Vail Area Guide
Vail Things to Do
With over 5,300 skiable acres on 195 trails and with, 32 different lifts and the 350+ average inches of snow it gets, Vail Resort is considered one of the world’s premier ski areas. While the town of Vail is primarily known as a winter destination, those who visit in the summer months will be treated to the region’s natural beauty while also being able to explore all of the other amenities the area offers during the different three seasons.
There are various exciting and eclectic things to do near Vail – such as goat yoga, hiking, and having lunch with a llama. Or you can visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. One of the must-do day trips in the Vail area is to head to Glenwood Springs. This quick 60-mile drive west along the I-70 corridor to this beautiful little mountain town is an excellent place for visitors or locals looking to stretch their legs and budgets a little further.
Outdoor Adventures
Want to go rafting? A trip to Vail would not be complete without a trip down the Colorado River. Defiance Rafting Company, or DRC, is the rafting company of choice when navigating big whitewater or taking guests through the calmer downriver sections of Glenwood Canyon.
About trip choices, you have a variety of options at Defiance. For the adrenaline seekers, talk to Defiance once the run-off starts from mid-May to early June. Defiance offers Glenwood Canyon rafting, including the rapids and the mellow downriver section. If you want a more intimate adventure, go for a private experience. Our Glenwood Springs whitewater rafting trips are customizable and will include all the areas of the river you want to experience and anything else you can think of to make the trip exactly how you envisioned it. If you can dream it, there’s a good chance Defiance can make it happen. Add whitewater rafting near Vail, Colorado to your adventure list today!
Looking for an outdoor adventure off the river? Vail has you covered.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding on Vail‘s expansive slopes, suitable for all skill levels.
- Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails of Vail Mountain and the surrounding areas, offering breathtaking views and diverse terrain.
- Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself with rock climbing at spots like East Vail and the surrounding cliffs.
- Vail Camping: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains with a Vail camping trip, offering everything from family-friendly campgrounds to rugged backcountry sites.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Vail’s cultural scene is as impressive as its natural beauty. Here are some top attractions:
- Vail Valley Foundation: Engage with the arts through various events and performances hosted by the foundation.
- Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum: Learn about the rich history of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.
- Betty Ford Alpine Gardens: Stroll through the highest botanical garden in North America, featuring beautiful alpine flora.
Family-Friendly Activities
Vail is a family-friendly destination with plenty to offer:
- Epic Discovery: Enjoy a range of summer activities like zip-lining, mountain coaster rides, and adventure courses.
- Vail Nature Center: Participate in educational programs and nature tours that are perfect for families.
- Adventure Ridge: Have fun with snow tubing, ski biking, and other winter activities designed for all ages.
Food and Drink
Vail’s food scene is diverse and luxurious. Here are some must-try experiences:
- Gourmet Restaurants: Dine at top-rated restaurants like Matsuhisa and Sweet Basil for an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Local Breweries and Distilleries: Taste locally crafted beers and spirits at places like Vail Brewing Company and 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals at restaurants such as Mountain Standard and La Tour Restaurant & Bar.
Nightlife and Entertainment
When the sun sets, Vail comes alive with vibrant nightlife:
- Live Music Venues: Catch a show at venues like the Vilar Performing Arts Center or local bars with live music.
- Bars and Lounges: From chic cocktail bars to cozy pubs, Vail’s nightlife scene has something for everyone.
- Seasonal Festivals: Attend events like the Vail Dance Festival or the Bravo! Vail Music Festival for a taste of Vail’s vibrant cultural life.
Part of the fun of traveling is the experience of exploring new places and trying new things. The Vail Valley offers a variety of exciting things to do and incredible scenery to take in, and the surrounding areas can add to that experience immensely. Those who travel to Vail or are from the area would be doing themselves a disservice if they didn’t explore further down the road and see what Glenwood Springs offers.
