Happy Friday from Aspen Snowmass! After a short work week, we are ready for another great weekend. We’ve had gorgeous late spring weather all week, and can’t wait to take advantage of it this weekend. Pitkin County has moved onto their next phase of reopening this week. Restaurants can now reopen dine-in service at 50% capacity. Lodging may also open at 50% capacity. After a day on the trails hiking and biking, an Aspen restaurant with a great patio is a must. Read on for some of our favorite patio dining spots in town!
The longtime local, and visitor, favorite is Red Onion. During the summer months, Red Onion’s patio is the place to be. Enjoy their American classic menu and great drinks on their patio, situated right in the middle of Cooper Avenue mall. This is the ideal hot spot to be on a late summer afternoon.
Another favorite is Mi Chola on the corner of Main Street and Mill Street. This local watering has been a Mexican spot for decades. The newest incarnation has a funky vibe, delicious Mexican food, and an awesome patio. Mi Chola is a great lunch spot for patio dining, people watching, delicious nachos, and of course, margaritas for the adults. Do not miss out on their Strawberry or Prickly Pear margaritas. It’s heavenly after a long hike in the mountains.
Aspen’s Restaurant Row, located on Hopkins Avenue, is always a popular spot no matter what season it is. In the summer, there is plenty of patio dining. One of our favorite spots is Meat and Cheese. This restaurant also has a farm shop, as well as a fabulous patio. Spots on the patio are coveted all summer long, however, Meat and Cheese does not accept reservations. Do not miss out on their delicious Rotisserie Chicken Board and craft cocktails.
For more information on these restaurants, and up-to-date information on all Aspen Restaurants, go to eataspen.com. Have a great weekend!
Spring is in full effect in the northern hemisphere and as restrictions on some outdoor spaces begin to lift, here are five ways you can enjoy some much-needed sunshine and fresh air while practicing safe social distancing guidelines.
Practice Cleanliness
First and foremost, take care of yourself and the members of your household. While some of the heavier restrictions are being lifted, it’s still important to make sure that you stay up to date with CDC guidelines and ensure that you’re washing your hands frequently and wearing a face covering when in public spaces – even while outside.
Just Get Outside
It’s no secret that sunshine offers many health benefits – the good news is that you don’t have to go far to get it. Carve out a part of each day to get outside, even if it’s an hour on your patio, yard or doorstep to get that all-important boost of vitamin D. Enjoying the sunshine doesn’t have to be complicated; if social distancing guidelines in your area permit, take a walk by yourself or with members of your household.
Camping in Your Backyard
You can take your family on a camping adventure in your own backyard. Set up a tent, have a bonfire, roast some marshmallows and tell campfire stories. Try leaving cellphones and other electronics in the house for a truly authentic camping experience.
Go for a Hike
Some trails and parks are beginning to reopen their gates, which means you can lace up your hiking boots and get back into nature. The National Recreation and Park Association offers some guidance like warning other trail users of your presence, allowing proper space or stepping off trails as you pass others, and keeping the recommended distance at all times.
A Bicycle Built for You
Similar to hiking or going for a walk, you can get on your bike and go for a ride alone or with members of your household. It’s important to avoid congested routes so consider riding at off-peak hours, try new paths, and don’t be discouraged if you have to alter your route to find a less crowded path.
Happy Friday from Aspen Snowmass! With gorgeous weather in the forecast, we are ready for the weekend. Aspen Snowmass moved to a Safer-at-Home order this week. With restrictions being lifted and a reopening plan in place, there is a lot of excitement for the upcoming summer season. Large events may be cancelled, but summer is not. Read on for some exciting summer activities that are still happening in Aspen Snowmass.
Biking is a summer favorite in and around town. Whether you’re looking for an easy cruise or a challenging adventure in the surrounding mountains, there is plenty offered. Bike shops are considered an essential business. If you need to rent, get your season tune-up, or just ask a few questions, be sure to head into the shops. One summer biking activity that is family friendly is riding the Rio Grande Trail to the Woody Creek Tavern, which is open for take-out only. Biking this trail and taking food to go for a picnic will certainly be a summer must!
Hiking is another summer favorite because it is a great way to get outside, no matter how long you want to be outside. Hiking trails have been very popular lately with nice weather and plenty of time to kill. If you want to hike for a quick hour, or go for an overnight adventure, Aspen and Snowmass offer great trails. A summer favorite is hiking Aspen to Crested Butte, Colorado. While the current reopening plan might not allow for an overnight in Crested Butte, there are plenty of adventures in Aspen, such as the Four Pass Loop and Conundrum Hot Springs.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding or SUP boarding has recently become very popular in Aspen Snowmass. As soon as the weather is warm enough, locals and visitors alike head up Independence Pass to Stillwater to float the day away. You can bring your own, or rent SUP boards from local bike and raft shops in town. Another popular SUP destination is Ruedi Reservoir in Basalt, if you’re up for about an hour drive from downtown Aspen.
Summer in the Rockies is magical. This summer might even be more magical with an emphasis on being outside with close friends and family during these strange times. Have a great weekend!
Happy Tuesday from Aspen Snowmass! What a gorgeous spring day to celebrate. Whether you partake in the trendy Take Out Tuesday, the delicious Taco Tuesday, and annual favorite Cinco de Mayo! There are plenty of ways to partake in today’s triple threat holiday, while supporting local restaurants and giving yourself a break in the kitchen! Read on for tasty takeout options very close to home.
Aspen local favorite, Mi Chola, is open today from 12-8pm. This Mexican restaurant on Main Street is offering a take-out only option. There is also a walk up window to directly to their bar! Stop by for drinks to go, and delicious Mexican cuisine to go. Absolutely be sure to try their amazing enchiladas. Call ahead for your margaritas and tacos. For more information, go to www.eataspen.com
Snowmass Village’s only Pan-Latin restaurant, Toro located in the Viceroy, has delectable specials to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy tequila lime shrimp tacos, short rib tortellini, tomato basil soup, and/or a tuna melt! Patrons have the option to pick up or delivered. If you are in the Snowmass Village area, Toro will deliver. Visit www.eatsnowmass.com for more information and more daily specials!
If you’re further down the Roaring Fork Valley and hoping to stay closer to home, check out Free Range Kitchen and Wine Bar in Basalt. Their delicious regular menu is always available, but for this holiday, be sure to check out their Cinco de Mayo special! Taco Party for Two is offered for $35 and includes six tacos, fiesta salad, cilantro lime rice, and local black beans. There are four taco options, which offers something for everyone. For more information, and other specials, go to www.freerangebasalt.com
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Happy Taco Tuesday! Happy Takeout Tuesday! Enjoy this triple threat holiday.
Happy Friday from Aspen Snowmass! Spring is here, and summer doesn’t feel too far behind. With record breaking temperatures in the low 70s and all day sunshine, the urge to get outside and enjoy the surrounding mountains is extra enticing! While working from home with the mountains, and kids, calling your name, it can be difficult to be productive. Read on for three musts for working from home!
It is important to have a designated space, whether it be a corner or a true home office, for work. It helps define a boundary in your home, and in your mind. www.SnowmassFamilyCompound.com has the ideal home office space, right off the kitchen with down valley views of Snowmass Village surrounding the office- talk about inspiration in a dedicated room!
A routine is essential while working from home. Most of us are juggling multiple roles in one space: parent, employee, chef, maid, tutor- the list goes on and on. While we are all staying at home for an extended period of time, it can be easy (and even tempting) to jump from one role to another during the workday. Creating and keeping up with a routine can help productivity and balance, in all of the hats one may wear.
Breaks are just as important as a routine, and should be included as such. In a traditional office setting, you might take a coffee break, chat with a coworker at their desk, or talk a walk around. Breaks like these are just as important, if not more, at home. www.ThePinesSnowmass.com has the ultimate home office, private enough to get work finished, and close enough to the gourmet kitchen for snack breaks!
Have a great weekend!
Happy sunny Tuesday from Aspen Snowmass! It is a gorgeous spring day with warm temperatures. We are expected to reach some record breaking high temps this week, and we can’t wait for all of the outside adventures. With ski season officially behind us, it’s time to look forward to spring and summer outdoor activities. Spring hiking in Aspen and Snowmass can mean trail closures, and extra precautions in the muddy season. Read on for tips to safely enjoy the gorgeous surrounding trails!
Two of Aspen’s most popular hiking trails are Sunnyside, located in West Aspen, and the local favorite, Smuggler, are open year round and both can connect to the Hunter Creek Trail. Both offer incredible views of the surrounding Elk Mountain Range. Smuggler is a short, hour long hike, while Sunnyside is longer and can take about half a day. Both trails are dog friendly, however, new ordinances require dogs to be leashed at all times on the trails.
Snowmass Village is full of incredible hiking trails for hikers of all ages and all abilities. Three of Snowmass’s most popular trails are the Rim Trail, the Tom Blake Trail, and Government Trail. During the spring, a number of trails close in order to give surrounding wildlife the space they need during their most sensitive times. Both Tom Blake and Government trails are closed from late April to late June for this very reason. The North Rim Trail is closed as well, however, Rim Trail South, affectionately known as the Yin Yang trail is open year round. Be cautious of muddy spots and wet sections!
Remember, social distancing is required on all trails. Face masks are also mandatory in the City of Aspen, and strongly encouraged in Pitkin County. Please stay safe and follow guidelines, so everyone can enjoy the great outdoors during these times. Happy Trails!
With more and more days spent at home, there is no better time to tackle that list of home improvement projects you’ve wanted to complete for years. But where should you start? How can you get everything done while under a stay at home order? We’ve put together a list of home improvement projects you can tackle without leaving your house.
4 Ways To Freshen Up Your Curb Appeal
1. Clean Up Any Landscaping or Lawns
The best way to start any improvements is to create a clean slate. Start by mowing any lawn areas you may have. Trim down any bushes or shrubs. Tackle those annoying weeds. We’ve created a Pinterest board to help get you started as well as rounded up some local stores that can help get your outdoor space ready for Spring.
2. Add Bright Flowers and Plants
Adding color with bright flowers and plants is one of the most obvious ways to elevate your curb appeal. Yet, finding the right flowers to plant, where to plant and how to take care of your garden can be hard to figure out. Especially when talking with a specialist is not possible. Many local nurseries and garden centers are offering over the phone consultations and even guided, personal tours of their centers to help people get started on their Spring gardening. We’ve rounded up what the experts are saying is the best to plant for Colorado gardens.
3. Paint Your Front Door a Bright Color
Another great way to draw eyes to the front of your house is to add some new paint. A fresh paint job adds some interest to the front of the house without having to spend too much money or take much time. Take a look at what design experts are saying about adding color to the front of your house.
4. DIY Outdoor Furniture and Decor
With a little extra time on your hands, the sun shining and the urge to try something new, you might feel inspired to revamp your outdoor space with some DIY projects. We felt the same way. Adding DIY projects to your outdoor areas is a great way to add some functionality and some personal touches. Check out our favorite DIY project inspirations as well some places that can help get you started!
4 Ways to Give the Inside of Your Home a Facelift
1. New Paint or Wallpaper
Much like your front door, the inside of your home might need a refresh. Adding new paint or some unexpected wallpaper might just do the trick. Accent walls and fun powder rooms are a great way to add some interest to your home without taking over the whole space. Take a look at our favorite places to get inspiration and the best colors!
2. New Hardware
Whether it’s a bathroom that feels tired or a kitchen that needs some extra shine, adding new hardware is an easy way to make these spaces feel like new. From trendy gold or brass hardware to sleek and classic silver, new hardware can go a long way in giving your home a facelift. These are our favorites places to find the perfect hardware for any space!
3. Rethink Furniture Arrangements
Adding new life to any space can be tricky, but rethinking how the space is laid out is an easy way to do just that without spending a dime! From small spaces to big, furniture layout is vital to insure your space functions properly. Take a look at how the experts are making the most of every space.
4. Channel Your Inner Organization Blogger
Spending more time inside your home can easily turn into noticing all the clutter and disorganized spaces you’ve overlooked for years. Tackling that kitchen junk drawer or your overstuffed closet can be a daunting task. That’s where we bring in the professionals. From utilizing bins and organizers to prioritizing only the things that serve you, organizing your home can be fun and easy! Take a look at what the experts suggest:
Happy Friday from snowy Aspen Snowmass! It is dumping snow in the mountains, with no signs of stopping any time soon. Some locals are thrilled by the fresh powder in April, and others might be bummed by the weather forecast. There is plenty of good news coming from our tight knit community this week. Read on for inspiring stories about how our community is supporting one another during these strange and uncertain times.
The demand for food banks and food drives has skyrocketed since the economic collapse from the coronavirus epidemic. The Western Slope Food Bank for the Rockies and Aspen Skiing Company’s events team has partnered up to put on a weekly food drive. Together, these organizations are serving up to 250 families weekly. Each Thursday from 12pm to 2pm, families can collect food at Basalt Middle School directly from their cars. For more information, please visit www.foodbankrockies.org
Three locals have come together in a grassroots effort to raise over $3.5 million in relief funds for residents from Aspen to Parachute affected by coronavirus. 22 other locals have donated this 2020 Rescue Fund, which is a charitable fund with the Aspen Community Fund. In the coming weeks with the help of ACF, the rescue fund’s “advisory committee” trio will select nonprofits that are capable of addressing priority needs during the crisis, like economic assistance, food access, health care and other essential humanitarian support.
Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass Village is normally buzzing this time of year with resident artists and staff gearing up for their busy summer season. With the ranch being closed to the public, the on-site “Fab Lab” is creating personal protective equipment with 3D printers, in order to help with the shortage medical professionals are experiencing on the frontlines. If you’d like to help with this effort, please visit www.nocofaceshieldproject.org
We are so thankful to be a part of a community that supports one another during times like these. It is truly amazing to see the outpouring support and love throughout our valley.
Happy Tuesday from Aspen Snowmass! With fresh snow overnight and spring weather today, it feels like the ideal bluebird ski day. Even though the lifts are closed, locals are still finding ways to enjoy the Power of Four Mountains. Some hike, most skin up the mountains. It’s a great form of exercise, an excuse to get outside, and a breath of fresh air, in every sense.
Aspen Skiing Company has been continuing with some grooming practices for uphill skiers, and has ever decided to honor those in 100 day pin quests. The rules to receive a 100 day pin from the skiing company are still the same as any other season and finish . In order to collect, Aspen SkiCo requests that you call their main phone line to let them know you have achieved 100 days. There are “bonus points” if you can creatively prove your feat.
If you are planning on skinning, whether it’s to complete your 100 day season or just get outside and in the mountains, there are some precautions to take. Aspen Skiing Company requests that skinners and hikers maintain social distancing, which is 6 feet minimum, or rather the length of a pair of skis. It is also required to hike in a group of four or less, to follow current CDC guidelines.
All four mountains are being groomed almost daily by SkiCo. There is fresh powder almost weekly, and fresh corduroy almost daily. There is plenty of fabulous terrain across all four mountains. Aspen Skiing Company, Mountain Rescue Aspen, and Aspen Valley Hospital ask that uphillers stay out of the backcountry during this time. For more information and updates, please visit aspentimes.com or aspendailynews.com
Have fun out there and stay safe!
With 4.13 billion internet users worldwide, there is no doubt the internet dominates our everyday life, our business functions and even our free time. We rely on the internet and technology for almost everything we do, including making our businesses stronger and more effective. Sotheby’s International Realty is leading the front on incorporating modern technology and the convenience of the internet into the real estate business. With features like Virtual Experiences, Curate and branded social media platforms, Sotheby’s International Realty gives brokers and affiliates the opportunity to be top of mind and top of feed. While people are browsing the internet for real estate, they are taking part in a unique, branded experience that guides and elevates their search.
Virtual Experience
Sotheby’s International Realty gives anyone the opportunity to fully experience a property on any device with Matterport, an all-in-one 3D data platform. Using Matterport, brokers have the opportunity to create ‘virtual twins’ of a property, giving potential buyers a one of a kind experience. With a few shots, a broker can create a virtual tour of a house, a dollhouse view of the house, its floor plans and allow viewers to measure anything in the house. Matterport allows viewers to see and get a feel for a house without having to step a foot in it.
With 4.13 billion internet users worldwide, there is no doubt the internet dominates our everyday life, our business functions and even our free time. We rely on the internet and technology for almost everything we do, including making our businesses stronger and more effective. Sotheby’s International Realty is leading the front on incorporating modern technology and the convenience of the internet into the real estate business. With features like Virtual Experiences, Curate and branded social media platforms, Sotheby’s International Realty gives brokers and affiliates the opportunity to be top of mind and top of feed. While people are browsing the internet for real estate, they are taking part in a unique, branded experience that guides and elevates their search.
Virtual Experience
Sotheby’s International Realty gives anyone the opportunity to fully experience a property on any device with Matterport, an all-in-one 3D data platform. Using Matterport, brokers have the opportunity to create ‘virtual twins’ of a property, giving potential buyers a one of a kind experience. With a few shots, a broker can create a virtual tour of a house, a dollhouse view of the house, its floor plans and allow viewers to measure anything in the house. Matterport allows viewers to see and get a feel for a house without having to step a foot in it.
Social Media
From Sotheby’s International Realty verified social platforms, to paid social media advertisements and our own curated Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty pages, meeting clients on their feeds is our specialty. With one billion monthly users on Instagram and 2.37 billion monthly users on Facebook, it is imperative to have an active and engaging presence on social media. Our properties are featured on the Sotheby’s International Realty social pages, which have 96K followers on Facebook, 258K followers on Instagram and similar numbers on Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and their podcast. Our exposure is increased almost monthly thanks to these features. Other features like affiliate takeovers allow us to engage audiences across the world while still staying relevant to our audiences at home.
Curate
Showing a property with no furniture in the rooms or pictures on the walls makes it hard for a client to imagine themselves in the house. In comes Curate, an immersive augmented reality app that allows users to stage the home and curate their experience. Brokers can stage the home in many different styles to show versatility and clients can pick pieces based on their style to really imagine themselves in the spaces. Home buyers even have the option to pick furniture through the app, allowing them to put the whole space together on the app before buying a single thing. The days of guessing and stretching your imagination are over. Put the entire picture together with Curate.
To watch Curate in action, click here.
We strive to take advantage of all the internet offers. Meeting home buyers where they are - in their feeds, their mailboxes and their smartphones – allows us to create a unique and effective experience for all potential buyers and sellers alike. Platforms like Virtual Experience, Social Media and Curate are a few examples of how Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty seeks new and innovative opportunities to be the best at helping our clients.
Blog Credit to Emilee Kelloff, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby's International Realty
