Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing, but winter fun extends far beyond the slopes. Non-skiers can experience the charm of alpine villages, adrenaline-pumping adventures and spa days surrounded by snowy landscapes. Here’s how to make the most of a winter visit without ever stepping into ski boots.
Explore the Villages
Stroll through the picturesque villages, where pedestrian-friendly streets, only-in-Vail shops and warm firepits welcome you to explore on foot or sit, sip cocoa and relax. In Vail Village, the iconic covered bridge spans a frozen Gore Creek, a perfect spot to snap a holiday-card photo, especially when its adorned with colorful lights in early winter. Browse Western-style boutiques like Kemo Sabe, selling cowboy hats and leather boots, or creative spaces like Raitman Art Galleries, featuring paintings that depict the region’s landscapes and wildlife.
A short walk brings you to Lionshead Village, a foot-traffic-only area filled with the comforting sounds of clinking dinnerware from open-air patios like Vail Chophouse. Take a seat by a heater and listen to live music while digging into crispy, buttermilk fried chicken. Then, warm up with spicy mulled wine at Garfinkel’s bar (locally known as “Garfs”).
Head to West Vail for serene hiking trails in nearby White River National Forest and hidden-gem restaurants like Joy Sushi. East Vail offers a retreat from the ski crowds, with craggy views of Gore Range and access to cross-country skiing trails at Vail Nordic Center.
Events
Check Vail’s event calendar for festivals, art shows and live music under the stars. At the Vail Film Festival, you’ll find independent films, engaging panels and the chance to mingle with industry pros while catching screenings of documentaries, shorts and more. From the Kris Kringle Market’s spiced cider and artisan crafts to the Vail Skating Festival Ice Spectacular’s gravity-defying performances, there’s almost always a signature event to check out.
Dining & Nightlife
Vail’s dining scene is as exciting as the flavors it serves. Start your day with cheesy apple-and-bacon crepes from The Little Diner or a lavish southwest Benedict brunch at Vintage with green-chili sausage and gooey yolks on rustic-loaf toast. As evening falls, the scent of sizzling meat and buttermilk biscuits fill the air at Mountain Standard, a creekside eatery that specializes in wood-fired dishes. Meanwhile, MICHELIN-recommended Sweet Basil is one of the best places to order up surf and turf, red snapper and other seasonal cuisine. For a night out, head to The Red Lion for live music and hearty pub fare like saucy barbeque ribs, or sip expertly crafted hot toddies at Root & Flower, where mixologists use local herbs and fresh ingredients to elevate every drink.
Snowmobiling
Rev up for a guided snowmobiling adventure with Vail Backcountry Tours or Sage Outdoor Adventures, where you’ll feel the cool wind on your face as you carve through fresh snow. If you’re seeking a historical experience, Nova Guides will take you on a ride through Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument, where the 10th Mountain Division soldiers trained amid the same towering peaks during WWII. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you speed across wide-open meadows and dense forests dusted with snow.
Snowshoeing
For a quieter adventure, strap on snowshoes at the Vail Nordic Center and step into peaceful winter beauty. Hear the crunch of snow underfoot as you traverse sparkly trails. And if you want to explore cross-country skiing, the Nordic center also offers guided lessons so you can learn to glide across the snowy terrain, surrounded by soaring mountain views.
Sleigh Rides
Bring your sweetheart and slide through the snow-covered forests on a horse-drawn sleigh ride, bundled under thick wool blankets. Hear hooves hitting the snow and bells jingling as you’re whisked through the frosty landscape. At Bearcat Stables, you can wind through peaceful pathways ending with a prime-rib dinner and rich, double-chocolate brownies. Meanwhile, 4 Eagle Ranch offers sleigh rides under starlit skies followed by a hearty, fireside bowl of chili and toasted s’mores.
Ice Skating
Glide across the smooth surface of Arrabelle Square’s ice rink for a perfect family photo. Or head to Solaris Plaza, lit by twinkling lights and framed by snowcapped mountain views. If you prefer an indoor rink, Dobson Arena provides year-round skating and even family-friendly ice bumper cars for added fun.
Spa Days
Vail’s spas invite you to unwind and recharge. At the Four Seasons Spa, warm your muscles with a hot-stone massage or indulge in a hydrating facial that leaves your skin feeling soft and renewed. The RockResorts Spa at The Arrabelle’s signature treatments use organic mountain botanicals, perfect for soothing tired limbs after a day of trekking trails. Relax in heated plunge pools, then lounge by a fire with a cup of herbal tea.
Fishing
For a truly peaceful afternoon along Vail’s Gold Medal waters, try winter fly fishing or ice fishing with Colorado Angling Co. or Vail Valley Anglers. Cast your line into crystal-clear rivers and take in the soft sound of flowing water beneath the ice. It’s a meditative way to spend the day, surrounded by Vail’s serene winter beauty.