grab a Hot Toddy or Aperol Spritz and soak in the scenery.
Dinner: Wayan
This Bali-meets-French hot spot serves up dishes packed with flavor. Order the Lobster Noodles, Crispy Pork Ribs, and Corn Fritters. For drinks, the Coconut Negroni is a winner.
Palm Tree Fest – Night Two!
Round two of Palm Tree Fest—prepare for another epic night.
Back to Aosta for another round of espresso martinis as a night cap.
Day 4: Departure & Recovery
Heading home from a weekend well spent, and major recovery time needed.
More Aspen Hot Spots
We did make a stop into Kemo Sabe during the trip to make hats and it was so fun. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a good activity to do at some point during the trip.
Here’s a list of other hot spots in Aspen worth checking out for dining, drinks, and après-ski vibes:
Restaurants & Dining
- Clark’s Oyster Bar – Incredible seafood & cocktails. Try the Cioppino and Lobster Roll.
- Element 47 (at The Little Nell) – Upscale American cuisine; get the Colorado Rack of Lamb or Wagyu Tartare.
- Cache Cache – French bistro with a great wine list. Steak Frites & Foie Gras are top-tier.
- Campo de Fiori – Cozy Italian spot; the Truffle Gnocchi is a must.
- Bosq – Michelin-starred tasting menus; perfect for a splurge night.
- Steakhouse No. 316 – Best steakhouse in Aspen; go for the Filet Mignon & Truffle Mac & Cheese.
Bars & Lounges
- The Caribou Club – Exclusive members-only club, but worth it if you can get in!
- Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar – Cozy underground speakeasy with creative cocktails.
- Bad Harriet – Swanky bar inside Hotel Jerome with a sultry vibe and excellent drinks.
- Chair 9 (at The Little Nell) – Après-ski with a DJ and great Champagne selections.
Aprés-Ski & Casual Vibes
- Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro – Legendary ski-in, ski-out spot with champagne showers. Order the Fondue & Raclette.
- Aspen Tap – Laid-back spot with local craft beer and pizza.
- Venga Venga – Mexican-inspired après right at the base of Snowmass. Great Margaritas & Tacos.
- Highlands Alehouse – Great mountain pub with solid Wings & Burgers.
Breakfast & Coffee
- Paradise Bakery – The Almond Croissant & Hot Chocolate are divine.
- Local Coffee House – Trendy spot for Oat Milk Lattes & Avocado Toast.
- Jour de Fête – A local favorite for hearty Egg Sandwiches & French Pastries.
What to Wear in Aspen
I broke down what both Mr. Chic and I packed and some great outfit inspiration in this post here. My tip is to add cozy layers, faux fur, cowboy boots &/or a cowboy hat to every look and you will fit the vibe instantly.
Aspen in February? Absolutely unbeatable. I hope this Aspen Travel Guide is helpful for your next trip. Cheers to ski days, indulgent eats, and après that never ends.
