An Aspen Honeymoon Guide for a Cozy and Outdoorsy Getaway

Balance outdoor sports with luxury in this Colorado destination.
Sunrise hits snow dusted peaks of Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado
Photo: Steve Whiston | Getty
Dina Cheney - The Knot Contributor.
by
Dina Cheney
Dina Cheney - The Knot Contributor.
Dina Cheney
The Knot Contributor
  • Dina writes for The Knot Worldwide, specializing in food, travel and relationships.
  • With more than 20 years of experience in service journalism, she also pens articles and recipes for publications, such as Good Housekeeping, Parents, SELF, Health, Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Prevention, Fine Cooking, Weight Watchers and Diabetic Living.
  • Dina graduated from Columbia College, Columbia University and The Institute of Cul...
Updated Apr 24, 2024
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An Aspen honeymoon is perfect for couples who want to celebrate their nuptials with an outdoor adventure. In the winter, ski and snowboard, then sip a cocktail in front of a crackling fire. During the warmer months, head to an art museum after a hike amidst mountain vistas. Seriously, this US honeymoon spot won't disappoint, whatever time of year you choose to visit.

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a Colorado honeymoon location that can offer newlyweds a mix of stunning natural beauty, luxurious amenities and a charming small-town feel. Whether you're skiing on its world-class slopes or hiking through colorful wildflower meadows in the summer, Aspen provides a romantic and memorable setting for a honeymoon.

When it comes to planning your Aspen honeymoon, let us be your guide. From the best months to visit to the top places to stay, use our expert tips to plan your romantic Colorado getaway.

Aspen Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

Cable car moving up over forested snow covered mountains, Aspen, Colorado
Photo: Jakob Helbig | Getty

    Best Time to Honeymoon in Aspen

    The best time to visit Colorado for a honeymoon in Aspen depends on what activities you plan to enjoy. For skiing and winter sports, January through March offers the classic snowy, winter wonderland experience. For warmer weather activities like hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the outdoor festivals, late June through August is ideal, with pleasant temperatures and lots of sunshine.

    Since it's a slower season, fall tends to offer lower prices (though some restaurants, shops and hotels might be closed), says Brian Payntar Harris, owner of Aspen Travel Advisors—so keep that in mind, too.

    You'll want to avoid visiting during November and December, since there will be little to no snow and fewer activities, says Lauren Doyle, president of The Travel Mechanic.

    Best weather: June to August, January to March.
    Festival highlights: The Aspen Music Festival (June to August) offers a romantic backdrop for music-loving couples. The Winter X Games (in January) bring exciting sports action, while the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen (June) is perfect for couples who enjoy gourmet food and wine.

    Aspen Honeymoon Planning Tips

    With spectacular scenery and skiing, Aspen is ideal for nature-loving couples. The iconic mountain town in the Roaring Fork Valley also delivers when it comes to culture, with award-winning restaurants, boutiques and hotels, as well as sophisticated visual and performing arts offerings.

    "This quintessential resort town has a gorgeous natural setting and Rodeo Drive brands," says Harris.

    "Aspen is particularly well-suited to active couples," says Amy Siegal, a travel advisor at Valerie Wilson Travel. The ski-resort town and its environs are home to four ski mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk.

    Surrounded by dramatic scenery, newlyweds can go snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice-skating and dogsledding in the winter. When planning a honeymoon for the summer, you can keep busy by mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, paddle-boarding, golfing, hot-air ballooning, paragliding and fly fishing.

    As an added bonus, the city is easy to access. You can fly direct from Chicago, San Francisco, LA, Atlanta and various other starting points. Or, you can fly into Vail (a two-hour drive) or Denver (a four-hour drive).

    Entry requirements: Since Aspen is in the States, you won't need a passport—but make sure to pack your ID.
    Language:
    English.
    Location: Aspen is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, within Pitkin County.
    Currency: USD.
    Flight time to Destination: From New York City, the flight to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport typically takes around 4.5 hours non-stop. From Los Angeles, the flight is approximately 2.5 hours non-stop.
    Getting around: Getting around Aspen is convenient thanks to the free shuttle services offered throughout the town and to various ski areas. Rental cars are available but not necessary for navigating the compact town. Biking and walking are also popular in the warmer months.

    Pro tip: On The Knot Marketplace, you can browse local travel agents for Aspen honeymoon expertise from honeymoon planning experts.

    Best Aspen Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

    When planning a honeymoon in Aspen, consider booking accommodations well in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak seasons like winter or summer. Whether you decide on a cozy cabin or a luxurious ski resort, look for honeymoon packages which may include special amenities like spa treatments, romantic dinners and outdoor excursions tailored for couples.

    Reddish-purple fireweed wildflowers in a mountain setting at sunrise in Colorado
    Photo: Dean Fikar | Getty

    The St. Regis Aspen Resort

    Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, The St. Regis Aspen Resort features luxurious rooms, including the Presidential Suite (with a private balcony, a deep soaking tub and access to butler service).

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    The Little Nell

    The Little Nell is just steps from the Silver Queen Gondola includes opulent rooms and a spa. Luxurious but not stuffy, it's the only ski-in, ski-out hotel on Aspen Mountain, Siegal says, adding that you should book well in advance.

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Hotel Jerome

    Part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, Hotel Jerome is centrally located in downtown Aspen. "I like the Western furnishings mixed with chic, contemporary decor,"says Limor Decter of Embark Beyond. "The Victorian facade and historic charm plus fine service and dining options make it a great choice for newlyweds."

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Limelight Hotel

    Located downtown, Limelight Hotel offers a breakfast buffet, a fitness room, rooftop terraces, outdoor hot tubs, a heated pool and bikes.

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Pro tip: If you're looking for Aspen accommodations that'll provide you more privacy or lower prices on your honeymoon, check out a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

    Aspen Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

    A honeymoon in Aspen is perfect for couples who appreciate a blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With plenty of things to do, newlyweds can enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the winter, or hiking and biking on scenic trails in the summer. For a more laid-back experience, explore Aspen's art galleries, visit the historic Wheeler Opera House or unwind in one of the many luxurious spas.

    Young couple in Aspen in a 4x4, mountain in background
    Photo: Tyler Stableford | Getty

    Attend a Cultural Event

    Especially in the summer, this mountain town has a full schedule of cultural offerings. Attend a concert at Belly Up Aspen or through the Aspen Music Festival; listen to a lecture included in The Aspen Institute's Ideas Festival; or watch a Theatre Aspen performance.

    Visit Downtown Aspen

    "Downtown is very pedestrian-friendly," Decter says. "Everything is walkable and easily accessible." While away an afternoon strolling through the various boutiques.

    Hike or Bike

    Traverse the challenging 6-mile Ute Trail (known for its beautiful wildflowers) or the 0.5-mile Grottos Trail (check out the waterfall). For four-wheel action, pedal along the 42-mile Rio Grande Trail.

    Experience the Maroon Bells

    For truly epic summer and early fall scenery, visit this reflective lake and two 14,000-foot-high peaks located 10 miles west of Aspen. You'll be rewarded with views of colorful wildflowers, yellow aspen tree foliage and maroon mountains. Time your trip to Maroon Bells for mid-week to avoid crowds.

    Get a Spa Treatment

    Harris recommends the on-site Remède Spa at The St. Regis Aspen Resort. Book a couples massage, a bath or another indulgent treatment.

    Pro tip: Add Colorado honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so your family and friends can pitch in on your honeymoon adventure.

    What to Pack for an Aspen Honeymoon

    Elevated town view of Aspen and Aspen Mountain
    Photo: Walter Bibikow | Getty

    Bring activewear and athleisure clothing in your honeymoon luggage, Harris says. "Tourists tend to dress up for dinner, but locals never do, and there are no dress codes anywhere." Decter also recommends including layers on your packing checklist, as temperatures vary throughout the day.

    Brittany Barber contributed to this article.

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