Year-Round Family Fun Activities in Aspen

Are you planning a trip to Aspen with the kids? This mountain town isn’t just for skiers and luxury travelers—it offers year-round adventures for families. Below is a comprehensive guide, organized by category, to help parents plan an unforgettable Colorado getaway with children of all ages.

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures in Aspen

Aspen’s great outdoors provide a natural playground for kids in every season. From snowy winter escapades to sunny summer outings (plus beautiful spring and fall in between), here are some seasonal outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy:

❄️ Snowy Winter Fun

Skiing & Snowboarding: Aspen Snowmass has four ski areas, and Buttermilk Mountain is known as the most family-friendly of all. Its gentle slopes are perfect for beginners, and the ski school offers lessons for children as young as two and a half years old. Little ones can start on the magic carpet while older kids tackle easy groomed runs. Tip: Kids under six usually ski free, and there are child-specific programs and instructors to make learning fun.
Sledding Hills: For a classic winter thrill that’s easy on the wallet, head to the “Whoa Nelly” sledding hill behind the Aspen Recreation Center (ARC). It’s free to bring your own sled (or buy one on-site for about $20). Open from dawn to dusk (snow conditions permitting), this hill offers gentle to moderate slopes perfect for an après-ski sledding session with elementary-age kids or even adventurous toddlers riding with a parent. Another option is the small sledding slope at Snowmass Town Park if you venture to nearby Snowmass Village.
Ice Skating: Bundle up and enjoy outdoor ice skating in downtown Aspen at the Silver Circle Rink (433 E Durant Ave), next to CP Burger. In winter, this little rink is a charming spot for kids to wobble around on skates while parents sip hot cocoa. Afterwards, warm up at CP Burger, a casual diner-style restaurant serving burgers and shakes that sits rink-side. This same area turns into a mini-golf course in summer, keeping the fun going year-round! The ARC also has an indoor ice arena open year-round if you prefer indoor skating.
Snow Tubing & More: For a fast-paced downhill rush, try snow tubing at Snowmass. The Elk Camp area in Snowmass offers groomed tubing lanes and lift service (generally for ages 4+ and tickets required). Families can also enjoy gentle snowshoe hikes on winter trails – the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies even leads guided family snowshoe tours suitable for kids. And for a unique adventure, consider a horse-drawn sleigh ride to a cozy dinner. For example, rides to the Pine Creek Cookhouse are a memorable splurge.

☀️ Warm-Weather Adventures

Hiking & Nature Walks: Aspen reveals miles of scenic trails ideal for kids when the snow melts. A must-do is a trip to Maroon Bells – an iconic twin-peaked backdrop for an easy family hike. The flat Maroon Lake loop trail (about 1 mile) is stroller-friendly and offers breathtaking views, perfect for young children. Older kids (around 6+) might enjoy the moderate Crater Lake Trail (3.6 miles round-trip) for a bit more challenge and a stunning alpine lake payoff. Closer to town, trails like Smuggler Mountain Road (a wide dirt road with overlooks) or the gentle Rio Grande Trail along the Roaring Fork River provide fresh air and exercise for all ages. Remember to pack water, sunscreen, and maybe a carrier for tired toddlers at altitude!

Take a short drive (or guided tour) to the Ashcroft Ghost Town in the Castle Creek valley for a mix of nature and history. Managed by the Aspen Historical Society, this abandoned 1880s mining town has preserved log cabins and a saloon, giving kids a glimpse of the Wild West. In summer, you can wander the easy dirt paths through the ghost town (kids love peeking into old buildings) and then continue on a kid-friendly hike or picnic by the creek.

Biking: Aspen is extremely bike-friendly in summer. Families can rent bikes (with trailers or kid seats if needed) and cruise the paved Rio Grande Trail. One popular outing is biking downvalley to Woody Creek Tavern – about an 8-mile (mostly downhill) ride one-way. Reward yourselves with lunch or legendary lemonade at this quirky old-west tavern, then decide whether to pedal back or catch a convenient bus shuttle. There are bike lanes and easy routes in town, or venture to Snowmass Bike Park for lift-served downhill biking (best for older kids/teens with some experience). Even balance bikes or training-wheel bikes can be enjoyed at local parks and quiet streets in Aspen’s West End.
Water Play & Rafting: Colorado’s summers mean cool mountain streams and big rivers. Kids love splashing in the shallow Hunter Creek or the kiddie wading area at Herron Park on a hot day. For a true adventure, consider a family-friendly rafting trip on the Roaring Fork or Colorado River. Local outfitters offer mellow float trips suitable for kids as young as 4-6, as well as exciting Class III whitewater for older, more daring kids. Always check age limits and safety gear – reputable rafting companies provide life jackets and guides, making it a safe, fun introduction to rafting.

Gondola Ride & Mountain Top Fun: Ride the Silver Queen Gondola up Aspen Mountain for incredible views in any season. In summer, the gondola ride (ticket required for non-skiers) leads to the 11,200-foot summit, where you’ll find family-friendly bonuses like a nature-themed playground, sand play area, and yard games at the top. There are also hiking trails, disc golf, and on weekends, live music on the mountain. Families often enjoy lunch at the Sundeck restaurant on top (kids love the mac and cheese or hot chocolate). Even toddlers will enjoy the smooth gondola ride (just 15 minutes long) and the thrill of being on a big mountain without a big hike.
Other Summer Fun: Families can try horseback riding at local stables (most outfitters have pony rides or short trail rides for ages ~7+), or even jeep tours into the backcountry for an exciting ride over mountain roads. If you visit on a Saturday (June through early October), don’t miss the Aspen Saturday Market downtown – not only can you pick up local produce and crafts, but there are often kid-friendly booths, yummy snacks (hello, kettle corn and lemonade!), and occasional live music that creates a fun street-fair atmosphere.

Indoor Attractions and Rainy-Day Activities

The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. Fortunately, Aspen offers plenty of indoor attractions and programs to keep kids entertained year-round, from interactive museums to recreation centers:

Aspen Recreation Center (ARC): This is the ultimate family hub on a cold or rainy day. The ARC features an indoor pool with a two-story water slide, a lazy river, a zero-entry play area for little ones, and even a climbing wall and indoor ice rink. Kids of all ages will be delighted – toddlers can splash in the shallow section, grade-schoolers zoom down the slide, and teens might tackle the climbing tower or skate. There’s also a snack bar and seating for parents.
- Cost: Entry is via a day pass (kids around $10-$15, adults ~$20, and spectators are cheaper).
- Age range: All ages (with swim diapers required for tiny swimmers). If you’re visiting in winter, remember the free sledding hill out back as well, so you get indoor and outdoor fun in one stop.
Aspen Art Museum: Introduce your children to art in an accessible way at the Aspen Art Museum. This contemporary art museum has hands-on family workshops and “Art Studio” programs encouraging creativity. Even just exploring the galleries can spark curiosity (look for the occasional quirky installations that kids find amusing). The rooftop café is a nice bonus for a snack with a view.
- Cost: Admission is free for all.
- Age range: School-age kids and teens will get the most out of it, but even younger children can enjoy colorful visuals for a shorter visit.
Ice Age Discovery Center (Snowmass): If you’re willing to venture 15 minutes to Snowmass Village, the Ice Age Discovery Center is a little gem. It showcases real fossils of mammoths, mastodons, and other Ice Age creatures discovered locally. Exhibits are interactive and kid-friendly, including touchable models and dig pit activities.
- Cost: Free. Located at Snowmass Base Village, it’s easy to combine with walking around the village or getting hot cocoa.
- Age range: It’s a quick, educational stop (plan ~30 minutes) that might especially captivate dinosaur- and animal-loving kids ages ~3-12.
Pitkin County Library: Aspen’s library is very family-friendly. It features a dedicated children’s section with cozy reading nooks and often hosts Storytime sessions for various age groups. This is a perfect, calm indoor break for toddlers and preschoolers. The library also has games, puzzles, and computers available for kids. Check the library’s event calendar; you might catch a special kids’ music hour or craft time.
- Cost: Free.
- Age range: Appropriate for children of all ages.
Red Brick Recreation Center Playhouse: For parents with toddlers or preschoolers, the Red Brick Recreation Center offers an indoor Playhouse Gym with toys, soft play equipment, and space to run around. They have drop-in play times (reservation may be required) where little ones (typically under 5) can socialize and romp in a safe environment. It’s a nice option if your kids need to get the wiggles out and the weather isn’t cooperating.
- Cost: Free with optional paid activities.
- Age range: Appropriate for children of all ages.
Arts & Crafts Workshops: Aspen’s creative spirit extends to kids. Check out Anderson Ranch Arts Center (in nearby Snowmass), which often runs summer workshops for young artists, from pottery to painting. Also, Theatre Aspen hosts performances and occasionally kid-centric shows or drama camps in the summer. If you have a budding chef, inquire about kid cooking classes occasionally offered at local restaurants or the Aspen Cooking School. These indoor experiences allow kids to learn new skills and express themselves creatively.
- Cost: Varied, depending on the activity.
- Age range: Recommended for ages five and older.

Kid-Friendly Dining and Treat Spots

No vacation is complete without good food! Luckily, Aspen’s dining scene has plenty of options where kids are welcome, and even a few spots designed with kids in mind. Here are some family-favorite restaurants and treat stops to put on your list:

Brunelleschi’s Pizza (Build-a-Pie): Brunelleschi’s (affectionately called “Bruno’s” by locals) is a family-friendly Italian eatery famous for its “make your own pizza” experience. Kids get a ball of dough, sauce, and toppings to assemble their personal pizza, which the chef then bakes. Young chefs love this hands-on activity, and it keeps them busy at the table. The restaurant also offers pastas and salads for a reasonable price, and a noisy, casual vibe that welcomes children. Ideal for toddlers up to teens (because who doesn’t like pizza?).
Paradise Bakery & Café: This little corner bakery is a sweets heaven for kids and adults alike. Paradise Bakery is famous for its homemade cookies and gelato-style ice cream. They often hand out free mini chocolate chip cookies – a tradition every kid enjoys. Stop by for an ice cream cone or a warm brownie, and enjoy it on the adjacent pedestrian mall where there’s often live music or a bustling scene. Don’t miss the oatmeal raisin cookie and the sorbets, either! Open year-round, though hours can be shorter in the off-season.
Hickory House BBQ: A bit off the beaten path on Aspen’s Main Street, Hickory House is a laid-back barbecue joint beloved by local families. It has a kids’ menu (with favorites like mac & cheese or kiddie ribs), and is known for huge pancake breakfasts that satisfy even the hungriest teen. The vibe is super casual – paper napkins, plastic cups, and no one minds a little BBQ sauce on the fingers. Hickory House’s comfort food will hit the spot if your crew needs a break from fancier fare. They don’t take reservations, so come early for dinner or be prepared for a short wait during peak times.
Ajax Tavern: For a slightly upscale yet family-friendly dining experience, try Ajax Tavern at the base of Aspen Mountain. It’s famous for truffle fries and a great sundae dessert, but also accommodates kids with familiar options. In summer, parents can relax on the patio while kids play on the lawn at the base of the gondola. It’s equally lively in winter, and you can watch skiers shushing down while you dine. While it’s attached to The Little Nell (a five-star hotel), the tavern itself is casual chic – fine with ski clothes or a bit of kid clutter. It’s a good spot for a nice lunch that still welcomes children.
Sweet Treats Around Town: Beyond Paradise Bakery, Aspen has other spots to satisfy a sweet tooth. Try Clark’s Market bakery for giant donuts in the morning. In summer, seek out the Saturday Market lemonade stands or the dancing fountain on the mall (kids can splash while you enjoy a local coffee). And if the family needs a warming treat in winter, pop into Gorsuch Ski Café by the gondola for gourmet hot chocolate topped with whipped cream – a small luxury kids adore after playing in the snow.

Final Tips for Parents in Aspen

Aspen is a fantastic family destination because of its blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town conveniences. A few practical tips to keep in mind:

Altitude Awareness: Remember that Aspen sits at ~8,000 feet elevation. Take it easy on day one so the kids can acclimate – plan mellow activities and stay hydrated. Many kid-friendly activities (like the ARC pool or a gentle walk) are perfect for acclimatization day.
Free and Low-Cost Balance: Aspen can be expensive, but as we’ve highlighted, there are plenty of free activities (sledding, parks, library storytime) to balance out the pricier adventures (like ski lessons or the alpine coaster). Mix and match free days with treat days to stay within budget.
Getting Around: With young kids, you’ll appreciate Aspen’s free shuttle buses. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) buses connect Aspen to Snowmass and other areas. They are stroller-friendly and an adventure for little ones. Within downtown, everything is walkable, and even kids will enjoy strolling the pedestrian malls (maybe with a stop at the toy store on the Cooper Ave mall).
Seasonal Gear: Pack for the season and then some. In winter, bring snow boots, layers, and sunscreen (the high-altitude sun and snow glare are intense). In summer, afternoons often bring brief rain showers—a lightweight jacket or poncho for the kids will save the day so you don’t have to halt the fun. And year-round, don’t forget swimsuits and closed-toe shoes if you plan to do any hiking or biking.

With all these recommendations, your time in Aspen will be rewarding for both kids and parents; the town has something special for every age. Enjoy your family trip, take lots of pictures, and get ready to make lifelong memories in the mountains!

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