Vail Summer Itinerary:

Plan the Perfect Trip


Travel Guide

Discover the best of Vail in summer with this itinerary designed to help you experience every side of this legendary mountain destination. From scenic gondola rides and miles of hiking and biking trails to high-alpine thrills and vibrant village events, Vail offers something unforgettable for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or relaxing moments surrounded by Rocky Mountain beauty, let this itinerary inspire your perfect summer escape.

EXPLORE THIS ITINERARY

WHERE TO STAY


Outdoor Pool and Hot Tub at The Lodge at Vail
VAIL VILLAGE:

THE LODGE AT VAIL

The Lodge at Vail offers an intimate, legendary retreat as the valley's founding hotel. Perfectly positioned in the pedestrian heart of Vail Village, it provides unrivaled proximity to fine dining, upscale boutiques, and Gondola One. The property masterfully pairs boutique warmth with full-service sophistication, inviting guests to discover solace on a classic, sun-drenched deck featuring two heated outdoor pools. The day culminates beautifully inside the spectacular 11,000-square-foot RockResorts Spa, a premier wellness haven designed to thoroughly soothe and restore. 
Summer Aerial View of The Arrabelle at Vail
Lionshead Village:

THE ARRABELLE

Bringing the majestic grandeur of the Alps to Colorado, The Arrabelle at Vail Square is a masterpiece of opulent mountain living. Located in the center of Lionshead Village, this stunning property places you steps from Epic Discovery and the Eagle Bahn Gondola for effortless alpine access. Summer afternoons here are defined by the exclusive rooftop lap pool and hot tubs, offering panoramic, birds-eye views of the valley. To completely unwind, retreat to the grand 10,000-square-foot spa sanctuary for advanced high-altitude therapies tailored to your body's needs.

WHERE TO EAT


Sunny Day at Mid-Vail in Vail, CO
LUNCH WITH A VIEW AT:

MID VAIL GRILL OR TALON'S GRILL

For a midday break that feels just as memorable as the mountain itself, make your way to Mid-Vail Grill, effortlessly reached via the scenic ride up Gondola One. Perched high above the village, it’s the perfect place to slow down, take in sweeping alpine views, and savor the simple elegance of a fresh Caprese Salad—bright, seasonal, and effortlessly satisfying.

Or continue your culinary adventure across the mountain to Talon’s Grill, located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola, where sunshine and elevated flavors meet. Here, our summer favorite burgers take center stage—crafted with care, layered with bold ingredients, and best enjoyed on a sun-drenched deck with crisp mountain air all around you. 
Ice Cream and Dessert at Simba's Cafe in Eagle's Nest at Vail
CRAVING A TREAT?

BISTRO 14 & SIMBA'S CAFE

If you’re in the mood to unwind and soak in the alpine atmosphere, Bistro 14 offers the perfect setting. With daily bar service and sweeping mountain views, it’s an inviting place to raise a glass, relax in the sunshine, and take in the beauty of Vail from above. 

And when it’s time to treat yourself—because every mountain day deserves a sweet finish—make your way to Simba’s Café. A favorite for guests of all ages, it’s the go-to spot for creamy, refreshing ice cream and an array of delightful sweets. 

From handcrafted drinks with a view to well-earned sweet rewards, Vail’s mountaintop experiences invite you to linger a little longer and enjoy every moment.

WHAT TO DO


Women on a Summer Hike at Vail
START THE DAY RIGHT:

HIKING

Start the day on the mountain with a hike, on one of Vail Mountain's 150 miles of trails! 

Looking for inspiration on the best trails? 
  • For Beginners: Eagle's Loop - Easy ridge-top loop with great views of Mount of the Holy Cross (1 mile)
  • For Intermediate: Grand Escape - Well-marked trail with off-the-charts fields of dense wildflowers (1.3 miles)
  • For a Challenge: Berrypicker - This difficult trail offers a steep climb from Vail Village or Lionshead through peaceful aspen trees and wildflowers, up to Eagle’s Nest(3.2 miles)
Family Walking Around Vail on a Summer Day
SPEND THE AFTERNOON:

IN THE VILLAGE

Enjoy perusing the pedestrian-friendly streets of Vail Village, window shopping boutiques and exploring one of the many fine art galleries. On weekends, catch live music at the base of Gondola One - check out the Vail website for the event lineup.

Wind down with an easy evening stroll along the riverside Gore Creek path that parallels the villages, or enjoy a moment of indulgence at one of Vail's luxury spas.

SUMMER SAVINGS

  • Brunch Package: Receive FREE scenic lift tickets for each person in your party with your brunch reservation at The 10th. 
  • Eagle's Nest Family Meal Deal: Purchase your lunch package at the base to receive up to 25% off your meal for a family of four. Includes any four menu items + 4 NA drinks for $80. *Package price as-is. No substitutions and does not qualify for EMR.
  • Kids Ride Free: Receive one free child scenic ticket for each paid adult scenic ticket. 
  • Simba's Ice Cream BOGO: Buy one scoop and get a second scoop free with your Adventure Pass.
  • Scenic Ride, Bike Haul, & Lunch Voucher: With the purchase of a scenic ticket and/or bike haul, add on a $30 lunch voucher for $25 that can be redeemed at the top of the mountain for food or beverages.
  • Ford Amp Scenic Ride Discount: Enjoy 20% off scenic rides for Ford Amphitheatre concert goers.
  • Scenic Ride+ Coaster Bundle: Receive 10% off when you bundle a scenic ticket and coaster ride together.

    *Offers only applicable for Summer 2026 season

SCREENSHOT FOR THE PERFECT SUMMER ITINERARY


Ultimate Vail Summer Itinerary