Vail, Colorado, famously known for skiing and snow-covered beauty, is now gaining attention as a peaceful summer escape. While most travelers imagine snowy slopes, hot chocolate, and cozy chalets, Vail in summer offers sunshine, outdoor fun, and fewer crowds.
Why Summer in Vail is Special
Vail is nestled in the Rocky Mountains and includes two main areas—Vail Village and Lionshead Village. During the summer, the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. Plus, there are music and dance festivals that bring the villages to life.
Outdoor Adventures for Everyone
- Gore Creek Trail: A beautiful paved path along Gore Creek. You’ll pass cliffs, flower fields, and trees. Start at the Welcome Center and walk as far as you like.
- Fishing Trips: Try fly fishing with guides from Sage Outdoor Adventures or Vail Valley Anglers. Just make sure you have a fishing license.
- Epic Discovery for Kids: Ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola and enjoy mountaintop fun like bungee trampolines, climbing walls, and a mountain coaster.
- Scenic Gondola Rides: Take the gondola to over 10,000 feet. Enjoy views of wildflowers, mountains, and valleys. Don’t forget sunscreen and a jacket.
Nature, Culture, and Art
- Betty Ford Alpine Gardens: This is the highest alpine garden in North America, sitting at 8,250 feet. Walk among wildflowers and learn about nature in workshops.
- Vail Art Studio: Opens in summer 2025 near the Alpine Gardens. Watch artists work and enjoy art installations like “Light Forest”.
Music and Festivals All Summer Long
- The Amp Concerts: From May to September, enjoy different kinds of music at Vail’s outdoor Ford Amphitheater.
- Bravo! Vail Music Festival: Hear global orchestras perform from mid-June to late July.
- Vail Dance Festival: From late July to early August, this festival brings exciting dance shows.
- Vail Jazz Festival: Held over Labor Day weekend, enjoy jazz music against mountain views.
Shopping and Souvenirs
- Farmers Markets: Mid-June to October, shop from over 150 local vendors offering food, crafts, and handmade goods.
- The Golden Bear: This local shop celebrates 50 years in 2025 and sells jewelry shaped like Vail’s iconic golden bear.
Tasty Places to Eat
- Sweet Basil: Famous for creative dishes like French onion lasagna and craft cocktails.
- Alpenrose: Austrian-German food in a fun setting with dishes like spicy mountain soup and apple strudel.
- Mountain Standard: Try hearty meals like rotisserie chicken and pork chops by the creek.
- Root & Flower: A great spot for wine and small snacks.
Where to Stay in Vail
- Four Seasons Resort: Luxury rooms, mountain views, and a full spa with hot tubs and saunas.
- Sonnenalp Hotel: A Bavarian-style hotel near Gondola One, offering great food and even a golf club.
- The Hythe: A large modern hotel in Lionshead with mountain views and whiskey cocktails in the lounge.
Best Time to Visit
Vail reopens in late May or early June for summer fun. The average temperature is 75°F in the day and 45°F at night. With 300 sunny days each year, summer is ideal—but always carry a rain jacket just in case.
Daily news highlights continue to show that Vail isn’t just for winter. Whether you love nature, art, music, or food, Vail has something exciting in the summer for everyone.
