Known for its alpine-chic vibe, Vail delivers in any season, with world-class ski slopes that transform into wildflower-covered mountains in summer. Both Vail Village and Lionshead are charming, taking their inspiration from European towns with pedestrian-friendly streets lined with boutique shops and lively après-ski spots.
Luxury hotels and boutique lodges provide upscale service, while families can opt for more space in condos and private residences. In winter, the expansive terrain brings skiers and snowboarders from all over, while non-skiers can indulge in the local spas. Summer months are spent by the pool or exploring the mountain trails.
No matter the season, Vail balances adventure, relaxation and high-end hospitality. Read on to discover the best things to do any time of year, as well as where to stay and tips to make the most of your trip.
Need to know
Vail’s popularity only continues to increase, so be sure to plan ahead. It can get particularly busy during peak ski season, which is December through March. Make sure to book accommodations, lift tickets, ski rentals and ski school well in advance.
Always be mindful of ski etiquette on the slopes — right-of-way rules, no stopping in the middle of runs and respecting lift lines. In villages, walkways are pedestrian-only so consider storing your skis with valet services.
Travel insurance is also strongly recommended since refunds for lift tickets and lodging are unlikely.
- Airports: Denver International Airport (DIA) is about a two-hour drive, linking many major domestic and international cities. Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is less than 40 miles from Vail, with year-round service to Dallas and seasonal destinations like New York City, Seattle, Los Angeles, Houston and Atlanta.
- Transportation: Shuttle services provide seamless transfers between the airports and Vail — Epic Pass holders even get a 20% discount on Epic Mountain Express. High Mountain Taxi is great for local taxi services. Rental cars offer flexibility to explore beyond the resorts. Once in Vail Village and Lionshead, they are very walkable and free in-town buses connect key areas.
- Best time to visit: Vail is a year-round destination but best known for its skiing from December to March. As the snow melts in April and May, hiking trails start to open but skiing may still be available at higher elevations. June to September brings festivals, fly fishing and mountain biking opportunities. October and November offer plenty of the same outdoor activities as temperatures cool ahead of snowy weather.
- Ideal length of stay: A four to seven day trip is the perfect amount of time for a mix of fun on the slopes and rest days.
- Health and safety: Vail sits at an elevation of 8,000 feet, with its summit over 11,500 feet. Altitude sickness is common, so stay hydrated and allow time to adjust to the change.
- What to wear: For winter months, layers are key — and waterproof gear if skiing or snowboarding. Always remember sunscreen, even in winter at high altitudes and with the sun reflecting off snow.
Ski school: Vail’s Ski & Snowboard School is popular, so book lessons in advance. Consider private instructors for a more personalized experience. There are also three locations, each suited to different needs:
- Lionshead: Best for beginners, requires a short drive to the learning area.
- Gondola One at Vail Village: Great for all levels, centrally located.
- Golden Peak: The main hub for kids’ beginner lessons, accessible via a walking path from Vail Village or a five-minute shuttle ride.
Where to stay
The best places to stay are in Vail Village and Lionshead. Vail Village is the heart of the action, with easy ski access, après-ski spots, high-end boutiques and fine dining. Lionshead, just west, offers a more relaxed environment with its own set of shops, restaurants and skiing. Both areas are also pedestrian friendly, so the choice really comes down to the vibe you’re after for your trip.
Vail Village
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail: This family-friendly resort features rooms, suites and private residences with full kitchens — perfect for longer stays. A year-round heated pool, newly renovated spa and a short walk to Vail Village make it a convenient luxury option.
- When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
Sonnenalp Hotel: In the heart of Vail Village, this European-style alpine retreat is perfect for couples. Known for personalized service, the cozy accommodations and an indoor / outdoor pool make this a charming option in the best location.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Sebastian — Vail: A design-forward boutique mountain lodge in Vail Village housing rooms, suites and residences for longer stays. Contemporary design, an outdoor pool with mountain views and seamless access to the slopes via ski valet make it a standout.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Lionshead
The Arrabelle at Vail Square: A luxurious escape with ski-in/out access in the heart of Lionshead. Inspired by classic alpine resorts in Europe, the accommodations are spacious — from rooms to suites and private residences.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort: This modern, upscale retreat is ideal for couples wanting more wellness and après options. A world-class spa, upscale local-inspired dining and easy access to the Eagle Bahn Gondola make it a central choice.
- Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks includea $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Condos & Residences
Lodge Tower in Vail: An extended-stay option in Vail with homey comforts, it’s perfect for couples and families. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, fitness center, outdoor hot tubs and even a ski valet service right near Vail Village.
Solaris Residences: This upscale, spacious retreat in the heart of Vail Village is perfect for luxury travelers. Aside from its residence-style condos, there’s a private spa, bowling alley and Matsuhisa Vail — Chef Nobu’s renowned sushi and Japanese-Peruvian restaurant.
The Lion: A contemporary retreat in Lionshead, accommodations range from one- to four-bedroom condos. Each unit includes a full kitchen and large windows, as well as access to complimentary ski storage and shuttle service to the slopes.
Cultural celebrations and events
Vail hosts a variety of events and celebrations throughout the year. From sports events to food festivals and music performances to film festivals, there’s something taking place at almost every time of year.
- Vail Snow Days (early December): Kick off ski season with this multi-day festival filled with live concerts, après-ski parties and on-mountain events.
- Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships (late February to early March) – Watch elite snowboarders compete in one of the most iconic snowboarding competitions, along with a lively après-ski scene.
- Gaper Days (April 1): This ski resort tradition sees skiers and snowboarders dress in outrageous outfits and hit the slopes one last time to celebrate the end of the season.
- Vail Film Festival (Spring, typically March or April) – Celebrate independent cinema with screenings, panel discussions and emerging filmmakers in scenic Vail Village.
- Taste of Vail (April): Experience Vail’s best food with chef-led events, mountaintop tastings and expertly paired wine experiences.
- Après at the Amp (April): A spring après party with live music at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater.
- SpringFree Bluegrass & Vail Comedy Festival (May): A weekend of bluegrass music and stand-up comedy across various Vail venues.
- GoPro Mountain Games (June): A multi-sport festival with kayaking, biking, running, climbing and live music events.
- Bravo! Vail Music Festival (June – August): Enjoy world-class orchestras, chamber music and solo performances in outdoor venues.
- Oktoberfest Vail (September, multiple weekends): Join a Bavarian-style celebration in Vail Village or Lionshead with stein-holding contests, bratwurst, live music and plenty of lederhosen.
Activities
While Vail is famous for its wintertime activities, there’s tons of fun for every other season as well. Wildflowers start to bloom in springtime. Rivers and mountain trails are best explored in the summer. Fall foliage coupled with wildlife viewing makes autumn a great time to visit also.
- Ski & Outdoor Adventures: Hit the slopes in the winter, explore Vail’s scenic hiking trails year-round, or go biking and whitewater rafting in the summer.
- Boutique Shopping: Browse locally owned shops and high-end retailers in Vail Village and Lionshead for everything from ski gear to luxury fashion.
- Ice Skating: Lace up your skates for an outdoor skating session at the rinks in Lionshead and Vail Village.
- Dog Sledding: Take a one-of-a-kind winter adventure through the snowy backcountry with a dog sledding excursion.
- Off-Mountain Activities: Beyond the slopes, take a scenic drive to discover hot springs, go on guided rafting trips, or even snowmobiling or snowshoeing.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Keep the energy going after dark with live performances at local venues or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Vail’s village streets.
- Après-Ski: Unwind after a day outdoors with cocktails by the fire or a gourmet meal at one of Vail’s top restaurants.
Add-on destinations
If you want to add another mountain stop to your itinerary, there are some additional places to explore. Whether it’s for a day trip or a few days extra, you can rent a car and drive to one of these nearby destinations for a change in scenery.
Breckenridge — 45 minutes: A perfect day trip or overnight getaway, Breckenridge is a charming excursion. Victorian-style architecture, a lively après-ski scene and laid-back ski culture make it a great choice. In warmer months, there’s plenty of hiking, biking and even the famous alpine slide to enjoy.
Aspen — 2 hours: This natural pairing with Vail boasts luxury resorts, fine dining and year-round events. The scenic drive in summer months along Highway 82 and Independence Pass make for an unforgettable road trip.
Denver — 2 hours: This gateway city is perfect for a pre- or post-Vail stop. Visit museums, do tastings at craft breweries, or take in a concert or sporting event. Be aware that snowstorms can make the drive risky in winter months.
Moab, Utah — 3 hours: An ideal spring or fall getaway, the red rock landscapes of Arches National Park provide amazing hiking and mountain biking opportunities. The contrast between the alpine peaks and Moab’s desert landscape makes it an all-encompassing combination.
If not Vail…
Whether you’ve already been to Vail or are just looking for more inspiration, here are some popular alternatives for outdoor adventure, après-ski culture and gorgeous views.
Park City, Utah: With diverse terrain, Park City is home to the largest ski resort in the US. A vibrant downtown Main Street is lined with restaurants and art galleries. It’s also home to the renowned Sundance Film Festival every January.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Perfect for those wanting a more rugged, Western-style experience. Skiers will find steep ski runs and a lively après scene. It’s also a great entry point for Grand Teton National Park.
Sun Valley, Idaho: For those wanting to escape crowds, Sun Valley is an equally scenic option. It’s a laid-back ski destination with a thriving arts scene.
Whistler, British Columbia: For the largest ski resort in North America, head to Whistler. Olympic-level slopes, a bustling village and year-round outdoor activities make it a great choice.
Stowe, Vermont: An excellent East Coast alternative, Stowe is another top-tier ski destination. It’s perfect for those wanting a cozy après-ski vibe and classic New England charm.
Email: Italia.dutton@fora.travel
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