The Vibe
Laid-back and luxe. From the moment I stepped into the Limelight, I understood what the general manager meant by a “community living room.” Locals and guests mingle around the fireplace, dogs curl up at their owners’ feet and a sense of ease fills the space — effortless, genuine and shaped by the stunning surroundings. The building is modern, with a mountain-chic air, open spaces, contemporary art and meeting areas that feel both functional and inviting. One of the best perks? The hotel sits in the heart of downtown Ketchum. Galleries, restaurants and shops are just steps away, making it easy to wander, soak in the vibe and never reach for a car.
Opened in 2017, this Limelight was the brand’s second hotel after Aspen (2010), carrying the same mountain-modern DNA: open spaces, contemporary art and a lobby buzzing with energy from morning to night. Owned by the Aspen Skiing Company, the brand now boasts sister properties in Aspen, Snowmass, Boulder and soon, Charleston, South Carolina.
How I Felt
Easygoing yet elevated. Staying here felt like slipping into Ketchum’s rhythm — relaxed without losing sophistication. Nothing felt forced. Staff greeted me warmly, shared insider hiking tips and pointed out their favorite après spots. Adventure pulses through every corner, but without pretension — just people who love the outdoors, good company and a touch of luxe.
The Digs
My room framed the mountains in a way that made mornings hard to leave. Sleek, minimal and warm, it combined blonde wood tones, soft lighting and subtle mountain accents. My favorite indulgences? The oversized soaking tub and the cozy fireplace — perfect companions after a day exploring Sun Valley’s trails or wandering Ketchum’s galleries.
The hotel offers 99 rooms and a handful of residences for extended stays. A cozy outdoor pool and hot tubs, a small fitness center and inviting lounge spaces make it easy to work remotely or unwind. In the evenings, the lounge comes alive with cocktails, creative comfort food and a little live music. Step outside, and you’re minutes from hiking trails or the heart of town.
The Agenda
The Limelight sits right in the heart of Idaho’s Wood River Valley, surrounded by mountains that practically beg you to explore them. The Audi e-tron house cars made getting around super easy, though downtown was just steps away. After wandering the streets for a bit of shopping, I took the Audi Q7 up into the mountains to catch the fall colors at their peak. Sunlight shifting across the peaks and the crisp mountain air made the drive feel magical. Whether I was in town or in the hills, it all felt relaxed and alive.
The Eats
Mornings begin with a complimentary breakfast buffet: fluffy eggs, fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries and strong coffee with a side of mountain views. Later, the bar and lounge tempt with wood-fired pizzas, soups and shareable bites paired with local craft beer or wine. Dining out? Pioneer Saloon serves hearty steaks with Western flair, Enoteca charms with European warmth and Fiamma reinvents Italian classics — all just steps from the hotel.
Why I’d Go Back
The Limelight Ketchum strikes a rare balance between luxe sophistication and cozy comfort. Modern without sterility, social without noise. The combination of thoughtful design, lively communal spaces and proximity to the town makes it a spot I want to return to — no matter what adventure is on the agenda. Whether skiing, hiking or simply breathing the high-mountain air, it feels like the perfect home base — a bright, easygoing haven that lets Ketchum’s magic shine through no matter the season.
Sharon Kurtz
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