Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Vail is more than just a ski destination. For those pondering what to do in Vail if you don’t ski, there’s a plethora of delightful activities awaiting. Beyond its famed slopes, Vail presents a winter wonderland rich in experiences, from taking a breathtaking scenic gondola ride that offers panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks to immersing oneself in the history and heritage at the free Colorado Ski and Snowsports Museum. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! A Vail vacation offers a vibrant world within Vail Village and Lionshead. These bustling hubs provide endless shopping opportunities, where visitors can explore everything from quaint boutique stores boasting unique finds to well-known national chain stores offering familiar comforts. Truly, Vail beckons visitors to discover its diverse offerings, whether you’re on skis or not.
Indulge in Vail’s Culinary Scene
Vail offers an exceptional culinary scene, from casual sports bars to fine dining establishments. Visitors will discover everything from family-friendly Italian and pan-European restaurants, French, Japanese and American eateries as well as casual eateries offering comforting snacks.
Locals of Vail will attest that to truly experience Vail dining, you must visit Sweet Basil Restaurant – established in 1977 on Vail Village’s main retail and restaurant block – known for fresh seasonal ingredients and top-of-the-line service in an elegant dining environment. Sister restaurant Mountain Standard provides similar flavors.
Osaki’s offers exquisite sushi in a luxurious environment, creating an experience you won’t soon forget. Their omakase menu allows chef Takeshi Osaki to surprise you with fresh seafood and specialty rolls for an experience you won’t soon forget! Come visit Osaki’s today if sushi is your passion!
Immerse Yourself in Local Arts and Culture
Vail’s vibrant artistic scene is truly remarkable, boasting an impressive selection of local galleries showcasing exquisite works. Additionally, its Art in Public Places program makes it simple to discover more than 55 murals, sculptures and paintings scattered throughout Vail Village.
Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame (formerly The Ski and Snowboard History Center) for an in-depth cultural experience related to winter sports. This free museum houses various exhibits dedicated to winter sports – one is dedicated to 10th Mountain Division while others pay homage to ski fashion and culture.
Postholing is another captivating cultural activity unique to Vail that provides outdoor enthusiasts with an adventurous winter activity: an icy trek that allows participants to discover caves formed in snow by waterfalls and trickling flows, perfect for postholers who enjoy being active and enjoy being outside in all weather.
Others activities for those interested in the outdoors include skiing at night using a “ski bike,” which essentially consists of a regular bicycle fitted with two skis for additional stability on slopes, or hiking the Gore Creek Trail – an extremely scenic route offering stunning mountain vistas.
Take a Stroll through Vail Village and Lionshead
Vail’s European-influenced architecture makes for an unforgettable experience within the United States. Visit charming villages of Vail and Lionshead to stroll cobblestone streets and admire Bavarian-style buildings.
Vail Village also features the Colorado Snowsports Museum for free to learn about skiing and snowboarding history. With hands-on exhibits and one-hour guided tours that highlight important sites around town, this museum provides invaluable knowledge.
In summertime, visitors to Lionshead Village can also experience scenic gondola rides such as the Eagle Bahn Gondola which travels up 2,125 feet between Lionshead Village and Eagle’s Nest in just 8 minutes. Or try Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster which provides a thrilling ride suitable for both kids and adults alike!
Vail offers many outdoor adventures, including hiking and snowshoeing. There are trails suitable for all abilities; solo travellers or those interested in joining guided groups are both options available in Vail. In addition, those interested in exploring the backcountry by either foot or snowmobile are provided guided trips into the mountains by Vail guides.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Luxury Spas
If the cold weather and outdoor adventures have you feeling exhausted, take some time out for yourself at one of Vail’s two spas for some pampering. Four Seasons Vail and Arrabelle Spa both provide various treatments and amenities designed to relax and unwind you – try an Alpine Retreat Manicure & Pedicure to soothe tired hands and feet or choose one with lymphatic cupping as part of a body massage experience.
At these luxury spas, you can also indulge in sauna and heated pool experiences during your visit. If you are staying at a hotel or resort, inquire about their spa packages to take advantage of additional perks such as ski days or other activities.
While in Vail, why not explore some of its shops? National chain stores such as Patagonia and Gorsuch can be found here as well as unique boutiques selling Colorado apparel. Or why not combine bowling with dinner? For an entertaining night with family or friends.
Take Scenic Gondola Rides
Vail is known for its outdoor adventures, but you can also experience plenty of winter activities without the use of skis. Take a scenic gondola ride for breathtaking mountain views and an unparalleled perspective of its snowy landscape.
Hiking is another popular winter activity in Vail. There is an array of hiking trails throughout the area that offer stunning mountain views; two popular trails include Gore Creek Trail and Deluge Lake Trail.
An alternative way of experiencing nature without the physical strain or difficulty of skiing is snowshoeing. A snowshoe is a flat device similar to a tennis racket that attaches securely to boots to help stay above the snow surface and stay upright while exploring your environment.
Vail offers both guided and self-guided snowshoe tours for you to experience in winter wonderland. Check out the Vail Snowshoeing Guide for more details.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking and Snowshoeing
Vail may be known for its picturesque terrain and incredible snowfall, but there’s so much more to experience here than skiing alone. A guided horseback trail ride through the mountains provides breathtaking scenery – experience this gorgeous area from a different vantage point at Bearcat Stables or Vail Stables between mid-November and March (or until the snow melts away).
Snowshoeing is another thrilling outdoor activity worth experiencing, which works similarly to walking sticks but allows you to easily explore snowy landscapes while taking in stunning mountain views. You can choose whether to do this on your own or with a guide, depending on your comfort levels and desired adventure level.
For some high-energy outdoor fun, why not go on a snowmobile tour around your area? This exciting winter activity allows you to see all of the breathtaking backcountry scenery you might miss when hiking and promises an exhilarating ride! Or why not even participate in ice climbing; this requires special equipment and safety training but could prove immensely rewarding?
Explore the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are the highest-elevation botanical gardens in the world, featuring an expertly curated selection of local alpine vegetation for guests to learn more about alpine vegetation.
Gardens are open from dawn to dusk every day of the year and free to visit, offering visitors a delightful walk through mountain perennial gardens, alpine rock gardens, children’s garden, rushing mountain streams, children’s play area and an original schoolhouse that now houses a small museum and gift shop.
If you’re feeling adventurous, cross country skiing at the Vail Nordic Center might just be for you. Beginners will find this more accessible than downhill skiing and will enjoy its panoramic views of Gore Range.
Snow biking is another fun winter activity worth experiencing in Colorado mountains during winter season and offers unique perspectives of scenery in a whole new light. Many companies in Colorado provide snow bikes.
Attend Seasonal Festivals and Events
Vail is a bustling winter town offering many activities beyond skiing. At Christmas time, Vail transforms into a holiday wonderland of sparkling lights and festive celebrations. Stroll through Vail Village or Lionshead for breathtaking sights or visit local shops offering everything from high-end ski equipment to home decor and clothing boutiques – you won’t be disappointed with what awaits you in Vail!
Snowshoeing, which allows you to explore mountains on foot while remaining upright and maintaining balance, and ice climbing provide great ways to experience nature during wintertime.
Visit Dobson Ice Arena to watch a Vail Yeti hockey game; these semi-pro teams play from December through March. Bring along children as they’ll love meeting Santa himself and participating in fun holiday-related activities at his Workshop!
