A Summer Guide to Visiting Vail, Colorado

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Advisor - Meredith Miller
Curated By

Meredith Miller

  • Colorado

  • Vail

  • USA

  • Summer

  • Hiking

  • Shopping

a calm lake with docked canoes at the base of a woodsy mountain region with tall trees framing the scene
Curator’s statement

Being from Texas where summers are unbearable, traveling to Vail every summer holds endless memories! Fourth of July fireworks, fishing, hiking, pizza mountainside! From the mountain town feel in Edwards and Avon to the bougie parts of Vail and Beaver Creek, there is a bit of everything!

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Where to stay in Vail, Colorado

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Things to do in Vail, Colorado

a woman and young boy walk through green fields and mountains

Be outdoors

  • Biking - Rent a bike for morning, afternoon or full day and cruise around town; there is also an option to rent a mountain bike if you are feeling adventurous.

  • Hiking - Booth Falls is an all time favorite trail.

  • Fishing - Catch a fly fishing trip with Vail Valley Anglers.

  • Golf at one of the multiple clubs around Vail. Be sure to inquire first if reservations are necessary, they usually are!

Go shopping or relax at the spa

  • Kemo Sabe for a custom branded cowboy hat.

  • Gorsuch for high-end clothing

  • Spa at Sonnenalp, Spa Anijali Beaver Creek, Exhale Spa at Beaver Creek.

Family fun

Day Trips

There are so many small towns around Eagle County (Vail). I would recommend going to the quaint mountain town of Minturn on a Saturday to explore the Minturn Market! Breckenridge would be another great option, just a little farther out!

Places to eat & drink in Vail, Colorado

A view of a street with outdoor restaurants with umbrellas at the base of a hill

Breakfast

  • Village Bagel: This is a quick grab and go bagel shop. Fresh hand-rolled bagels. My favorite is the CO upgrade...think smoked fresh trout!

  • Northside Coffee & Kitchen: Stop by for some handmade doughnuts in this wonderful diner off the highway!

  • Big Bear Bistro: Colorful cafe featuring simple breakfast.

  • Two Arrow's Coffee Bar: Grab your more specialized oat milk latte with a fresh baked pastry.

Casual Lunch/Dinner

  • Craftsman: Craftsman specializes in chef inspired sandwiches, craft beer and specialty cocktails.

  • Hovey & Harrison: This is a healthy option with an extensive menu, lots of pre-made options, coffee, cocktails and more!

  • Blue Moose Pizza: The best pizza in town! Sit outside with your family or call in order to pick up and enjoy a picnic style mountainside.

  • Don't miss out on Vail's Farmers Market Farm to Table Dinners - Be sure to buy tickets in advance!

Fancier Lunch/Dinner

  • Mountain Standard, Sweet Basil, Zino Ristorante: This group of restaurants is outstanding and local/tourist favorites by far. A variety of cuisine depending which location, but all have farm to table food, delicious wine, cocktails and more!

  • Matsuhisa: Acclaimed Japanese seafood & tasting menus by renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

  • Alepnrose/Almresi: Rustic mountain cottage with stylish decor and German, Austrian and Swiss cuisine.

Drinks

Advisor - Meredith Miller

Travel Advisor

Meredith Miller

Get in touch with Meredith

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Eric Charles' guide, A Local's Guide to Vail, Colorado.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Colorado.