Top Colorado Ski Resorts For Shoppers

Ski enthusiasts flock to the Colorado Rocky Mountains for the mountains' world-famous powder, but there's plenty more to do in high altitude towns besides frolic in fluffy snow. Here's a peek at some the best ski resorts for shopping when you're ready for a break from schussing.

Aspen

425 Rio Grande Place
Aspen, CO 81611
(970) 925-1940 
www.aspenchamber.org
Long a playground for the rich and famous, high-end shopping options here include upscale brands Burberry, Gucci, Prada and Ralph Lauren. Fine jewelry, one-of-a-kind antiques and fancy furs are found alongside plenty of sports shops and art galleries in the downtown core. Local favorites include outdoorsy Ute Mountaineer and cozy Explore Booksellers with an adjacent café.

Breckenridge

203 South Main St.
Breckenridge, CO 80424
(970) 453-2918
www.gobreck.com
Plan to wile away an entire afternoon on historic Main Street, lined with Victorian buildings housing clothing boutiques, sporting goods outlets and souvenir T-shirt shops - more than 200 stores in all. Got kids? Don't miss Peak-a-Boo Toys with a play area in the back (and benches for weary parents) and the Breckenridge Hat Company, where you can try on lots of crazy wigs and sunglasses.

Steamboat Springs

125 Anglers Drive
Steamboat Springs, CO 80477
(970) 879-0880
www.steamboat-chamber.com
Walk back in time to the Old West on a stroll through lively downtown Steamboat Springs with its century-old brick buildings. One must-visit: F.M. Light & Sons, which has been clothing Steamboat residents since 1905. It's still in its same Lincoln Avenue location and operated by fourth-generation descendants. Once you're outfitted in western wear, shop at eclectic spots like a kitchen-gadget store or an artisans' market -- then refuel at Lyon's Corner Drug & Soda Fountain.

Vail

241 South Frontage Road E. #8150
Vail, Colorado 81657
(970) 476-4790
www.vailchamber.org
Vail isn't really an Austrian village, but you might feel as if you're strolling through one, with its chalet-style buildings along pedestrian-friendly cobblestone walkways. Vail Village's Bridge Street beckons with The Golden Bear Jewelry Store and its ubiquitous charms, Kemo Sabe with its cowboy boots (check out the pairs made with ostrich and alligator) and venerable Pepi Sports for European-style ski wear. Down the road in refurbished Lionshead, you'll find plenty of sports shops plus hip clothing stores and a museum-quality collection of fossils and pretty gems at Lionshead Jewelers.