Vail, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you planning a summer adventure in the Colorado Rockies? Vail, Colorado, is a top spot for fun all year round. It offers many activities and experiences for everyone. From skiing and snowboarding in winter to outdoor fun and cultural events in summer, Vail has it all.

This town is set in a stunning alpine area. It has European-style buildings, beautiful mountains, and a lively community. If you want exciting adventures or a peaceful getaway, Vail has something special for you.

Key Takeaways

• Vail, Colorado is a premier year-round destination offering endless activities and experiences
• The town boasts a variety of summer pursuits, including mountain biking, hiking, and golfing
• Vail features distinct villages, each with its own unique charm and cultural offerings
• The town's culinary scene caters to a wide range of tastes, from gourmet dining to casual seasonal options
• Vail's top attractions, such as Vail Mountain Resort and the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, are highly ranked on TripAdvisor

Embrace the Enchanting Summers in Vail

Vail turns into a lively summer paradise with outdoor adventures and cultural events. Walk through the charming Vail Village, with its cobblestone streets and local shops. Enjoy nature by hiking the Vail Rec Path, visiting the Vail Nature Center, or walking through Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.

A European-Style Village Brimming with Adventure

Vail offers mountain biking, horseback riding, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting. It's perfect for those who love adventure. This town is full of activities for everyone.

Explore the Alpine Landscape at Your Own Pace

Vail's beautiful mountains invite you to enjoy the outdoors at your pace. Ride a gondola to the top of Vail Mountain for amazing views and trails. Play golf at the Vail Golf Club or go horseback riding at Piney River Ranch. Vail has activities for all, from thrilling adventures to peaceful moments.

Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Culture and History

Vail's summer is full of cultural events and historical sites. Check out the Vail Farmers' Market and Art Show for local art and music. Don't miss the Vail Dance Festival and Bravo! Vail music festival at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. Learn about Vail's history at Camp Hale, a WWII training site, and discover its link to former President Gerald Ford.

Discover Vail's Winter Wonders Beyond Skiing

Vail is famous for its top-notch skiing, but there's more to do in the winter. Try snowmobiling for an exciting adventure through the Colorado backcountry. Or, put on snowshoes to explore the Rocky Mountains and learn about the local wildlife and ecosystem.

Embrace the Spirit of Adventure in the Rocky Mountains

Vail started in the 1960s by World War II veterans who wanted to bring European ski resorts to the U.S. Now, it's a top ski spot in North America. For those looking for more thrills, snowmobiling in Vail is a must. You'll ride through snow-covered lands, see amazing mountain views, and feel the excitement of exploring the wild.

Indulge in Relaxation at Vail's Luxurious Spas

After being outside, relax at one of Vail's famous spas. The Four Seasons Vail, Lodge at Vail, and Sonnenalp Hotel have amazing spa services. Enjoy massages, facials, and hot tubs to relax and recover from the high altitude.

Whether you want a full spa day or just a quick break, Vail has great spas for you. They offer the perfect chance to treat yourself.

"Vail's diverse winter offerings cater to a variety of interests and skill levels, ensuring there's an adventure waiting for everyone."

Dine at the Iconic Game Creek Cabin

For a unique dining experience, head to the Game Creek Cabin at the top of Vail's Back Bowls. You can only get there by gondola and snowcat. This spot used to be an exclusive club and now offers a memorable multi-course meal with stunning mountain views. The trip there is an adventure, with a scenic gondola ride and a thrilling snowcat ride to the remote spot.

The food is inspired by local flavors and the place has a cozy, rustic feel. It's a top spot for Vail après ski fun. The menu has seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. It shows off Vail's top-notch culinary skills.

"Dining at Game Creek Cabin is a truly extraordinary experience. The breathtaking views, coupled with the exceptional service and mouthwatering cuisine, make it a must-visit destination for any foodie visiting Vail."

If you're looking for a romantic night or a special celebration, the Game Creek Cabin is perfect. It offers an unmatched Vail après ski experience. Because it's so popular, booking ahead is a good idea.

Explore Vail Village and Lionshead Village

In the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Vail Village and Lionshead Village shine with charm. These areas blend European-style buildings, upscale shops, and a bustling food scene. They cater to all tastes.

Walking through Vail Village, you'll see Bavarian-style buildings and quaint shops. You can also visit art galleries that highlight the area's culture. Don't miss the Vail ice skating rink. Here, you can skate under the stars and mountains.

Lionshead Village is just a short walk away. It has its own style and lots of things to do. You can shop at high-end stores, try different foods, and enjoy the lively vibe.

Experience the European Charm and Lively Atmosphere

Whether you like to shop, eat, or just enjoy the scene, Vail's villages are perfect. They offer a break from the usual with their European feel. Let the energy of these places take you in.

"Vail is a place that feels like it was carved straight out of the Swiss Alps and transplanted to Colorado."

Vail's villages have cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and top-notch services. They give visitors a special and memorable experience. Come and make memories in these magical places.

Unwind at Vail's Unforgettable Après Ski Scene

No visit to Vail, Colorado, is complete without diving into the town's lively après ski culture. After a day on the slopes, go to places like Garfinkel's, Pepi's, The George, and The Remedy Bar. These spots are perfect for unwinding and celebrating your mountain adventures.

These places offer a true Vail vibe with cheap drinks, live music, and a chill atmosphere. Enjoy the beautiful views, tasty bar food, and chat with other skiers and snowboarders. It's a great way to end your mountain day.

Vail's après ski scene is a key part of winter fun in the town. It's where you can dance or just relax with others who love the mountains. Everyone finds something fun to do in this lively après ski spot.

"Vail's après ski culture is a must-experience for any winter enthusiast. The energy and atmosphere are unmatched, making it the perfect way to cap off a day on the slopes."

So, after a fun day on the mountain, visit Vail's top après ski places. Enjoy the town's lively, social, and mountain vibe.

Embrace the Winter Wonderland on Snowshoes

Experience the magic of Vail's winter by going on a guided Vail snowshoeing tour. It's perfect for both beginners and seasoned outdoor lovers. These tours let you see the snow-covered beauty in a unique way.

For a calm and learning-filled trip, try a tour of the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Guides will take you through the gardens. They'll tell you about the plants and animals that live there in winter.

Or, join a snowshoeing trip with the Walking Mountains Science Center. They offer daily tours that teach you about the area's nature and wildlife. These tours help you feel closer to the Rocky Mountains in winter.

Vail's snowshoeing offers a peaceful or educational adventure. It lets you dive into the Rocky Mountains' winter beauty.

Vail, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Vail sits in the Colorado Rockies, offering activities all year round. It's perfect for skiing and snowboarding in winter and outdoor fun and cultural events in summer. The town's European look, stunning mountains, and lively community make it special.

Looking for adventure or a calm getaway? Vail has attractions and activities that will impress you. Check out the best things to do in this famous ski resort and mountain town:

Outdoor Exploration

• Hike the Booth Falls Trail, a 3.9-mile route that takes around 2 hours 30 minutes to traverse and offers stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
• Discover the Strawberry Lawn, a 2-kilometer family-friendly trail featuring charming aspen groves, small streams, vibrant wildflowers, and serene snowmaking ponds.
• Embark on the challenging Gore Lake Trail, a 12-mile route with steep slopes that rewards hikers with scenic vistas of pine forests and picturesque aspen groves.
• Rent a bike from Base Mountain Sports and explore Vail's vast network of mountain biking trails, taking in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
• Enjoy a guided horseback trail ride through the picturesque wilderness surrounding Vail Mountain with Vail Stables.

Cultural Immersion

Experience Vail's culture and history at the Vail Farmers' Market and Art Show. It runs for 16 Sundays each summer, with over 40 food vendors and 148 tents full of local artisanal products.

Winter Wonderland

In winter, Vail turns into a winter wonderland. There's more than skiing and snowboarding. Enjoy ice skating, snow tubing, kids' snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and more at this iconic ski resort.

Vail, Colorado, is a top spot for outdoor lovers, culture fans, and winter sports fans. It has amazing amenities, beautiful nature, and lots of activities.

Embark on a Thrilling Snowmobiling Adventure

Experience the Rocky Mountains in a new way with a Vail snowmobiling adventure. Choose from half-day or full-day excursions with Nova Guides. They offer transportation, equipment, and expert guides for an unforgettable journey through Colorado's wilderness.

Ride through pristine terrain and enjoy stunning views. This Vail winter activity is perfect for both experienced snowmobilers and first-timers. It's a thrilling way to see Vail's beauty beyond the ski slopes.

Nova Guides is known for safety and quality since 2009. They have a 4.9 rating from thousands of reviews and a 5 to 1 guide to group ratio. With over 100 miles of groomed trails, your snowmobiling trip will be unforgettable.

"Sage Outdoor Adventures has been defining safety & excellence for outdoor excursions since 2009."

If you prefer to go it alone, Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals has top-notch Polaris machines. Vail Extreme Rentals also offers touring and high-performance models for different preferences.

Whether you go with a guide or on your own, the landscapes and the thrill of snowmobiling will amaze you. Start your Vail snowmobiling adventure and make memories that will last a lifetime in this winter wonderland.

Ascend to New Heights with a Gondola Ride

For a breathtaking view of Vail's ski slopes and mountains, take a ride on the Vail gondola. The Eagle Bahn Gondola takes you up the slopes easily, without skiing or snowboarding. It's open to everyone after 3:30 pm for free.

At the top, enjoy a meal or drink at Bistro Fourteen with amazing views. The gondola ride is a top activity in Vail, giving you a unique view of the town's beauty.

"The Vail gondola ride is an unforgettable experience that allows you to soak in the stunning mountain scenery from a whole new vantage point."

The Vail gondola is great for skiers and those who want to see Vail's mountains. It's easy to get to the top with great views. This attraction is a must-see in Colorado.

The Vail gondola offers a stunning view of the ski slopes and mountains. It's a key experience in Colorado. Climb to new heights and enjoy the beauty of Vail.

Discover Vail's Outdoor Adventures and Cultural Delights

Vail, Colorado, is famous for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding. The Vail Mountain Resort has over 5,000 acres of terrain for all skill levels. But there's more than just skiing here. You can also enjoy whitewater rafting on the beautiful rivers. Lakota Guides offers trips down the Upper Colorado River for an exciting way to see Vail's beauty.

Explore the Vail Mountain Resort and Whitewater Rafting

Vail's outdoor activities are unforgettable. Whether you're skiing or rafting, you'll be amazed. The town's stunning nature lets you dive deep into its beauty.

Immerse Yourself in Natural Beauty at Scenic Trails and Gardens

• Hike the Booth Falls Trail, a six-mile path through lush forests and past water, offering stunning views.
• See the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden at the base of Vail Mountain.
• Visit the Vail Nature Center, which has educational programs and exhibits on the local ecosystem.

Vail's trails and gardens are perfect for everyone. You can enjoy peaceful walks or challenging hikes, all surrounded by the Rocky Mountains' beauty.

Experience Local Flavors at the Vail Farmers' Market and Art Show

The Vail Farmers' Market and Art Show celebrates local culture and art. It's open Sundays from June to October. You'll find Colorado-made products like fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items. Enjoy the market, try local foods, and talk to vendors. Then, explore the art scene by checking out the amazing artwork on display.

Embrace History at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and Camp Hale

Vail honors its history at places like the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and Camp Hale. The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater hosts cultural events and performances in the summer. Camp Hale, once a U.S. military training site in World War II, shows Vail's past. Visiting these places helps you understand Vail's heritage and its impact on the town.

Conclusion

Vail, Colorado, is a true gem in the Rocky Mountains. It offers a year-round mix of amazing experiences. Whether you want the excitement of skiing and snowboarding in winter or the calm beauty and culture of summer, Vail has it all.

The villages of Vail and Lionshead are charming, with a European feel. There are endless outdoor adventures, luxurious spas, and a great dining scene. This mountain paradise has everything you could want. When you visit, the community welcomes you warmly, ready to share their town and its history.

Plan your trip to Vail, Colorado, and discover a world of possibilities. Every season in Vail is a chance to make memories that last. With its top attractions and activities, Vail promises an unforgettable visit. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of this amazing town.