Plan Your Summer in Vail, Colorado
If you ask any local why they moved to Vail, the answer might be "for the skiing,” “for the snowboarding,” or “for the winter." If you ask any local why they stay in Vail, the resounding answer will be "for the summers!" It is so true. Colorado bluebird skies paint a stunning backdrop for the Rocky Mountains, towering pine trees, watercolor painting scenes of wildflowers, and rushing rivers. Revel in the comfortable day time temperatures, beautifully cool nights, and no humidity. Enjoy all the best Vail summer activities such as free concerts under the stars, world-renowned cultural events, adventures spent under the sunshine, and more. If you're looking for strictly family-friendly summer activities in Vail, we've got you covered on that too!
Read on for some of our favorite things to do in the summer. Then, be sure to get your free copy of our Vail, CO, Vacation Guide for more thoughtful local insight!
The Best Vail Summer
"'Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about." — John Mayer
Get Lost in Nature
Put your phones away, unplug, and recharge in nature. Vail is home to breathtaking views of the mountains, lush green forests, and stunning natural wonders. From hiking through fertile valleys to biking up steep mountaintops, there are countless ways to enjoy the scenery. Here are some of our favorite hiking and biking trails:
Go on an Adventure
Vail, CO, draws adventure lovers year-round! Take advantage of the sun’s extended presence on summer days and go on an exciting excursion with your family. Maybe you’re looking to get out on the water and paddle or fish. Perhaps you’d prefer to go horseback riding or spend a day at the adventure park. Regardless of how you choose to get your thrills, we know you’ll have an amazing time!
Practice Your Swing
Imagine yourself on an impressive 18-hole golf course amidst magical scenes of the mountains, blue skies, and manicured greens. It’s the perfect way to relax and have fun at the same time. The elevated altitude and incredible weather make golfing in Vail quite a unique experience that you won’t want to miss! Here are some of our recommended courses:
Dine at the Best Restaurants
Treat yourself to delicious dining options in Vail! From gourmet sit-down dinners to casual, family-friendly eats, you’re sure to find something that will appeal to everyone’s appetite. You might enjoy sitting outside so that you can take in beautiful views and enjoy the wonderful weather. If you’ve got a night to yourselves, you could even grab a drink at a local winery or brewery.
Peruse Vail’s Villages
Stroll along cobblestone streets surrounded by colorful shops, restaurants, and entertainment establishments in Vail’s Villages. These charming town centers are surrounded by miles and miles of natural beauty. Perusing the villages is the perfect way to enjoy the fresh air while shopping and spending time with your friends and family.
Attend a Signature Event
Whether you’re traveling to Vail for one of its world-class annual events or you just happen to be in town for one of their weekly festivals, farmers' markets, or art shows, you’re in for quite a treat! There's so much to look forward to from rodeos and mountain games to music festivals and foodie festivities. Discover one of the best signature events in Vail this summer:
- GoPro Mountain Games | Early June
- Hot Summer Nights | Tuesdays, July through August
- Minturn Farmers' Market | Saturdays, June through September
- Vail Farmers' Market & Art Show | Sundays, June through September
- King of the Mountain Volleyball Tourney | Mid-June
- Vail Arts Festival | Late June
- Bravo! Vail Music Festival | Late June through early August
- Summer Rodeo Series | Fridays July through August
- Vail America Days | Fourth of July
- Vail International Dance Festival | Late July through early August
- Jazz at Vail Square | Thursdays in July & August
- Annual Vail Jazz Party | Labor Day Weekend
- Gourmet on Gore | Labor Day Weekend
- Vail Oktoberfest | September
- Colorado Grand | September
- Vail Restaurant Week | Late September through early October
Don’t forget to get your free copy of our Vail Vacation Guide! Inside you will find even more suggestions on where to go, what to do, which events to attend, and where to eat while you’re in town! We did all of the planning so that you can spend more time enjoying your getaway.
Rest & Relax at the Lodge at Lionshead
Vail summer activities make for an unforgettable vacation. Dare we call it paradise? We think so. Visit us this summer at the Lodge at Lionshead, and you can discover our dreamy destination for yourself! Stay in one of our stylish condos in the heart of Vail. Our friendly concierge staff is happy to help you with anything and everything! From arranging ground transportation to reserving your table at a local restaurant, we’ve got you covered. We go above and beyond to make your stay one for the books!
Are you ready for the ultimate Vail summer vacation?