Vail ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Vail, Colorado.
1. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
SERENE MOUNTAIN BOTANICAL OASIS
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is a stunning botanical garden featuring educational panels on native plants and scenic trails along a river. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil spots to appreciate nature's beauty throughout the changing seasons. The garden also includes a playground and serves as a peaceful retreat amidst the mountain landscape.
2. Vail Mountain Resort
PREMIER ALPINE ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Vail Mountain Resort offers vast ski terrain that caters to all skill levels, with convenient ski-in, ski-out access and a range of learning areas. The resort features a top-mountain magic carpet and unique dining experiences like Wildwood Smokehouse. During summer, the resort transforms into Epic Discovery with adventure courses, ziplines, and a Mountain Coaster.
3. Booth Falls Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING EXPERIENCE
Booth Falls Trail is a highly-rated hiking path offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Vail Valley. The trail leads hikers to a magnificent waterfall nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy diverse flora and fauna along this popular outdoor adventure route.
4. Vail Valley
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN PLAYGROUND
Vail Valley is a stunning natural expanse surrounded by the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. The valley offers year-round recreational activities from skiing in winter to hiking and mountain biking in summer. Visitors can experience the area's natural beauty while enjoying access to charming villages and resort amenities.
5. Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
CULTURAL MOUNTAIN ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, known locally as The Amp, is an outdoor performance venue hosting a diverse array of cultural events each summer. The amphitheater presents internationally renowned dance performances and classical music concerts against the backdrop of Vail's stunning mountain scenery. With its open-air design, the venue offers a unique entertainment experience in the heart of the Rockies.
6. Eagle Bahn Gondola
SCENIC MOUNTAIN TRANSPORT EXPERIENCE
Eagle Bahn Gondola provides smooth rides through the Rockies with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The gondola connects visitors to numerous hiking trails and mountain biking routes throughout the Vail area. Additional attractions include an alpine slide and a small grill where visitors can enjoy refreshments with a view.
7. Vail Recreation Path
SCENIC PAVED MOUNTAIN TRAIL
Vail Recreation Path is a highly-rated paved trail system winding through the scenic Vail Valley. The path offers cyclists, runners, and walkers an accessible way to experience the area's natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained route that connects various parts of Vail and provides stunning mountain views.
8. 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company
LOCAL CRAFT SPIRITS DESTINATION
10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company is a popular distillery producing craft spirits in the heart of Vail. Visitors can enjoy tastings of locally-made whiskey, bourbon, vodka, and other spirits inspired by the mountain lifestyle. The distillery pays homage to the 10th Mountain Division, the elite mountain warfare unit that trained in Colorado during World War II.
9. Lionshead Village
EUROPEAN-STYLE SHOPPING DISTRICT
Lionshead Village is a charming European-style shopping center featuring one-of-a-kind boutique shops that satisfy all shopping enthusiasts. The pedestrian-friendly village creates a cozy atmosphere with its distinctive architecture and mountain backdrop. Visitors can browse unique shops, dine at various restaurants, and enjoy the village's proximity to outdoor activities.
10. Epic Discovery
MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE PARK
Epic Discovery transforms Vail Mountain into an adventure playground during summer months with ziplines, adventure courses, and a thrilling Mountain Coaster. The attraction offers endless options for outdoor fun including tubing and guided mountain tours. Families and thrill-seekers alike can experience the mountain in unique ways beyond traditional hiking and biking.
11. Vail Village
CHARMING ALPINE TOWN CENTER
Vail Village is the picturesque heart of Vail featuring cobblestone streets and Bavarian-style architecture. The pedestrian-friendly center offers upscale shopping, dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine restaurants, and various art galleries. Visitors can enjoy the village's European charm while being steps away from world-class outdoor recreation.
12. Mountain-Top Dining
ELEVATED CULINARY EXPERIENCES
Mountain-Top Dining in Vail offers unique culinary experiences at restaurants located atop ski lifts and gondolas at Vail Resort. Diners enjoy exceptional meals accompanied by panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. These distinctive restaurants combine gourmet cuisine with the unmatched beauty of high-altitude dining.
13. Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum
WINTER SPORTS HERITAGE CENTER
Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado and beyond. The museum features exhibits on the evolution of winter sports equipment, the 10th Mountain Division, and Colorado's ski resort development. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the state's snow sports heritage to life.
14. Gore Creek
GOLD MEDAL FISHING WATERS
Gore Creek is a pristine mountain stream flowing through Vail that offers exceptional fly fishing in its Gold Medal waters. The creek provides habitat for numerous trout species and creates a peaceful natural corridor through the heart of Vail. Visitors can fish, picnic along its banks, or simply enjoy the soothing sounds of running water against the backdrop of mountain scenery.
15. Piney River Ranch
SECLUDED MOUNTAIN LAKE RETREAT
Piney River Ranch is a stunning outdoor destination located about 12 miles from Vail featuring a pristine alpine lake surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. Visitors can enjoy activities including canoeing, horseback riding, hiking, and dining at the lakeside restaurant. The ranch offers day visits as well as rustic cabin accommodations for those seeking an authentic Rocky Mountain experience.