When you come to Aspen in November, you get to vacation at a calmer pace. The busy season starts in December when the ski season is well underway. This means, if you visit a little earlier, you can get to know the town without the crowds.
What to Expect from Aspen Weather in November and What Are the Best Activities to Do?
Aspen, Colorado weather in November is normally cool and cloudy with a chance of snow. The average daily low temperature ranges from 12 to 22 degrees Fahrenheit with the daily high hovering between 45 and 32 degrees. Visitors may experience light snow near the end of the month. Some years, the town will get enough snow for the ski season to begin early.
The moderate alpine weather makes November the perfect season for activities like:
- Visiting hot springs
- Seeing local art
- Shopping
- Having a spa day
- Gondola rides
- Early season skiing
- Celebrating Thanksgiving
The end of the fall season is a great time to visit Aspen. Read on to learn more about the most popular seasonal activities!
1. Soak in Natural Hot Springs
There’s nothing quite like sinking into the heat of a natural hot spring under the dome of the clear, blue Colorado sky. You simply can’t visit Colorado without checking out the hot springs!
There a few options for hot springs near the Roaring Fork Valley:
- Avalanche Ranch – The three hot spring pools are wrapped in natural architecture, all offering plenty of privacy.
- Iron Mountain – A luxury hot spring with 16 geothermal pools, 10 pebble pools, a freshwater family area, a cold plunge pool, and multiple on-site cafes.
- Penny Hot Spring – A free, au naturel hot spring located along the Crystal River near Carbondale. Please note that this location can be clothing optional at times.
Ready to relax? Contact Aspen Luxury Concierge for hot spring reservations, transportation, and personalized travel planning.
2. Immerse Yourself in Aspen’s Art Scene
The Aspen Art Museum is the center of the local art scene, but the color and beauty doesn’t stop there! When you stroll through downtown in the crisp autumn air, you’ll probably find your eyes drawn to the glittering windows of the different galleries.
The ALC team recommends swinging by the following galleries:
- Eden Gallery – Whimsical multimedia art, modern sculptures, and bright paintings.
- Lik Fine Art – Huge, vibrant landscapes and cityscapes
- Galerie Maximillian – A mix of 19th century and contemporary abstract drawings and paintings
- Royal Street Fine Art – Bright, intricate paintings that are designed to hang above a fireplace
3. Kick off Holiday Shopping in Unique Boutiques
You’ve probably heard of Aspen’s reputation for incredible luxury shopping, which draws in celebrities from all over the world. However, there’s more to the shopping scene than Gucci, Prada, and Valentino. The town is full of hidden gems where you can find something for everyone on your list!
Daniel’s Antiques is the place to go when you’re shopping for the person who has everything. Daniel’s carries a wide variety of unique household items, from binoculars, aviation accessories, and clocks to vintage barware, gaming tables, and Louis Vuitton trunks.
Don’t forget to check out Kemo Sabe – the store behind the viral Aspen hats trend. It’s the place to go for authentic, high-quality western gear. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a fashion lover in your life, an iconic Kemo Sabe hat will elevate every outfit.
4. Relax with a Spa Treatment
Ski season might not have started yet, but spa season is year-round! In between your dining, hiking, and ice skating, consider stopping by a spa to rejuvenate your skin and relax your muscles. All the major spas blend together Eastern and Western health practices to give you the best results.
Before you visit Aspen in November, read the ALC Spa Guide to find the right spa for your desired treatment. Once you decide where you want to go, your ALC concierge will handle all the rest!
5. Take a Scenic Gondola Ride for Breathtaking Views
As you drift along in a cozy, private gondola, you can admire the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife.
When you ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain, you can grab lunch at the Sundeck, enjoy a round of disc golf, or explore the peak with a hike suitable for those comfortable with mild outdoor activity.
6. Ski the Early Season Powder
The ski season typically starts in late November or early December, but this is dependent on weather conditions and snowmaking efforts. While Aspen Mountain often opens around this time, the exact start date can vary depending on snowfall.
Even if the ski resort lifts are not open yet, you may be able to strap on your skis and hit the powder. Some areas can get enough snow in November for visitors and locals to be able to cross country ski.
7. Take Part in the Thanksgiving Day Celebration in Aspen
When you visit Aspen in November, you can take part in the delicious Thanksgiving celebrations! As you know, this is a town that takes food, flavor, and ingredients very seriously. When turkey season comes around, many restaurants – including Michelin starred establishments – pull out all the stops.
Ajax Tavern and Element 47 both offer multi-course menus that feature their own twist on Thanksgiving classics. The Little Nell, St. Regis, and Mawa’s Kitchen offer ready made Thanksgiving meals to go, so you can celebrate the holiday with your loved ones in the comfort of your vacation rental.
Check out the ALC November Trip Planning Guide for all the tips and tricks you need to make your Aspen adventure the best it can be!
Where to Stay in Aspen, Colorado in November
Long-term ALC clients generally prefer vacation rentals because of the privacy, quality of service, and unique amenities. November visitors are advised to get a vacation rental rather than a hotel.
This time of year, you can get great deals on bespoke rental properties. The sheer variety of rentals in Aspen-Snowmass also allow you to easily customize your experience and ensure that your location complements your custom itinerary.
Aspen Luxury Concierge has access to the best vacation rentals in town; we know they’re the best because, as a locals, we’ve been there! Depending on your interests, you have a few options for where to stay:
Hotel Jerome
Experience a true Aspen icon at Hotel Jerome, where timeless charm meets modern luxury in the heart of downtown. As one of the best places to stay in November, Hotel Jerome offers a warm, inviting retreat with its historic architecture, refined interiors, and exceptional service.
Guests can relax by the cozy fireside, indulge in exquisite dining at Prospect, or unwind in the spa with treatments designed to refresh before the winter season. Conveniently located for easy access to Aspen’s November activities, Hotel Jerome combines heritage with comfort, making it the ideal choice for a refined mountain getaway.
A Condo in the Heart of Downtown
Downtown condos are the perfect year-round rental because their location allows you to do a bit of everything. You can step out your front doors and stroll down mainstreet, maybe grab a cup of coffee on the way to an art museum or gallery. You’ll only be a short walk away from your choice of restaurants, spas, and world-renowned shopping destinations.
The condos in Aspen are known for their unique amenities, like a brand new EV that you can drive during your trip, rooftop heated pools, indoor spa-quality hot tubs, private chefs that will look after you during your trip, or laundry service. While condos are usually a bit smaller than chalets, your ALC concierge is happy to find you the perfect size rental to fit everyone!
Gourmet Dining for Every Meal of the Day
What sets this mountain town apart from all others is the quality of the food and service. Aspen in November is the off-season, but chefs serve up decadent meals that you will never forget. Here are the restaurants and venues for each meal that all the locals swear by:
The Best Place to Have Breakfast: The Crepe Shack
Brilliant local chef Mawa McQueen serves up unique, delicious crepes unlike any other. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love the red velvet and tiramisu crepes. The savory crepes really steal the show by combining flavors and textures that you’ve had before. Locals recommend the vegan chickpea flour pyramid crepe and the Alaskan salmon crepe.
Grab Lunch at The White House Tavern
This is a down-to-earth establishment that serves up American fare in an exhibitionist kitchen. All the portions are sized for sharing, so everyone can have a taste. Some menu item favorites are the smoked trout dip, house salmon, kale salad, and French dip au jus. The drinks menu lives up to Aspen standards with both local and foreign wines, rich IPAs, and signature takes on classic cocktails.
Dine in Style at French Alpine Bistro
As a luxury dining experience, you’ll want to stay here all day. The cozy atmosphere pairs well with the fine dining menu. Visitors can live the luxe life with an order of caviar and 2019 Laphroaig single malt scotch, aged 25 years. Alternatively, you may enjoy Colorado-inspired menu items like kobe beef burger, farmer’s market quiche, and the Aspen Mindset cocktail (Mary’s Purple Gin, lemon juice, egg whites, and lavender syrup).
Find a Place to Party All Night
The local nightlife scene is unlike any other; however, some of the most iconic clubs don’t open their doors until December. However, there are a few exception establishments where you can drink, dance, and jam out in Aspen in November:
- Silver City: a saloon-style, down-to-earth bar with weekly karaoke, a vintage jukebox, local bands, pool tables, and a drinks menu that gives fine dining establishments a run for their money.
- Belly Up: a small music venue that hosts big names, it’s easy to see your favorite artists up close and personal. With smaller crowds, it’s easier than ever to get a front row spot to watch the November headliners. The bar food and beers are pretty good too.
- The Caribou Club: a private club with nightly DJ performances, an extensive wine list, and exclusive events. The ALC team has connections within the Caribou Club and can probably get you into this lavish, members-only club.
FAQs
I. Is November a good time to go to Aspen?
November is a great time to visit Aspen, especially if you’re looking to experience early winter activities. The ski season typically begins in late November, offering the chance to enjoy fewer crowds. As temperatures start to drop, it’s essential to pack layers to stay comfortable during your stay.
II. Can you ski in Aspen in late November?
Yes, you can ski in Aspen in late November! Aspen Mountain and Snowmass usually open around Thanksgiving, offering early-season skiing and snowboarding. Be sure to check the snow conditions, as they can vary from year to year.
III. What month is best for Aspen?
The best month to visit Aspen depends on your interests. If you’re visiting for skiing, January through March offers the best snow conditions. For outdoor activities like hiking, the late spring through summer months (May to August) are ideal, allowing you to enjoy warm-weather activities like biking and outdoor festivals.
IV. Is Aspen worth visiting in fall?
Certainly! Aspen is particularly beautiful in the fall, showcasing vibrant golden aspen trees and mild weather ideal for leisurely walks and scenic drives. This season provides a quieter and more relaxed environment compared to the bustling winter months, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to appreciate nature and the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Secure Your Unforgettable November in Aspen!
Aspen Luxury Concierge is the key to attaining the luxury lifestyle that you’ve always dreamed of while on vacation. Through our connections, we are able to get you access to exclusive events and top-notch restaurants, all while providing a single point of contact for easy booking.
If you’re ready to have the best trip of your life, get in touch with Aspen Luxury Concierge today to start planning your adventure!
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