10 Things You Need to Experience in Vail
Vail’s expansive mountain and unique, alpine-inspired village are enough to make your visit here a one-of-a-kind experience. But these exceptional highlights will make your family’s vacation in Vail something extra special.
1. Enjoy dinner at Game Creek Restaurant
There isn’t a bad view anywhere in Vail, but views just get better the higher up the mountain you go. Take your family to Game Creek Restaurant for a truly remarkable experience and one-of-a-kind views. Your trip to the top starts with a snowcat ride, where you’ll experience the beautiful calm of the mountain after
dark. Warm up with gourmet cuisine and sweeping views of the Game Creek Bowl in this European chalet-inspired restaurant.
2. Ride Gondola One
Gondola One lifts you up 2,000 vertical feet in only 7.5 minutes. But with heated seats and free WiFi, we bet you’ll wish it took longer.
3. Meet Jake, the Ski Patrol Dog
You’ve seen his viral videos and dreamed about frolicking with him in the snow. Now is your chance to make those dreams come true. Jake the Ski Patrol Dog is
the newest addition to the Vail Ski Patrol, but more importantly he’s a viral sensation, thanks to this video. Meet him and our other hard-working patrol pups
at the top of Lift 4. The dogs and their handlers will be happy to let you see some tricks, take a few pics—and probably share a few licks (with the dogs, not the
handlers).
4. Revel in Vail’s après scene
Vail is just as renowned for its après scene as it is for its unique terrain and beautiful weather. There’s no better way to unwind after a long day on the slopes than with a delicious cocktail, local music, and beautiful mountain views. Warm up by outdoor fire pits at The Remedy or watch people come down the mountain
at Garfinkel’s. Our wide-ranging après scene has something for everyone, including the kids.
5. Experience Adventure Ridge
Need a break from your skis or snowboard for a day? Head to Adventure Ridge with the kids for a different kind of on-mountain fun. From ski biking to tubing to snowmobiling, you and your family can play all day and well into the night. Located at the top of Eagle Bahn Gondola, stay for dinner at Bistro Fourteen and a
sunset like nothing on earth.
6. Discover Vail’s Back Bowls
Spanning nearly seven miles, Vail’s expansive Back Bowls are truly unparalleled and a bucket list must. Make a day of it, or pepper in some Bowl runs while discovering other aspects of the mountain, but just be sure you don’t miss them.
7. Skate under the stars
Located right in the heart of Vail Square, Alderhof Ice Rink is the perfect way to spend an evening under the stars. Take a spin, grab a hot chocolate, and revel in
the beautiful Village views while enjoying another crisp, Winter evening in Vail.
8. Enjoy lunch at an on-mountain deck
With 300 days of sun and ample bluebird days, you’ll want to spend as much timeoutside as possible. Opt for one of Vail’s on-mountain decks when you pause for
a lunch break, where you can relax and refuel while taking in the beautiful scenery. Pack a picnic, bring something to cook up on one of the many open grills, or stop by Windows Deck and enjoy the famous barbecue from Wildwood Smokehouse.
9. Challenge each other with EpicMix
There’s nothing better than having bragging rights in the family. EpicMix App keeps track of the vertical feet you rack up, and lets you compete with family and friends in special Epic Challenges, like the Mile High Challenge (you earn a badge once you ski 5,280 vertical feet). Plus, the EpicMix App keeps you updated on lift lines, and allows you to plan a mountain guide for the day.
10. Get lost in the charm of Vail Village
There’s something special about Vail Village. From the heated, cobblestone streets to twinkly lights everywhere you look, it feels like you’re in another world and at home, all at once. Stroll the streets with your kids, pop in and out of your favorite shops, and revel in the charm of Vail.
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