Th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits
I know what you are thinking- how can a distillery tasting room possibly be family friendly? Well, this distillery welcomes families to BYOB-perhaps a sparkling apple juice or a milk shake from a spot in town- for the kiddos while you taste to your hearts content.
Sure, a trip to a distillery would probably be more fun if you didnt have the littles with you, but Vail is a great family vacation destination and this is a nice work around.
There is a nice grassy area near the creek below 10th Mountain which would be a great place for older kids to play while you watched from above. Teens and tweens may just opt to walk around the village while mom and dad get sample bourbon, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine.
Towns Of The Vail Valley
The Vail valley stretches from East Vail down to Gypsum. Towns line the highway I-70 that cuts through Eagle County. Vail is the best known of these towns. Beaver Creek just down the road is a close second. But it is EagleVail, Minturn, Edwards, Avon, Eagle and Gypsum where the locals live. These areas also have much to offer. It is a tight knit community where everyone knows one another and all can feel safe.
Other Cities To Visit Near Vail
Almost every other day we took a quick day trip to visit another city near Vail. There are several within a half hour to hour drive and each has a distinct personality. From mining towns to railroad towns to a city modeled after a Swiss skiing village , youll get a little taste of everything in CO.
- Frisco: We went over to Frisco for breakfast, but then spent a few hours popping in shops , stopped by Highside Brewing, and then ended our day with a walk around Frisco Bay.
- Breckenridge: Probably my favorite of the cities where we stopped, Breckenridge had gorgeous views, restaurants, candy shops, cookie shops, shopping, Breckenridge Distillery, and, of course, the Alpine Slide. There was also a historic home there that I was sure Adam would want to stop in maybe next time?
- Minturn: Theres not a ton in the quaint town of Minturn unless you go on a Saturday morning for the market and then its absolutely worth a stop.
We also stopped by Beaver Creek, but Im thinking I need to give that a fair shot in the winter.
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Hiking During The Summer In Vail
Hiking is a favorite activity in Vail. In fact, some trailhead parking lots have become so overused that they have been shut down to protect the area.
You can still reach many trailheads, though, with Vails Bus to Hike program. Vail has a free, easy-to-use bus system that transports guests throughout Vail Village and nearby Lionshead, as well as out to several outlying trailheads.
One example is the Booth Lake Trailhead, which is closed to parking for the summer but easily reached via the towns free bus system.
Booth Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the valley, due to stunning views of mountain peaks and aspen forest, and a gorgeous rushing waterfall at the top.
The 4.2-mile hike is steep at times, and good hiking shoes are required, but the views are worth it. Take a picnic lunch in your backpack and spend a half-day there.
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Have An Epic Mountainside Adventure
Take the gondola to the top of Vail Mountain, and the whole family can play at Epic Discovery Center. Fly through the air on a zipline, ride down the tubing hill, or scream on the mountain coaster. Check out the climbing wall and high ropes course, too!
- Duration: Half day to full day
- Cost: $89 per person
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Escape To Piney River Ranch
This 40-acre ranch located at the base of the Gore Range is a fun place to visit for a day or stay for a few in a cabin or a glamping tent. While youre there, you can canoe or paddleboard on Piney Lake, go fishing, or horseback ride through the meadows. From the ranch, you can also hike Upper Piney River Falls to Kneeknocker Pass, for one of the best fall hikes in Colorado.
- Duration: Half day to multiple days
- Cost: Varies
Where To Eat And Drink In Vail
To be 100% honest, I wasnt blown away by the food in Colorado, but I think that was because I was on a run with misordering. Adam would rave about his meal in the same restaurant where I was just meh. But, regardless, that doesnt mean I dont have a few recommendations almost all of which were walkable from our hotel.
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In Conclusion Summer In Vail Colorado
Summer in Vail, Colorado is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have in Colorado! The stunning views, friendly people, and fun things to do will keep you busy having a great time and making the best memories on your summer vacation.
My hope is that this epic guide to summer in Vail helps you plan your trip and not miss a thing! A summer vacation to Vail is not complete without including some of the things listed here.
Or, if youre considering a summer trip to Aspen, this post about Best Things to do in Aspen could be so helpful!
The Vail Welcome Centers are also a great place to start. They have a very knowledgeable staff ready to assist you with any questions about events, shopping, dining, or lodging! They have locations in Vail Village and Lionshead Village.
How Far Is Vail From Denver Colorado
Vail and Denver are about 100 miles apart. It takes about an hour-and-a-half to drive to Vail from Denver. You can also take a shuttle with Colorado Mountain Express from Denver International Airport, which takes about three hours to three-and-a-half hours.
Want to pass the time with something fun?
Listen to a tour guide during the drive!
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A Few Final Notes On Vail In The Summer
Like I said at the beginning of this post, Im a winter person and someday I would love to visit Vail when its snow-covered and charming, but I cant deny the appeal of the gorgeous mountain views and the lack of humidity. Youll never run out of things to do, even in the summer, and the diversity of the landscape is incredible. Ive already got a growing list of things I cant wait to do next time
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Things To See And Do In East Vail
- Take in the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains as you stroll through the streams, waterfalls, and brightly-colored flower beds of the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
- The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater hosts some of the regions most beloved events, such as the Bravo! Vail music festival and the Vail Dance Festival.
- Gore Creek offers a myriad of outdoorsy activities for visits, including rafting and trout fishing.
- The Vail Racquet Club is home to a childrens playground area and a park.
- Keep your eyes out for wildlife in the neighborhood. Its pretty common to spot beavers, bighorn sheep, elk, deer, raccoons, foxes, and black bears.
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Best Condo In Vail Village: Eagles Nest
Eagles Nest has all the hallmarks of an incredible Vail getaway. From the property, youll be moments away from restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and the Golden Peak ski lift. Not to mention, its location offers plenty of opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and skiing.
Youll love the picture-perfect mountain views outside the property. Theres also a community patio where you can enjoy an outdoor meal.
Vail Colorado: An Elevated Summer Family Vacation
This Post Is Sponsored By Manor Vail Lodge! As Always All Opinions Are My Own! Thank You For Supporting CityGirlGoneMom!
Contrary to popular belief, the great outdoors and I go way back. In my early twenties, I spent quite a few summers in upstate New York. Lake George, it was. And might I say, life on the lake was pretty sweet. Tom Petty on repeat, and wind blowing through my hair as I peered into the rearview mirror reflecting a five-star, all-terrain backdrop. This, my friends, was the good life.
Over the years, I have not only come to appreciate but seek out settings with plush, natural surroundings. With miles and miles of tree-filled land to explore, Vail, Colorado has become a Schaffer family favorite. And as much as we love to explore new destinations, I can guarantee that youll find us here, year after year. Immersing ourselves in this family-friendly mountain town provides the best of outdoor adventures, complemented with phenomenal food, music, shopping, and spectator sports. Among the breathtaking waterfalls, wildlife, and mountain vistas youd expect from a high-end resort village, weve put our stamp on some Schaffer family favorites, and were excited to share them with you.
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Mountain Bike Down The Slopes
In the summer, Vail mountain transforms from snowy ski runs to steep mountain biking trails. You can take your bike up one of the gondolas then race down the miles of trails, with options for brand new to bikers to those who want to shred.
Beyond the mountain, there are lots of other trails in the area to get your mountain biking fix, including a segment of the Colorado Trail.
- Duration: Half day to full day
- Cost: $50 for the gondola bike haul
Take A Wine Tasting Class At Root & Flower
No matter the time of year, an Art of Tasting wine class at Root & Flower in Vail is always a good idea. Learn the art of pairing foods with the right wines while sipping some delicious vintages and nibbling on tasty bites. Even if you don’t want to take a class, stop by to taste some local wines during your stay.
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This Was An Excellent Winter Experience For Our Whole Family
This was an excellent winter experience for our whole family. the weather was great, with bluebird skies, though a bit on the COLD side. We ate at Two Elks and was easy to get into the restaurant , provided you got there before 12. Obviously the choice of food was not like in the past, but give me a bowl go chill and I’m a happy skier:)
Best Apartment In East Vail: Marriott Streamside Birch
From mountain shuttle to outdoor-indoor pool, jaccuzi and a comfy living space, this Airbnb apartment offers everything you might need during your stay. Accommodating up to 6 people, its great for families or a group of friends. There are restaurants pretty much right in front of your doorstep, and the hotels free shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at any time. The front desk is open 24/7 in case you need any help or recommendations.
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Let Me Plan Your Perfect Vail Hiking Weekend
Wanna experience Vail like a local, not a tourist? Let me do the heavy lifting with my fully customizable Vail Hiking Weekend Itinerary.
Youll get local hiking trail recommendations for all abilities, secret camping spots, fun-filled activities, and more in one grab-and-go digital itinerary.
Vail Summer 2022 Lodging Deals
One of our favorite condominium hotel, located in Lionshead village, the Antlers at Vail, is offering lots of fun specials and packages. With packages with value adds such as picnics and Gelato theres sure to be something to make your visit to Vail special.
Insider Tip: Antlers at Vail is home to one of the pools on our list of best winter pools in Colorado. It is pretty great in the summer too.
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Information Center And Resources
Vail Welcome Center: located on the top deck of the Vail Village parking garage and in the new Welcome Center on the lower level at the southwest corner of the Lionshead parking garage, the welcome centers have numerous publications, maps and information on Vail.
Beaver Creek Gust Services: Whether youre seeking hours of operation, Dial-a-Ride Transportation, activity information or general recommendations, BC Guest Services is here to make your vacation as seamless as possible.
Grab A Treat At Fuzziwigs Candy Factory
My kids love to visit candy shops while on vacation. Fuzziwigs is a fun spot filled with a wide variety of sweet treats.
Just a walk through the brightly colored aisles will delight any child. This candy store has hundreds of candies displayed beautifully, including retro items from my childhood and rare treats that I have never seen elsewhere.
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West Vail Where To Stay In Vail On A Budget
West Vail is a prime spot to enjoy the best of Vail Valley. It combines the awe-inspiring alpine scenery of the south side and the north sides abundance of sunshine. Of course, its an ideal lodging area with plenty of affordable hostels, hotels and condominiums.
Modern comforts and amenities wont be a problem in this area, with supermarkets and restaurants just a stones throw away.
While it doesnt have a load of attractions, it still gives visitors access to snowboarding, skiing, biking, ice skating, and hiking.
Theres even a free shuttle bus that will take you to Vail Village and the other villages of the town.
Camping At The Piney Lake
At the crossing of Piney River there is a large, open area and just after crossing the river, theres a trailhead parking area that could serve for car-camping. Along the two mile stretch of road after that crossing that leads up to the ranch, there are now a limited number of primitive site opportunities. Read more at
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Is It Better To Stay In Vail Village Or Lionshead
Vail Village is the best place to stay in Vail. Its near everything visitors need, whether theyre skiing in winter, hiking in summer, or visiting to see the gorgeous fall foliage or spring flowers. Ski lifts, shops, restaurants, and other amenities are all within walking distance and the beautiful cobblestone streets invoke the charm of a Swiss alpine village.
Is Vail The Same As Beaver Creek
Vail is not the same as Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek is a separate ski resort located 13 miles west of Vail and has its own lifts, as well as a village with shopping, restaurants, and an ice rink.
Thanks for reading my guide to Vails best neighborhoods and areas! Whether you want an all-inclusive, upscale resort or a condo in a Vail neighborhood that makes you feel like part of the community, where to stay in Vail all comes down to preference.
And while youre here, be sure to check out my guide to where to stay in Colorado.
Have fun staying in Vail!
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What Are Things To Do Near Vail Colorado
There are many things to do around Vail, Colorado, not far from Vail Village. A few options include driving to Aspen via the scenic Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, cycling the Gore Range Trail, and taking a day trip to Leadville to summit Colorados highest peak, Mt. Elbert .
By the way, you can book an Aspen Independence Pass Day Tour to have a private chauffeur pick you up in Vail and shuttle you around Aspen in a luxury vehicle!
Vail Marriott Mountain Resort & Spa
Close to the Eagle Bahn Gondola, this resort offers good value, slightly dated, mountain view lodge rooms with full kitchens, fireplaces and balconies. Vail village is nearby . Hotel has both indoor & outdoor pools, 3 dining options and hot tubs. Not ski-in/ski-out but has a ski valet.Hotel Phone: +1 970 476 4444
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Vail Fine Dining In The Summer
- The Vailfine-dining scene will delight sophisticated gourmets and discerning palates.Food Network devotees will be delighted to discover that not one, but Iron-Chef heavy weight, Nobu Matsuhisa has a signature restaurant, Matsuhisa, in Vail. Dining al fresco from Matsuhisa’s second-story patio provides some of the best summer dining views in all of Vail.
- A Vailfine-dining tour isn’t complete without an evening at Sweet Basil, which enjoysa long-standing reputation of providing Vails top fine-dining experience. AtSweet Basil, a modern American bistro menu and exceptional wine list willplease epicures.
Vail summer spa
Rejuvenation canbe found in more places than a high-alpine wildflower field when visiting Vail in the summer. Walk into one ofVails spas and walk out refreshed and invigorated.
Learn more about Vail
Vail Summer 2022 Activities
Even though all of your favorite things to do will be back, you might still want to experience something youve not thought to try before. There never has been a shortage of Vail summer activities and there wont be this summer either. Our one tip here is to book in advance. Demand continues to be strong and some activities may have limited capacity for reasons other than the Pandemic.
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