Summer Mountain Getaway Guide: Vail

Forget skiing and snowboarding, summer is my favorite time to visit Colorado’s many mountain towns, where you can escape the heat of the city in exchange for shady pine tree trails, artisan markets, and stunning mountain range views. So pack your sunscreen and load up the Subaru, because this week in my Summer Mountain Getaway Guide series, I’m taking you two hours west to the Austrian-inspired ski town of Vail.

🏨 Where to Stay

There’s no shortage of luxe ski resorts in Vail, and they all come at a glamorous price. If you can swing the cost, staying inside Vail Village is magical. I’d recommend The Sebastian for posh boutique vibes that don’t come at quite the luxury cost of someplace like The Arrabelle. For a little more space at a (slightly more) reasonable price, try The Antlers Lodge in Lionshead, ideal for large groups or families. And of course there’s always the ol’ reliable DoubleTree by Hilton.

🥾 Explore the Great Outdoors

Indulge the siren call of the mountains with hiking, biking, camping, rafting, fishing, and four-wheeling near Vail. Throw a line into Gore Creek, ride the whitewater rapids of the Eagle River, and find bike trails aplenty at the top of Vail Mountain. Hiking? Start small with the Gore Creek Path just outside of town, then work your way up to fan-favorite challenges like Booth Creek Falls or Berrypicker Trail — plus tons of options in-between.

🛍️ Hit the Highlights

For the quintessential Vail experience, spend some time strolling through the valley’s two main village centers: Lionshead Village and Vail Village, connected by Gore Creek Path. Both are quaint, cobblestoned, and lined with little shops and charming patios. Thrill-seekers can glimpse stunnings views of the valley on a zippy trip down Vail Mountain on the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster. For a more leisurely viewing experience, take a ride up the mountain in Gondola One or the Eagle Bahn Gondola. History buffs can explore the town’s past at the free Colorado Snowsports Museum. And in good weather, test your swing on the gorgeous 18-hole Vail Golf Club course.

🍽️ Get Your Grub On

Hungry? La Bottega and La Nonna serve A+ Italian at a reasonable price (by Vail standards, anyways). Looking for a crowd? Mountain Standard is a hip gastropub that’s always hoppin’. If you’re trying to get fancy, Matsuhisa offers acclaimed Japanese seafood and sushi, and Sweet Basil is an award-winning fave for elevated New American plates. Pepi’s Bar and Restaurant pours a good Hefeweizen with Bavarian bites on a patio prime for people-watching. Vail Brewing Co. has top-notch beers in the heart of the village. Then, top it all off with a delicious greasy-spoon breakfast at the “legendary” Little Diner.

☀️ Summer Events

Psst! Check out last week’s mountain town guide 👇