Things To Do
Ride the Gondola Up Vail Mountain
Take Gondola One from Vail Village or the Eagle Bahn Gondola from Lionshead up to Eagle's Nest (10,350 ft) for panoramic views of the Gore Range and golden aspen groves below. Late September is peak foliage season -- you'll want your camera. The gondolas run Fridays through Sundays in September. Eagle Bahn also has Epic Discovery at the top, a family-friendly activity center with a mountain coaster, climbing wall, and bungee trampoline.
Booth Falls Trailhead
One of the most beloved hikes in the valley. A 4-mile out-and-back trail climbing through aspen groves to a 60-foot waterfall with views of the Gore Range. No parking at the trailhead -- take the free East Vail bus from the Vail Transportation Center to the Booth Falls stop, which runs Fridays through Sundays in September
Gore Valley Trail (Easy Family Friendly)
flat, paved 1.8-mile path running right along Gore Creek from Lionshead to Vail Village, with lots of shade and views of Vail Mountain. Approachable Outdoors Perfect for families, kids, older guests, or anyone who wants a relaxed walk through beautiful fall scenery. Also great for biking. No parking needed -- accessible directly from either village.
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
The highest public botanical garden in North America, sitting at 8,200 feet. Open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk with free admission. Peaceful and beautiful in fall color. ADA accessible. Dogs on leash are welcome. Located in Ford Park, an easy walk east from Vail Village
Vail Village - Stroll, Eat, Drink, and Explore
Vail Village is entirely pedestrian with great shopping and dining along cobblestone streets. Free buses run between Vail Village and Lionshead, no car needed once you arrive. Favorites The Little Diner - Vail's legendary breakfast spot. Expect a wait. Sweet Basil - The Vail institution since 1977. Book well in advance. Matsuhisa - Nobu's Vail outpost. High-end Japanese-Peruvian with mountain views. Mountain Standard - Sweet Basil's casual sister. Wood-fired American, great bar. Osaki's - Tiny sushi counter, exceptional fish. Walk in after 5:30pm. Bars & Nightlife The Red Lion - Vail's most iconic bar since 1963. Live music nightly. 10th Mountain Whiskey - Colorado craft spirits on Bridge Street. Root & Flower - Best wine bar in Vail. 50+ wines by the glass. Pepi's Bar - Classic Bavarian pub with an iconic outdoor deck. Shakedown Bar - Underground dive, live music, late night. Chasing Rabbits - Restaurant, speakeasy, arcade, and DJ nights under one roof.