{"id":6859,"date":"2023-01-23T21:25:23","date_gmt":"2023-01-23T21:25:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/?p=6859"},"modified":"2026-02-12T04:08:36","modified_gmt":"2026-02-12T04:08:36","slug":"things-to-do-in-vail-colorado","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/things-to-do-in-vail-colorado\/","title":{"rendered":"Can\u2019t Miss Things to Do in Vail, CO"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\nWith around 300 inches of snow and more than 300 days of sunshine per year, the mountain town of Vail<\/a> in Colorado is understandably one of the most premium winter sports destinations in the world. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nHowever, you may not know that Vail is more than just a world-famous skier\u2019s paradise. There are also countless things to do during the summer and shoulder seasons.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re planning to visit Vail, bookmark this article. Here are the can\u2019t-miss things to do in Vail, Colorado.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Orientating Yourself in Vail<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nVail, Colorado, is a small town sitting at the base of Vail Mountain. Set among the White River National Forest, Vail is home to a huge ski resort and is one of the most popular places in North America to ski and snowboard.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Skier\u2019s Paradise<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nVail had its first ski season in 1962 after soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division returned to Colorado following World War II with the intention of opening a resort. Since then, the destination has become globally recognized as one of the best winter sports locations globally, with around 1.3 million tourists visiting each year.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How To Get There<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nVail is easy to get to and is served by two airports: Eagle Regional Airport<\/strong>, 30 miles west of Vail, and Denver International Airport<\/strong>, 120 miles east of Vail. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nBoth have direct flights from major cities and regional airports throughout the US and beyond. If you\u2019re planning on driving, the journey boasts epic scenery of the Rocky Mountains, making the journey almost as exciting as the destination. The I-70 is the direct route into Vail and is the road you\u2019ll want to take to get into town.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nNow, let\u2019s get into those can\u2019t-miss things to do in Vail.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Get Active<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nWith its picturesque peaks, crystal clear rivers, and red-rock canyons, Vail offers breathtaking beauty and a wealth of fun activities for nature lovers. From hiking to mountain biking to fishing and more, Vail has something for everyone! \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vail Epic Discovery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Photo Credit: Andriy Blokhin<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf adrenaline is your thing, add Lionshead Village\u2019s<\/a> Epic Discovery to your vacation itinerary. Epic Discovery is open from June to September, so it is perfect for summer visits and when the snow disappears.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe activities at Vail Epic Discovery<\/a> are seemingly endless. They include racing through the forest on the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, Paramount Peak Climbing Wall, Eagle\u2019s Nest Tubing Hill, and a Bungee Trampoline. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nGuests can also tackle the adventure course, one of the best rope courses in Colorado, or soar high above the treeline on seven super-fast ziplines on the Game Creek Zipline tour.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nSlightly more relaxing is the scenic gondola ride up the mountain from Lionshead and Vail Village. At the top, you\u2019ll find spectacular views, fun activities, and several dining options. The gondolas also provide access to a great network of hiking and biking trails.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThis is also an excellent spot for families with kids, and the little ones in your group can tackle the kids\u2019 tubing hill, climbing wall, and several other activities designed for young visitors. And what\u2019s perhaps best about Epic Discovery is that it partners with The Nature Conservancy, which helps to promote the growth and preservation of Vail\u2019s natural environment.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vail Ski Resort<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Photo Credit: Steve Boice<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you\u2019re heading to Vail during winter, chances are that you\u2019re planning to ski. The Vail Ski Resort<\/a> is one of North America’s top resorts, with over 5,000 skiable acres and a huge variety of terrains. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nVisitors can ski and snowboard during winter and try their hand at tubing, ski-biking, and snowmobiling. There\u2019s also plenty to do in summer, such as zip-lining, hiking, and adventure courses.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe resort has three restaurants, including Game Creek Club<\/a>, a highly popular fine dining experience set in a mountain chalet. There\u2019s also Bistro Fourteen for more casual meals and The 10th, an on-mountain spot for quick bites. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you prefer to spend your time relaxing rather than racing down mountains, check out Vail Ski Resort\u2019s luxurious spa and its wide array of treatments and experiences.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nLift tickets, lodgings, lessons, and equipment rental are all available on the ski resort\u2019s website, and lift tickets are refundable if your plans change.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fat Tire Biking<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Photo Credit: Lopolo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nFans of biking rejoice! Thanks to fat tire biking, it\u2019s entirely possible to bike in winter. Fat tire bikes are used for biking over soft and unstable surfaces such as snow because their oversized tires and wide rims help them to grip the slippery surface better.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nVail Nordic Center (which becomes Vail Golf Course<\/a> in the summer) is the best place to start because it has 8 miles of trails groomed especially for fat tire snow bikes. If you\u2019re new to the sport, lessons and rentals are available here.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vail Stables<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Photo Credit: Colin Dewar<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nRelease your inner cowboy at Vail Stables<\/a>, a small and rustic outdoor adventure spot. Situated about a mile northwest of Vail, this fun independent company specializes in horseback riding. Whether you\u2019re a pro rider or a first-timer, you can enjoy a day in the great outdoors in complete comfort and safety.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe trails wind up and down mountainous terrain and take in dense forests and wide vistas along steep cliffs. These aspen glades and sweeping views make for some of the most spectacular scenery in Colorado and are worthy of a selfie or two.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nVail Stable also offers what it calls Goat Activities<\/em>. Whether you\u2019ve always wanted to do goat yoga (goga) or you\u2019d love to hang out with 20 baby goats while you drink a beer, you can do it here. The Crooked Cow Saloon does a great happy hour, too, and kids can enjoy parent-led pony rides around the beer garden.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nVail Stable is open from May to October each year, making it a great summer activity. Reservations are required, and horse riding spots book up quickly, so plan in advance.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Explore The Outdoors<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThis picturesque mountain town offers visitors breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, along with plenty of thrilling outdoor activities to explore. From taking long hikes on scenic trails and horseback riding trips through the wilderness to fishing in pristine alpine lakes, there’s something for everyone looking to reconnect with nature.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vail Nature Center<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Vail Nature Center<\/a> is located in a 1940s homestead situated among a rolling mountain meadow and Gore Creek\u2019s dense forest, just beside the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nWith seven acres to explore and to be close to the heart of Vail, this is a great place to explore spectacular trailheads when the snow is clearing. Inside, several exhibits and a team of knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you learn more about Vail\u2019s stunning natural scenery.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nPrograms available at the nature center include trekking, birding, beaver pond tours, stargazing, wildflower viewing, and creekside nature tours. Visitors are welcome to enjoy this activity for free, but donations are welcome. If you don\u2019t have a vehicle, the nature center is also accessible from Vail Village by bus.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Booth Falls Trail<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Photo Credit: Kristi Blokhin<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you\u2019re visiting Vail during the shoulder season or in summer, pack away your skis and strap on your hiking boots to explore the Booth Falls Trail<\/a>. There are dozens of hiking trails in the mountainous terrain of Vail, but Booth Falls is not to be missed.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThis challenging trek is a 10-mile, out-and-back walk that gains around 3,000 feet in elevation. During the challenging climb, you\u2019ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of lakes, waterfalls, and aspen forests.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you aren\u2019t up to the full 10-mile hike, you\u2019re in luck! Just two miles along the trailhead is the breathtaking 60-foot waterfall that the trail is named after. However, if you keep going, you\u2019ll discover Booth Lake, atmospheric pine forests, soaring peaks, and beautiful wildflowers.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nAsk your hotel or Airbnb host for information on this hike, or check out All Trails<\/a> for details of the route. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nBetty Ford Alpine Gardens<\/a> aims to promote a deeper understanding of conservation for the fragile mountain environment and its alpine plants.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThere are five distinct botanical gardens for visitors to explore: the Children\u2019s Garden, Schoolhouse Garden, Mountain Perennial Garden, Meditation Garden, and Alpine Rock Garden. In addition, there is an amphitheater, museum, and gift shop to check out. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe education center is another fascinating part of this attraction and features a state-of-the-art alpine house, a rooftop terrace, and a pollinator garden. If you\u2019d like to take a tour, there are public and private ones throughout summer, and in the winter, guests can enjoy a self-guided snowshoe tour.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThere are seasonal highlights on the program every month of the year, making this a great year-round activity. The site is open daily from dawn until dusk (the education center is open from 10 am to 4 pm), and admission is free, but a $20 donation is suggested.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Tour Vail\u2019s Museums and Theatres<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nOffering world-class museums, galleries, and amphitheaters, this breathtaking destination provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore new cultures from around the world. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nColorado\u2019s winter sports scene is legendary, so it makes sense that Vail would be home to a museum that tells the exhilarating story of its rise in popularity. Tucked in Vail Village<\/a>, the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame<\/a> is the perfect introduction to the storied sports history of this area. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThrough historical artifacts and immersive displays, guests can learn the incredible story of how Vail came to be what it is today, beginning with the 10th Mountain Division: the brave Word War II mountain troopers who made the town what it is now.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nColorado\u2019s iconic winter sports heroes are displayed and celebrated in the Hall of Fame. The exhibit delves into the daredevils that have conquered the state\u2019s highest peaks, and the interactive \u2018Ski Resorts Table\u2019 highlights the 26 active ski areas that tourists flock from far and wide to enjoy.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Colorado Snowsports Museum also delves into Vail Valley and the rise of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado. Visitors are invited to experience its impressive transformation from a sleepy mountain destination to one of the best spots in the world for winter sports. The team behind the museum says that \u201ccelebrating these stories is vital to preserving the legacy of our sport,\u201d and we are inclined to agree.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe museum is open daily from 10 am until 5 pm and is free to enter. Free parking is available in the Vail Village Parking Structure from November to April.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater (The Amp)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nKnown as The Amp<\/em>, the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater<\/a> is a popular outdoor venue where visitors can enjoy musical performances and more. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe venue attracts world-class musical talent, including rock bands and orchestras, and is also the location of the legendary Vail Dance Festival. Weekly free Hot Summer Nights concerts always draw a good crowd, and local chorale and theater presentations can regularly be found on the program.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nThe mountainous slope of the venue gives great views of the stage and the surrounding forest of the Rocky Mountains, making for a unique live music experience that every Vail visitor should experience. The venue can host just over 2,500 guests, and the covered Pavilion area seats 1,265 people at any one time.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nCheck the website for the calendar and to buy tickets.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Wander Downtown<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Photo Credit: Kevin Ruck<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nFrom looking out over pristine ski hills to tasting delicious local cuisine, Downtown Vail is a great spot to spend a day exploring. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sonnenalp Spa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nSet in the heart of Vail Village in the Sonnenalp Hotel, the Sonnenalp Spa<\/a> is the <\/em>best spot to relax and unwind. This tranquil facility is perfect for some R&R all year round and includes indoor and outdoor tranquility pools, a riverfront sun deck, and a summer pool bar.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nA wide range of treatments is available, including facials, facial enhancements, massage treatments, waxing, and tinting. A fantastic fitness center is also open from 6 am to 10 pm daily and has all the equipment needed for a great workout.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nTip:<\/strong> If you\u2019re having trouble with altitude sickness or need an energy boost, check out the spa\u2019s oxygen bar. This treatment produces 94.7% oxygen which helps alleviate symptoms, including shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and nausea.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vail Village & Lionshead Village<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Villages of Vail<\/a> have enough fun things to do to be considered tourist attractions themselves. There are dozens of shops, art galleries, attractions to enjoy, and countless eateries.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nSpend a full day wandering and browsing to soak up the atmosphere, or check out the regular Vail farmers\u2019 markets to buy souvenirs for friends and family back home. During winter, Vail Square is also the location of an ice skating rink which is the perfect evening activity for all ages.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nTip: while you\u2019re strolling around, look out for the public art in the streets and the engraved stones with riddles and rebuses.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Escape Room Vail<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\nFor days when the weather isn\u2019t good, summon your inner detective and see if you can make it out of Escape Room Vail<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you haven\u2019t done one before, you and your group are locked in a themed room and must find your way out by using clues, solving riddles, and cracking codes to escape in time before time runs out. The rooms are designed for ages six and up, costing $40 per person. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Eat and Drink Around Vail<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nAlthough Vail is mainly known for its outdoor pursuits, it has a vibrant food scene that can\u2019t be missed. The following spots are some of Vail’s most-loved, top-rated dining options.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n