Modeled after a traditional Bavarian village sits Vail, a Colorado ski town boasting a wonderland in winter, sunshine in summer, a beautiful spring, and picturesque fall. Unlike other area destinations which existed as 19th century mining towns prior to morphing into ski resorts, Vail Village was built when the resort opened.
Flaunting old-world charm like cobblestone streets and covered bridges, the world-renowned hot spot is a total vibe. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Vail.
The Lay of the Land
Vail is fairy tale-esque, reflecting elements from Austrian, German, and Swiss villages. Situated in the heart of Colorado, much has changed since the ski resort opened in the 1960s, yet many of its original structures still stand.
The two main areas are Vail Village and Lionshead, both with their own gondolas that access most of the mountain. To the east is Golden Peak, and to the west is Cascade Village.
Although the entire Vail region is easily walkable, the town has a free bus route.
Where to Stay
East West Hospitality is the ultimate go-to for all things accommodations. The hospitality company manages six Vail properties: The Lion, Fallridge, Lodge Tower, Solaris, Vail Residence Collection and the Lodge at Lionshead. Their experiences are so elite, that upon your arrival, they can even have the fridge stocked per all your requests.
The Lodge Tower, for example, is located on the edge of Vail Village, next to Gondola One. The resort atmosphere flaunts a private and quiet environment. Residences range from studio lodge rooms to expansive fully stocked three-bedroom condos. Amenities include an outdoor pool, grotto-like waterfall, and hot tubs. There's also a daily complimentary continental breakfast.
Lodge Tower’s location is a short walk to gondola access, restaurants, and shopping within Vail Village. Plus, there’s a free shuttle service available to bring you around town.
New this year, East West Hospitality is introducing “Peak Pursuits,” a custom-curated itinerary service available to guests at no extra charge. Excursions and activities include hiking with llamas, wagon ride dinners, guided fly fishing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, off-road adventures, and more.
Experiencing Vail
Vail is stocked with apres-ski spots, but for dinner, reservations are usually required. For a hyper-local environment, head to The Red Lion, a jam-packed bar and restaurant with live music, local brews and delish nachos. For some European flare, head to Pepi’s. The Oktoberfest-like menu ranges Jägerschnitzel, Stroganoff and Goulash.
In the winter, Vail is known for ski school available for kids-adult, private and groups. Book in advance for cheaper rates and to ensure availability. Score a 20% discount on group lessons if you have an Epic Pass.
As for summer activities, here’s what to check off your bucket list.
Epic Discovery is Vail's Mountaintop Adventure Center located at the top of Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead. There, families will experience a mountain coaster, climbing wall, summer tubing, zip lines, mini golf, and a scenic gondola giving you a bird’s eye view at Colorado’s slice of paradise.
Through September, enjoy the area’s free outdoor concert series, in addition to concerts at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. The Bravo! Vail Music Festival is celebrating its 35th season, drawing music lovers from around the world. It’s the only festival in North America to host four of the world’s finest orchestras in a single season.
All this, in addition to an abundance of hiking, biking, golfing and more. BTW, for kids, Vail is home to one of the best playgrounds ever, Ford Playground. The park sits close to Gore Creek, ideal for dipping toes... just stay on the edge to avoid the current.