Things to do

19 Comprehensive Things To Do In Vail

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Against the backdrop of the magnificent Rockey Mountains, you can discover all the outdoor fun, events, shopping, and dining Vail has to offer. It's no surprise Vail is like nothing on earth.

You can either slow down for a hearty meal at one of their renowned eateries enjoy breweries and winners, or experience adventurous sports like mountain biking, hiking and trails, or horse riding in this place. Therefore, let's explore Vail with some of the unique things to do while in visit.

1. Try Fat Tire Biking

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Fat Biking is a great way to get out and pedal during the winter season though it is challenging, sometimes cold and wet, and sometimes might not have the best trail conditions.

For those who love to break off the bike in the winter and get out for a ride, this can be their ideal thing to do. You can either visit Nordic Center which offers 8 miles of groomed fat biking or the EagleVail Golf Course with more than 8k of free and open public groomed fat biking trail.

2. Pamper Yourself At A Spa

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Whether you are seeking a relaxed retreat or need some pampering after hitting the slopes or trails, there are plenty of unique ways to unwind one of them being at a spa.

You can experience the ultimate in luxury at those places from high-altitude adjustment massages to custom facials. You can also relax in the steam room, sauna, or whirlpool, then indulge in a personalized massage, an indigenous body wrap, or a rejuvenating facial.

3. Tour Around Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

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Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is a mountaintop oasis, a botanical adventure, all rolled into one stunning experience. The gardens offer breathtaking views and are parched at a cool 8,200 feet above sea level.

You'll find vibrant wildflowers and rockery plants thriving in the thin air. This Vail Village Colorado garden is open 365 days a year.

4. Take A Skiing Or Snowshoeing Tour

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Based on snow conditions, you can embark on snowshoe adventures in Vail from mid-November to March. Discover the magic of Vail in winter as you wander through frosty, treelined landscapes on a pair of trusty snowshoes.

 Early winter treats you to fresh, untouched snow, while mid-December to mid-February is the sweet spot with lots of fluffy powder. The Vail offers an exceptional perspective of the region's peaceful trails and snowcapped peaks in winter.

5. Beat The Heat With Whitewater Rafting

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Vail Co. might be known for its ski slopes but Whitewater Rafting is a thing there. Though it doesn't have rapids raging right through town, some fantastic rivers are just a short drive away.

Numerous reputable rafting companies offer guided tours, providing all the equipment, instruction, and transportation you need. So, you just need to show up with your adventurous spirit and sunscreen.

6. Go Fly Fishing

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The Vail Colorado village is a dream destination for many anglers, thanks to its diverse rivers and streams, and abundance of fishy friends. It sits right in the heart of some of Colorado's best fly fishing country.

The prime season for most species is spring through fall. Spring brings meltwater and hungry fish, while fall boasts cooler temperatures and potentially bigger fish. Winter isn't out of the question either, with die-hard anglers targeting trout in tailwaters.

7. Experience A Gondola Ride

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Forget crowded ski lifts, the gondola whisks you up in spacious, glass-enclosed cabins. As you ascend, the world below transforms.

You can enjoy a relaxing ride through the Eagle Bahn Gondola or Gondola One, and take breathtaking views of the Gora Range and the Mount of the Holy Cross. The gondolas offers views of the Rockies, including wildflowers and forests in the summer, and frost-covered summits and snow-blanketed trees in winter.

8. Shop Till You Drop At The Local Market

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Take a stroll through the beautiful Lionshead and Vail Village where you discover the hundreds of local stores to explore.

When you wander down the quaint cobblestone streets, you will find shops ranging from high-end boutiques to outdoor gear, children's fashion, and more. Also, you can find cocktail dress for a night out or a beautiful piece of art for your home in Vail.

9. Drive Bumper Cars On Ice Rink

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Seeking adventures more than those Colorado state parks? Consider driving bumper cars on the ice rink in Vail, recreating childhood moments at amusement parks.

Sounds exciting? John A. Dobson Ice Arena makes that possible for you. 12 colorful bumper cars are made available for kids and grown-ups. You can rent a car for $10 for 15 minutes and let the adventure begin, however register in advance.

10. Give Husky Dog Sledding Tour A Try

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Husky dog sledding is a great fun, highly recommended self-riding option as the guides are very helpful in explaining everything before the actual shedding.

Those dogs are very friendly and energetic, pulling the sled at a good pace and listening to every command. You can also enjoy the scenic views and beautiful weather conditions on the day. Several tour companies also offers their guests a light lunch and a dessert following this tour package.

11. Attend An Event At Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

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Be it the international dance or live music performances, there's a lot to enjoy. Every summer, they gather at the place to enjoy the cultural and entertainment programs.

And, of course, the Vail Music Festival is the main attraction. Moreover, you can attend Hot Summer Night concerts once a week for free! The Amp stage has everything to keep you entertained for a day.

12. Romantic Getaway At Tivoli Lodge

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Vail villages have various short break options, including the Tivoli Lodge, tucked back in the Colorado Mountains. Splurge on a room with a balcony overlooking the majestic Gore Range.

The lodge features a beautiful stone exterior and a warm, inviting interior. Crackling fireplaces, exposed beams, and comfy furnishings make it perfect for cuddling up after a day on the slopes. 

13. Pitch A Tent At Gore Creek Campground

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Camping enthusiast itching to pitch your tent under the village stars? Whether you're a solo traveler with a trusty backpack tent or a family-hauling glamping masterpiece, Gore Creek has you covered.

They've got around 24 campsites with a mix of drive-in and walk-in options, some even suitable for RVs. Remember, this place is ideal for camping only when the snow melts, and the sun starts to peek through the trees.

14. Eat Delicious At Local Restaurants

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You can dig into the post and pre-hike alpine haven for European village cafes, modern seasonally influenced greats and time-honored local haunts all wrapped in Gore Range glory.

If you want to indulge in authentic American fare in Vail downtown, Sweet Basil, Moutain Standard, and Slope Room are the must-visit. They serve delicious foods not less than restaurants in Colorado Springs.

15. Hike To The Top Of Booth Falls

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Vail possesses a six-mile hiking trail that climbs 3000 feet in elevation as it passes varied scenery including lakes, waterfalls, and aspen forests.

It's a well-maintained, gradual path that follows Booth Creek through aspen groves and meadows. Hike on the 3.9-mile out-and-back trail which is considered a challenging route that takes almost two hours to complete. It is a popular area for hiking, as you may encounter other people while exploring along the way.

 

16. Enjoy The Nightlife

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If you're into live music and dancing, Vail's got you covered. Shakedown Bar is legendary for its rockin' shows, and Bridge Street Bar keeps the dance floor pumping late into the night. 

As the sun dips below the towering peaks of Vail, the town comes alive with a vibrant nightlife that caters to every mood and preference. You can find true bars where the music never stops to cozy cafe bars, perfect for unwinding.

17. Hit The Links At World-class Golf Course

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Golf is always a favorite activity to kick off your summer. And, there is no better place to hit the links than Vail from big-name designed courses from the likes of Robert Trent Jones and Arnold Palmer to the stunning backdrop of the Gore Range.

The high altitude of the Rocky Mountains makes golf balls fly 10% farther. Also, with a driver, you get an extra 2.5 yards per 1000 feet of altitude. Some of the favorite courses include The Club At Cordillera, Beaver Creek Golf, and Vail Golf Course.

18. Traverse Colorado Snowsports Museum And Hall Of Fame

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Winter-sports enthusiasts and history bluffs alike will find something to love at this Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame. You can explore Vail's legacy as a ski town and explore exhibits chronicling the birth and rise of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.

It's not just history buffs and old skis. The museum brings the passion of snowsports to life. Interactive exhibits let you test your ski skills with inspiring stories of Olympic and local champions.

19. Walk Through The Woods At Vail Nature Center

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Join Vail Nature Center on a leisurely one-hour walk through the woods and meadows to learn about the flora that carpet the mountains. This 7-acre gem of mountain meadows and forested creek-side trails is the perfect place to get away from everything, while still being close to everything.

You can also engage in several learning opportunities with exhibits and programs, including easy hiking, bird tours, beaver pond tours, wildflower viewing, and stargazing.