For your next vacation in Vail, I have compiled a few dates that may improve your experience. For the 2016/2017 season, the resort and its sponsors, have some terrific events in store. A vacation in Vail is not known for being cheap; however, most of these ideas are free and family friendly. This winter, you can find my suggested ideas for fun in either resort, Vail or Beaver Creek, Colorado.
Vail Holidaze
To start things off, we have Vail Holidaze (12/20–12/31), which runs each night through New Years. Activities include torchlit parades, tree lighting ceremonies, and fireworks. Upon check in, you may want to ask your concierge for an updated activities roster. If you feel adventurous, drive 10 miles west to the resort of Beaver Creek. The highlighted activity, is the torchlit ski down and celebration. Voted by Travel magazine as a top-10 family friendly event. Activities include a ski down, DJ, games, dancing, and giveaways at the resort. Remember, it is a very busy time of the year so you also need reservations at local area restaurants or you most likely will not get in. While in Beaver Creek, you may want to try a few of my favorite restaurants, such as Grouse Mountain Grille, Hooked, or Vin48 (located in Avon). Vail has some phenomenal dining options as well, such as Matsuhisa, Terra Bistro, and Game Creek Club, to name a few. Some fun and newer ventures to wash all the amazing food down would include Root and Flower and the 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company.
Snowshoeing
A vacation in Vail should always include “a snowshoe.” Visit to the top of Vail Mountain and discover the amazing mountain top while taking in the backdrop at a slower pace. A late afternoon tour should provide for an amazing sunset. Check in with the science center at the top of Vail Mountain and the staff will be happy to teach guests about the area, including its plants, animals, and environment we ski through all winter long. With two tours daily, this can be a flexible option. You will follow pedestrian-friendly trails off the beaten path that few guests every see. Bring your camera, the mountain vistas are amazing and this is a good option for those that might not ski or ride.
Adventure Ridge
While at the top of Vail, remember Adventure Ridge is open and includes an entire new setup and activity roster worth checking out. A vacation in Vail is not the same without a trip here. Some new attractions include a mountaintop roller coaster and ziplines that stretch over Vail’s infamous back bowls. This does require paid admission, but it’s worth it. Similar to our restaurant scene, reservations should be made prior to your arrival to avoid getting shut out of the fun.
Coming for a Vacation in Vail During January? No Problem!
Eat, drink, ski is in January. The fun begins January 19th with cooking demos from famous chefs and will include wine pairings, spirit events, and of course skiing. Ask about a package price for this event if you make reservations through Snow.com, the website for Vail Resorts. Book 7 days in advance to get the best pricing on lift tickets, ski school lessons, and hotel reservations.
If January is to cold for you, visit Vail at the end of February and enjoy the good times at the annual Burton U.S Open. Watch some of the best snowboarders compete for hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money. This event is known for celebration and live music. Events take place at all three base areas and should not be missed. Lastly, don’t forget Spring Back to Vail this year; enjoy longer days, warmer temperatures, and lots of live music in the streets of Vail Village. This event starts April 14th for one last weekend of fun and frolic.
Contact Coldwell Banker real estate and lifestyle advisor Chris McDonnell anytime for helpful tips and tricks on your next trip to Vail. He is always happy to help. After having so much fun while on vacation in Vail, you may want to stay a bit longer or just get a place here. Homes and condos are always available for preview.
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