If You Go: Aspen

I have spent a total of about 5 weeks in Aspen over the past two years...Booz Allen is a sponsor for the Aspen Ideas Festival and I have the pleasure of managing the program for the company.  While my time there has been filled with a crazy amount of hard work, it's impossible not to have an amazing time in Aspen because it is SO incredibly beautiful.  The mountains are majestic, the houses are crazy amazing, and the atmosphere is like Disneyworld for the rich.  My recommendations are skewed based on the fact I  have only been there for work...so take them with a grain of salt!

Hotels

• The Gant: I have stayed both times at The Gant - it's a set of condos that are rented and managed like a hotel.  They have an incredible amount of space with a large dining room table and living area --- as well as beautiful luxury bedrooms.  Recommend. 
• Jerome: This is where our senior folks stay - it is a beautiful hotel in the center of Aspen with a Western-style theme.  While I have not stayed there myself, I recommend! 

Restaurants 

• Jimmy's: This is a fantastic (though expensive!) steakhouse.  They have a beautiful patio and the filet was perfectly cooked.  We also shared some amazing mac n' cheese for the table. 
• Jimmy's Bodega: This is associated with Jimmy's - but is all seafood.  I have come here several times and have never been disappointed.  Highly recommend the crabcakes 
• Wild Fig: This year we had our private event at the Wild Fig - it is a beautiful restaurant, very cozy with great fish and meat.  While our event wasn't romantic... I imagine without a corporate event it could be quite a great spot for a date
• Hickory House: Casual BBQ to die for... YUM!  This is a spot on Oprah's Favorite things list...the ribs are amazing and you must go and order their onion rings right now! 
• Casa Tua: A fantastic Italian restaurant in the middle of town.  Again, expensive - but amazing food.  I had their lobster pasta... amazing. 

Things to Do

So...I mean...Aspen Ideas Festival was amazing.  Here are my other two recommendations:

• Maroon Bells: This is about 20 minutes outside of town and includes a scenic lake loop (about 90 minute casual walk) and the crater lake hike (hard core 3 hour hike).  I have done both - and they are fun in their own ways.  This is the best spot to take photos in town.  Note: To avoid taking a shuttle, you have to arrive before 8 am
• Gondola Ride: This year I took the Gondola ride to the top of Aspen Mountain.  This was a fun hour to see some great scenery.  Don't go if you're afraid of heights!