As far as North American ski towns go, Aspen is among our favorites. There’s something about the Aspen’s mining history, architecture, and the way the mountains frame the town that charms. In advance of our presence at the 2018 World Snow Polo Championships on December 19th and 20th, we’ve put together a list of our favorite shops, watering holes, and places to stay.

Where to Stay:

The St. Regis Aspen

When it comes to hotels in Aspen, there are more than a few suitable options? Our pick? The St. Regis. With decor that reads more modern and elegant than the typical “ski lodge” style, this property offers a host of amenities and dining options, and is a two minute walk to the gondola.

Hotel Jerome

Friendly valets dressed in full cowboy garb greet you at the airport, setting the tone for the rest of your stay at the Hotel Jerome. Since 1889, Hotel Jerome has been a fixture in Aspen, hosting everyone from Hunter S. Thomson to silver miners and 10th Mountain Division Soldiers.

After a tasteful renovation, and acquisition by Auberge resorts, the Jerome boasts a number of great dining options, including the storied J-Bar, a must-visit for any trip to Aspen.

Where to Eat

Eleven Madison Park Winter House

New to the St. Regis Aspen this year? Daniel Humm and Will Guidara’s Eleven Madison Park Winter House. EMP opens this week with a full takeover of the hotel’s Chef’s Club restaurant, and a “yurt village” for traditional apres-ski (think caviar, thermoses of bone broth for the table, and shot skis) and private dining.

Matsuhisa

In a Victorian on Main St., this Nobu outpost is a bustling scene in the wintertime. Reservations in the downstairs main dining room are hard to come by, while the upstairs lounge boasts a more casual vibe (and menu). Either way, in a town full of great sushi, this is our pick.

Grey Lady

A New-England style seafood spot in Aspen? Why not! With locations in NYC and Montauk, Grey Lady leapt onto the Aspen scene in 2015. One owner’s uncle is a lobsterman in Maine, and a fresh catch is flown in daily. This is one of our favorite spots for a lobster roll or bowl of mussels after a day on the mountain.

White House Tavern

In an absolutely charming, Carpenter Gothic style mining cottage on the corner of E Hopkins and S Monarch St., White House is a (you guessed it) outpost of the Hillstone Group. The fare is consistently delicious with a something-for-everyone menu and fantastic service. Our favorite pick for lunch in the sunshine with an incredible view of the mountain.

Where to Shop

Miller Sports

Shop Alps & Meters, Luis Trenker, Cordova and other luxury apparel brands at Miller Sports, just across the street from the Silver Queen Gondola. Didn’t bring your skis and need a rental? Miller does that too.

The St. Regis Shops

With an Alps & Meters shop-in-shop, Richard Mille boutique, outdoor guide and outfitter Aspen Outfitting Co., and ski shop Aspen Sports, the St. Regis has no shortage of shopping options under it’s large and luxurious umbrella.