Aspen Snowmass on a Budget

Aspen Snowmass may be known for spare-no-expense experiences, but there are plenty of options for travelers on a budget. In fact, some of our most quintessential experiences on this list below.

Save money on dinner by doing what the locals do. See our tips below.

Published December 2022
Updated November 2024

Known for their cosmopolitan vibe in the laid-back setting of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the towns of Aspen and Snowmass Village have long been synonymous with blending the best of both worlds.

Because of this, it is also easy to stretch your dollar and find plenty of fun, engaging and enriching things to do on a budget. Here are a handful of ideas to help you plan your winter vacation for less.

Recreation on a Budget

Cross Country Skiing to Maroon Lake

If you are keen for a strenuous and scenic workout, rent a pair of cross-country skis and head 7-miles up Maroon Creek Road to Maroon Lake at the foot of the majestic Maroon Bells. If that’s too much of a haul, the Roaring Fork Valley and the area surrounding Snowmass Village is traversed by several trails for cross-country skiers and snowshoers to delight in. Gear rentals are available in town.

Aspen Center For Environmental Studies (ACES)

One of Aspen’s most beloved local institutions, ACES offers up several ways for visitors to engage with nature and learn about the precious Rocky Mountain ecosystems that surround us. Stop by their 25-acre preserve at Hallam Lake where you can view an indoor trout stream and meet a golden eagle, or visit their Rock Bottom Ranch facility for a farmyard tour. ACES also offers snowshoe naturalist tours (pictured above) on Snowmass Mountain everyday.

Earn Your Turns with Uphilling

Two uphill skiers at Buttermilk

The uphilling community in the Roaring Fork Valley is strong and dedicated, and it is an activity that the four-mountain resort of Aspen Snowmass embraces. Skiers are allowed to uphill designated routes at Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. Be sure to read each mountains policy and follow the designated route.

Learn more

On-Mountain Activities

Some of the best bargains are actually right on the mountain. Throughout the year, Aspen Snowmass offers a series of free special events that might have you timing your visit just to partake in them.

Bud Light HiFi Concert Series

This series of free concerts throughout the ski season brings nationally recognized bands and music acts to Aspen and Snowmass Village.

Ullr Nights

Cozy winter nights are the norm at this on-mountain festival held at Elk Camp on Snowmass on select nights in winter. A $13/person ticket gets you entrance to a bevy of family-friendly activities.

Game of Stones

Looking for something different to do at a ski resort? This free, open-to-the-public curling series in Snowmass Base Village is a great introduction to this popular winter pastime.

Tubing

For an all-day ticket, the Tubing Only pass at Elk Camp is a superb value, and gives you a fun and affordable diversion day on the mountain.

Shopping on the Cheap

Sure, you’ll find a few noteworthy fashion houses in downtown Aspen, selling the latest fashions fresh from the runways of Paris and Milan. But because of their high-end clientele, you will also find a handful of exceptional consignment shops, offering high-quality second-hand goods at great prices.

Arts and Culture

Aspen Art Museum

For more than 40 years, the Aspen Art Museum has been the cultural vanguard in town. The museum's modern building houses exhibitions and educational programs and has garnered national attention for its architecture. The AAM has been a champion of permeating art across the community, with installations around town, and even on Aspen Snowmass’ lift tickets.

Local Galleries

While some of Aspen's art galleries contain masterpieces selling for a pretty penny (and that's an understatement), you'll be amazed at some of the reasonably priced treasures on offer, too. Besides, the experience of touring these galleries is as memorable as it is free.

Tips and Tricks for Dining on the Cheap

Scope Out Happy Hours

Save significant cash by stopping in for happy hour and après ski specials. Happy hour is so robust here that many of Aspen’s top restaurants participate, offering deals between 4pm and 7pm.

Bar Menus

You can find a lot of delicious dishes at reasonable prices simply by cozying up to the bar at many of Aspen and Snowmass Village's dining establishments. The service is often very prompt as well.

Get Social

Do a little research on which restaurants interest you most and then follow them on Instagram, where they frequently post news about daily specials.

Limelight Lounge's Live Music

One of the top hangouts for locals in both Aspen and Snowmass Village, the two Limelight Lounges frequently offer live music to accompany daily drink and dining specials.

CP Burger

From cheeseburgers and salads to falafel burgers and milkshakes, CP Burger is a casual eatery perfect for the whole family. Located right downtown (next to the skating rink) and serves burgers, shakes, and more.

Woody Creek Tavern

Situated outside of town—and residing in its own unique orbit, you'll see—the eclectic Woody Creek Tavern is an ideal go-to for no-frills American cuisine and an authentic Western ambiance.

Restaurant Guide

Get the scoop on the entire Aspen and Snowmass Village restaurant scene with our exclusive guide.

Après Ski Guide

Après ski is taken very seriously at Aspen Snowmass. (At least as seriously as one can take such frivolity). Learn more about the top spots.