Aspen’s appeal has always come from the way it blends high style with laid-back energy. It’s where four legendary mountains merge international dining, sparkling hospitality, and shimmering cultural moments. It’s where vintage lodges sit beside next-gen hotels. And it’s where the person brushing past you in a Moncler puffer might well be an A-lister ducking into Jimmy’s for a Woody Creek old fashioned. Aspen reinvents itself season after season, while holding tight to the sumptuous soul that makes it iconic. The secret sauce is in its blend of polish and ease, an intoxicating combination few destinations ever master. And despite its ongoing evolution, Aspen always knows exactly who it is: timeless, glamorous, and the place everyone wants to be. This year, a fresh wave of openings, upgrades, and gourmet arrivals brings even more sparkle to town.
Here’s the ultimate insider roundup of what’s new, what’s next, and where the beau monde will be gathering. See you at the top.
Lodging & Hospitality
White Elephant Aspen — Ajax Penthouse
Opening February 3, 2026, White Elephant Aspen introduces boutique alpine glamour to Main Street. Warm leathers, stone details, and an elegant, playful sensibility create the vibe. The debut is especially anticipated by the brand’s loyal following that trusts its elevated, intimate approach to hospitality. (Its Nantucket and Palm Beach outposts are widely adored.) White Elephant Aspen will bring that same polished, high-touch charm to the Rockies.
The crown jewel is the Ajax Penthouse: a three-bedroom, four-bath hideaway with a 900-square-foot terrace and sweeping mountain views.
Mountain Chalet Aspen — Renovation
This beloved classic is getting a $100M restoration, slated for completion in 2027. The historic European ski-lodge charm remains intact but refreshed with contemporary interiors, thoughtful art, and elevated comforts.
Hotel Jerome — Refresh
Updated guest rooms, richer textiles, curated art, and enhanced lighting breathe new life into this historic icon.
Photo courtesy of MOLLIE Aspen
On The Mountain & Experience Upgrades
Snowmass Lift Upgrades
Snowmass debuts two major improvements this winter: the Elk Camp Six-Pack for faster access and a newly engineered Cirque T-Bar. It’s one of the highest lifts in North America, and now accommodates two riders per trip.
Elk Camp Deck Expansion
The ever-popular Elk Camp Restaurant expands this season with 120 new deck seats and sleek retractable-glass walls. It’s now easier than ever to take in those sweeping high-alpine views with a warm drink in hand. The upgrade gives skiers and riders more room to spread out and settle in. It’s the kind of elevated on-mountain atmosphere that keeps Snowmass at the forefront of the ski-dining scene.
Photo courtesy of Alpin Room
On-Mountain Dining Pop-Ups
The Hot Dogger at Spider Sabich
This ski-in/ski-out gourmet hot dog stand (named for the Snowmass legend and Olympian) is a collaboration with L.A.’s Sumo Dog. It’s a quick, fun stop where you’ll find creative, flavor-packed riffs on the classic slope-side snack. (Sumo Dog is known for reimaging the American staple with Japanese ingredients and flavors.)
High Alpine
This spot offers skiers a break from the usual on-mountain fare. The ever-changing, fresh ingredient menus keep things interesting, making it a go-to spot for those who like their ski days paired with a bit of culinary adventure.
Alpin Room
Now reimagined by chef Emily Oyer, with elevated and approachable French-inspired dishes, the Alpin Room blends refined flavors with cozy mountain charm. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or après-ski dinner.
The Cabin (Snowmass)
Street tacos, champagne service, heated lounges, and live music combine for a playful twist on traditional mountain dining. This is a vibrant social hub where friends gather after a day on the slopes, enjoying good food, lively beats, and that unmistakable Snowmass energy.
Photo courtesy of The Cabin
Culture & Arts
Paul JAS Center
Opening December 19, 2025, above the historic Red Onion, this arts hub becomes the year-round home of Jazz Aspen Snowmass. Beyond intimate concerts and talks, it will host curated exhibitions, workshops, and community programming. It’s a dynamic space where music, art, and local creativity intersect.
Photo courtesy of MOLLIE Aspen
Dining & Nightlife
Petit Trois at MOLLIE
Chef Ludo Lefebvre brings his beloved French bistro to the mountains inside MOLLIE Aspen. It’s a taste of Paris in the heart of the Rockies. You’ll find classic bistro staples like Steak Frites, escargots, and duck confit, alongside a wine list featuring both Old and New World selections. The intimate, Paris-meets-Alpine setting makes it ideal for après-ski dinners, cozy weekend brunches, or a stylish night out in town.
LOLA 41
The celebrated seafood-forward concept arrives from White Elephant’s East Coast properties, offering a cosmopolitan touch to the dining scene. With a subtly luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for sushi nights, post-ski martinis, or lingering over inventive Mediterranean and Asian-inspired dishes with friends.
Marea at The Snow Lodge (St. Regis)
The acclaimed coastal-Italian restaurant, celebrated in New York and Beverly Hills, makes its Aspen debut this winter. You can expect refined seafood pastas and fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The atmosphere blends chic, après-ready energy with the cozy elegance of the mountains. It’s perfect for a leisurely dinner or a stylish post-ski gathering.
Caviar Kaspia / The Jade Room
This glamorous new partnership combines Kaspia’s legendary caviar offerings with The Jade Room’s sleek, modern lounge. It’s the ultimate Parisian-inspired destination for indulgent small plates, high-gloss cocktails, and sultry, late-night sparkle.
Photo courtesy of Yuki Aspen
Yuki Aspen
This is a modern, global-fusion concept from Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The menu blends Japanese precision with international influences. You’ll find artfully crafted dishes in a setting that’s ideal for both elegant dinners and social evenings after a day on the slopes.
Silvers Bagels
This Durant Avenue newcomer brings a true New York bagel experience to Aspen, serving fresh bagels, sandwiches, and pastries by day. In the afternoons and evenings, it transforms into a relaxed café and wine bar, with carefully selected wines and cocktails in a cozy, low-key setting. It’s the perfect spot for fueling up before hitting the slopes or unwinding afterward with friends.
Photo courtesy of Aspen Collection Apparel
Retail & Pop-Ups
Aspen Collection Apparel
A locally developed performance-meets-lifestyle brand, Aspen Collection Apparel merges high-function ski and outdoor gear with elevated everyday style. But their boutiques offer more than shopping. You’ll find coffee-and-wine bars that turn each visit into a social experience. Here it’s as much about connection and community as about clothing.
Arc’teryx Mountain Flagship
This new Aspen flagship is not your traditional retail space. It combines Arc’teryx’s cutting-edge performance gear with immersive experiences. Guests can shop technical apparel and equipment while participating in outdoor education, skill-building classes, and community events. It’s a hub for both adventure enthusiasts and lifestyle-minded locals.
Chanel
This highly anticipated pop-up brings the iconic maison’s alpine-focused collections to Aspen, offering everything from chic ski-ready outerwear to après-ski elegance. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to transition from the slopes to stylish social settings.
Photo courtesy of Chanel
Foundrae
The beloved modern-heirloom jewelry brand opens a glittering Aspen outpost, showcasing its signature gold talismans and meaningful designs. The boutique offers a curated, intimate experience where guests can explore symbolic pieces that blend artistry, storytelling, and timeless elegance.
Vuori
Located at Cooper Mall, this is the beloved brand’s 100th global location. The boutique blends performance fabrics with modern, mountain-ready style and caters to skiers, hikers, and après-ski socialites alike. It’s the go-to destination for comfort, function, and effortless style.
Photo courtesy of Vuori
Veronica Beard Aspen
Classic New York tailoring meets cozy mountain chic in this polished Cooper Mall boutique. The store blends the brand’s signature structured silhouettes with warm, Alpine-inspired textures, offering elevated wardrobe staples and statement pieces perfect for navigating Aspen’s après-ski scene in style.
Other Notable Moves
Expanded Flight Service
More direct seasonal routes into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport make arriving easier than ever.
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FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit Aspen?
A: Aspen shines in every season, but winter delivers that signature blend of snow-draped glamour and high-altitude energy. Summer is equally magnetic, with festivals, dining, and outdoor adventures that make the mountains feel like your own private playground.
Q: Is Aspen only for ultra-luxury travelers?
A: Not at all. Aspen’s charm comes from its mix of refined indulgence and effortless comfort. Whether you’re booking a suite at a marquee hotel or staying in a cozy boutique property, the town makes everyone feel part of its rarefied-yet-relaxed world.
Q: What sets Aspen apart from other mountain towns?
A: Its blend of elevated culture, standout dining, and an atmosphere that feels stylish without trying too hard.
