Ultimate Year Round Vail Guide for 20-Somethings

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Brie Rogatz
Curated By

Brie Rogatz

  • Nature Escapes

  • Weekend Getaways

  • Adventure Travel

  • Group Travel

  • Vail

  • Local Food

Advisor - Ultimate Year Round Vail Guide for 20-Somethings
Curator’s statement

I’ve been coming to Vail for years and it continues to surprise me — with its high-end charm, unbeatable mountain access and a surprisingly fun social scene for 20-somethings. It’s a place where you can ski all day, then swap snow boots for cowboy boots and dance until late. Whether you're planning a winter weekend or a summer escape, this guide has you covered with the best restaurants, bars, activities and shopping for young travelers on a mix of budgets.

The Fora Difference

Book with Brie to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Vail

Unlock perks by contacting Brie to book your trip.

Things to do in Vail

Winter

Skiing & snowboarding: You’re in one of the largest ski resorts in North America with the iconic Back Bowls. Enough said.

Tubing at Adventure Ridge: A must-do for adrenaline with less commitment than a ski pass.

Après-ski at The Red Lion or Bridge Street Bar: Boots off, beer in hand, live music blasting.

Shopping: Vail has some of the best shopping around! Some of my absolute favorites are Kemo Sabe, Perch, Gorsuch, Aviator Nation, Aura.

Grab a beer at Vail Brewing Co: A laid-back, locals-favorite spot perfect for post-hike pints or après-ski hangs. Grab a cold craft beer, snag a seat on the patio and soak up the mountain views — no frills, just good vibes.

Summer

Vail Farmers Market: Every Sunday from June–October. Think artisan snacks, mountain views and vibey outdoor energy.

Hiking: From easy riverside strolls to challenging alpine climbs, Vail has it all. Booth Falls is a great mid-level option. I like to grab sandwiches at Joe’s Deli near the base, ride the gondola up, chow down with a view, and then hike back down to work off the meal.

Mountain biking: Rent a bike and hit the trails (or the gondola if you're feeling boujee).

Outdoor concert at Ford Amphitheater: A magical spot to watch music with mountain air, starlit skies and the best vibes around.

Fall

Vail Oktoberfest: Vail goes full Bavarian each September with two epic weekends of Oktoberfest in Lionshead and Vail Village. Expect stein-holding contests, bratwurst, polka bands, and plenty of beer — all against a backdrop of golden aspens.

Leaf peeping: Fall is the time to hike. Trails like Booth Falls, North Trail, and Upper Piney Lake Trail are surrounded by vibrant yellow and orange aspen groves. Bring a camera — it’s peak photo-op season. 3.

Horseback Riding: Local ranches like Vail Stables offer fall trail rides through colorful meadows and aspen groves. It’s like stepping into a postcard.

Places to eat & drink in Vail

Sweet Basil: Elevated New American with serious culinary cred. Book in advance!

Mountain Standard: Sister restaurant to Sweet Basil with a wood-fired twist. Casual yet upscale.

Matsuhisa: Nobu’s alpine outpost. Sushi lovers, this one’s for you.

La Bottega: A cozy Italian bistro with a great wine list and romantic vibe.

La Nonna: Homemade pasta and traditional recipes. A local fave that feels like a hidden gem.

Joe’s Deli: Iconic local deli. Grab a sandwich and eat it by the river or at the top of the mountain on a sunny day.

The Red Lion: Legendary après-ski bar serving pub fare with a side of live music and dancing. My friends and I all dream of their chicken tenders.

Drinks

Chasing Rabbits: Vail’s glam, slightly weird, ultra-vibey cocktail den with a speakeasy twist.

Bridge Street Bar: Late-night dancing and the chance to make a friend (or more).

Shakedown Bar: Iconic live music venue. Divey, loud, fun.

The George: A locals’ basement bar with strong drinks and laid-back vibes.

The Red Lion (again): Great place to get your night started with drinks and live music. Highly recommend getting the vibes going with a shot-ski with your group!

Need to know

The free Vail bus makes it easy to get around without a car, especially between Lionshead and Vail Village. Winter brings the ski crowds and après-ski buzz. Summer offers hiking, concerts and better deals. Plan for meals — restaurants book up quickly in peak season. Don’t skip the live music scene — Shakedown, Bridge Street Bar and The Red Lion are musts for a fun night out, but be prepared to pay cover (most bars have ATMs at the door).

Advisor - Brie Rogatz

Travel Advisor

Brie Rogatz

Get in touch with Brie

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can expect a response from Brie within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

For more inspiration and travel recommendations, check out our Vail page.

We use cookies to enhance the user experience. Read our Privacy Policy here.