I’ll be honest—Vail swept me off my feet faster than a black diamond run. Tucked into the heart of the Colorado Rockies, this upscale mountain town mixes world-class outdoor adventure with cozy village vibes and year-round charm. I visited expecting a ski town, but I discovered so much more: golden hikes, riverside trails, après-ski fondue, and some of the prettiest alpine architecture I’ve seen outside of Europe.
Whether you’re planning a snow-filled winter escape or a summer trip with mountain breezes and wildflower meadows, here’s everything I loved (and a few things I’d do differently) when exploring Vail.
1. Stroll Through Vail Village
This was the first place I wandered after arriving—and it felt like stepping into a Swiss postcard. Pedestrian-only cobblestone streets, flower boxes on wooden balconies, and cafés spilling out onto patios made it feel effortlessly charming. I stopped for a morning latte at Loaded Joe’s and window-shopped at the boutiques before following the Gore Creek Path that winds right through town.
Tip: Don’t miss the covered bridge and the nearby Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. They’re peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for a slow afternoon.
2. Ski or Snowboard Vail Mountain
Vail is home to over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain—and yes, it’s just as epic as it sounds. I spent a whole day chasing powder through the back bowls, which feel wild and wide open compared to other resorts I’ve visited. If you’re a beginner, there are gentler slopes near Lionshead. If you’re experienced, head straight to the legendary Blue Sky Basin.
Best time to ski: Late January to early March for fresh snow and fewer holiday crowds.
3. Ride the Gondola Up for Summer Views
Even without skis, the Eagle Bahn Gondola is totally worth it. I rode up in July and was blown away by the panoramic views—pine forests, jagged peaks, and distant blue lakes. At the top, there’s a mountaintop playground called Epic Discovery, where you can zipline, tube down summer snow tracks, and walk scenic trails at 10,000 feet.
Bring sunscreen! The altitude makes the sun feel extra intense even when it’s cool out.
4. Explore Booth Falls Trail
If you only do one hike in Vail, make it Booth Falls. It’s a moderately steep 4-mile round-trip trail with rewarding views the entire way—wildflowers, forested switchbacks, and a waterfall finale that’s worth every step. I packed a sandwich and ate it on a rock beside the falls, legs dangling over the creek.
Parking can fill up quickly, so I started early and caught the morning light filtering through the aspens.
5. Indulge in Après-Ski Dining
One of my favorite parts of any mountain town? The food. And Vail doesn’t disappoint. I warmed up with fondue at Almresi, where the wood-paneled interiors feel like a mountain lodge fantasy. Another night, I splurged on steak and wine at Mountain Standard—elevated but relaxed, and the service was as warm as the roaring fire.
For budget eats, head to La Cantina in Vail Village. Their burritos hit the spot after a long hike.
6. Discover Art in the Mountains
I wasn’t expecting to find so much art in Vail, but the town has its own creative heartbeat. From summer Bravo! Vail classical music concerts to the Art in Public Places sculpture walk, there’s plenty of culture to explore between adventures. I wandered through the Colorado Snowsports Museum and even stumbled into an outdoor jazz performance on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
7. Go Fly Fishing on Gore Creek
I’m not usually the fishing type, but when a local guide offered to show me the ropes, I gave it a shot—and ended up totally hooked. Fly fishing on Gore Creek is peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly meditative. Whether you’re experienced or just curious, there are lots of half-day trips with all gear provided.
I booked through a shop in Lionshead and they tailored everything to beginners.
8. Take a Day Trip to Piney River Ranch
About 45 minutes from Vail (with a bumpy but scenic drive), Piney River Ranch feels like the edge of the world. I kayaked across a mirror-like lake, took photos with the Gore Range reflected behind me, and saw moose tracks on the trail. It’s rustic, stunning, and a true hidden escape.
They close in early fall, so check ahead if you’re going outside of summer.
9. Relax at a Mountain Spa
After all that activity, I treated myself to a deep-tissue massage at the Spa at the Arrabelle. I didn’t realize how sore I was until I melted into their eucalyptus steam room. Many hotels offer spa day passes too, so even if you’re not staying on-site, you can still soak and unwind.
10. Visit During a Local Festival
If your trip lines up with Vail Snow Days, GoPro Mountain Games, or Vail Dance Festival, count yourself lucky. These events turn the whole village into a buzzing hub of music, sport, and celebration. I happened to visit during Snow Days and caught a free concert under the stars—gloved hands in the air, snowflakes falling, local cider in hand. Magic.
🏔️ Final Thoughts: Why Vail Stuck with Me
What makes Vail special isn’t just the skiing or the scenery—it’s how seamlessly everything comes together. The food, the fresh air, the friendliness. It feels polished but never pretentious. Whether you’re coming for outdoor thrills, a romantic getaway, or just to slow down in the mountains, Vail wraps you up in alpine beauty and makes it hard to leave.
FAQ: Things to Do in Vail
What is Vail best known for?
Vail is best known for its world-class skiing, charming alpine village, and luxurious mountain atmosphere year-round.
Is Vail worth visiting in summer?
Yes! Vail in summer offers hiking, gondola rides, wildflowers, festivals, and outdoor adventures with fewer crowds than winter.
How many days do you need in Vail?
I recommend 3–4 days to enjoy both the village and the mountains, whether you’re skiing or hiking.
Is Vail walkable?
Yes, Vail Village and Lionshead are very walkable. You can get around easily on foot or by free shuttle.
Are there budget-friendly things to do in Vail?
Absolutely—free hiking trails, art walks, picnic spots, and window shopping in the village make for a memorable visit without breaking the bank.