Once a thriving silver boomtown, nowadays Aspen has well-earned its reputation for being a lavish skier’s paradise. Take advantage of all four nearby ski resorts or wander through the downtown that’s full of gourmet restaurants and fashionable shops. Make your visit even grander with a stay at Hotel Jerome for historical vibes and A-lister-worthy accommodations.
Built in 1889, this upscale retreat radiates Victorian-era charm and boasts modern amenities like an outdoor heated pool with mini cabanas, airy suites with vaulted ceilings and luxurious linens, an on-site spa and a sophisticated, Roaring '20s speakeasy.
Vintage accents throughout the hotel nod to the area’s cultural heritage. Check out the Southwestern-patterned armchairs paired with black-and-white portraits in the expansive rooms or the lobby’s displays of silver-mine equipment and the old-timey front desk, complete with rows of guest mail slots.
With more than 130 years of history, Hotel Jerome has been the setting for countless extraordinary stories, movie-star and celebrity sightings, and legendary parties. Its Western-meets-chic ambiance along with decadent dining options, like the Colorado-sourced menu at Prospect, have made it a social hub for locals and famous folk alike for decades.
Back in the day, the hotel’s J-Bar was a popular watering hole for ranch hands and miners, and later 10th Mountain Division soldiers. In the 1950s, the likes of Gary Cooper, Lana Turner, Hedy LaMarr and John “the Duke” Wayne graced these opulent halls. Now, a cocktail around the crackling fireplace of The Living Room may mean a celebrity sighting of your own.
Hotel Jerome knows that no vacation is complete without your favorite companions, including your furry travel buddy. During their stay, doggy guests are welcomed with a comfy pet bed, a water bowl, delicious treats and a Hotel Jerome toy (theirs to keep).
Plus, the concierge can help you find local dog-friendly experiences to enjoy together, along with pet-sitting and dog-walking services.
Having trouble adjusting to Aspen’s higher elevation? Try what travelers call the hotel’s “altitude water,” which is simply water with chlorophyll in it. Guests swear by its almost-magical effects, and Hotel Jerome offers it — along with a selection of tasty fruit-infused waters — at no additional charge.
At Hotel Jerome, you can choose from up to six dining spots for food and drinks. In summer, sit back in The Garden’s cushioned rattan chairs as you admire the lush oasis of vibrant blooms and sip cocktails, like the summer Collins, crafted with fresh ingredients from the hotel garden.
Or head to J-Bar, a favorite spot of guests and Aspen residents for its laid-back saloon vibes with studded leather chairs and glass-bottle chandeliers. Menu items include everything from roasted bison ribeye and caviar for adults to basic burgers and grilled-cheese sammies for the kids.
“From the moment we were greeted at the airport to the last goodbye, our stay was perfect. The staff was so accommodating — they did all they could to ensure we had a wonderful trip. The restaurants were lovely and had selections for everyone. Their kids-eat-free program was an amazing bonus. I cannot imagine a better experience.” — June H., Tripadvisor
As a year-round getaway, Aspen offers dozens of exciting adventures to suit all activity levels. In town, stroll along tree-lined streets for stunning mountain views around every corner and oodles of art galleries and local shops carrying ski gear, jewelry, souvenirs and more. Or, go back in time with a historical tour of Hotel Jerome, Wheeler Opera House or the Independence ghost town — all provided by the local historical society.
Venture farther out with your hiking boots and camera to the iconic Maroon Bells — one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. Meander scenic trails along blue-water lakes or through groves of aspen and fields of blossoming wildflowers.
For even more escapades, get in touch with the hotel’s concierge desk for special experiences, like helicopter rides over snowy peaks, horseback riding trips with the fam and fly-fishing excursions.
Photos courtesy of Hotel Jerome
