The E List: The Glory of Aspen in the Off-Season

Aspen is iconic for its snowy slopes, a celebrity-studded wintertime playground. But we find it equally delightful in the off-season, when wildflowers fill the valleys, trout fill the Roaring Fork, and ample sunshine invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the culture and breathtaking natural beauty of this divine mountain town. Here’s what we’re loving now. View full issue. R&R Next time we crave a little pampering, we’re planning a visit to the newly renovated RAKxa Spa at the St. Regis Aspen Resort. Modeled on the RAKxa wellness retreat in Thailand, the spa offers tempting treatments like Tension Release (a blend of traditional Thai massage, stretching, and acupressure to soothe sore muscles after an active day) and Good Night Sleep (a full body and scalp massage with Tibetan singing bowls to rebalance the chakras and promote better rest). There’s also a Ballancer Pro lymphatic suit treatment to improve circulation at high altitudes. The Maroon Bells are said to be the most photographed place in Colorado, and for good reason. We never miss a chance to visit this ultimate bucket-list spot in Aspen Snowmass. DINING West End Social at Aspen Meadows Resort We’re eager to check out a buzzy newcomer to the local restaurant scene— West End Social at Aspen Meadows Resort. In addition to spacious outdoor seating and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, the colorful dining room exudes warmth with splashes of blue, red, yellow, green, and lots of light wood. The design aesthetic pays tribute to the Bauhaus style favored by Herbert Bayer, the artistarchitect who designed the resort in the 1950s. The menu from Chef Rachel Saxton (formerly of The Little Nell and Michelin-starred Bosq) emphasizes simple, high-quality, often locally sourced foods. Think braised short rib with white corn grits; roast chicken with carrots, walnuts, and black truffles; and pumpkin tortellini with chestnuts. For a caffeine infusion, we’re delighted that Sant Ambroeus has opened a coffee bar in the former Main Street Bakery. Cappuccino, anyone? CULTURE As fans of the Aspen Art Museum , we’re eager to see the museum-wide exhibition by acclaimed London-based artist Allison Katz, intriguingly titled “In the House of the Trembling Eye,” focusing on the ways time and vision accumulate within a frame. "Three and Ten Flowers" by James Surls, one of the works on view at Anderson Ranch Arts Center's outdoor sculpture exhibition. To enjoy the fine weather, we’ll also while away a few pleasant hours admiring the annual outdoor sculpture on view at Anderson Ranch Arts Center . This year’s exhibit, “From There to Here,” features emerging as well as established artists, many of them exploring current themes like identity and belonging.