An Expert’s Guide to Visiting Vail in the Winter
What to do, where to stay and so much more
Vail, Colorado is a skier’s paradise, but it’s also great for shoppers, dinners, winter adventures and so much more.
It’s a good, central location in the Colorado Rocky Mountains for a memorable winter getaway.
STAY
Vail has a large array of lodging types from condominiums at the bottom of ski slopes to big, relaxing homes in the wooded suburbs of town. Whether it’s a party of six or just two, Antlers at Vail has got it covered. It’s even dog friendly, so Fido can join in the fun.
Photo courtesy of Antlers at Vail
Antlers at Vail has everything from studios to 4 bedroom, 4 bath condos, plus, guests can have meals catered by the Antlers’ in-house chef. There is a year round pool and hot tub area overlooking Gore Creek. Plus, the Eagle Bahn Gondola is just a stone’s throw away.
DO
Skiing is the main reason people visit Vail, and they have a good reason. This is the largest ski area in Colorado, and the third largest in the United States.
Photo by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer
At more than 5,000 acres, there is terrain here for every level of talent, from those just learning, to expert skiers who want to spend all day in Vail’s back bowls.
If snowshoeing is on the agenda, Vail offers free guided snowshoe tours that are educational and fun. From Wednesday through Saturday, Walking Mountain Science Center, hosts these walks for anyone 10 and over.
Photo by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer
If a holiday visit is on the agenda, don’t miss the Magic of Lights at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
EAT
From diners to steak, Vail has restaurants that will keep even gourmands excited about eating. Old standbys like Sweet Basil, opened in 1977, keep things traditional and modern by offering longtime favorites alongside seasonal imaginative cuisine.
Photo courtesy of Gravity Haus
New to town, Slope Room at Gravity Haus, in Vail Village is a new American steakhouse offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Start the day with avocado toast and a smoothie and end a day on the mountain with a locally sourced filet mignon.
