As a Texan, I never knew summer could be so pleasant! I was amazed to find a summer paradise where flowers keep blooming, hiking doesn’t turn you into a sweaty mess, and the views look like a European fairytale. That’s Vail, Colorado! This stunning mountain town is the perfect summer escape, offering cool temperatures, beautiful scenery, and plenty of fun activities. From scenic gondola rides and thrilling mountain biking to serene hikes and relaxing village strolls, Vail offers a diverse range of experiences for a truly one-of-a-kind getaway.
Ready to explore the best things to do in Vail? Let’s take a look at what makes this place a must-visit!
Best Things To Do in Vail, Colorado
Sonnenalp Vail: Your Gateway to Mountain Elegance
There’s no better way to start your Vail journey than by finding the perfect hotel, and Sonnenalp Vail is just that! This gorgeous, Alpine-style retreat is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, offering a slice of authentic European hospitality right in the heart of Vail Village.
The rooms are so charming with the cozy fireplaces, plush beddings, and gorgeous views of the mountains. Whether you’re looking for great access to the mountain and village or planning a relaxing spa retreat, Sonnenalp is the ideal launchpad for your Vail adventures. Hotel guests can enjoy the Sonnenal’s heated indoor and outdoor pools, and saunas which offer some amazing views of the Gore Creek.
Vail Village: Top Activities to Experience Its Beauty
The Vail Village is an alpine oasis tucked in the heart of Colorado Rockies. With its picturesque cobblestone streets and a mix of shops, restaurants, and outdoor beauty, you’ll find plenty to see and do!
I was so enchanted at Lancelot Restaurant with its fairytale-like building. Then, there’s the opportunity to take a peaceful walk along Gore Creek, where the soothing sounds of flowing water provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely chat or some quiet reflection.
Head to Pepi’s Bar & Restaurant for a laid-back vibe and delicious bites that’ll hit the spot. For some stylish shopping, don’t miss Gorsuch, where you can find unique alpine gear and gifts plus a cup of coffee. As you wander, cross the Covered Bridge, an iconic landmark perfect for snapping those Insta-worthy photos!
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Sundae to treat yourself to a delightful ice cream creation. Finally, check out the chic Solaris Residence to round off your day with its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Paragon Guides for a Private Llama Picnic
Paragon Guides is the top outdoor adventure company in Vail, Colorado, with a variety of guided experiences since 1978. If you’re eager to explore the outdoors, their incredible hikes are a must! Whether you want a short stroll or a challenging 6 or 12-mile trek, each hike can be customized for your group. And if you’re up for it, they even have overnight camping tours for a true nature immersion!
We kicked off our hike around Maloit Park, and trust me, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular! What makes it even better? Llamas! Yes, those adorable pack animals carry all your gear, making the several mile trek through the picturesque mountains a breeze.
Getting to stop halfway through our trip and take in our views while enjoying the lunch our llamas carried for us, really sealed this trip as one of my all time favorite outdoor activities.
Nova Guides’ 10th Mountain Division History and Whiskey Tour
We had an absolute blast on Nova Guides’ Morning Camp Hale Jeep Tour! The drive from our hotel was a scenic 30 minutes through Battle Mountain/Highway 24 – seriously one of the prettiest drives ever.
Our guide, Sean, was super knowledgeable and made the trip even more enjoyable. Once we arrived at Camp Hale, we started at a lofty elevation of 9,500 feet, with the chance to go up to 12,000 feet! We took the East Fork route of Camp Hale National Monument, nestled within the gorgeous White River National Forest. Along the way, we spotted a beaver dam and adorable beaver lodges by the creek.
One of the highlights was a quick 100-yard hike to a breathtaking waterfall. And keep an eye out for the unique Elephant’s Head plant, which only grows above 9,000 feet! We even had the chance to see a cute marmot, a big ground squirrel that added a fun twist to our adventure. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at McAllister’s Grill inside the Lodge at Camp Hale. Options included burgers, chicken salad, and more, all served with a side of fruit or fries.
To wrap up our day, we explored the Colorado Snowsport Museum & Hall of Fame and ended with a delightful whiskey tasting at the 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company. We sipped on the refreshing Seibert Sipper and the smooth Earl’s Elixir.
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Kemo Sabe: Your One-Stop Shop for All Things Western
If you’re in Vail, Kemo Sabe is a must-visit. This famous cowboy store is packed with cool, high-end Western wear, offering everything from stylish cowboy hats to luxurious leather boots. Founded in 1990, this boutique is all about quality and customization, making each piece feel special as you choose all of the items you want on your hat.
Explore their amazing collection of Western apparel, accessories, and gifts that are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of flair to their wardrobe.
Grab a Fancy Hot Chocolate at the Four Seasons Resort
We couldn’t resist trying the world-famous Haute Chocolate at the Remedy Bar, located in the Four Seasons—and let me tell you, sipping this decadent hot chocolate by the fire was pure alpine bliss! Even in the summer, the cool air made this Vail hot chocolate so soothing. The creamy, rich chocolate was the perfect antidote to the crisp mountain air.
Vail Mountain Gondola: Sky-High Fun
Hop on the Vail Mountain gondola for stunning views and fresh mountain air! You have two great options for your gondola ride: Choose Gondola One from Vail Village or the Eagle Bahn Gondola from Lionshead to reach the top. Both will whisk you up to breathtaking heights, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
We opted for Gondola One, which takes you straight to MidVail. We took the Overeasy Trail to connect to Eagles Nest—it’s just a mile hike but full of stunning scenery!
Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster: Zooming Through Nature
This exciting ride winds its way 3,400 feet through the beautiful Colorado landscape, offering an energizing experience that combines speed with breathtaking scenery. Once you’re on the coaster, you can control your speed as you zip through the forest, taking in iconic sights like the Mount of the Holy Cross and maybe even spotting some local wildlife.
There are several other exciting activities to enjoy in the area as well such as adventure courses, scenic hikes, tubing, and more.
Lionshead Village: Year-Round Outdoor Adventure
Originally developed in the 1960s, this vibrant village has evolved into a hotspot for both locals and visitors alike, offering a perfect blend of mountain adventure and cozy vibes. After taking the gondola down, we enjoyed a leisurely walk in this area on our way back to our hotel. Of course, the free buses are always nearby if you’ve walked enough.
Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly streets lined with unique shops, galleries, and tasty eateries. Craving a hearty meal, a quick snack, or a delicious coffee? You’ll find it all here! Also, check out the lively events happening throughout the year, from outdoor concerts to seasonal festivals that bring the community together.
Vail Recreation Path: Scenic Strolls and Bike Rides
The Vail Recreation Path is the perfect way to explore Vail on foot or by bike! It meanders 15 miles from West Vail to East Vail, following the serene Gore Creek with 1,100 acres of open space. You’ll find a mix of paved and gravel sections, so you can enjoy the soothing sounds of the creek and the beauty of nature, all just steps from the lively Village. With 350,000 acres of National Forest surrounding you, you’ll find endless amazing scenery to enjoy and explore.
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens: A High-Altitude Floral Wonderland
Get ready to be wowed at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the world’s highest botanical garden, perched at 8,200 feet above sea level! Located in Ford Park, this stunning garden is just a short walk from Vail Village or a quick hop on the free in-town bus, making it super easy to visit.
As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking array of colorful flowers and unique alpine plants. The beautifully landscaped pathways offer plenty of spots to relax and soak in the impressive mountain views.
Vail Nature Center: Trails, Wildlife, and More
Perched gracefully between a mountain meadow and the scenic Gore Creek, this seven-acre 1940s homestead offers a variety of programs like hiking, birding tours, beaver pond explorations, wildflower viewing, creekside nature tours and even stargazing! The knowledgeable staff is always ready to share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna, making your visit both educational and fun.
Art in Vail: Creative Installations
Developed by the Arts in Public Places Program, this vibrant initiative transforms Vail into a museum without walls, showcasing over 60 incredible art pieces scattered throughout the town. You’ll encounter everything from whimsical sculptures to colorful murals that reflect the spirit of the community. Keep an eye out for unique installations, like the playful bronze statue of Albert Einstein and the eye-catching murals created by talented local artists. Each piece tells a story and adds a splash of color to your alpine adventure!
Want to dive deeper into the art scene? Join one of the free walking tours offered during the summer months, where you can learn about the history behind each artwork and the artists who created them. It’s a great way to appreciate the creativity that thrives in this mountain town!
Gerald Ford Amphitheater: Enjoy a Show Under the Stars
The Gerald Ford Amphitheater—affectionately known as The Amp—is your go-to spot for unforgettable summer entertainment! Opened in 1987 and named after the 38th President, this outdoor venue can host 2,500+ guests and offers a unique blend of culture and nature.
What can you expect? A fantastic lineup of events, from classical music and dance performances to free weekly concerts during the Hot Summer Nights series. Plus, the venue’s beautiful setting, surrounded by lush gardens and the majestic mountains, makes every performance feel extra special.
Best Things To Do in Vail, Colorado: FAQs
What is Vail best known for?
Vail, Colorado, is world-renowned for year-round recreation. In the winter, Vail offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Home to one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, Vail boasts over 5,289 acres of skiable terrain, including the famous Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin, which attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.
But Vail isn’t just a winter wonderland! The town offers a year-round playground for outdoor lovers, featuring activities like mountain biking, hiking, and scenic gondola rides that provide breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
Is Vail Colorado worth visiting?
Yes, Vail, Colorado, is definitely worth visiting! It is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, stunning mountain scenery, and charming European-style village. The town transforms beautifully in the summer, offering activities like hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor festivals, along with scenic gondola rides and cultural events that highlight its vibrant community spirit.
How to get to Vail Colorado?
Vail, Colorado, is easily accessible with nonstop flights from major cities like Dallas, Houston, Denver, and Chicago to the Vail/Eagle County Airport (EGE). Upon arrival, we enjoyed a quick ride on the Epic Mountain Express shuttle from the airport to town. Thanks to Vail’s free bus system and walkable villages, we didn’t need a car for our visit. Alternatively, Denver International Airport (DEN) is a great option, located just under a two-hour drive from Vail.
Whether you choose to fly directly into EGE or drive from Denver, getting to Vail is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
Why is Vail Colorado so popular?
Vail, Colorado is popular for its exceptional skiing, picturesque alpine scenery, upscale amenities, and vibrant village atmosphere.
Best Things To Do in Vail, Colorado: Final Thoughts
Wow, what a trip! As we wrap up our adventure through Vail, Colorado, it’s clear that this stunning mountain town is a playground of endless possibilities! Whether you’re exploring the stunning trails in summer or hitting the slopes in winter, there’s never a dull moment.
I loved exploring the charming Vail Village, with its cute shops and delicious eateries. One of my favorite moments was taking a scenic gondola ride to soak in the relaxing mountain views. And let’s not forget the vibrant art scene and all the events happening year-round. I even stumbled upon an outdoor concert that just made my night!
In short, Vail is all about adventure, relaxation, and creating amazing memories. So if you’re planning a visit, get ready for fun, beauty, and a whole lot of good times! Can’t wait to go back!
Last Updated 3 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: September 2, 2024
