Experience the Best Things to Do in Vail, CO
Home to both Vail and Beaver Creek ski resorts, the Vail Valley is one of the world's most beautiful places. Famous primarily for skiing and snowboarding, Vail also offers endless opportunities for recreation and adventure, world-renowned cultural events and performances, fine dining, and boutique shopping. You won’t be short on outstanding things to do in Vail, Colorado. We invite you to take a stroll through the quaint alpine pedestrian villages and take in the breathtaking scenery. You will never want to go anywhere else!
For even more local insight on the best of Vail, request a free copy of our Vacation Guide!
The Best Things to Do in Vail, CO
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
“I believe that there is a subtle magnetism in Nature, which, if we unconsciously yield to it, will direct us aright.” — Henry David Thoreau
In the Winter
Vail is a heavenly destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Vail Mountain alone averages a yearly snowfall of 350” on a total of 5,317 skiable acres.
- Skiing & Snowboarding
- Snowmobile Tours
- Sleigh Ride Dinners
- Ice Climbing
- Snowshoeing
- Cross Country Skiing
- Hot Air Ballooning
- & more
Local Travel Tip: Ski & Snowboard Equipment Rental
Our favorite local shop is Performance Sports. Located in Lionshead on the way to the lifts, it has a wide selection of equipment, competitive pricing, and the kind of unsurpassed service that keeps our guests going back year after year. To save 20% on your rentals once you have reserved your lodging with us, please visit their shop online.
In the Summer
If you were to ask any local or transplant why they chose to live in Vail, CO, they would likely say something along the lines of, “I came for the winters and stayed for the summers.”
- Hiking
- Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking
- Mountain & Road Biking
- Family-friendly
- Fly Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Golf Courses
- Jeep & Side-by-side ATV Tours
- Ziplining
- Summer Signature Events
- Farmers’ Markets
- & more
Local Travel Tip: Bike Rental
Vail Bike Tech in Lionshead Mall is the place to go. Rentals include bikes for every type of biking and every type of person – cruisers, mountain bikes, downhill bikes, tandems, kid’s bikes, trailers for even smaller kids, and mountain scooters (not really a bike, but still lots of fun). To save 30% on your rentals once you have reserved your lodging with us, please visit their shop online.
Explore the Culinary Scene
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” — Virginia Woolf
Restaurants
From creative fine dining to delicious casual bites, there’s no shortage of fabulous food to feast on in Vail.
Local Travel Tip: Read our Foodie Guide or ask our local experts for more great recommendations on where to eat in Vail. We’ll even schedule your reservations!
Wineries, Breweries & Spirits
In need of a little après-ski? Grab a drink at a local wine bar or brewery to wind down after a long day on the slopes.
Grocery Delivery
Leave the shopping to someone else! Have groceries and/or libations delivered to your condo prior to your arrival in Vail. All you have to do is make your selections at least a few days prior to your arrival. Delivery fee and service charge will be added to the total bill.
Immerse Yourself in Local Art & Culture
“Art evokes the mystery without which the world would not exist.” — René Magritte
Museums & Galleries
Find inspiration in the beautiful works of art showcased at some of Vail's local galleries. History buffs will enjoy the fascinating history of Colorado and snowsports.
- Colorado Snowsports Museum
- Camp Hale National Historic Site
- The Vickers Collection
- Vail International Gallery
- & more
Theatre, Music & Performance
Vail boasts a wide variety of entertainment options ranging from live performances to a boutique drive-in movie theater.
- Bravo! Vail Music Festival
- The Amp, Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
- Blue Starlite Drive-In (Minturn)
- Vilar Performing Arts Center
- & more
Annual Events
From world-class cultural events to fun-filled festivals to concerts, Vail & Beaver Creek has something for everyone all year long.
View our Calendar of Events.
Kick Back and Relax
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… Including you.” — Anne Lamott
Health & Wellness
Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you have to forego your health and fitness routines. Lodge at Lionshead offers guests access to its fitness center, pool, and hot tubs. You could also practice yoga or try a new fitness class at a local gym or studio.
- Pool, hot tub, and fitness center access at the Lodge at Lionshead
- Dryland Fitness Vail
- The Vail Racquet Club Health & Fitness Club
- & more
Spas & Relaxation
It’s so easy to stay on the go while you’re on vacation, especially if you have an itinerary full of outdoor adventures. Don’t forget to take some time to slow down. Make an appointment at one of Vail's world-class spas for an indulgent massage or facial.
Treat Yourself
“Anyone who lives within their means suffers from a lack of imagination.” — Oscar Wilde
Local Shopping
Maybe you are searching for the perfect souvenir to bring home from your holiday. Or you need new gear for skiing, hiking, or fly fishing. Perhaps you just need find the perfect "mountain formal" look for dinner out in Vail Village.
Let Us Help You With Your Planning
Make the most of your overall experience in Vail, CO, when you stay in our beautiful accommodations at Lodge at Lionshead. We are more than happy to help you plan the perfect trip for you and your friends or family. Our Concierge Services are available to help you with everything from tour reservations and child care to equipment rentals and even travel insurance. Please, take some time to look through our complimentary Vacation Guide for more thoughtful suggestions on what to do in Vail. Additionally, we are always happy to help make more specific suggestions for your needs!