Checking In: Mountain Chic in Aspen

By Lisa Loverro.

The Limelight Hotel, a boutique resort located steps away from Aspen Mountain and a few blocks from the center of town, offers everything from hot tubs to adventure amenities. With 126 guest rooms ranging from 315 square feet to over 600 square feet, the newly renovated accommodations offer a contemporary décor with marble and granite bathroom finishes. The hotel is both kid-friendly and pet-friendly—a definite plus if you're looking to bring your beloved canine on vacation.

Much like the town of Aspen itself, the Limelight is steeped in history. Originally the Ski and Spur Bar, the property served outlaws and skiers alike in the spirit of the Wild West. New ownership took over in the 1950s, renaming the bar the Limelite, when it quickly gained popularity as a lively nightclub and dinner theater. Through the years it changed hands, was rebuilt, and in 2008 the property reopened as the Limelight Lodge. Two years later, Aspen Skiing Company bought the property and renamed it the Limelight Hotel in 2012.

Serving as the sister property to the highbrow Little Nell, the Limelight offers unique amenities available to guests throughout the year. During the summer months—a perfect time to hike and fish—you'll have access to complimentary cruiser bikes to explore the Rio Grande trail, or just take a cruise through town. When winter hits, "Inside Tracks" is a complimentary, on-mountain guide service offered in partnership with Ski & Snowboard Schools of Aspen Snowmass for Limelight Hotel guests. Their "First Tracks" program allows guests of the Limelight Hotel exclusive access to Aspen Mountain before the opening of the gondola to the general public. That's a huge plus for all the skiers out there, and reason enough to stay at this hotel. Complimentary snowshoe tours are also available to guests in partnership with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies.

The lobby/lounge area buzzes from morning through late evening. Complimentary breakfast provides hot and cold plates, including organic coffee, and handmade granola, while happy hour ushers in a variety of potent potables, including a carefully curated Colorado Whiskey Flight, summertime Sangria Bar, and fun nightly happenings—such as twice-monthly beer dinners—all while live music rounds out the overall party vibe.

The hotel's pool is perfect for swimmers to get in some laps during the summer, and their two hot tubs are perfect for an early evening soak after a long day of hiking or skiing. In the evening, their many outdoor fire pits offer the perfect romantic escape for a late-night glass of wine and DIY s'mores.
For more information
limelighthotel.com