Aspen is world-renowned for its skiing, shopping, and amazing summer festivals, making it a popular choice for visitors from around the globe. This popularity, combined with a compact downtown area, creates parking challenges, especially during peak ski days or busy summer months.
The good news? We have some tips to help you navigate Aspen’s parking scene. Staying at Aspen Square Hotel puts you in the center of all of the action, meaning you may not even need your car. When you do, however, you’ll be able to park with confidence.
Downtown Parking
Aspen boasts a very walkable downtown, with restaurants, boutiques, and the mountain just within blocks of one another. Guests at Aspen Square Hotel also have the added benefit of being in an ideal downtown location, in the center of it all.
During the busier seasons (December through March and big summer weekends), parking spaces are few and far between. Planning ahead can save you from the frustration of circling the block, looking for an open space.
Paid Parking Options
Downtown Aspen offers both free and metered parking options. Parking rates for downtown vary by season and time of day, and it’s wise to check posted signs for rules and time limits, as Aspen’s Parking Department is stringent on monitoring and enforcing.
How To Pay
Payment can be made by text, the PayByPhone app, or at one of the conveniently located pay stations.
Text2Park
For Downtown: Text ASPEN1 to 25023
For Residential: Text ASPEN2 to 25023
Pay by Phone
PayByPhone, the parking app used throughout Aspen, will text "expiring meter” reminders for an additional .25 per message to help you avoid tickets. Options to pre-pay are also available.
Via Pay Station
- Follow prompts
- Enter license plate #
- No need to display the ticket on dash
Covered Parking
If you prefer covered parking, the Rio Grande Parking Garage offers both hourly and daily rates. This is a great choice if you plan to stay downtown for an extended period.
The Rio Grande Parking Plaza is located at 427 Rio Grande Place. From Main Street, turn north on Mill Street and travel one block. Turn east on Rio Grande Place and we are located on the south side of the street.
Free Parking Options
Aspen does have free parking options depending on the time and the season. The City of Aspen Parking Services Department will allow 15 minutes of free parking once a day per vehicle for a quick errand. Visit the PayByPhone app to access 15 minutes of free parking.
- Purchased parking of 30 minutes or more does not include an additional 15 minutes of parking.
- The 15-minute free parking is only available for short-term needs.
- Each vehicle can only get the free 15 once a day.
Motorcycles and Scooters park for free when parked at the end of the block within 2 feet of the "No Parking Anytime" sign.
Electric Vehicles can park for free in the residential zones only, not in the downtown meter spaces. Electric vehicles must get a permit for free parking from the Aspen Parking Department.
Free 2-hour parking is available in residential zones. Free on Saturdays and Sundays year-round. (Only one free 2-hour session/day/zone).
Overnight and Long-Term Options
Overnight parking in Aspen can be a challenge in the winter months, snowplows are prioritized and certain streets become no-parking zones. Luckily, guests at Aspen Square can park worry-free in our secure, on-site parking. Our parking also makes it easy to leave your car in one spot for your entire trip if you are staying a bit longer. If you prefer an off-site option, the Rio Grande Garage offers long-term passes, and our friendly concierge is always happy to help you find the best fit for your plans.
Event and Seasonal Parking Tips
Aspen hosts many festivals and special events. Finding parking during these times can make parking a sport in itself. To avoid downtown congestion, park early or use Park & Ride locations. Winter visitors should also be aware of snow route restrictions; signs will be posted and enforcement is strict.
Insider Tips from Locals
Parking in Aspen can be challenging, but if you plan ahead or stay downtown, it’s much more manageable. Choosing Aspen Square as your base affords you secure parking plus the freedom to explore Aspen on foot, bike, shuttle, or car. Fewer parking worries also means more time enjoying the beauty that Aspen offers.
Final Thoughts
Aspen not only offers beauty, culture, and fantastic opportunities for outdoor adventure, it’s easily navigable. If you plan on exploring by car, a few tips and some planning can help curb any parking frustrations.
Guests of Aspen Square Hotel enjoy the benefits of a central downtown location for easy access to everything Aspen has to offer. Book your stay at Aspen Square Hotel and enjoy the convenience of having everything right at your fingertips.