Summer in Vail, From a Local’s Perspective

Take a ride up the gondola

Vail Mountain runs both gondolas throughout the summer, providing access to Mid-Vail and Eagle's Nest. After enjoying a scenic gondola ride to the top of Eagle's Nest, you can stroll around enjoying the views of Mt. Holy Cross (one of the iconic 14ers in Colorado) without needing to exhaust yourself with a long hike.

Play a round of golf at the Vail Golf Course

The Vail Golf Course has stunning views from every hole. With the Gore Range as the backdrop to this spectacular course, you'll always have a great day on the course.

Walk around the village

Summer is the perfect time to walk around and enjoy the Bavarian-style village; you feel as if you almost traveled across the world to Switzerland or Austria and are walking down the cobblestone streets. There are plenty of boutique stores to discover as you stroll throughout the alpine village.

Enjoy the Sunday farmers market

Imagine walking through Vail Village on a Sunday morning as the smell of candied roasted almonds wafts through the air. The streets become lined with many wonderful stands that sell freshly baked sourdough, fresh fruits and vegetables, mountain-inspired art pieces, and everything in between. There's no better way to spend a Sunday morning than in Vail.

Watch a concert at The Amp

Located within walking distance of the village, The Amp is a small venue that hosts concerts throughout the summer. It is a beautiful outdoor venue that provides both lawn and covered seating options, catering to all music tastes.

Take a day trip to Piney Lake

If you're interested in more of an adventure, there is a beautiful alpine lake down a long but maintained dirt road outside of Vail. Once arriving, you have a few options, including hiking, paddleboarding, or finding a beautiful spot to relax near the lake and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Mountain bike on Vail Mountain

Vail Mountain opens for bike haul during the summer months. This is a great way to get out and explore the mountain while also enjoying the best part of mountain biking: riding downhill!

Explore the Gore Valley Trail

This paved, 12-mile stretch spans the length of Vail, connecting access from down valley all the way up to Vail Pass. Use the Vail Rec Path to run along the river or bike all the way to the top of Vail Pass.

If traveling with kids...

Ride the mountain coaster at the top of Vail Mountain

The top of Vail Mountain turns into an outdoor adventure park where kids can rock climb, hike, bike, tube, and ride the mountain coaster. There's something for everyone to enjoy, and the views are unbeatable!

Play at Pirate Ship Park

Located next to Gondola One, tucked away from the busy streets of the village, is one of the best playgrounds in Vail. Kids love the pirate-themed park, where they can run around with their friends and siblings imagining they are the captain of a ship out at sea.

Take a trip to Fuzziwig's

A kids' favorite store in Vail, the candy shop has every type of candy imaginable. From old-school favorites to handcrafted delights and even ice cream with Dippin' Dots, it's a kid's dream!

Pepi’s

Just past the iconic covered bridge, you will find a beautiful Austrian-style inn where Pepi’s Restaurant is located. Enjoy a delicious burger or Austrian-inspired dish as you enjoy the fresh mountain air on the covered patio at one of the oldest and most famous Vail restaurants.

Big Bear Bistro

Before or after a great adventure on the mountain, head over to Big Bear Bistro, located just off the main street, for a delicious breakfast burrito, salad, or sandwich. Everything on the menu is amazing—take it to go or eat it outside on their small outdoor patio near the creek.

La Bottega

My absolute favorite restaurant in Vail Village. Imagine relaxing on the outdoor patio as the sun begins to set, indulging in stove-baked pizza, creamy pasta, or one of their Colorado-inspired main dishes; you cannot go wrong.

Avanti

In the Golden Peak area, head over to Avanti, where there is a collection of small dining options and a full bar at the base of the mountain. There is something for everyone to enjoy on the outdoor patio, from pizza to gyros, ramen, and burgers.

Chop House

Looking for something a little more upscale? Head over to Chop House, located at the base of the Lionshead Gondola, and dine on the wonderful outdoor patio with views of Vail Mountain. Whether sitting on the patio or inside the elegant restaurant for dinner, enjoy some of Vail's most delicious steak and seafood dishes.

Sundae’s

What’s better than strolling around Vail Village, then enjoying ice cream on a warm sunny day? Sundae’s has some of the best ice cream in Vail, hand-crafted in store. If you want a free sundae, reach out and I can provide a special code for one of their deluxe sundaes!