The Ultimate Winter Travel Guide to Vail, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Vail is a premier winter travel destination known for its world-class skiing and après-ski scene. What caused my friends and I to visit Vail in the winter were the thrilling slopes, lively social atmosphere, and european-inspired charm.
Unlike other destinations in the United States catering primarily to families, Vail offers a blend of high-intensity skiing and extra fun après-ski options. In Vail, they have everything from cozy slope-side bars to fine dining experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or simply looking for a chic mountain escape, and I truly mean CHIC, this guide will walk you through the best of Vail.
The Ultimate Winter Travel Guide
Getting to Vail
Traveling to Vail is easy with several transportation options. Most visitors fly into Denver International Airport (DIA). The benefit of traveling to DIA is that it offers numerous flight options but is about a two-hour drive from Vail (sometimes more with traffic). For a closer airport with a more limited option, the Eagle County Regional Airport is just 30 minutes away. During the winter, however, most of the main US-based airlines have flights into EGE including American, United, and Delta.
If you do decide to drive to vail from Denver or other airports, the scenic route along Interstate 70 (I-70) is a great way to see all the rocky mountains. You can also make pit stops along the way to destinations like Breckenridge . Once you arrive in Vail, getting around is easy thanks to free shuttles that transport visitors between Vail Mountain, local hotels, and even Beaver Creek Mountain. Plus, its a pedestrian-friendly village is a reliable public transportation system, and the pedestrian-friendly village that’s perfect for exploring on foot.
AA JFK to EGE
AA EGE to JFK
Best Time to Visit
The best time to experience Vail for winter skiing is between late November and early April. During these months, the slopes become blanketed with fresh powder. Plus, the après-ski culture is in full swing. For magical Christmas vibes and prime skiing conditions, December is a favorite, but it’s also the busiest time. To avoid the crowds and enjoy more affordable prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons which is either before the Christmas rush or in March. We visited in the first week/weekend in March and enjoyed prime ski conditions and a lot of partying fun.
Red Lion Bar
Chasing Rabbits
Where to Stay
Luxury Accommodations
For a truly 5-star experience, The Arrabelle at Vail Square and the Sonnenalp Hotel are top choices. These luxury hotels offer world-class amenities, ski-in/ski-out access, and exceptional service. It is perfect for travelers that are seeking convenience over expense. Whether it’s a rooftop pool at The Arrabelle or European-style charm at the Sonnenalp, these accommodations define indulgence in Vail.
Cozy Lodge
If you’re looking for a charming, mountain-style stay, Vail’s Austria Haus is perfect for you. It is located walking distance to the heart of the village and features inviting rooms, friendly service, and easy access to the slopes. It is definitely a more intimate setting which truly gives it that cozy feel.
Budget-Friendly Options Near Vail
For travelers on a budget, consider staying in or exploring nearby towns like Avon or Minturn, which are both a short drive from Vail. We stayed in an airbnb that was about 10-minutes from the main village but was still accessible by the vail free transportation shuttles that can take you to and from the mountains (Vail and Beaver Creek).
Hot Tub at Austria Haus
Near Our Airbnb about 10 Minutes from Vail
Top Activities
Vail is a winter wonderland offering a variety of activities for every type of traveler. The highlight is skiing and snowboarding on Vail Mountain. Vail mountain is a great place to ski because it has an expansive terrain network and has the legendary back bowls, which are a MUST when visiting. We also really enjoyed heading to nearby Beaver Creek for perfectly groomed slopes and a more laid-back vibe. The mountain isn’t as big as Vail but the apres-ski scene at the ritz makes the trip to Beaver Creek worth it. If skiing isn’t your thing you can enjoy ice skating in the charming Lionshead Village. For unique adventures, try sleigh rides through snowy landscapes or rev up the excitement with snowmobiling tours. End your day at Vail’s vibrant après-ski hotspots, where you can sip cocktails, enjoy live music, and soak in the lively mountain culture.
Skiing Beaver Creek
Skiing Vail
Where to Eat and Drink
From my experience, Vail has some of the best dining options in the world. You can start your day at The Little Diner, a great breakfast spot with made-from-scratch dishes. For upscale dining, Sweet Basil is a great option with its swanky dining room. The Alpenrose Vail was one of our favorites dinner spots with Alpine-inspired fare in a charming, rustic atmosphere. For sushi lovers like myself head to Matsuhisa, a culinary hotspot by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa. For an unforgettable night out, Chasing Rabbits combines fine dining with nightlife, offering a classy dinner experience followed by dancing in their chic nightclub. Don’t miss the iconic Swiss Chalet, where you can enjoy authentic Swiss fondue and other classic dishes for a truly unique mountain dining experience.
Drinks and Nightlife
For a lively night out in Vail, start with craft beers at Vail Brewing Company are a must. Another great spot is the Red Lion because of their live music and a fun, energetic atmosphere. Vail’s nightlife also includes chic cocktail lounges, vibrant bars, and late-night spots like Chasing Rabbits, perfect for dancing and socializing after a day on the slopes.
Chasing Rabbits
Alpenrose Vail
Exploring the Villages
Vail has two distinct villages, each offering its own unique appeal. Vail Village definitely has the most European charm because of its cobblestone streets. It also offers boutique shops and a vibrant dining scene. It is definitely for more of the sophisticated type. On the other hand, Lionshead Village offers a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It has convenient gondola access to the slopes and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Both villages, located right next to each other, provide unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Rockies.
Walking to Lionshead Village
Shopping in Vail Village
We had such an incredible time in Vail that it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the most iconic and must-visit destinations for ski adventurers. From the world-class slopes to the vibrant après-ski scene, it truly offers something for everyone. If you’re gearing up for a winter getaway and need help packing, check out my recent blog post: Winter Travel Packing: Fit All Your Cozy Essentials in a Carry-On for tips to travel light while staying warm.
Need help planning your perfect winter ski trip? Fill out [this form], and I’d be thrilled to work with you.
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