The hype
The location is legendary and the staff is helpful, but the rooms range from 'charming' to 'tired'.
Independence Square Lodge By Frias
$300-900+/ night
Book this if You want to be exactly zero steps from the downtown action and one block from the gondola, and you don't mind trading modern polish for historic quirks.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location right on the Cooper Avenue pedestrian mall
- Rooftop sun deck with a hot tub and killer views of Aspen Mountain
- Complimentary passes to the upscale Jean-Robert’s Gym or Aspen Rec Center
Quick Take: It’s a glorified boarding house in the best possible location—you're paying for the zip code, not the carpet.
Reviewed by @islandofana: My stay here was the ultimate winter fairytale. Being able to walk to the gondola beat driving, and our balcony had the most insane view of the peaks. We spent days skiing and nights exploring the town center. It’s the perfect romantic home base in Aspen.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'continental breakfast' is basic fuel (pastries and coffee), and the 'mountain view' rooms sometimes overlook a brick wall if you aren't careful.
- You are a skier who prioritizes lift access over luxury linens
- You want to stumble home from the bars without needing an Uber
- You appreciate historic buildings with individual character
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable, though some guests note missed dust in corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean, but grout and fixtures in 'Standard' rooms can show age.
- Maintenance: The biggest complaint. Watch for peeling paint, crooked cabinets, or finicky heating units.
- Linens & towels: Decent quality, but not 5-star plush. 'Premium bedding' is claimed but feels standard hotel grade.
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, but older carpets can hold a faint musty smell in humid weather.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Pedestrian mall chatter and music from nearby bars
- Internal noise from thin historic walls
- Street cleaners/snow plows in early morning
Before you book
Good to know
- Check-in is at 4 PM; if you arrive late, you might need a code for the lockbox
- There is no on-site restaurant for dinner, but you are surrounded by 50 of them
- Ski lockers are available, so you don't have to haul gear to your room
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the mall noise)
- Slippers (carpets can be worn)
- A swimsuit for the rooftop hot tub (the social hub of the hotel)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premier King Rooms (updated decor, better AC)
- Unit 306 or 308 (specifically praised in reviews for layout and condition)
- Top-floor units for better views and less overhead noise
Rooms to avoid
- Lower-floor 'Standard' rooms which may face brick walls or the alley
- Rooms near the elevator shaft if you're sensitive to mechanical noise
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking a stay and requesting a 'Premier' rated unit on the top floor. It is critical that my room has functional air conditioning and does NOT face a brick wall. Please confirm.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really no elevator from the street?
Correct. You walk down stairs to the lobby, then take an elevator to the rooms. It's confusing and difficult with heavy bags.
Does the hotel have parking?
Sort of. They give you a permit to park in residential zones nearby. You have to find your own spot on the street.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, but keep expectations low. Think coffee, juice, and pastries, not made-to-order omelets.
Do all rooms have AC?
No. Many do, especially updated ones, but some older standard rooms rely on mountain air. Ask specifically.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed.
Is there a resort fee?
Not explicitly named 'resort fee', but a 'service fee' is often added to the tax bill. Check your final total carefully.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The rooftop deck is open to all guests, even if you book the cheapest room—bring your own wine for sunset.
- ✨
Use the free gym passes to Jean-Robert’s Gym; it's a high-end local spot you wouldn't normally pay for.
- ✨
If the street parking is full, ask the front desk about the Rio Grande parking garage (paid, but stress-free).
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard' rooms can feel very 1990s condo-style.
💡The lobby is tiny; it's a pass-through, not a hang-out spot.
💡You might get a unit with a kitchenette, which is a huge money-saver in Aspen.
💡The wifi is generally fast enough for Zoom, which is rare for historic lodges.
💡Housekeeping is daily, which is becoming rare in condo-hotel hybrids.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Independence Square Lodge By Frias is located and what's nearby.