While sipping on an $8.50 pint of craft beer from Aspen Brewing Company, it dawned on me that Aspen, Colo., is not expensive in comparison to big cities like Chicago. It’s expensive when compared to small towns.
The cost of living in Aspen, according to the Economic Research Institute, is 51 percent higher than the national average, which is slightly less than a city like Seattle. However, as a budget-conscious traveler, I try to avoid paying city prices when visiting mountain towns. And in the summer in Aspen, besides indulging in my weakness for microbrews, I didn’t have to.
The true allure of Aspen lies in its natural beauty, from the mountains to the wildlife to the rivers. In comparison to winter, when skiing and mountain access can increase costs, the summer is a steal. Hiking and city bus transportation are free, while cycling can be affordable if you can manage to avoid expensive rentals. Parks offer a great spot for picnics, and there are plenty of free cultural attractions to explore.
During my three-day stay in Aspen, I spent about $600 (excluding airfare), with most of that going towards lodging. Here’s how I managed to save money in a resort town known for its wealth.
Extra beds and free wheels:
I stayed at the Tyrolean Lodge on Main Street, which is a family-run hotel that offers affordable lodging. The rooms are spacious, accommodating up to five people, and each has an efficiency kitchen with free coffee. While the price of $267 per night might be expensive for solo travelers, it’s a great find for families or groups, potentially bringing the cost down to $53 per person per night. In contrast, luxury hotels in Aspen charge significantly higher rates.
The lodge also provides free bikes for guests to use. The bikes may not be the newest models, but they are still better than what most rental shops offer, which are often expensive electric bikes. I took advantage of the bikes and cycled along the nearby Rio Grande Trail, enjoying the scenic views of the Roaring Fork River.
Bus to the wilds:
In the summer, hiking is a popular activity in Aspen. There are several trails that start from the town, and those who hike up Aspen Mountain can take the gondola back down for free. One of the highlights of the area is the Maroon Bells, two stunning peaks located about 10 miles west of town. To manage the traffic and preserve the area, a bus service is available from Aspen Highlands. I took the early morning bus and hiked to Crater Lake, enjoying the beautiful views along the way.
Adjusting to happy hour:
While outdoor activities in Aspen are free, dining out requires some careful planning. Taking advantage of happy hour deals during off-peak hours can help save money at restaurants and bars. Ajax Tavern, located at the foot of Aspen Mountain, offers great happy hour deals on drinks. However, I found that some food items were still quite expensive, so I often opted for a slice of pizza or a light meal during lunchtime.
Cultural freebies:
One perk of Aspen’s affluence is that many of its major cultural attractions are free. The Aspen Art Museum showcases contemporary exhibitions and offers a tranquil rooftop café for a quick coffee break. The town’s reputation as a cultural destination stems from the vision of Walter Paepcke, who transformed Aspen into a gathering place for artists, thinkers, and leaders. The Aspen Institute and the Aspen Music Festival and School are just a couple of the institutions that originated from Paepcke’s inspiration.
In conclusion, with a little bit of research and planning, it’s possible to enjoy the beauty and activities in Aspen without breaking the bank. From budget-friendly lodging options to free outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, Aspen can be an affordable destination for both budget travelers and families.
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