Rising more than 14,000 feet, these twin peaks are a favorite spot for hikers and wildlife-watchers, boasting beautiful vistas and breathtaking scenery. In fact, Maroon Bells' jagged peaks and multicolored slopes make it one of the most photographed sites in North America. You can technically visit Maroon Bells free of charge, but if you plan on driving to the trails, expect to pay a $10 vehicle fee. Reservations are required. You can also take an RFTA shuttle bus from the Aspen Highlands between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Reservations are required. There is connecting bus service between the Aspen Highlands and downtown Aspen. Previous visitors were highly impressed with the information provided by the bus tours, with many people saying that this is the best way to reach Maroon Bells. Tickets for the shuttle bus cost $16 for adults.

If there's one reason to rent a car in Aspen, it's to take the 20-mile drive through Independence Pass. This scenic road is one of the highest in North America, meandering along the Continental Divide at a whopping 12,095 feet above sea level. Get ready to feel like a daredevil as you navigate tight turns along towering cliffs and through thick forests. When you're ready to stretch your legs, a paved hiking trail (the Independence Pass Scenic Trail) leads to a sightseeing platform where far-reaching views of the Continental Divide are sure to make your jaw drop

The Silver Queen Gondola travels 2.5 miles from the heart of Aspen to the 11,000-foot-high summit of Aspen Mountain. A sundeck and eatery greets visitors at the top of the mountain and makes for a great spot to relax, grab a drink or a bite to eat, and take photos of the surrounding landscape. If you're visiting in the summer months, there are plenty of opportunities to hike, dine and even enjoy some live music. The ride up the mountain takes approximately 15 minutes. You can catch the Silver Queen Gondola from downtown Aspen between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. every day from June through September in the summer, and from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the winter season (November to mid-April). Winter gondola tickets cost approximately $46 for adults

For adventure, it’s hard to beat a whitewater rafting trip on the Roaring Fork River. The river is aptly named, sporting intense rapids in the south (Class V) that gradually decrease down to Class II as the river flows north. The portion of the river nearest Aspen has some of the most intense rapids.

The river has many sections, including three that are especially popular with whitewater rafters. The wildest section of Roaring Fork is Slaughterhouse, which is rated Class IV to V and reserved for experienced rafters. For the adventurous traveler seeking scenic views, Woody Creek and Toothache offer mid-rated rapids (Class III to IV). Cemetery is the mildest section, rated Class II to III. These rapids are more family-friendly and promise equally beautiful views.

Aspen’s rafting season runs from May to September. There is a plethora of rafting operators in this area. Popular and well-reviewed companies include Blazing Adventures, Aspen Whitewater Rafting and Elk Mountain Expeditions. Travelers who booked a trip with one of the top-rated companies almost unanimously had fantastic, exhilarating experiences.

Locations, hours, trip duration and pricing varies by company. Adults can expect to pay at least $105 for a half-day trip,

Aiming to bring the craft beer scene to Aspen, Aspen Brewing Company was founded in 2008 and has been brewing and serving up beers ever since. The brewery offers a wide variety of beer, ranging from blonde and red ales to stouts and pilsners to seasonal brews. With seating indoors and on an adjacent patio, Aspen Brewing Company's tap room encourages visitors to grab a pint and #DrinkInTheView.

Travelers praise this brewery, citing the friendly and entertaining staff members, the tasty brews and the relaxed atmosphere as prime reasons to return. Some recent visitors noted mediocre service, potentially due to staffing shortages.

You'll find the Aspen Brewing Company tasting room in downtown Aspen, a few blocks north of the base of Aspen Mountain; it's open daily from noon to 10 p.m. The brewing facility is located about 4 miles northwest, near the Aspen–Pitkin County Airport (parking is limited; the local bus does stop nearby). For more information on beer types, brewery history and more, visit the Aspen Brewing Company's

Anyone who's a fan of John Denver's music knows that the famous singer-songwriter was a big fan of Aspen; he immortalized the town's beauty and character in several of his songs, including his famous "Aspenglow." The town decided to pay tribute to its favorite musician (who died in 1997) with the John Denver Sanctuary, a memorial nestled near the Aspen Art Museum in Rio Grande Park along the Roaring Fork River. The memorial is composed of several stone slabs bearing the musician's name and some of his lyrics.

Past travelers strongly recommend a visit, even if you're not a diehard Denver fan, noting the area's beautiful flower garden and the impressive inscribed river boulders. Others said it's a great picnic spot.

The John Denver Sanctuary is always open and admission is free. For more information, visit the Aspen Chamber of Commerce website.

There is a myriad of cultural attractions in Aspen, and for contemporary art buffs, the Aspen Art Museum is worth a visit. Instead of a permanent collection, the museum focuses on displaying exhibitions across its six galleries. Several exhibits run concurrently; sometimes relating to Colorado and its natural beauty. The Aspen Art Museum also boasts a rooftop cafe, which occasionally features free musical events, as well as regular workshops indoors.

Many simply go to admire the museum’s distinctive architecture, which was designed by Shigeru Ban. Of particular note was the museum rooftop, which offers unobstructed views of Aspen Mountain.

Located in downtown Aspen, the Aspen Art Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free.

From mid-June to early October, spend your Saturday mornings at the Aspen Farmer's Market. Since 1998 it has been a local's tradition to stroll through the market buying Colorado-grown produce and Colorado-produced artisan products.

Open on Saturdays from 8:30 AM - 2 PM, the market offers Colorado-grown fruits, vegetables, bread, meats, jams, and more as well as a food court for lunch or a snack.