Curator’s statement
Vail, Colorado offers world-class skiing and snowboarding on expansive, powder-filled slopes perfect for all skill levels. The charming alpine village is filled with cozy lodges, fine dining, and boutique shops that make every evening memorable. Visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities beyond skiing, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and scenic gondola rides. With stunning mountain views and a lively après-ski culture, Vail provides the ultimate winter getaway experience.
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Things to do in Vail
Vail Village
Skiing and snowboarding at Vail Mountain
Experience over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, from gentle groomers to legendary back bowls filled with fresh powder. The mountain’s variety makes it ideal for both beginners and expert thrill-seekers.
Explore Vail Village
Stroll through this picturesque, European-inspired village filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. Its pedestrian-only streets and twinkling lights create a magical winter atmosphere.
Ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola
Take a breathtaking gondola ride up the mountain for panoramic views of the snow-covered Rockies. At the top, enjoy dining, tubing, or simply soak in the incredible scenery.
Go ice skating at Solaris Plaza
Glide across the outdoor rink in the heart of Vail Village, surrounded by mountain views and festive lights. It’s a family-friendly activity that captures the charm of winter in Vail.
Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
Explore peaceful forest trails and open meadows at your own pace while taking in the quiet beauty of Vail’s backcountry. It’s a great way to experience nature beyond the ski slopes.
Relax at the spa
Unwind after a day on the mountain with a luxurious massage or hot stone treatment at one of Vail’s top spas. Many spas offer mountain-view soaking pools and holistic wellness experiences.
Enjoy après-ski and nightlife
Warm up with craft cocktails, live music, and hearty mountain fare at Vail’s lively après-ski spots. Whether it’s a cozy fireside lounge or an upbeat bar, the evenings here are just as fun as the days.
Places to eat & drink in Vail
Sweet Basil: A sophisticated New American restaurant in Vail Village known for creative seasonal dishes and elegant mountain dining.
Mountain Standard: A lively, wood-fired grill spot offering hearty comfort food and craft cocktails in a rustic-chic setting.
The Little Diner: A cozy local favorite for breakfast and brunch, serving generous portions of pancakes, omelets, and comfort classics.
Montauk Seafood Grill: Renowned for its fresh, ocean-to-table seafood dishes and relaxed yet upscale atmosphere.
Root & Flower: An intimate wine and cocktail bar offering refined small plates and a warm, modern ambiance.
La Tour Restaurant: A French-inspired bistro featuring elegant cuisine, fine wines, and attentive service in a romantic setting.
Matsuhisa: Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s renowned Japanese fusion restaurant, famous for its sushi, black cod miso, and sleek alpine décor.
Need to know
Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN): It’s about a 2-hour drive to Vail (120 miles). Renting a car or taking a shuttle (like Epic Mountain Express) are your best options.
Consider Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE): Only 30 minutes from Vail, this smaller airport offers seasonal direct flights from major US cities, saving time and hassle.
Check road conditions before driving: I-70 can be treacherous in winter due to snow and ice. Check the COtrip.org site for closures or chain laws before you go.
Avoid peak traffic times: Heading west on Fridays or east on Sundays can lead to long delays, especially during ski season. Try to travel midweek or early in the morning.
Accommodations and town tips
Stay near the free bus route: Vail has a free, efficient shuttle system connecting Vail Village, Lionshead, and other areas, so you can skip parking hassles.
Book early in the winter: Lodging, lift tickets, and dining reservations fill up quickly, especially around holidays and ski weekends.
Pack layers: Weather can shift rapidly. Bring base layers, waterproof outerwear, and warm accessories like gloves and neck gaiters.
On the mountain
Buy lift tickets online in advance: It’s significantly cheaper than purchasing at the window.
Use EpicMix app: Track your runs, lift wait times, and mountain conditions in real time.
Start early: Parking fills by mid-morning. Arrive by 8 am for the best access to lifts and fewer crowds.
Warnings and local advice
Altitude matters: Vail sits around 8,000 feet, so stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol your first day, and consider starting with lighter activity to acclimate.
Watch for wildlife: Elk, moose, and other animals may appear near roads, especially at dusk or dawn. Drive cautiously.
Be prepared for expensive prices: Vail is upscale. Dining, rentals, and lodging can be pricey. Look for deals in nearby towns like Avon or Minturn.
Parking is limited and costly: Free parking exists at certain lots after 3 pm or in West Vail with shuttle access—plan ahead if driving.
Travel Advisor
Whitney Bonin
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For more travel inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Vail page.