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Things to Do in Vail Valley

Things to Do in Vail Valley

Vail Valley Colorado, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Vail Valley's stunning landscape has a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking & Trekking

Easy Trails

Gore Creek Trail (Vail): Paved, mostly flat. Eagle River Trail (Avon/Edwards): Paved. Booth Falls Trail (first mile): A gentle climb to a waterfall.

Moderate Trails

Booth Falls Trail (beyond first mile to Booth Lake): A sharp climb with rewarding views. Berry Picker Trail (Vail Mountain): An ascent from Vail Village to Mid-Vail. Shrine Ridge Trail: Wildflower meadows.

Strenuous/Expert Trails

Pitkin Creek Trail (East Vail): A long, sustained climb to a high-alpine lake. Deluge Lake Trail (East Vail): A very steep, challenging ascent to a secluded lake. Mount Holy Cross (nearby): A challenging 14er for experienced mountaineers.

Water Sports & More

  • Fly Fishing: World-class fishing is on Gore Creek and the Eagle River. Guided trips are widely available.
  • Whitewater Rafting: Possibilities are on the Eagle River (seasonal) and the Arkansas River (near Buena Vista/Salida). Various difficulty levels.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) & Kayaking: Available on nearby lakes like Dillon Reservoir and Sylvan Lake, or gentler Eagle River sections.
  • Via Ferrata: Chaperoned experiences are in the surrounding mountains, an unique climbing experience with fixed cables and ladders.

Adventure Activities

  • Ziplining & Ropes Courses: At Vail Mountain's Epic Discovery in summer.
  • Rock Climbing: Guided climbing and bouldering options exist.
  • Biking: Extensive paved paths and mountain biking trails.
  • Bike rentals and guided tours are widely available.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Guided nature walks by Walking Mountains Science Center.
  • Wildlife viewing (elk, deer, bighorn sheep) occurs on hiking trails.
  • Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed wild animals.
  • Focus on observation and respectful interaction with nature.

Cycling Journeys

  • Road Cycling: Extensive paved recreation paths, including the scenic Vail Pass Recreation Path.
  • Mountain Biking: Extensive singletrack and downhill trails on Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek.
  • Bike rentals and guided tours cater to all levels.
  • Enjoy the fresh air and stunning vistas on two wheels.

Safety First

Always check weather conditions before outdoor activities. High-altitude environments present rapid weather changes and increased sun exposure. Stay hydrated.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Vail Valley's artistic and community spirit.

Workshops & Performances

  • Art AND Handiwork: Some local art galleries offer workshops. Vail Recreation District has various community classes.
  • Music & Dance: The Bravo! Vail Music Festival (classical) and Vail Dance Festival (international dance) in summer, featuring world-renowned performances.
  • Vilar Performing Arts Center: Year-round schedule of Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, and other performances in Beaver Creek.
  • Master Classes: The Vail Dance Festival frequently includes master classes and open rehearsals, direct engagement with professional dancers.

Local Engagement

Community Initiatives

Community-based tourism initiatives here focus more on local economic benefit rather than specific lodging types or formal programs.

Language & Learning

English is the main language spoken. Spanish is common among the service industry. No formal opportunities for language study for tourists are typical.

Seasonal Festivities

Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships: A key global winter snowboarding competition. Spring Back to Vail: End-of-season celebration with concerts. Vail Oktoberfest: Fall festival.

Vail Farmers' Market

A weekly summer event including local artisans and food producers. A atmosphere to explore local crafts plus fresh market goods.

Winter Sports Events

The Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships bring top athletes to Vail. Spring Back to Vail offers end-of-season celebrations.

Summer Music & Dance

Bravo! Vail Music Festival and Vail Dance Festival draw world-renowned performers to the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater.

Relaxation & Wellness

Discover tranquility and rejuvenation amidst the mountains.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • The Spa at The Sebastian Vail: Full-service luxury spa focusing on mountain-inspired treatments.
  • RockResorts Spa at The Lodge at Vail: Extensive menu of treatments, with indoor and outdoor pools.
  • Allegria Spa at The park Hyatt Beaver Creek: Highly regarded for diverse treatment options and Aqua Sanitas water sanctuary.
  • Fitness: Most hotels feature fitness centers, heated pools (indoor/outdoor), and hot tubs for guests.

Unique Wellness Options

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs are directly within Vail Valley. The closest public hot springs are in Glenwood Springs (approx. 1 hour west).

Yoga & Meditation

Numerous yoga studios operate in Vail, Avon, and Edwards, offering various classes. Seasonal yoga and meditation retreats may be available.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not a main focus of the destination. Visitors seeking this may look into specific practitioners in the broader Colorado area.

Poolside Luxury

  • Many resorts feature impressive outdoor heated pools and hot tubs.
  • Some include poolside service for a luxurious relaxation experience.
  • An excellent way to unwind after a day on the slopes or trails.
  • Enjoy mountain views from the water.

Nearby Glenwood Springs

  • Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: The world's largest mineral hot springs pool.
  • Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Another nearby option for natural relaxation.
  • Located about an hour west of Vail for a day trip.
  • A perfect complement to mountain activities.

Mountain Serenity

  • Find peaceful spots for quiet reflection on hiking paths or by mountain streams.
  • The natural environment itself fosters a sense of well-being.
  • Enjoy the clean air and serene atmosphere.
  • Disconnect and recharge in nature.

Sun Protection

High Altitude Sun
  • At high altitudes, sun exposure is intense.
  • Always use sunscreen and wear sunglasses.
  • Consider protective clothing, even on cloudy days.
Hydration
  • Maintain your well-being hydrated, especially when active.
  • High altitude can increase dehydration risk.
  • Carry a water bottle during all outdoor activities.

Mindful Practices

Embrace the serene mountain environment for a holistic wellness experience, integrating physical activity with peaceful moments.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Vail Valley gets busy after dark with diverse entertainment options.

Live Music & Venues

  • Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater: Major outdoor venue for large concerts and celebrations in summer.
  • Agave (Avon): Popular spot for live bands, often featuring rock, reggae, and cover acts.
  • Shakedown Bar (Vail Village): Known for its lively live music scene, often featuring funk, rock, and jam bands.
  • Local Venues: Many restaurants and bars (especially during après-ski) feature local musicians, DJs, or acoustic acts.

Theater & Late Night

Vilar Performing Arts Center

A premier indoor venue in Beaver Creek hosting a diverse range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, and dance throughout the year.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Bol (Vail Village): An upscale bowling alley that changes into a popular nightclub with a DJ and dance floor. Samana Lounge (Vail Village): An underground dance club for DJs and late-night atmosphere.

Bar Districts

Vail Village and Lionshead are dense with bars and restaurants, making a self-guided pub crawl easy. Popular après-ski spots transition into lively evening bars.

Après-Ski Scene

  • Vail and Beaver Creek offer après-ski scenes.
  • Enjoy drinks, appetizers, and live music right after hitting the slopes.
  • Popular spots include Garfinkel's, Red Lion, and Tavern on the Square.
  • A quintessential mountain experience.

Upscale Lounges

  • Many luxury hotels feature sophisticated lounges with craft cocktails.
  • A more relaxed ambiance for evening conversations.
  • Ideal for a refined end to your day.

Late-Night Bites

  • Most bars and lounges in Vail Village and Lionshead don't close until 1 AM or 2 AM.
  • Food options become limited after 10 PM.
  • Some pizzerias or casual spots might offer late-night slices.
  • Always confirm kitchen hours.

Event Calendars

Stay Updated
  • Check local event calendars for musical performances and performances.
  • Resort websites for updated schedules of special nightlife events.
  • Many tickets for concerts can be booked via GetYourGuide.
Planning Your Evenings
  • Locate bars and lounges in Vail Village and Lionshead for easy access.
  • Note that food options are limited after 10 PM.
  • Some pizzerias or casual spots might serve late-night slices.

Experience the Vibe

Vail's nightlife ranges from lively après-ski parties to sophisticated lounges, catering to diverse preferences for nighttime activities.

Shopping & Markets

Local Markets & Craft

  • Vail Farmers' Market & Art Show: Occurring on Sundays during summer, this outdoor market features local produce, artisanal foods, and a wide array of handmade crafts and art from Colorado vendors.
  • Artisan Workshops: Several art galleries in Vail Village and Lionshead feature local and regional artists, offering paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and other unique crafts.
  • Souvenirs: Ski or snowboard themed apparel and add-ons, Colorado-themed items (bears, elk), local art or photography from valley galleries, gourmet food items or niche spirits.
  • Ethical Shopping: Seek "Made in Colorado" or "Local Artist" tags to support local creators and ethical production. Many outdoor retailers emphasize sustainable products.

Retail & Shipping

  • Luxury Shopping: Vail Village is home to high-end fashion boutiques, designer apparel, jewelry stores, and upscale ski and outdoor gear shops like Gorsuch.
  • Lionshead Retail: has a similar selection with a marginally more varied mix of boutiques and larger retailers.
  • Shipping Services: Major shipping carriers (UPS, FedEx, USPS) have offices in the Vail Valley, convenient for sending purchases home.
  • Customs Information: International travelers: Be familiar with your home country's's customs regulations and duty limits for goods purchased.
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