by Berne Broudy
Aspen, CO
Overview: The inside and outside of this three-story, 1960s era hotel received a to-the-studs makeover last fall. Shag carpets and mauve curtains were chucked, and pillow-top beds with high thread count sheets, suede club chairs, Berber carpets, and modern furniture were swapped in.
Notable: The 45 rooms in this pet-friendly hotel are suite style, each with a kitchenette, sitting room, or spacious deck with personal Jacuzzi. Add iPod docking stations, large screen TVs, fluffy terry robes, and you'll think this three-diamond hotel should have four. It's feet from free buses to all four of Aspen's mountains, 200 kilometers of Nordic trails, and downtown Aspen. Ground floor habitations have small fenced in yards for dogs or, in summer, your kids. A steaming hot tub and heated fountain-fed pool soothe weary legs après ski.
Stay Here If: You're looking for affordable lodging, want to avoid glam, and don't like being nickled and dimed. Hot breakfast is included—as well as complimentary airport shuttles, internet, newspapers, parking, and local and long distance calls. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the hotel serves heavy apps, wine, and beer—all included with the price of your room.
Information: Rates are $150–$350 for two to four people per room (rooms have either two queens or one king bed). Add $20 per person if you want to pack in up to two more friends on the sofa bed. hotelaspen.com
