In Utah you have shuttles that take you to the different ski locations which are not that far from the airport.

Aspen from Denver ---you have weather issues in driving through the mountains. In Colorado you have other places to ski like Vail/Breckenridge area, Steamboat springs, and others.

I don't recall which place would be best for a newbie to learn how to ski. Some places don't have many entry level runs.

All these areas have small towns associated with them that have restaurants/things to do at night.

Christmas week is a big time for ski resorts where prices are inflated.