Sun Valley Recap
The ease of traveling with Aero, some favorite things to do, places to eat and what to pack.
I was in diapers the first time I went to Sun Valley but it’s been the past decade of making memories with my own family every Winter and Summer that have made it feel more like a second home. During the snowy months it’s truly magical and the prettiest of mountain towns that is luxurious yet understated in the most perfect way.
On our recent visit we flew with Aero, a semi-private jet service out of Van Nuys that fills the gap between first class and flying private. With the girls in tow our travel day felt so special arriving curbside to the Aero private terminal and lounge that was stocked with Erewhon juices, snacks, fresh pastries and coffee. No lines, no waiting (just show up 20 minutes before the flight!) and a quick boarding/take off. Everything about the flight was a dream from the spacious seats, on-board meal by Erewhon, Starlink wifi, amenities from Tower 28 and a top-shelf open bar. A truly elevated day of travel with so much ease that promptly had us in Sun Valley in less than 3 hours.
Aero welcomes pets on board, something we’re going to consider with Bear down the road but lucky for us there was the sweetest Golden Retriever seated behind us and my girls couldn’t have been more obsessed.
Some favorite things we did during our time in Sun Valley this trip…
Lunch and Sledding at Galena Lodge
Galena is a quick 20 min drive out of town where you can snowshoe (rentals available as well), do a tour with a guide, have lunch in the cozy cabin and sled! I never leave without grabbing a few Don bars.
Skiing at Dollar + Baldy
Dollar is the most perfect hill (with a separate lodge) for beginners and kids… at Baldy you can take a gondola to the Roundhouse restaurant which is a fun scene during the day or even at night (definitely make a reservation for dinner).
Lunch at Sun Valley Club
One of our favorite traditions is doing a walk at Trail Creek and then having lunch afterwards at Sun Valley Club (coziest spot for a snowy day too). They bring you a warm chocolate chip cookie with your bill. Something to check out as well is dinner at Trail Creek Cabin—add in a sleigh ride, such a special experience!
A night away in Stanley
One of my absolutely favorite things we did this trip was spend NYE in Stanley, a tiny town just 40 minutes from Sun Valley where some friends have a cabin. They reserved the two hot springs at Mountain Village Resort so our group (kids and all) got to watch the last sunset of the year against the Sawtooth Mountains—something I’ll never forget. Afterwards we had dinner at a friends cabin up there and watched the fireworks.
We love stopping here for lunch, sometimes dinner or drinks at the Duchin room while the kids race down to the arcade and bowling alley… also the ice skating rink is always a load of fun and there’s shopping in the mall right next door. I always make a point to get a massage or facial while I’m there, well-deserved me time, and love using the spa amenities (especially the sauna) and then lounging with a hot toddy while looking out the giant window to Mount Baldy.
Dinner at the Pioneer Saloon aka “The Pio”
A steakhouse that is a true staple of Sun Valley and has all the mountain vibes you could drum up, including a cowboy (chaps and all) to check you in. The bar is so lively and fun, it’s the best scene always and one we never miss.
Lunch or brunch at Humbertos Bistro
A new to me spot I tried with a few girlfriends this trip and loved it. We had lunch (oysters were good, which I’m hesitant to try) but I’ll definitely be returning for brunch. Note: Not a kid-friendly vibe but perfect for some gals and a glass of wine!
Lastly, I rounded up some things that I wore on our trip. A handful that I’ve relied on for the past few years and swear by… like these base layer leggings that are so soft but not too thick and have stirrups so they don’t move around… this Toteme shearling jacket that I wore the entire time (bought a few years ago, best investment)… these boots that are so comfortable (especially great after skiing)… this super thin base layer turtleneck, love this for traveling as well… and a handful of crewneck sweaters, this Alex Mill one was a favorite.
Until next time Sun Valley! You can read more about Aero flights here… they just started flying to Hawaii and it sounds like a dream experience!
xx Sam