We want to make sure that you spend your weekend in Aspen doing everything necessary to maximize your time and make the most of your mountain-town excursion.

DAY 1: HIT THE SLOPES

Depending on your budget, pick from one of the incredible array of hotels in Aspen. One of our faves is, of course, the ultra-lux The Little Nell with its plush rooms and incredibly doting staff. No extravagance will be spared for you when you stay at this five-star, five diamond gem. The younger crowd will love the Sky Hotel, where the bathrobes are zebra print the après scene is hot. Both of these hotels are situated at the base of the mountain, so you may pay a pretty penny but you couldn’t ask for a better location.

Start your day by grabbing a coffee and bagel (you’re going to need those carbs for skiing or boarding) at Ink! Coffee or Starbucks. They are both centrally located near the Silver Queen Gondola, which is your ride to the top of Aspen Mountain. Buy your lift ticket in Gondola Plaza and ascend to 11,212 ft. It’s time for a day on the slopes! Whether you’re a skier or a boarder you’ll enjoy the incredible terrain of Aspen Mountain. But remember, this mountain is only for intermediate and expert skiers, so if you don’t fall into one of those categories, call one of the pros at the Ski and Snowboard Schools of Aspen and book a lesson. Aspen/Snowmass boasts a choice of four mountains to ski on—Aspen, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass— so you have more choices of where to spend your day on the snow.

If you do stick to Aspen Mountain, don’t miss the delicious fare at the Sundeck. This is not your usual ski-lodge food. Get one of the huge salads or delicious entrees (we love the Thai noodle dishes).

After your big day on the hill, ski or board down to The Tavern, located directly at the base of the mountain. If it’s nice out, the deck is the perfect place to sit and watch people descend the face of the mountain. After a few glasses of Pinot, head back to your hotel and ease your aching muscles in the hot tub. You’ll be glad you did when you wake up tomorrow.

You’ve worked up an appetite, so for dinner, we suggest one of Aspen’s incredible bar menus. The prices are often cheaper at the bar (but the portion size usually doesn’t suffer), and you can still order off the main menu if you want. Check out Elevation for their wasabi Caesar, the penne alla caprese at Campo de Fiori, or the crab cakes at Jimmy’s. All of those choices also have rockin’ bars, so if you have to wait for a seat, grab a drink and soak in the scene.