Colorado

We’ve all had that moment when you land somewhere new and need a wax, pronto. Aspen Vida Medi Spa is the spot that locals will always recommend, a one-stop-shop for all your massage, hair-removal, facial, and cutting-edge-treatment needs. The facials in particular are excellent. Owner Eden Henschel is no stranger to the effect Aspen’s dry air and high altitude can have on skin. Her slew of treatments address everything from parched, flaky complexions to melasma, all utilizing the latest in facial technology. We’re fans of the massage offering, especially the quick thirty-minute sessions targeting wherever hurts—like tech neck or achy legs after long days on the slopes.

Aspen is a picky shopper’s paradise. There are no so-so options, only beautifully merchandized boutiques, all the sporty brands you need in a mountain town (hello, Lululemon), and the best edits from pricier luxury design houses. A few standouts include the gorgeous Ralph Lauren store and Moncler for padded, functional ski gear that’s outrageously stylish. You can’t beat the giant Gucci and Dior locations which have (we think) the best curation anywhere. Keep one afternoon open to wander around town to dip in and out of all the stores on Hyman Avenue—there are several vintage gems hidden amongst the heavy hitters. Image courtesy of The Little Nell.

A fresh, cool hit of mountain air is great and all, but altitude sickness is real. Rescue Lounge’s menu of IV therapies, supervised by a physician and nurses, can be incredibly reviving. We’re partial to the Signature Hydration Cocktail (a combination of B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C), though you can customize your bag to your needs. Be sure to book in advance.

Jus is the best spot in town for freshly made cold-pressed juice. (It also happens to be right next door to Valentino.) This juicery tailor-makes cleanses should you be in the mood for a detox, with the option to do one, three, or five days. Pop in for a morning celery juice and grab a few protein balls to stash in your pocket for a slopeside snack later.

The Surf Lodge is a Hamptons staple. In Aspen, the team created the Snow Lodge at the base of Ajax mountain. The heated deck here is the perfect après spot for both skiers and nonskiers: mountain views, hot toddies, and a resident DJ all season long. Image courtesy of Giada Paoloni.

We love a moody, dimly lit speakeasy, especially one operated by the gang behind the Jerome. Bad Harriet is undeniably sexy. Tucked beneath the 1889 Aspen Times building, the cozy Art Deco space is upholstered in lush plaid and supple leather, the fireplace roars nightly, and servers regularly dole out warm pigs in a blanket to nibble on while you sip.

According to several goop staffers, Betula is where you want to post up après ski. The interior exudes Parisian glamour, the DJ rages all weekend, and the food (executed by chef Laurent Cantineaux) is as refined as it is delicious. We strongly recommend the hearty lomo saltado, and warm apple Napoleon for dessert. If you’re dining elsewhere, stop by Betula’s outrageously chic (and cozy) Living Room afterward for a fireside French Coupe (gin, bergamot liquor, lemon juice, and bubbles with a hint of thyme). Images courtesy of Romeo Balancourt.

So you want to lunch at the White Tavern but there’s not a free seat in sight. Instead, you end up at Bear Den across the street, and after an order of spicy Thai noodle salad, you realize the fates were on your side after all. This chalet-style spot is an all-day dining gem. Breakfast skews hearty and traditional with French toast boards, cheesy burritos, and eggs every way. The coffee menu is extensive, with the full slew of alt milks. Dinner leans into decadence: Fondue, onion dip, and bison Bolognese dolloped with burrata pair exceptionally well with a glass of Burgundy Pinot Noir.

Situated at the base of Ajax mountain, the W Aspen’s ski-in, ski-out premise is not novel for this sliver of Colorado. Its rooftop bar, however—with its firepits, hot tubs, expert mixologists, and exquisite views—is special. The décor is all ’70s retro with a nod to Aspen’s mining history. It’s loud, yes, but all the details are there: thoughtful outdoor areas with an abundance of heating, well-spaced interiors, and plenty of comforts that feel both informal and decadent. For families or groups looking to travel together, the Sky Residences (effectively high-end condos) at the top of the W make a lot of sense. Sprawling with their own private rooftop, the residences have huge kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and panoramic views of the mountains.

Crisscrossing down runs all day builds a serious appetite. Mi Chola is the first spot that springs to mind when a feast is in order. The vibe is warm, welcoming, and informal, and the whole space hums with chatter. Deep bowls of crunchy chips, chunky guac, and queso fundido with a spicy margarita is a solid way to end a long day on the slopes. Mi Chola is also the kind of happy hour spot that allows you to relax and decompress before heading to dinner elsewhere.