About Aspen
Aspen is a world-renowned mountain destination in Colorado, famous for its luxury resorts, outdoor recreation, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re connecting through Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) for a short layover or have several hours to spare, the town offers everything from hiking and shopping to fine dining and art galleries. The airport sits just 3 miles from downtown Aspen, making it accessible for quick explorations.
Before You Leave the Airport
- Language: English is the primary language spoken in Aspen
- Currency: US Dollars (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters
- Getting Around: Rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services are available. See details below
- Time Zone: Mountain Time (MT)
Getting to Downtown Aspen
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport is conveniently located just 3 miles from downtown. Here are your main transit options:
| Option | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | $40-80+/day | 5-10 min | Groups, outdoor activities |
| Taxi/Ride-Share | $15-25 | 10-15 min | Solo travelers, quick trips |
| Shuttle Service | $20-35 | 15-20 min | Budget-conscious travelers |
Tip: For the most up-to-date ground transportation options, visit the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport website.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 Hours)
If you have a short connection, stay near the airport or focus on quick activities:
- Grab a meal: The airport has dining options, though prices are 2-3x higher than downtown. If time allows, take a quick ride to downtown for better value
- Rest: Find a quiet corner in the terminal or use airport seating to recharge
- Shop: Browse airport retail for last-minute items or souvenirs
- Hydrate: Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after security to stay hydrated
Medium Layover (4-8 Hours)
With a medium layover, you can venture into Aspen for a taste of the town:
- Downtown Aspen Walk: Stroll through the charming downtown area, browse galleries, and enjoy the mountain views
- Shopping: Aspen is known for luxury shopping on Main Street and nearby boutiques
- Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy a meal at one of Aspen’s many restaurants. Eat in the city, not the airport, for better prices and quality
- Maroon Bells: If you have time and a rental car, visit the iconic Maroon Bells (about 30 minutes away) – Colorado’s most photographed peaks
- Luggage Storage: Use Bounce or Stasher to store bags near the airport ($5-10/bag/day), freeing you to explore hands-free
Long Layover (8+ Hours)
A long layover gives you real time to experience Aspen:
- Hiking: Aspen is surrounded by trails. Popular options include Maroon Bells Trail, Crater Lake Trail, and Conundrum Creek Trail
- Outdoor Activities: Mountain biking, horseback riding, and scenic chairlift rides (seasonal)
- Cultural Attractions: Visit the Aspen Art Museum or catch a performance at the Aspen Music Festival (seasonal)
- Spa & Wellness: Relax at a local spa before your next flight
- Overnight Stay: If your layover extends into the evening, consider booking a hotel room. Budget hotels start around $150-200/night during off-season
Airport Amenities & Services
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport is a smaller regional airport. While specific amenity data is limited, typical services include:
- Dining and beverage options
- Retail shops
- Restrooms and basic facilities
- WiFi (download offline maps and entertainment before landing for reliability)
Lounges: No dedicated airport lounges are available at ASE. However, if you hold a Priority Pass membership (often included with premium credit cards), you may access lounges at connecting airports. Day passes at major airports cost $39-59.
Luggage Storage: The airport does not appear to offer on-site luggage storage. Use third-party services like Bounce or Stasher instead – typically $5-8/bag/day and much cheaper than airport lockers.
Quick Layover Tips
- Download Offline Maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me offline before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Pack Smart: Keep a “layover bag” in your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and toiletries for easy access
- Use ATMs for Cash: Never exchange money at airport currency counters. Use ATMs or a Wise card for the best exchange rates
- Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after security. Staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
Travel Tips by Traveler Type
Solo Travelers
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing – essential for navigating without data
- Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring a new city
- Consider an eSIM (Airalo, Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi
- Check SleepingInAirports.net if you’re considering resting at the airport
Families
- Pack a “layover bag” inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries
- Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag
- Download offline entertainment before your layover – airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited
- Use Bounce or Stasher for luggage storage ($5-10/bag/day) instead of dragging bags around with kids
- Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas
Groups
- Designate a “group leader” before the layover to manage timing, headcount, and communication
- Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination – share departure gate and boarding time as a pinned message
- Book multi-bag luggage storage together with Bounce or Stasher for group discounts
- Use Google Sheets or Splitwise to track flight details, expenses, and who owes what
- Food courts work better than sit-down restaurants – everyone can choose what they want
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave ASE airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave Aspen-Pitkin County Airport during a layover. However, you need adequate time. Plan for at least 6 hours total layover time: 1 hour for (if international), 2-3 hours to return to the airport and recheck bags/go through security, plus exploration time. For domestic connections, budget 2.5-3 hours before departure.
What is there to do at ASE during a layover?
At the airport itself, you can dine, shop, and rest. If you leave the airport, downtown Aspen offers shopping, dining, galleries, and cultural attractions. For longer layovers, explore hiking trails, Maroon Bells, outdoor activities, or relax at a spa. The airport is just 3 miles from downtown, making quick trips feasible.
How long of a layover do I need at ASE?
For a short layover staying at the airport: 2-4 hours is sufficient. To explore downtown Aspen: 4-8 hours is ideal. For outdoor activities or a more immersive experience: 8+ hours. Always factor in transportation time (10-15 minutes each way) and buffer time before your next flight.
Are there lounges at ASE?
No dedicated airport lounges are available at Aspen-Pitkin County Airport. However, if you hold a Priority Pass membership (often included with premium credit cards), you may access lounges at your connecting airports. Day passes at major airports cost $39-59 depending on the airline.
Is there luggage storage at ASE?
The airport does not appear to offer on-site luggage storage. Use third-party services like Bounce or Stasher instead. These partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-8/bag/day – much cheaper than airport lockers and more convenient than carrying bags around town.