Aspen, the largest city in Pitkin County, Colorado, was founded in 1880. Located high in the west-central part of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the fifty-third largest city in the state. Renowned glob... Aspen, the largest city in Pitkin County, Colorado, was founded in 1880. Located high in the west-central part of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the fifty-third largest city in the state. Renowned globally as a winter and summer resort, Aspen was founded as a mining camp in the Colorado Silver Boom. It takes its name after the aspen trees that grow in abundance in the region. The city really came into its own as a skiing haven post-World War II, with the foundation of the Aspen Skiing Company by Walter Paepcke. Apart from being a mecca for winter and summer sport buffs, this mountain town is also a thriving center of high-quality visual and performing arts. Aspen has been home to world-class organizations like the Aspen Institute, Aspen Music Festival and School, and the Aspen Center for Physics for over half a century. Recent additions to the cultural scene are the Aspen Film fest, Aspen Writers\' Foundation, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Theatre Aspen, Aspen Art Museum, and Jazz Aspen Snowmass. The fabulous Wheeler Opera House, built by Jerome B. Wheeler, has been an enduring symbol of culture and pride for the people of Aspen through the ages. The opening of the opera house on April 23, 1889, was hailed as \"one of the most notable events in the history of Aspen\'s most eventful year.\" Today, it plays host to a wide range of acts spanning the spectrum of entertainment, from jazz wizards to country stars to legendary rock groups like The Eagles and INXS. The Wheeler opens its arms to film festivals, Broadway plays, professional opera and ballet, and the U.S. Comedy Arts annual festival, as well as academic lecture series, school plays, and local community events. The city of Aspen has an enviable reputation of being the watering hole of the rich and famous. It boasts an upscale shopping district as well as a culinary experience that ranges from swish eateries to easy-on-the-wallet family establishments. The city has acquired a distinct character, sporting a mix of upscale luxury homes and condos with legacy residences as well as mobile-home parks. Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com