Aspen Takes a Breather

Off-season has once again crept up on Aspen. While some Aspenites take off to warmer vacation destinations for a week or two, most of us stay and enjoy the calm before the storm. Here are a couple of the best low-key things to do in our quiet mountain town.

Treat Yourself to Dinner

After a long (and busy) winter in Aspen, spring is the perfect time to treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner out. Grab your friends, a loved one, or even head out by yourself to enjoy one of the many discounted prices and menu specials in town. Some of our favorites are the prix fixe at The Wild Fig (a glass of wine, app, and entree for $29) the prix fixe at Ruth's Chris Steak House (three courses for $38), or the prix fixe at LuLu Wilson (appetizer, entrée, and dessert for $30).

Spa Day

Dedicate an entire day to pampering yourself. The Remede Spa at the St. Regis Resort Aspen offers 25 percent off all of their treatments (with the exception of manicures and pedicures). Decompress in the spa's soothing hot tub, sauna, steam showers, and oxygen room. The Aspen Club & Spa also rewards their guests for treating themselves as the more you get done the more you save. Nonmembers get a 10 percent discount if they have one treatment done or a 20 percent discount for two treatments. For three treatments nonmembers can receive a 30 percent or a 40 percent discount when they have four treatments in one day. Be sure to bring workout clothes because both the Remede and the Aspen Club have gyms where you get in a good workout before you relax.

Clean House

When you're busy, it's easy to become a pack rat. If you haven't worn something in the past year then chances are you won't, so take advantage of the slow season and clean house.The Thrift Store accepts donations, or you can try to sell your stuff at Susie's consignment store. If you have extra skis, boards, and gear that you no longer use, bring them to Replay Sports—if they can sell your stuff, they'll give you 50 percent of the profit.