Top Rated Parks to Visit in Maroon Bells

"We got lunch, strolled around the Aspen Pedestrian Mall in downtown, and enjoyed some ice cream while watching the local dogs play on the lawn at Wagner Park. From here, our plan was to drive to the nearby town of Glenwood Springs, but before heading there, we made one final stop at Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Even though the late afternoon light is not the best for photos, we still loved seeing these majestic peaks and spending a little time at beautiful Maroon Lake. Once the sun got low in the sky, we hit the road again and made our way to Glenwood Springs."

"Wagner Park hosts the iconic Grand Tasting Tent at the annual Food and Wine Classic. This takes the otherwise public park out of the running for a few weeks each September (note: "the Classic" has moved into the fall post-COVID), but when not in use by the foodies, it’s one of the largest parks in town, the most centrally located, and one of the most used. Dogs are able to get up to speed due to the park's size and their humans can take in the sprawling views of Aspen Mountain."

"Wagner Park is Aspen’s most centrally located and visible park since it borders the downtown core. It’s one of our favorites because it’s directly across the street from the Limelight Hotel. Used as a rugby pitch at various times throughout the year, Wagner Park is the favorite of locals walking their dogs during their lunch breaks."

"To get there, we walk through the streets of the West End that have restricted car traffic in the summer. Cars can’t drive more than a block on these streets making them perfect for people, pups, and bikers. Triangle Park is ideal for kids because it has a great playground, with few cars driving nearby."

"If you’re looking for some great views, head up to Molly Gibson Park. Situated at the base of Smuggler Mountain trail, the park is perfect for throwing a football, frisbee, or even bringing up a corn hole or bocce ball set. It overlooks Aspen Mountain, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Mt. Sopris."

"Koch Park hosts the championship courts of the MotherLode volleyball tournament that has been going on in Aspen for 45 years. But when the hard core competitors aren’t bumping, setting, and spiking, the sand provides a great place for recreation lovers of all ilks. Kids can bring their sand toys to the park for “beach days," casual volleyball players can hone their skills, and other beach games like paddle ball, spike ball and good old fashioned catch are great in the sand. Grass does surround the sand courts and picnic tables allow for group picnics under some large-growth trees. rich-text"

"This quaint park (pictured at the top of this article) is east to miss in the southeast corner of Aspen, but once you find the flowing water and picturesque pond, you won’t want to leave. One of the oldest parks in town, Glory Hole park was named for a sinkhole that formed in 1918 when part of a silver mine collapsed. The pond is loved by dogs looking for a cool dip in the hot summer months and the picnic tables make it perfect for a romantic meal in the park."

"Address: 525 East Cooper Avenue, Aspen, Colorado CO, 81611, USA Tel: +1 970 925 7117 The 212 Gallery is easily located next door to Ralph Lauren and exhibits photographs, paintings and sculptures by international artists. Open hours: High season, daily - 10:00 to 19:00; Low season, Monday to Saturday - 10:00 to 17:00, Sunday - 11:00 to 17:00 Admission: free"

"Address: 525 East Cooper Avenue, Aspen, Colorado CO, 81611, USA Tel: +1 970 925 5151 Featuring two exhibit spaces, collections of paintings can either be seen in the Courtyard Suite 105 or the Upper Level Suite 205. Open hours: year round, hours vary with season Admission: free"

"With a homey interior and a welcoming atmosphere, Main Street Bakery is a local favorite for its variety of omelets and scramblers, as well as its delightful twists on the traditional eggs Benedict. With pastries and coffee that are to die for, it’s no wonder that both visitors and locals love this joint. Enjoy an al fresco summer patio and the country kitchen ambiance while indulging the taste buds in a hearty breakfast."

"Since 1889, this landmark has been at the center of Aspen's cultural scene. The Wheeler Opera House resides on the National Register of Historical Places and offers lectures, concerts, musicals, community theater performances, and foreign and independent film showings, keeping its stage occupied almost every day of the year."

"Sometimes a craving for an immersive arts and culture experience begins with a sophisticated take on performance and when this is the case, the Wheeler Opera House delivers up everything you’re looking for and more."

"We got lunch, strolled around the Aspen Pedestrian Mall in downtown, and enjoyed some ice cream while watching the local dogs play on the lawn at Wagner Park. From here, our plan was to drive to the nearby town of Glenwood Springs, but before heading there, we made one final stop at Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Even though the late afternoon light is not the best for photos, we still loved seeing these majestic peaks and spending a little time at beautiful Maroon Lake. Once the sun got low in the sky, we hit the road again and made our way to Glenwood Springs."

"Wagner Park hosts the iconic Grand Tasting Tent at the annual Food and Wine Classic. This takes the otherwise public park out of the running for a few weeks each September (note: "the Classic" has moved into the fall post-COVID), but when not in use by the foodies, it’s one of the largest parks in town, the most centrally located, and one of the most used. Dogs are able to get up to speed due to the park's size and their humans can take in the sprawling views of Aspen Mountain."

"Wagner Park is Aspen’s most centrally located and visible park since it borders the downtown core. It’s one of our favorites because it’s directly across the street from the Limelight Hotel. Used as a rugby pitch at various times throughout the year, Wagner Park is the favorite of locals walking their dogs during their lunch breaks."