PLANNING YOUR FIRST VISIT TO VAIL

As your excitement builds for your first trip to Vail, your to-do list likely gets longer and longer. That's why we've compiled everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip—from lodging and restaurant recommendations, to trail guides and more below.
Your first trip to Vail will undoubtedly be an experience you'll remember for years to come.

Where to Stay in Vail

With five different villages, Vail has a lot of options on where to stay in Vail Village. Here’s a rundown of each village and lodging options for you to enjoy. No matter where you choose to stay, there are plenty of easy ways to get around town, including our free bus service.

Vail Village:

Best for: friends, couples, families, foodies, entertainment, après ski.

Where to stay: The Lodge at Vail (Vail’s original hotel), Hotel Gasthof Gramshammer The Sonnenalp, The Sebastian, Four Seasons Resort, Austria Haus and Tivoli Lodge.

View all Vail Hotels and Lodging.

Lionshead:

Best for: families, couples, après ski.

Where to stay: The Arrabelle at Vail Square, the Ritz-Carlton, the Vail Marriott, and many boutique hotels and condos.

View all Lionshead Village Hotels and Lodging.


Golden Peak:

Best for: families, couples, romantic getaways, restaurants, privacy.

Where to stay: Manor Vail Lodge and condo-based properties like The Wren and All Seasons.

View all Golden Peak Hotels and Lodging.

East Vail:

Best for: families, large groups, budget-friendly, living like a local.

Where to stay: The Vail Racquet Club, and a plethora of townhomes, condos, and private residences.

View all East Vail Hotels and Lodging.

West Vail:

Best for: families, large groups, budget-friendly, living like a local.

Where to stay: residential communities such as Matterhorn or Intermountain, Hotels such as the Streamside Marriott or DoubleTree by Hilton.

View all West Vail Hotels and Lodging.

Entertainment for Everyone

For your first visit to Vail, allow plenty of time to explore our entertainment options on and off the mountain. If you’re traveling with your family, check out these five family must-dos:

Après Adventure Highlights


Below are some of our top après picks. You can check out others here.


To-Dos in Town


Vail’s shopping scene is just as varied as our terrain, with everything from Vail-branded T-shirts to high-class jewelry. Explore Vail’s full shopping scene here.