Vail , Colorado
Cold weather, snow, mountain views, hot tubs, delicious food, and village shopping… all the things that make a snow bunnies dream come true. Vail is one of the most incredible skiing and snowboarding experiences you can do. Vail has villages full of shops, cute cafes, resorts, restaurants, and a beautiful mountain atmosphere.
Money Saving Tips
- Rent a car. A cheap car rental does the trick, having a car will definitely be the easiest way to explore the state and see what you want to see. (Another tip: be conscious of the car you rent. Get 4-wheel drive for the mountains, dealing with snow, etc.)
- If you don’t ski and want to save some money go to Vail in the fall (their off-season), their parking lots are free! NICE!
- As with most vacations, I recommend stopping at a grocery store and grabbing breakfast foods, snacks, drinks for the apartment if you are staying at an Airbnb, etc. IT ALL ADDS UP
- Download the AllTrails app if you’re interested in hiking – people add reviews of hikes (oftentimes helpful if you’re unsure about trail conditions, weather, etc.), photos, and descriptions so you can choose the right one!
Skiing & Snowboarding
When you hear the name Vail you may envision the rich and famous decked out in Mont Blanc outfits, skiing among picturesque ski cottages. You’ll also find a small town with welcoming and warm locals and many family friendly activities. Vail is a scenic, breathtaking two-hour drive west of Denver. The number one reason to go to Vail is because of the absolutely stunning skiing areas. Vail is without-a-doubt the best ski resort you will ever experienced. Vail has 145 MILES for you to ski and snowboard. You could literally ski here for weeks and still have not gone on every single run. Here are some facts on Vail:
- 195 Ski Runs
- 29 Lifts and 2 Gondolas
- 145 Miles of Runs
- Over 300 Inches of Snow per Year
What To Do
A few adventures on our list firstly include, skiing, tubing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, riding a roller coaster on top of Eagle’s Nest Mountain, ice skating, and swimming in the snow! You must make sit in a hot tub underneath the stars and snow covering the trees. But let’s be honest, you could just sit in your hotel room with the window open looking out the window and feel the magic of this beautiful city.
Not into any of the activities above…maybe into more of the shopping scene? Let me help you out there. Vail is linked by three gorgeous base areas filled with endless restaurants, shopping, and après ski hot spots. A tourist favorite is Lionshead Village! FYI: There is a complimentary transportation shuttle that runs all day to these villages and well into the night. This allows you to get from spot to spot without the hassle of driving a car around.* Fun fact: the streets are all heated!
Want to explore Vail? Head out for a hike or two. One I recommend choosing is the Booth Falls trail. If you’re in decent shape, the hike is not very difficult and will spend about only three-four hours with a few stops and a long relaxing break at the top. After that, grab beers at a brewery. If you’re even somewhat familiar with the state, I’m sure you’re aware the place is just filled to the brim with craft breweries. Check out Vail Brewing Company, cute brewery in the village. Therefore, grab yourself a flight and a table outside and people-watch. It’s magical. Trust Us!
Where To Eat
Let’s talk about food now. Garfinkel’s and Tavern on the Square are the perfect aprés ski spots! They are located at the bottom of the slopes at Lionshead Village and have a great atmosphere! Have a sweet tooth? Get some sweet treats, coffee, or a hot chocolate at Rimini and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Here are some restaurant suggestions:
- – The Little Diner – Grab some breakfast before your hike. Reasonable prices and delicious food.
- Vendetta’s Italian Restaurant – Mood for a cozy restaurant with good pizza? Older, homey restaurant that is perfect for a casual dinner.
- Matsuhisa– Delicious sushi and romantic setting. Perfect for a date out.
Where To Stay
We recommend staying at the base of your favorite mountain! Lionshead or Vail Village would be ideal so you can ski right out your room. During your morning coffee watch other skiers ride down the slopes. Great hotel to stay at is the Marriott which was just a short drive or shuttle ride to the slopes. Firstly, make sure your hotel has a hot tub and windows with a view! There is nothing better than looking out your window at the snow covered mountains watching the snow come down while you’re cuddled up drinking your coffee in front of the fireplace! In addition, being in the hot tub at night under the falling snow is magical. For instance, after a long day skiing being able to sit back and relax and just enjoy the moment with your loved one/ones. But however, Traveling with a group or want to save some extra money, I suggest staying at an Airbnb. There are many great ones close to the mountains and the village.
Whichever season you decide to visit Vail, you will have the time of your life. It’s hard to compare it to any other place with its unbelievable views and mountains. If you are planning a trip to Vail hope I was helpful, and if you aren’t planning I hope I’ve convinced you it’s worth your time. We are here to help you book you trip and earn extra points. Check out our blog on how to use your points and miles to book your trip.
