Aspen: It's Not Just A Playground For The Rich And Famous

  When people think of Aspen, they typically envision "the good life".  You know, wealthy heiresses cruising around in luxurious European sports cars and beautiful people sipping on glasses of chilled Dom Perignon in lavish ski chalets. And you would not be too far off the mark on that. Aspen is home to some of the most wealthy and influential individuals on Earth, but it also has a more casual side. This week we will be highlighting activities that just about anyone can afford. This way even a person on a budget can enjoy this delightful piece of Rocky Mountain paradise.

     So for a person on a budget, what does Aspen have to offer?  Well, you might be surprised, because there is a plethora of inexpensive and even free activities that the whole family will really enjoy.  If you are into the whole shopping experience, then Aspen is the place for you.  From Coach to Rolex to Versace, they have every high end store imaginable, and of course it costs nothing to do a little bit of window shopping.  If you do not have a trust fund to blow on the newest handbag, then checkout The Aspen Saturday Market.  This fun, open aired market, features locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as specialty foods, adorable handicrafts, and live music.  Speaking of live music, Aspen is home to The JAS Festival (Jazz, Aspen, Snowmass).  Here you can see some of the biggest names in music perform live.  If you are in town during the summer months and are up for some free music in an idyllic location, then take the gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain.  Every Saturday and Sunday they have free concerts, at it's summit.  What could be better than listening to some good music, while taking in some breath taking views of the valley below?  If you are interested in developing your inner core, then partake in the free yoga classes held daily at the sun deck.  For those art lovers out there, swing by The Aspen Art Museum to see the latest works on exhibition.  Here you can view some cutting edge work from around the globe, and not have to spend a dime to see it,  If you are a history buff, then take the Aspen Walking Tour.  It can give you a unique perspective on how this little mining town has been transformed into a magnet for the worlds elite.  If you are in search of some serenity, then head down to The John Denver Sanctuary at The Rio Grande Park.  This is without a doubt, the most tranquil place in this vibrant town.  For those of you who do not know who John Denver is, he was a legendary musician and a long time resident of Aspen.  He was heavily inspired by the majestic mountains that surround this great town, and you can see them for yourself as you head just outside of town on Highway 82 thru Independence Pass.  This stretch asphalt does an excellent job showcasing what Colorado is known for, spectacular rock formations and a sea of Aspen trees as far as the eye can see.

     If you are in need of refueling, then you are in luck, because Aspen is a foodie Mecca.  There are over 100 restaurants within Aspen's city limits, and they have something for every type of pallet and pocket book imaginable.  These dens of culinary delights can range from an elegant Michelin rated dining experience to an amazing little hole in the wall that would make Guy Fieri proud.  In fact, the best sandwich I have ever had the pleasure of consuming was at Johnny McGuire's Deli.  This quirky little dive, is immensely popular with the locals and with incredible flavor and reasonable prices, how can you blame them?

The Free Iron Willy At Johnny McGuire's Deli

 

     So for anyone who says that Aspen is only a playground for the extremely wealthy, I would adamantly disagree with them and suggest that they take a closer look.  Aspen has something for everyone and any budget.

For Johnny McGuire's official site:

www.johnnymcguires.com/aspen/

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