Things to do in Vail Besides Skiing
Home to a beautiful ski resort, it's no wonder that Vail is synonymous with skiing. But what is a vacation to Vail, Colorado like in the winter if you're not one for gliding down the mountain on a pair of skis or a snowboard? This mountain town was built around entertaining people, so the answer is that there is plenty to do if you only want to ski for a day, or if you aren't interested in skiing at all.
Top Things to do in Vail in the Winter Besides Ski
- Shop & Dine in Vail Village
- Go to local Breweries & Distilleries
- Outdoor Winter Exploration & Snowplay
- Après ski
- Treat Yourself at the Spa
- Go to a fitness center or yoga studio
- Day Trips
#1 - Shop & Dine in Vail Village and Lionshead
Nestled at the base of one of America's best ski resorts is the adorable, almost European-looking Vail Village. With unique buildings, gorgeous mountain scenery, and plenty of pedestrian walking space, you'll want to spend a day exploring Vail Village and Lionshead.
Stroll the heated cobblestone streets while you explore the latest fashion at stores like Elleston, Fusalp, and Valbruna. The villages are packed with every type of restaurant you can dream of, so you'll want to stay for lunch (and dinner, too).
Our Ultimate Guide to Dining, Shopping and Relation
#2 - Breweries & Distilleries
What do they say about vacations? Eat, Drink & Be Merry! Colorado is known for its beer, and Vail brings its A-game regarding fine brews. Plan a beer-tasting day and visit the Vail Brewing Company's Vail Village Tasting Room. If you're a fan of distilleries, you'll want to check out the 10th Mountain's tasting room in Vail Village. There are also several bars in Vail that serve extensive craft beer lists from all over Colorado.
#3 - Outdoor Winter Exploration & Snowplay
You don't need to hop on a pair of skis or clip into a snowboard to get your fill of outdoor fun in Vail. And PLEASE get your fill of outdoor fun in Vail. Colorado is known for its beautiful landscapes, and it would be a shame if you didn't experience it firsthand.
Enjoy a guided snowshoeing or snowmobile adventure, go tubing and get your adrenaline rush in, or try out winter biking with a fat tire bike. Looking for some good old wholesome fun? Build a snowman or start a snowball fight with your family. There are also plenty of opportunities to ice skate around town.
Check out our Best Winter Things to Do with Kids that have a lot of suggestions besides skiing.
#4 - Après ski
Don't think you can't enjoy Après ski just because you're not an avid skier. Après ski is a big part of ski culture, and it's all about enjoying time well spent with your friends and loved ones before heading back to reality. If you're strolling through the Villages of Vail you will most certainly see groups of mountain goers still in their boots, enjoying beverages, live music, and great conversation. Join in, and you're sure to find someone just like you who is attending the party without getting in a run down the hill. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Après ski Spots in Vail and Beaver Creek Colorado for more information on where to go.
#5 - Treat Yourself at the Spa
In the words of Donna Meagle from the show Parks and Recreation - "Treat Yo Self"! It's been a demanding year, and you're on vacation. Vail has a wonderful spa scene. You won't have to venture far to get a massage, manicure, pedicure or facial. There's nothing quite like the feeling of dressing up to go to a nice dinner after a day of relaxation at the spa. Bowse our recommendation for the best spas in Vail.
#6 - Fitness Centers and Yoga
Vail offers a variety of gyms and fitness centers, catering to different workout preferences. From state-of-the-art fitness studios with equipment for strength training and cardio, to yoga and Pilates studios, there's something for everyone. Many gyms also offer fitness classes, personal training, and even spa services for relaxation after a workout. Whether you're looking to stay fit during ski season or enjoy a summer workout, Vail's gyms provide the perfect setting to keep active.For more information check out our Vail Wellness and Fitness area guide.
Yoga enthusiasts will find Vail to be a haven for their practice. Numerous studios in the area offer a variety of classes, from gentle and restorative sessions to more vigorous and challenging styles. Some of the most popular studios that offer traditional yoga are Dryland Fitness & Spa, Spa Anjali Athletic Club, and Revolution Power Yoga.
#7 - Day Trips
One of our favorite parts about staying in a mountain town is how small and unique it can feel, while still having the option to explore different places. Vail is just a hop, skip, and jump away from some really cool attractions and quaint mountain towns.
Glenwood Springs – About 1 hour away, this town is known for its hot springs, the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park , and the Hanging Lake hike.
Leadville – Roughly 1 hour away, this historic mining town is the highest city in the U.S. and offers great hiking, the National Mining Hall of Fame, and scenic views of Mount Elbert and Mount Massive.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park – Located about 2.5 hours away, this park features one of the world’s highest suspension bridges, along with zip-lining and canyon tours.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Around 1.5 hours away, this famous concert venue offers not only incredible acoustics but also hiking trails with stunning views.
Find Lodging in Vail and Beaver Creek
Don't let Vail's reputation for skiing give you second thoughts. There is plenty to do throughout town for beginner skiers and those who aren't interested in skiing. We offer vacation condos and private homes throughout the Beaver Creek and Vail areas. Browse our properties and start planning your vacation today!
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