A group of kids skiing on a sunny, snowy slope with snow-covered trees in the background; blue skies, wearing colorful jackets and helmets.

Top Things to Do in Vail Village

Discover the Destination

Resembling a cozy European village, Vail Village is a quaint mountain town about two hours west of Denver, Colorado. It is a particular favorite for visitors from around the world, with its heated, pedestrian-only walkways and half-timbered buildings housing fondue restaurants and upscale shops along the burbling Gore Creek. Our hotel puts you in the heart of it all. Austria Haus sits beside the Covered Bridge, a two-minute walk from Gondola One, so the places worth seeing are all within easy reach on foot.

Winter brings fresh tracks on Vail Mountain, festive lights, and ice skating at Solaris Plaza. Once the snow melts, the village trades ski boots for hiking trails, fly fishing on Gore Creek, and summer concerts at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. You'll find plenty of non-ski activities too, so families and anyone happier off the slopes can fill their days with everything from alpine gardens to a pirate ship playground.

We've been welcoming guests to Vail since the 1960s, and these are some of the favorites we love sharing. Browse our top things to do in Vail Village below, then check the events calendar to see what's happening during your stay.
 

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    • Outdoor Activities

    ​ 4.1 Miles | 7 Minute Drive

    Fly Fishing

    Experience exceptional fly fishing in Vail’s gold medal trout waters where Red Sandstone Creek meets Gore Creek. Anglers of all levels can enjoy peaceful surroundings, clear mountain streams, and the chance to catch prized trout.

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    • Family Activities

    ​ Steps Away | 2 Minute Walk

    Colorado Snowsports Museum

    Discover Colorado’s rich skiing and snowboarding history at this engaging museum. Exhibits highlight Olympic athletes, ski pioneers, and the legendary 10th Mountain Division, offering an educational and inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.

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    • Bars & Restaurants

    ​ Steps Away | 2 Minute Walk

    Vail Brewing Company

    Vail Brewing Company is a relaxed local favorite serving handcrafted beers brewed on-site. With a welcoming atmosphere and rotating selections, it’s an ideal spot to unwind, socialize, and enjoy Colorado’s vibrant craft beer scene.

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    • Bars & Restaurants

    ​ Steps Away | 2 Minute Walk

    Matsuhisa

    Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s renowned restaurant offers elevated Japanese cuisine with signature sushi and inventive dishes. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase stunning Vail Mountain views, creating a refined dining experience blending flavor, elegance, and ambiance.

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    • Bars & Restaurants

    ​ 0.2 Miles | 4 Minute Walk

    Sweet Basil

    A beloved Vail institution, Sweet Basil serves inspired American cuisine with global influences. Known for upscale dishes and an exceptional wine list, it’s a perfect choice for a sophisticated dinner in the heart of Vail Village.

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    • Family Activities

    ​ Steps Away | 2 Minute Walk

    Ice Skating at Solaris Plaza

    Glide across the outdoor ice rink at Solaris Plaza in Vail Village. Surrounded by mountain architecture and festive lights, this family-friendly activity is perfect for winter fun, après-ski entertainment, and memorable alpine evenings.

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    • Bars & Restaurants

    ​ 0.2 Miles | 4 Minute Walk

    The Red Lion

    Since 1963, The Red Lion has been a lively après-ski staple in Vail Village. Enjoy hearty pub fare, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of classic mountain nightlife.

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    • Bars & Restaurants

    ​ 0.2 Miles | 4 Minute Walk

    Gorsuch Ski Café

    Just steps away, Gorsuch Ski Café serves freshly brewed coffee, pastries, and light meals. Cozy seating, outdoor fire pits, and convenient ski rentals make it a popular stop for breakfast, après-ski relaxation, and casual dining.

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    • Family Activities

    ​ 0.3 Miles | 6 Minute Walk

    Pirate Ship Playground

    Located in Vail Village, this imaginative playground features a large wooden pirate ship with slides, ropes, and interactive elements. It’s a favorite spot for children to climb, explore, and enjoy creative outdoor play.

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    • Family Activities

    ​ 0.5 Miles | 2 Minute Drive

    Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

    Open year-round, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens showcase vibrant alpine plants, seasonal wildflowers, and scenic walking paths. The gardens invite visitors to explore high-altitude landscapes while enjoying breathtaking mountain views in the heart of Vail.

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    • Entertainment,
    • Art,
    • Family Activities,
    • Festive Season

    ​ 0.7 Miles | 2 Minute Drive

    Vail Dance Festival

    The Vail Dance Festival brings world-class ballet and contemporary performances to the mountains each summer. Featuring renowned dancers, workshops, and community events, it offers an inspiring blend of culture, creativity, and alpine scenery.

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    • Entertainment,
    • Culture,
    • Outdoor Activities,
    • Family Activities

    ​ 3.1 Miles | 5 Minute Drive

    Bravo! Music Festival

    Bravo! Music Festival fills Vail with classical music performances, chamber concerts, and educational programs. This cultural highlight attracts acclaimed musicians and offers enriching experiences for music lovers in a beautiful mountain setting.

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    • Family Activities,
    • Outdoor Activities,
    • Tours

    ​ 1 Mile | 4 Minute Drive

    Vail Nature Center

    Set on seven acres, the Vail Nature Center offers guided tours, nature programs, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Visitors of all ages can learn about local ecosystems while enjoying peaceful surroundings and hands-on educational experiences.

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    • Outdoor Activities

    ​ 0.9 Miles | 4 Minute Drive

    Adventure Ridge

    Adventure Ridge delivers high-energy mountain fun with snow tubing, ski bikes, a thrilling mountain coaster, and family activities. Located atop the Eagle Bahn Gondola, it offers panoramic views and excitement for kids and adults alike.

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    • Outdoor Activities

    ​ 0.2 Miles | 5 Minute Walk

    Vail Mountain

    Spanning more than 5,000 acres, Vail Mountain offers legendary skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and scenic gondola rides. Famous Back Bowls, Blue Sky Basin, and reliable snowfall make it a world-class destination for outdoor adventure.

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    • Outdoor Activities

    ​ 25 Miles | 30 Minute Drive

    Eagle Valley Trail

    The Eagle Valley Trail is a scenic multi-use pathway winding along the Eagle River. Perfect for walking, biking, or jogging, it connects nearby towns while offering beautiful mountain views, riverside scenery, and fresh alpine air.

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    • Shopping,
    • Nightlife,
    • Family Activities

    ​ 0.3 Miles | 5 Minute Walk

    Vail Village

    Vail Village blends European charm with upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. Just a short walk from the hotel, explore boutique shops, art galleries, designer stores, and vibrant après-ski spots in this iconic alpine town.

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    • Outdoor Activities

    ​ 0.2 Miles | 4 Minute Walk

    Summer Mountain Games

    Held each June, the Summer Mountain Games celebrate outdoor culture with rock climbing, trail running, biking, kayaking, art, and live music. This energetic festival draws athletes and spectators alike for an action-packed alpine weekend.

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