Although the first thing you probably think of when you hear the words Vail, Colorado, is skiing, the area is actually a great getaway destination in the summertime as well. Whether you’re into action and adventure, or shopping and relaxation, there’s something to capture everyone’s interest in this beautiful mountain town.
Make an Epic Discovery
What Is It? At the Vail Ski Resort, Epic Discovery is the ultimate way to enjoy the mountain during the summer months with all kinds of “epic” adventures to be had.
Why Do It? There are zip lines for flying above the trees, summer tubing on a 550-foot-long tubing hill, two rope adventure courses, rock climbing, a giant bungee trampoline, and the Forest Flyer, a raised alpine coaster that winds 3,400 feet down the mountain.
Good to Know: There are also plenty of trails for hiking and mountain biking, as well as the scenic gondola, which takes riders up above 10,000 feet to enjoy the views.
Visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
What Is It? Located at 8,250 feet in the Rocky Mountains, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the highest botanical garden in the United States.
Why Do It? There are several different ways to enjoy the beautiful collection of exotic high-elevation plants and flowers, including docent-led tours and mountain hikes.
Good to Know: There are also a variety of educational programs for both children and adults.
Learn About Skiing and Snowboarding
What Is It? Just because there’s no snow for skiing or snowboarding doesn’t mean you can’t still learn all about it.
Why Do It? The Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum celebrates the evolution of snow sports, as well as the history of the Vail area.
Good to Know: Check out the interactive exhibits on your own self-guided tour or take one of the guided tours that are offered on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Take in a Live Music Festival
What Is It? The town of Vail is alive with music all during the summer months.
Why Do It? The Vail Jazz Festival offers live jazz band performances in Vail Square on Thursday evenings, at the farmers market on Sunday afternoons for the Solaris Sunday series, and special performances at the Donovan Pavilion.
Good to Know: You can also catch the Hot Summer Nights free concert series on Tuesday nights at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater or the Bravo! Vail Music Festival if classical is more of your taste.
Go Shopping in the Village
What Is It? There are literally hundreds of shops to choose from in Vail, so you’re sure to find something you love, whether you’re shopping for jewelry, clothes, artwork, or outdoor gear.
Why Do It? Walking through the heated cobblestone streets of the area’s three pedestrian villages will have you feeling like you’ve just stepped into a postcard.
Good to Know: Vail Village, Lionshead, and Golden Peak offer a variety of boutiques and shops, as well as restaurants and nightlife.
Relax at the Spa
What Is It? Vail Village and Lionshead also offer several luxurious day spas where you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage, a rejuvenating body treatment, a facial, manicure or pedicure.
Why Do It? With warm, inviting décor, botanical treatments and extras like whirlpools, steam baths and relaxation rooms, you’ll never want to leave!
Good to Know: Several of the area’s spas also offer full-service fitness centers with cardio equipment, weights and studio space for yoga and Pilates.
Play a Round of Golf
What Is It? Golfing at one of Vail’s seven world-class public and private courses is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Why Do It? It will be a memorable experience, thanks to the wide variety of terrain and the unbelievable mountain backdrops.
Good to Know: Vail Golf Club, one of the area’s most popular courses, is located at the base of the Gore Mountain Range and offers an amazing 18-hole experience at a whopping 8,200 feet in elevation.
