Family Trip to Vail During Summer Break

• Outdoor Concerts and Festivals: Throughout the summer, Vail hosts a variety of outdoor concerts, festivals and events that cater to families. From live music performances to art festivals and culinary events, there's always something happening in town to entertain visitors of all ages.

• Shopping and Dining: Vail Village and Lionshead offer an array of shops, boutiques and restaurants where families can indulge in shopping and dining experiences. From unique souvenirs and outdoor gear to gourmet cuisine and family-friendly eateries, there's plenty to discover in Vail's vibrant shopping and dining scene.

• Gondola Rides: Take a scenic gondola ride up the mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Perfect for families of all ages, these rides offer a leisurely way to experience the beauty of Vail's natural landscapes without the need for strenuous activity. Once you are at the top, enjoy the alpine coaster, tube slide, mini zipline and much more!

• Fly Fishing: The rivers and streams around Vail provide excellent fly-fishing opportunities, with pristine waters teeming with trout. Families can embark on guided fishing trips or try their luck casting lines into the clear mountain streams, surrounded by stunning scenery and peaceful serenity.

• White-Water Rafting: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the nearby rivers, where families can navigate through exhilarating rapids while taking in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Guided rafting tours cater to various skill levels, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure for all.

• Zip Lining: For a dose of adrenaline and breathtaking views, families can soar through the air on zip lines that traverse the mountain landscapes. Enjoy the rush of flying high above the treetops while taking in panoramic views of Vail's stunning scenery.

• Hiking and Nature Walks: In the summer, Vail transforms into a hiker's paradise with an extensive network of trails that wind through lush forests, meadows and alpine landscapes. Families can explore scenic routes ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, encountering wildlife and breathtaking vistas along the way.

• Mountain Biking: Vail offers exhilarating mountain biking opportunities for riders of all abilities, with trails suited for beginners to adrenaline junkies. Rent bikes in town or bring your own to explore miles of scenic trails that weave through forests and traverse mountain terrain, providing an unforgettable biking experience.

Day Trips:

• Glenwood Springs, Colorado: Situated approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away from Vail, Glenwood Springs is a picturesque mountain town famous for its hot springs, outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Visitors can soak in the rejuvenating waters of the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, which is the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world. Other attractions in Glenwood Springs include the historic Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, where you can explore caves and enjoy thrilling rides and attractions. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking, biking or whitewater rafting in the surrounding area, making it an ideal day-trip destination for adventure seekers and relaxation seekers alike.

• Aspen, Colorado: While a bit farther from Vail (about 1.5 to 2 hours by car), Aspen is well worth the trip for its stunning scenery, upscale shopping and outdoor activities. In the winter, Aspen is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing and scenic drives through the nearby mountains. The town itself offers fine dining, art galleries, designer boutiques and cultural events, making it a delightful destination for a day trip from Vail.

• Breckenridge, Colorado: Located just over an hour's drive from Vail, Breckenridge is a charming mountain town known for its historic Main Street, world-class skiing and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the town's Victorian architecture, browse boutique shops and dine at local restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking and mountain biking, depending on the season. Additionally, Breckenridge offers cultural attractions such as art galleries, museums and live music venues.

• Terra Bistro: Located in the Vail Mountain Lodge, Terra Bistro specializes in globally-inspired, organic cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant offers a diverse menu with options for vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free diners, along with an extensive wine list.

• Almresi Vail: This cozy Alpine chalet-style restaurant in Lionshead serves authentic German and Austrian cuisine in a charming atmosphere. Diners can enjoy hearty dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst and fondue, as well as a selection of German beers and wines.

• Elway's: Named after NFL Hall of Famer John Elway, this upscale steakhouse in Vail Village offers prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. The restaurant features a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance, making it a favorite for special occasions and celebrations.

• Vail Chophouse: Situated at the base of the mountain in Lionshead, Vail Chophouse offers stunning views of the slopes along with a menu of classic steakhouse fare and fresh seafood. Guests can dine indoors or on the expansive patio while taking in the scenery.

• Matsuhisa: Located in Solaris Plaza, Matsuhisa serves up exquisite Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine crafted by world-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with signature dishes like black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeño.

• The Little Diner: A popular breakfast and brunch spot in Lionshead, The Little Diner serves hearty comfort food with a cozy, retro vibe. Diners can enjoy classics like eggs benedict, pancakes and omelets in a relaxed atmosphere.

• Mountain Standard: Situated in the heart of Vail Village, Mountain Standard offers a rustic yet refined dining experience focused on wood-fired cooking and seasonal ingredients. The menu features creative interpretations of classic American dishes, along with an extensive selection of craft cocktails and local beers.

• La Tour Restaurant & Bar: La Tour combines French-inspired cuisine with Rocky Mountain flavors, offering an elegant dining experience in Vail Village. Guests can enjoy dishes like Colorado lamb chops, seared scallops and house-made pastas in a sophisticated setting.

• Sweet Basil: A beloved fine dining establishment in Vail Village, Sweet Basil offers innovative American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It's known for its creative dishes, upscale ambiance and extensive wine list.