In the late 1940s, skiing arrived in Aspen as did modern day founders Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke. With a vision for the community that focused on Mind, Body and Spirit, the Paepckes helped Aspen begin a civic and cultural renaissance – one that continues to this day…we call it “The Aspen Idea.” Learn more about Aspen’s historical past.

The year-round outdoor lifestyle accessed from your doorstep and a jam-packed cosmopolitan cultural calendar with a bustling downtown ambiance as well as a centrally located airport are just a few reasons that make Aspen a world-renowned year-round destination. An endless array of arts, culture, dining, and nightlife give Aspen an urbane feel that belies its small-town charm and inspires countless stories.

Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley are home to dozens of artists, artisans and craftspeople. Many sell their wares at the Aspen Saturday Market from June – October, but others are found at shops in town year-round.

Located in Pitkin County, Aspen is nestled in the heart of the White River National Forest surrounded by the peaks of the Elk Mountain Range in the central Rocky Mountains. Besides world class skiing in the winter, in summer Aspen also has numerous athletic events, festivals, free music, and a weekly rodeo and family activities.

Aspen’s airport is Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, also known as Sardy Field. The airport is an FAA Class 1 airport and has one asphalt runway, 100 ft (30 m) wide and 8,006 ft (2,440 m) long. The airport is commercially serviced by American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines.