A Summer Ski Town Escape: What to Do in Aspen During a Pandemic

There’s no doubt that summer 2020 looks different from any other, especially when it comes to travel. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have cancelled summer vacations, and, given quarantine requirements, trips abroad are essentially impossible. If you’re looking to plan the perfect stateside getaway while staying safe, I’d recommend summer in a ski town—specifically, Aspen, Colorado. (As with any travel right now, closely check restrictions both in your intended destination, and what’s recommended by your local authorities based on the outbreak in your area. For Colorado, this site is a good place to start.)

I’ve been lucky enough to hunker down in Aspen since June 1, and have been taking full advantage of the town’s natural beauty, optimal weather, and food and culture. Even given the current environment, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself while staying socially distant. From hiking to fly fishing, and from outdoor dining to drinks al fresco, here’s my list of 12 reasons why Aspen is the only place you need to visit this summer.