Getting Around Vail

Vail features two vibrant base areas to explore: Vail Village and Lionshead. Both are pedestrian-only zones, offering a charming blend of top-notch restaurants, fun and unique shops, and scenic surroundings.

Vail's free in-town bus system offers frequent, short-interval service connecting Vail Village, Lionshead, and other key areas, with routes running every 7-10 minutes for most in-town travel during the summer season. Key routes include the West Vail Green and Red loops, the East Vail bus, the Sandstone loop, and an extension to Ford Park via Vail Valley Drive, all departing from the Vail Transportation Center. You can find real-time information, including bus locations, on the Vail.Gov website or by using Google Maps.

_

What Should I know about Altitude?

Colorado’s mountains sit well above 8,000 feet, where lower oxygen can cause altitude sickness. While most visitors never have an issue, here are some simple ways to feel your best:

Adjust Gradually – If possible, spend a day or two in Denver before heading higher to help your body acclimate.

Stay Hydrated + Eat Well – The dry climate dehydrates quickly. Drink more water than usual and eat plenty of carbs for energy.

Consider Oxygen – Cans of supplemental oxygen or rental oxygen tanks can ease symptoms like headache or fatigue.

Go Easy on Alcohol – Alcohol and other depressants increase dehydration and altitude effects—moderation matters.

Know the Signs – Headache, nausea, dizziness, or unusual fatigue may signal altitude sickness. Rest, hydrate, try oxygen, and if needed, descend to a lower elevation.

_

Eating and Drinking

Loaded Joe’s: A cozy coffee shop perfect for your morning pick-me-up or an afternoon caffeine fix.

Treff Café: European-style cafe with great coffee, pastries, and cocktails.

First Chair: Famous for their delicious breakfast burritos—a must-try.

The Blu Cow: Treat yourself to Swiss-style hot dogs paired with a refreshing beer.

Alpenrose: Experience a taste of Austria and Switzerland with authentic European dishes and alpine charm.

Sweet Basil: Fine dining in the heart of Vail Village. Grab a reservation or sit at the bar with a martini for a great evening.

La Nonna: Traditional Italian

Barrio Social: Spanish inspired tapas

Mountain Standard: The rustic counterpart to Sweet Basil, offering elevated comfort food in a warm, laid-back atmosphere.

Matsuhisa: Indulge in upscale sushi and Japanese cuisine at this chic, world-renowned restaurant.

Russel's Steakhouse: Steakhouse in Vail Village just past the covered bridge in Town.

The Little Diner: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this beloved local spot.

Garfinkel’s: A classic sports bar with a fantastic patio—ideal for casual dining and après-ski drinks.

Montauk Seafood Grill: A top-notch seafood destination with fresh catches and a sophisticated atmosphere.

Tavern on the Square: Sit outside while taking in the views of Lionshead with classic American food.

_

The Outdoors

Hiking

Discover the beauty of Vail through its extensive hiking trails, either on the mountain or in the surrounding area.

Berry Picker Trail: A popular choice for hiking up the mountain. After enjoying the trek, you can ride the gondola down for free if you'd prefer not to hike back. Hiking up is free, but if you'd like to skip the uphill climb, take the gondola from Vail Village or Lionshead Village to access scenic trails and hike back down.

Booth Falls: A challenging trail that rewards you with breathtaking views—well worth the effort!

Piney River Falls: Located at Piney River Ranch (a 30–40-minute drive from town), this trail offers stunning vistas of the Gore Creek Mountain Range.

Biking

Vail is a paradise for both mountain and road biking enthusiasts.

Mountain Biking: Enjoy miles of scenic trails accessible via the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead Village or Gondola One in Vail Village.

Road Biking: The paved recreation path along Gore Creek is perfect for an easy to moderate ride, stretching through the Vail Valley. For a more challenging adventure, try the Vail Pass ride, which climbs from East Vail to the top of Vail Pass.

Bike rentals, helmets, and other gear are available from local shops:

• Vail Bike Tech

• Buzz's Boards

Golfing

The Vail Valley boasts several world-class golf courses. Two excellent public options:

• Vail Golf Club in East Vail

• EagleVail Golf Course in EagleVail

Fishing

Unleash your inner angler in Vail! Whether you’re attending a free casting clinic, wading into local streams, or taking a float trip down the Eagle River, there’s a fishing experience for everyone. Explore guided tours and rentals:

• Minturn Anglers

• Vail Valley Anglers

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the highest botanical garden in the United States. This serene retreat showcases stunning alpine plants and is perfect for a peaceful outing. Learn more at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.

_

Shopping

Browsing the local boutiques and shops is a must in Vail! Whether you’re on the hunt for a statement piece or just strolling, there’s something for every style.

Kemo Sabe: Custom cowboy hats, boots, and Western accessories.

Gorsuch: Lux ski, après-ski, and mountain-chic fashion.

Axel's: A rustic-chic boutique offering European and Western-inspired apparel.

The Golden Bear: Iconic Vail jewelry featuring their signature bear design.