Things To Do
in Vail
Vail is a picturesque resort town located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The town is famous for its charming European-inspired architecture, luxury hotels, and upscale shops and restaurants. In addition to winter sports, Vail also offers outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing during the warmer months.
The stunning natural surroundings and vibrant mountain culture make Vail a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $200 - $800
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $120
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a coffee at a local café while enjoying the picturesque views of Vail Village. Stroll through the quaint shops and art galleries to get a feel for the local culture.
Take a scenic gondola ride up to the top for breathtaking views and some light hiking. Have lunch at a mountaintop eatery, sampling some of the area’s delicious cuisine.
Relax with a leisurely dinner in one of Vail’s renowned restaurants. Enjoy some live music or check out the nightlife in the village.
Hit the slopes early for a day of skiing or snowboarding on Vail's pristine trails. Take a lesson if you're new or join a guided group to explore more difficult terrain.
Break for lunch at one of the mountain lodges, sharing stories of your adventures. Continue skiing or switch to snowshoeing to enjoy the beautiful winter landscapes.
Unwind with a hot chocolate by a cozy fire or soak in a hot tub. Enjoy dinner at a ski-in/ski-out restaurant, recounting the day’s highlights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-renowned skiing destination with diverse terrain suitable for all skill levels.
- Beautiful alpine scenery and picturesque mountain views.
- A vibrant village atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Year-round recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and festivals.
- High-end accommodations and amenities for visitors.
- High cost of living and expensive accommodations.
- Crowded during peak tourist seasons, which can lead to long lines and wait times.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for some.
- Altitude sickness can be an issue for some visitors.
- Seasonal job market can make it difficult for permanent residents to find stable employment.
Best Activities in Vail
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous trails in and around Vail, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Experience Vail's extensive network of mountain biking trails for all skill levels, with options for both scenic rides and technical challenges.
Take a guided rafting trip down the Eagle River for an exhilarating experience, suitable for beginners and seasoned rafters alike.
Enjoy fly fishing in the picturesque streams and rivers surrounding Vail, with opportunities to catch various fish species.
Get your adrenaline pumping with zip-lining adventures that offer stunning views of Vail’s mountains and forests.
In winter, hit the slopes at Vail Ski Resort, known for its extensive skiing and snowboarding terrain suitable for all levels.
Take a scenic horseback ride through the beautiful mountains, with options for guided tours available.
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the mountains and valleys in a hot air balloon for a unique outdoor adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of Vail with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vail
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Vail Valley and is great for photography.
Provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes, especially from the top of the gondola.
Known for its beautiful flora and fauna, with many picturesque spots for photography.
A scenic trail that leads to a stunning waterfall with numerous photo opportunities along the way.
Food in Vail
Vail Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught trout grilled or pan-seared to perfection, often served with local seasonal vegetables. A must-try dish that highlights the pristine mountain waters.
Must-Try!
A hearty and flavorful burger made from lean bison meat, often topped with local cheeses and served with a side of crispy fries.
Tender and succulent lamb dishes showcasing the high-quality meat sourced from nearby ranches. Often prepared with vibrant herb-infused marinades.
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of huckleberries in a delightful ice cream dessert, a perfect way to cap off a meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vail better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat snacks every Sunday during the summer months. Local vendors offer everything from organic fruits and vegetables to handcrafted pastries and preserves.
Embark on a guided food tour to explore the diverse street food scene in Vail. Sample a variety of gourmet bites, from gourmet tacos to artisanal ice creams, while strolling through the charming streets of Vail Village.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Vail has a casual yet upscale atmosphere. Wearing ski gear during winter activities is acceptable, but make sure to dress nicely when dining or attending events.
Visitors are encouraged to follow environmental guidelines and respect wildlife. Keep designated trails clean and avoid disturbing natural habitats.
It's customary to greet locals and fellow visitors with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' Politeness and friendliness are valued in the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vail with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vail
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vail, tipping is a customary practice, especially in the hospitality and service industries. It is common to tip servers, bartenders, and ski instructors around 15-20% of the total bill. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, a tip of $1-2 per bag for bellhops and rounding up the fare for drivers is also appreciated.
Payment methods in Vail are diverse and include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and services, accept major credit cards. Cash is less commonly used, but some local vendors may prefer it. Additionally, many places now offer the option to pay through contactless methods, reflecting a trend towards digital transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vail.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for skiing and snowboarding. Expect heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
Great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking as the snow begins to melt. Weather can be unpredictable with occasional snow and rain.
Ideal for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. Expect warm and pleasant weather.
Beautiful foliage and ideal for hiking. Weather can be cooler with the possibility of early snowfall.
Vail at Night
Hiking in Vail
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail spanning over 15 miles, the Vail Valley Trail offers hikers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and access to various parks and landmarks in the area.
A challenging 2.5-mile loop that takes you through lush forests and provides stunning views of the Gore Range. Ideal for experienced hikers looking for a workout.
A popular 2.5-mile out-and-back trail leading to Booth Falls, offering a moderate hike with gradual elevation gain and breathtaking waterfall views.
A picturesque 3.5-mile round trip hike that takes you to Piney Lake. The trail features wildflowers and forested areas, perfect for a family outing.
A serene 4-mile round trip trail that leads to Lost Lake, surrounded by stunning mountain views. It’s great for hiking and wildlife watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vail through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vail by plane.
The largest airport in the region, located approximately 120 miles east of Vail, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 30 miles from Vail, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and offers access to nearby ski resorts.
Approximately 60 miles from Vail, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, primarily catering to visitors heading to the Aspen area.
Located roughly 140 miles south of Vail, this airport provides a good number of domestic flights and has connections to other major airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Vail, primarily consisting of non-Hispanic individuals.
A growing demographic in the area, representing individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent.
Includes individuals from Asian backgrounds, such as East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian.
Represents a smaller segment of the Vail population, consisting of individuals of African descent.
A very minor demographic group representing the Indigenous population.
Includes individuals who do not fit into the standard racial categories.
The Soul of Vail
Discover the essence of Vail through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.
With its vast terrain and excellent snow conditions, snowboarding is a popular activity in Vail, particularly among younger adventurers.
During the summer months, mountain biking becomes a popular sport in Vail, with miles of trails catering to all skill levels.
Vail offers numerous hiking trails that draw outdoor enthusiasts, providing stunning views and a variety of landscapes.
With several beautiful golf courses, golfing is a favored summer activity for both locals and visitors in Vail.
The rivers and lakes around Vail provide excellent fishing opportunities, making it a popular sport for many outdoor lovers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vail.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Vail offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced produce. Explore options like quinoa salads, gourmet veggie burgers, and plant-based tacos.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find numerous gluten-free options at Vail's eateries, including gluten-free pizza, pasta, and delectable desserts crafted with alternative flours.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vail with these cultural adventures.