Your guide to Vail

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s legendary ski town is a playground for outdoor adventure. Depending on the season, your stay in Vail can be spent carving up its pristine slopes, hiking forested trails or paddling through whitewater. And there’s plenty to keep you busy at basecamp too. Explore the vibrant dining, shopping and nightlife scenes around its Bavarian-style villages. Get inspired with our Vail travel guide.

Visit Colorado

Vail highlights

Legendary pistes and peaks

Whether you're into skiing or snowboarding, dog-sledging or snowmobiling, Vail is a powder hound's dream. Ride the gondolas up to Vail Ski Resort on Vail Mountain. North America’s second-largest single-mountain resort has over 2,000 hectares of terrain, 278 runs and seven bowls. For non-snowy adventures, hiking, biking, fishing and golfing will keep you busy on the mountain in summer.

A taste of Bavaria

Wander around Vail Village and Lionshead Village, and your stay in Vail will suddenly feel like a trip to the Alps. Steep-roofed buildings with flower-filled window boxes line the cobblestone streets, lending European charm to the Colorado ski town. And the Bavarian influence extends beyond the facades. You’ll find authentic Bavarian dishes, like bratwurst and wiener schnitzel, at many of the taverns and restaurants in town.

Where to stay

For easy access to gondolas, plus diverse bars and restaurants, pick from family-friendly and upscale hotels in Vail Village and Lionshead Village. Cascade Village is the place for luxury resorts, while East Village has a more secluded vibe. Or stay on the doorstep of White River National Forest in West Vail for a summertime outdoor adventure.

Vail: Know before you go

Language	English
Currency	United States dollar ($)
Time zone	UTC-7 (MST) and UTC-6 (MDT)
High season	December - March
Low season	April - October

Visit Colorado

Things to do in Vail

Places to eat

Dining in Vail is as varied as the resort’s ski runs. From fast food joints and champagne brunches to raclette and fondue, there’s something for most tastes and budgets. Your biggest decision might be whether to refuel on the mountain or in the villages. Plan your trip around April’s Taste of Vail festival and experience the talents of innovative chefs and winemakers.

Nightlife

The fun in Vail continues long after the sun sets behind the mountain. Vail Village and Lionshead Village are the beating heart of the apres-ski and happy hour scene. Hop between raucous outdoor patios and live music venues, or enjoy a more refined atmosphere at cocktail bars. For a true Bavarian party, check out Vail Oktoberfest, held over two weekends in September.

Shopping

Your first stop for shopping should be Gore Creek Drive in Vail Village. Here, you’ll find chain stores and high-end boutiques selling everything from artisanal jewellery and stylish home decor to outdoor apparel. Vail Farmers Market and Art Show is your place for locally made clothing, gourmet food, wellness products and more. It takes place on Sundays between June and October.

FAQs about visiting Vail

What currency is used in Vail?

You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) while on your stay in Vail. Besides your cards, consider carrying some cash for things like minor purchases and public transport.

Is Vail a good place to visit?

No two days are the same with all the things to do in Vail. From Betty Ford Alpine Gardens to Vail Nature Centre and more, this city is well worth a visit.

What is the coldest month in Vail?

January brings the coolest weather. Organise your trip to Vail then and you can expect lows of -20°C (-4°F).

What language is spoken in Vail?

English is what you'll hear in most conversations. From common greetings to playful local lingo, you'll likely pick up a few new terms during your city break in Vail.

How many days do you need for a trip to Vail?

You’ll need at least three to four days to find your ski legs and sample the best of Vail’s apres-ski and shopping scene. Want to include more alpine adventures like winter dogsledding or summer rafting in Vail? Give yourself a full week.

Is it safe to visit Vail?

Vail is generally considered a safe place, especially if you stick to the main tourist spots. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure. Check any travel advisories or safety recommendations to ensure your stay in Vail is relaxing and worry-free.

What is the rainiest month in Vail?

The wettest month is May, which receives an average rainfall of 6 cm. But don't let a drizzly day ruin your Vail trip — there's still loads to do indoors like shopping, visiting museums, or hanging out in cafes.

When is the best time to visit Vail?

If skiing and snowboarding are on your agenda, visit between November and April. For a combination of sunny mountain activities and music and comedy festivals, the summer months are increasingly popular. Travelling in the shoulder seasons is ideal to find some great deals while avoiding the big crowds.

What is the hottest month in Vail?

The warmest month in Vail is July, with maximum temperatures of 26ºC (79ºF).

How expensive is a trip to Vail?

Vail can be a pricey destination, especially during the Christmas period and peak winter months. November to mid-December offer more affordable hotel options and early season rates. If you’ll be on the slopes for multiple days, you can save with the Epic Pass.