5 Famous Ski Towns Worth Visiting Even if You Don’t Ski

Contrary to what many travelers might think, ski towns aren’t just about skiing and snowboarding — they offer countless other ways to stay warm, comfortable, and entertained during the colder months. From luxury spas and invigorating outdoor adventures to gourmet dining and upscale shopping, many of these destinations are worth a visit even if you never clip into a pair of skis. Here are five famous ski towns where you can get lost in a magical winter atmosphere.

Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

Home to North America’s largest ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb, the town of Whistler is located less than two hours from Vancouver, British Columbia. Though it has roughly 14,000 residents, Whistler attracts visitors from around the world for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Even if you don’t plan to hit the slopes of Whistler’s 8,000 acres of terrain across two peaks, there’s plenty to see and do right in town. 

Connecting Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain is the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola — which holds the Guinness World Record for the longest unsupported span (1.88 miles) between two cable car towers. It’s also the perfect way to take in the stunning Fitzsimmons Range. For a day of pure relaxation, visit Scandinave Spa, the town’s iconic Nordic spa featuring hot and cold therapy in a beautiful indoor-outdoor setting. 

Winter hiking, snowshoeing, tobogganing, and snowmobiling round out the winter activities, while experiences like axe-throwing or ziplining offer more memorable Whistler experiences. Speaking of unique activities, don’t miss the weekly Fire & Ice Show, where ski jumps are built near the village square and world-class skiers and snowboarders soar through flaming rings.

Kitzbühel, Austria

One of Austria’s most famous ski resorts, Kitzbühel is a charming medieval town nestled in the Eastern Alps in western Austria. A bucket-list destination for experienced skiers, Mount Hahnenkamm offers 145 miles of slopes, reaches a maximum height of 6,560 feet, and is the site of the legendary Hahnenkamm ski race. 

Off the slopes, those who don’t ski will find plenty to enjoy, from boutique shopping to museums, cultural sites, Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional alpine huts, family-friendly toboggan runs, and breathtaking mountain views accessible via winter hiking or snowshoeing. The town of Kitzbühel itself is a major draw: Its beautifully preserved 750-year-old historic town center is filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and a classic Tyrolean atmosphere. 

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is one of America’s premier ski resorts, famed for attracting affluent visitors and celebrities. While the town is renowned for world-class skiing across its four mountains (Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Highlands), it’s just as recognized for high-end nightlife, star-studded events, and its see-and-be-seen atmosphere — with a price tag to match. 

Beyond the occasional celebrity sighting, Aspen boasts a host of luxury accommodations, exclusive social clubs, an excellent dining scene, and high-end shopping. Aspen is also a leading spa destination, offering everything from indulgent hotel spa treatments to specialized wellness centers with infrared saunas and even the oxygen lounge at RAKxa Wellness Spa at the St. Regis Aspen Resort. 

Elsewhere, you won’t find any shortage of activities in and around Aspen, such as snowshoeing, winter hiking, or snowmobiling to the scenic Maroon Bells. You can also explore boutique shops or enjoy world-class dining, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy mountain cafés.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Set in the Swiss Alps at the base of the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s most photographed mountain, Zermatt is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and top-notch skiing. A stay in Zermatt provides direct access to Matterhorn Ski Paradise, the highest ski area in the Alps, featuring peaks over 13,000 feet and 223 miles of trails. 

Luckily, you don’t need skis to enjoy Zermatt — between world-class facilities, a charming car-free village, and breathtaking views, this winter wonderland is just as rewarding off the slopes. A ride on the Gornergrat Railway, Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel train, takes just 40 minutes from Zermatt to reach 10,000 feet in elevation, where a viewing platform offers sweeping views of the Matterhorn and surrounding Alpine peaks. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car offers panoramic views of Italy, France, and Switzerland, along with dining at Europe’s highest restaurant, located inside the Glacier Palace. 

Back in town, winter hiking, snowshoeing, husky sledding, tobogganing, and ice skating are all easily accessible, while boutique shops offer high-end Alpine fashion and gourmet restaurants serving local specialties — trust us, fondue is a must.

Stowe, Vermont

One of Vermont’s most sought-after destinations in winter, Stowe is known for its classic New England scenery. Combine that with its historic village, covered bridges, and world-class ski resorts, and it’s easy to see why this small Vermont town holds so much appeal for winter getaways. 

For skiers, Stowe Mountain Resort offers 116 trails and 12 lifts across Spruce Peak and the 4,395-foot Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak. The Lodge at Spruce Peak Village boasts ski-in, ski-out accommodations, upscale dining, boutique resorts, and a charming outdoor ice skating rink. Alongside fine dining experiences in Stowe, visitors can also feast at more casual food trucks and rustic-chic bars like the Tipsy Trout. 

Activities for nonskiers are plentiful, from scenic snowshoeing and strolls along the 5.3-mile Recreation Path to visits to acclaimed craft distilleries and breweries. For sweeping mountain views, hop on the Gondola SkyRide to the top of Mount Mansfield and enjoy the same epic vistas the skiers and snowboarders enjoy.