The most magical time to visit Vail, Colorado is during the winter holidays! Bring the family and make once-in-a-lifetime memories. American Ski Exchange has made a list of our favorite family activities to do in our ski town during the holidays!
- Skiing and Snowboarding on Vail Mountain
One of the main reasons Vail is on the map! Come into American Ski Exchange and rent ski/snowboard equipment steps away from Gondola One! Then venture up Vail Mountain for a fun-filled day on the slopes. Whether you are a beginner or expert, there is ample terrain to conquer. Not only will you experience the dry, champagne Rocky Mountain powder, but will enjoy breath-taking panoramic views. It is the perfect way to spend time exercising and bonding with your family doing something you love!
- Ice Skating at the Solaris (Vail Village) or Arrabelle (Lionshead Village)
Solaris Ice Skating Rink: https://solarisvail.com/winter-activities/#IceRink
Alderhof Ice Skating Rink: http://arrabelle.rockresorts.com/activities/winter.asp
Grab a pom pom hat from American Ski Exchange, and head to the ice skating rink! The Alderhof Ice Rink is located in the heart of Lionshead Village surrounded by the European inspired Arrabelle. Ice skating here gives you incredible views of Vail Mountain. You will feel like you are in a European Winter Wonderland.
If your lodging is in the main Vail Village, check out the Solaris Ice Skating Rink. Grab some coffee at Yeti’s Grind or an IPA from the Vail Brewing Company as you watch the kiddos skate! Both the Solaris and the Alderhof charge a fee for ice skating and ice skate rentals.
3. Attend the Annual Town of Vail Tree Lighting Ceremony
Holiday Events in Vail: https://www.vailgov.com/announcements/holiday-events-in-vail
One of my favorite Christmas events to attend as a kid growing up in the Vail Valley! Huddle together drinking hot chocolate and watch the tree in the center of Slifer Square on Bridge Street come to life! Get in the holiday spirit while you listen to Christmas carols and walk the festive, decorated brick streets of Vail.
4. Go for a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride at 4 Eagle Ranch
Eagle Ranch: https://4eagleranch.com/sleigh-ride-dinners-near-vail/
Feel like you are in a Hallmark Christmas movie as you dash through the snow on a horse-drawn sleigh ride! 4 Eagle Rance, located in Wolcott, offers an incredible Western Dude Ranch experience. After the sleigh ride, enjoy a delectable buffet dinner – sure to include something for everyone in the family. Afterwards, sit around the fire and roast marshmellows. Top the night off with some incredible star-gazing at the ranch.
5. Go Snow Tubing at Adventure Ridge
Adventure Ridge: https://www.vail.com/explore-the-resort/activities-and-events/winter-activities/adventure-ridge-activities/snow-tubing.aspx
What kid (or adult) doesn’t love flying down the mountain on an oversized tube? Take the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead Village up to Adventure Ridge. Fly down the mountain with the wind in your hair! Then use the covered carpet to transport you back up the 900 foot hill – to do it all over again!
6. Go for a Snowcat Ride to Dinner at Beano’s Cabin
Beanos Cabin: https://timberlinetours.com/scenic-vail-dining-beanos-cabin-with-timberline-tours-transport/
Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience riding in a snowcat – responsible for grooming the corduroy on Vail and Beaver Creek Mountains! Load the family into the snowcat for an incredible ride to a top-rated restaurant on Beaver Creek Mountain – Beano’s Cabin. This dining experience is truly unique and world-class. Set aside a few hours to enjoy this multi-course meal. You won’t be disappointed – by the views or the incredible food!
