Aspen: From Past to Present History Walking Tour

The "Aspen: From Past to Present History Walking Tour" offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and uncover the rich tapestry of Aspen’s storied past. This 1.5-hour excursion takes participants on a captivating journey through the heart of downtown, showcasing the town’s iconic landmarks and uncovering the fascinating tales that have shaped its history. From the legendary Wheeler Opera House to the iconic Hotel Jerome, each stop along the way promises to pique the interest of history enthusiasts and casual explorers alike. But what secrets lie hidden within the walls of the Pitkin County Courthouse? The tour’s engaging storytelling will leave you eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Walking Tours In Aspen.

Key Points

• Guided 1.5-hour walking tour showcases Aspen’s storied past, including the Wheeler Opera House, Hotel Jerome, and Red Onion restaurant.
• Tour provides insight into Aspen’s colorful history, high-profile criminal cases, and the unique Pitkin County Courthouse and Lady Justice statue.
• Engaging storytelling enhances understanding of Aspen’s heritage and the evolution of its iconic landmarks.
• Easy reservation process, free cancellation, and wheelchair accessibility make the tour accessible and hassle-free.
• Recommended for comfortable shoes, weatherproof jackets, and sun protection to fully immerse in the Aspen history experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Aspen History Walking Tour offers visitors a 1.5-hour guided exploration of downtown Aspen. Priced from $40.00 per person, this English-language tour is wheelchair accessible and departs from 320 E Hyman Ave, with participants asked to arrive 5 minutes before the start.

Highlighting the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Wheeler Opera House, Hotel Jerome, and the century-old Red Onion restaurant, the tour also delves into local legends, criminal cases, and the unique blindfold absence of the Lady Justice statue outside the Pitkin County Courthouse.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for this informative and engaging overview of Aspen’s rich history.

Highlights of the Tour

The guided tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Aspen’s storied past, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and uncovering intriguing local legends.

Participants will explore the historic Wheeler Opera House, the grand Hotel Jerome, and the century-old Red Onion restaurant, all while learning about the town’s colorful history and high-profile criminal cases.

The tour also highlights the unique Pitkin County Courthouse and the enigmatic absence of the Lady Justice statue’s blindfold.

Engaging storytelling and new insights make this tour a must-do for both locals and visitors seeking to uncover Aspen’s rich heritage.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking the Aspen History Walking Tour is easy and flexible. Visitors can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, allowing them to secure their participation with ease.

What’s more, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing guests with the flexibility to adjust their plans if needed. This policy ensures that travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund should their circumstances change.

With these hassle-free booking options, guests can focus on anticipating the engaging stories and captivating historical insights that await them on the Aspen History Walking Tour.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for making the most of the Aspen History Walking Tour. The terrain can be uneven, and the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. By dressing appropriately, you’ll be able to fully learn about the experience and explore the historic downtown with ease.

What to Bring	Why
Comfortable Shoes	For navigating the uneven terrain of the walking tour
Weatherproof Jacket	To protect against potential rain, wind, or cooler temperatures
Sunscreen	To shield your skin from the intense mountain sun
Water Bottle	To stay hydrated during the 1.5-hour tour

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Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews underscore the Aspen History Walking Tour’s engaging storytelling and ability to unveil new insights, even for seasoned local participants.

With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, the tour has consistently delighted visitors:

• Guests praise the guide’s captivating delivery of local legends, lore, and historical stories.

• Reviewers highlight how the tour offered a fresh perspective, uncovering little-known facts about Aspen’s past.

• Customers recommend the tour as a fun and informative overview of the city’s rich history.

• The wheelchair accessibility further enhances the tour’s inclusive experience.

Downtown Aspen’s Iconic Landmarks

Guided by the engaging storytelling of the tour, visitors embark on a captivating exploration of downtown Aspen’s iconic landmarks.

The tour takes them to the historic Wheeler Opera House, a beloved cultural hub since 1889. Next, they visit the legendary Hotel Jerome, a luxurious icon that has welcomed famous guests for over a century.

The tour also features the Red Onion restaurant, a lively hotel that has been serving the community for more than 100 years.

Along the way, guests discover the unique story behind the Lady Justice statue’s missing blindfold, as well as high-profile criminal cases that have gripped the town’s history.

Local Legends and Historical Stories

Exploring the local legends and historical stories that have captivated Aspen’s visitors over the years is a highlight of the walking tour.

From hearing about high-profile criminal cases to learning the unique story behind the Lady Justice statue’s blindfold absence, the tour provides an engaging look into Aspen’s past:

• Discover the legends surrounding Aspen’s notorious serial killers and their connections to the area.

• Uncover the fascinating story of famous actors who’ve found themselves in trouble in the town.

• Explore the rich history of the Red Onion restaurant, which has been serving the community for over a century.

• Gain insights into how Aspen’s iconic landmarks, like the Wheeler Opera House, have shaped the town’s evolution.

Unique Features of the Pitkin County Courthouse

The Lady Justice statue outside the Pitkin County Courthouse immediately captivates visitors with its unique absence of a blindfold.

Unlike the traditional depiction of Lady Justice, this statue’s figure lacks the iconic blindfold, inviting observers to ponder its significance. The missing blindfold symbolizes the transparency and openness of the judicial system in Aspen, emphasizing that justice shouldn’t be blind but rather vigilant and accountable to the community.

As tour participants gaze upon the striking statue, they gain insight into the local values that shape the town’s approach to law and order, further enriching their understanding of Aspen’s rich historical tapestry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be entirely suitable for children as it covers some mature topics like criminal cases involving serial killers. However, the tour’s focus on Aspen’s history and landmarks could still appeal to families with older kids.

Are There Any Restrooms Available During the Tour?

The walking tour does not include scheduled restroom breaks, but participants can access public restrooms along the route in downtown Aspen. Tour guides can provide recommendations on the nearest facilities during the tour.

Can Photography Be Allowed During the Tour?

Participants are generally permitted to take photos during the tour, as long as they don’t disrupt the guide’s narrative or impede the group’s progress. However, some sites may have restrictions, so guests should ask the guide for guidance.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour company offers an extended 2.5-hour tour option for those interested in delving deeper into Aspen’s history and exploring additional landmarks. This extended tour provides more comprehensive coverage of the city’s rich past.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the website advises visitors to check for any promotional offers or package deals that may be available at the time of booking.

Recap

The Aspen: From Past to Present History Walking Tour offers a captivating 1.5-hour exploration of Aspen’s rich heritage. Participants will enjoy local legends, uncover intriguing stories, and marvel at the city’s iconic landmarks. With flexible booking options and a wheelchair-accessible route, this tour is a must for history enthusiasts seeking to unveil Aspen’s fascinating past and present.

You can check if your dates are available here: