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Vail Village
This walk-about area is the center of the city's activities. Filled with boutiques, restaurants, shops, and athletic outfitters, it is the place to find all your vacationing needs. Start out the day with a hot drink and some breakfast at Covered Bridge Coffee, which is situated right beneath the neighborhood's famous bridge. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of this bustling downtown while you can, as much of the other entertainment in Vail will involve some activity! Browse some of the shops and admire the architecture as you head to the main ski lift, which is right around the corner. Now you can ride up the mountain and ski the day away.
Lionshead Village
Less than a mile from Vail Village is Lionshead Village, another pedestrian neighborhood that holds many shops, restaurants, and lodges. The Eagle Bahn Gondola, the valley's only gondola, is located steps away and is one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to make your way up Vail Mountain. It is open both winter and summer, and takes you directly to some of the best ski areas and summer hiking trails, as well as the Gore Range Nature Discovery Center.
Fun in the Snow
Make your way up Vail Mountain, which has miles of ski-runs to choose from, and also offers a wide array of choices for those interested in other outdoor activities. Adventure Ridge on Vail Mountain is a wonderland for kids and adults alike, with activities like tubing, ice skating, snow shoeing, ski biking, and many more. Kids will also love the sledding hills and mini-snowmobiles that give them a chance to ride around on their own! Spend a whole day exploring the many activities that this center has to offer, and if you stay late enough, you can visit the club late into the night.
For a unique outdoor adventure away from the beaten path, take a ride through the backcountry roads behind a team of huskies on your very own dog sled. These rides can accommodate up to two people, and are a great option for those who want a thrilling yet tranquil ride. There are also horseback rides that traverse scenic old mining paths, as well as horse-drawn carriages that run into the evening hours.
If you are looking for a romantic evening out, Vail has got you covered. A candle-lit dinner is made even better at restaurants like Beano's Cabin, which features a dining room only accessible via horse-drawn sleigh.
Summer Activities
Nature lovers take note: Vail Valley is a spectacular place to visit if you want to get away from the flurry of city life. The hillsides come alive with wildflowers after the snow has melted, and all sorts of animals venture out to take in the sun. Check out the Gore Range Nature Discovery Center and view the exhibits that showcase a wide variety of natural history displays about the environments of Vail Mountain. For a scenic walk, visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and enjoy the serenity of this colorful garden setting. If your tastes run to the supernatural, visit Evergreen Cemetery Tour in nearby Leadville for a guided tour through the creepy site.
Vail is also known for its water sports, and guides like Piney River Adventures and Lakota River Guides specialize in thrilling and delighting visitors of all level of experience. This is a great way to see the natural beauty of Vail during the summer without having to trek up the hillsides!
For an even more spectacular view, take to the sky with a group like Balloon America, the oldest ballooning company in the Valley. They offer a variety of ride packages with luxurious amenities like complimentary champagne and leather seats.
Photograph provided by Jack Affleck
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