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Things to do in Vail

Massive Back Bowls skiing and a faux-Tyrolean village.

Vail, CO, USA· Airport: EGE
Vail — Things to do | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Vail's pedestrian villages are best explored on foot, complemented by a reliable free in-town bus system that connects Vail Village, Lionshead, and other key areas.
  • The Epic Discovery summer program at Vail Mountain offers zip lines, a mountain coaster, and adventure courses accessible via gondola, suitable for various age groups.
  • The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in North America, provides free admission and offers educational programs and peaceful walking paths.
  • Many activities, including hiking and scenic gondola rides, operate from late spring through fall, offering a different mountain experience than the winter ski season.
  • For convenience, fly into Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), located approximately 35 miles west of Vail, with shuttle services available for transport.
  • During peak seasons (winter holidays, summer weekends), book dining reservations and popular activities like fly fishing guides or bike rentals well in advance.

Vail, Colorado, is widely known as a premier ski destination, but its appeal extends well beyond the winter months. Visitors arriving at Vail during the warmer seasons will find a vibrant alpine village offering an array of activities, from high-altitude hiking and mountain biking to scenic gondola rides and cultural events. The town's European-inspired architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets make exploring a pleasant experience, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and public art installations.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, the surrounding White River National Forest provides a vast playground. Hiking trails cater to all abilities, leading to breathtaking viewpoints or serene alpine lakes. The area also boasts some of the country's top mountain biking terrain, with extensive networks of singletrack and lift-served downhill routes. Don't overlook the opportunity for fly fishing on Gore Creek or a round of golf on courses designed to integrate with the mountain landscape.

Beyond the active pursuits, Vail offers a more relaxed pace for visitors interested in art, music, and fine dining. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, for instance, is the highest botanical garden in North America, showcasing diverse plant life adapted to the high elevation. Throughout the year, various festivals and concerts fill the calendar, providing entertainment options that complement the natural beauty. Exploring the villages of Vail and Lionshead reveals unique boutiques and world-class restaurants, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.

When planning your trip, consider the seasonal variations in activities. While winter centers on skiing and snowboarding, summer brings a different set of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Regardless of the time of year, Vail provides distinct ways to engage with its mountain environment and resort amenities. If navigating the options feels overwhelming, a travel agent can help tailor an itinerary to your interests.

In this guide

  • Top sights
  • Free things to do in Vail
  • Best with kids
  • Day trips from Vail
  • Food experiences

Frequently asked questions

What are some free activities to do in Vail?
Vail offers several excellent free activities. You can explore the pedestrian villages of Vail and Lionshead, known for their European-style architecture, public art, and window shopping. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, located near Vail Village, offers free admission to its stunning high-altitude botanical displays. Hiking on the extensive network of trails surrounding Vail is also free, with options ranging from easy strolls along Gore Creek to more strenuous mountain ascents providing scenic views. Additionally, the free in-town bus system makes getting around straightforward without incurring transportation costs.
Is Vail a good destination for families with children?
Yes, Vail is a family-friendly destination with activities appealing to various ages. In winter, ski schools and beginner slopes are plentiful. During summer, the Epic Discovery program on Vail Mountain provides numerous attractions like the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, zip lines, and adventure courses. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens often host children's programs, and parks like Donovan Park offer playgrounds. Many hotels and restaurants are accustomed to accommodating families, and the pedestrian villages provide a safe environment for exploration.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
What's the best time of year to visit Vail if I'm not interested in skiing?
If skiing isn't your primary interest, the summer and fall months (June through early October) offer a different, yet equally engaging, Vail experience. Summer provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, and attending outdoor concerts. Fall is particularly scenic, with aspen trees turning golden, making it ideal for scenic drives, photography, and leaf-peeping hikes. During these seasons, you'll find fewer crowds compared to peak winter, and a wider array of non-skiing-specific activities are available.
How do I get around Vail without a car?
Vail has an efficient and free public transportation system that makes navigating the town easy without a car. The in-town bus service connects Vail Village, Lionshead, Golden Peak, and other key points, with frequent routes and clearly marked stops. Many accommodations are located within walking distance of gondolas, restaurants, and shops. For arrivals from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) or Denver International Airport (DEN), numerous shuttle services are available for direct transport to your lodging in Vail.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Are there any cultural attractions or museums in Vail?
While Vail is primarily known for its outdoor recreation, it does offer cultural points of interest. The Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame, located in Vail Village, provides insight into the history of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado, with free admission. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens also features educational exhibits on high-altitude horticulture. Additionally, Vail hosts various art galleries, public art installations throughout the villages, and seasonal festivals like the Vail Dance Festival and Bravo! Vail Music Festival, which bring world-class performers to the area.
What kind of hiking trails can I find in Vail?
Vail offers a diverse range of hiking trails catering to different fitness levels and preferences. You can find easy, paved paths along Gore Creek, suitable for a leisurely stroll or a family walk. For moderate hikes, trails like Booth Falls or Meadow Mountain offer scenic views and a good workout without extreme elevation gain. More challenging options, such as those leading to ridges above Vail Mountain or into the Eagles Nest Wilderness, provide significant elevation changes and panoramic vistas. Many trails are accessible directly from the villages or via the gondolas during summer.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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