If you’re looking for an unforgettable family vacation this summer, look no further than Vail, Colorado. With its majestic views of the Rocky Mountains and endless outdoor activities, Vail offers something for everyone in your family.
Recently, we were invited by Discover Vail to learn about why this Rockies destination is ideal for families to vacation this summer. We’re happy to share all that Vail has to offer like being the home of the nation’s newest national monument – Camp Hale- Continental Divide National Monument. Vail Village is also home to noteworthy dining, entertainment, and lodging options.
Why is Vail an Ideal Summer Family Vacation Destination?
Vail is an ideal destination for any family seeking an unforgettable summer getaway filled with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and all sorts of fun activities. Your family will love exploring all Vail has to offer this summer. While Vail is known for its legendary ski slopes, it is also a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. From artisanal eateries to quaint boutiques to live music venues – there’s something here to keep everyone entertained.
Family-friendly Activities to do in Vail, Colorado
For families that are looking for adventure, Vail offers plenty of exciting experiences such as white water rafting, fishing, hiking and biking trails, outdoor pools and playgrounds, golf courses, and more. There are plenty of attractions too; from museums to galleries to wildlife excursions – you can be sure that you won’t run out of things to do!
Related: 6 Things Parents Can Do to Keep their Children Safe on Family Vacations
Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument
The Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument was recently designated as a national monument by the Biden Administration to honor the 10th Mountain Division. This was the army’s first and only mountain infantry division which helped liberate Europe in World War II.
The 53,804-acre Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument is on National Forest System lands, in the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. While it preserves the area’s important historic, prehistoric, natural, and recreational values, it also offers unlimited year-round activities. But since we’re focusing on summer, families visiting Vail, can take the 30-minute trip to this national monument to do the following:
- ATV/UTV rentals and tours in the the mountains
- Nova Guides outdoor recreation and adventure tours allow visitors to customize their itinerary according to their personal preferences.
- Paragon Guides offers hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and fly fishing at Camp Hale
Experience Adventure in the Great Outdoors
Vail, Colorado is full of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the summer months. Families can explore the great outdoors by hiking, fishing, and biking. With kids in tow, take a hike in White River National Forest up one of Vail’s many trails offering stunning views, or try fly fishing in Gore Creek. You can also rent bikes or take a guided tour around Vail or nearby towns for an exciting family adventure. If you’re looking for something a bit more mellow, visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens – the world’s highest-elevation botanical gardens – located on top of Vail Mountain offering miles of trails and breathtaking views from the top of the mountain. There are also several family-friendly festivals throughout the year like Taste of Vail and Hot Summer Nights that are sure to make any vacation memorable!
Vail’s Hot Summer Nights Festival
Hot Summer Nights is an annual festival held in Vail, Colorado during the summer months that celebrates live music and entertainment. Featuring a variety of genres from rock to jazz and more, it’s sure to please all types of music lovers. The event also features a great selection of local vendors serving up delicious food, drinks, and homemade goods. There’s something for everyone at Hot Summer Nights – visitors can enjoy live performances, shop for handmade items or souvenirs, or just relax and listen to music while taking in the beautiful mountain views. With free admission, it’s definitely an event worth checking out!
Related: Save Money and Make Memories with these Summer Bucket List Activities
Chasing Rabbits Entertainment Venue
The Solaris Plaza is home to the newest entertainment venue – Chasing Rabbits. This multi-use event space offers five for families and adults to experience, such as dining, a cinema, a speakeasy, a library lounge, and revamped arcade.
Family-friendly Vail, Colorado Hotels
There are countless family-friendly hotels in Vail, Colorado offering cozy amenities and convenient locations. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort with all the bells and whistles or a more budget-friendly option, there’s something perfect for your family. Plus, some hotels are celebrating milestone anniversaries, which means special offerings and packages that you’ll want to take advantage of.
Grand Hyatt Vail
This luxury resort is located a the base of Vail Mountain, and just 5 minutes from Vail Village. This year, it’s celebrating its 40th anniversary. In celebration, Grand Hyatt Vail will offer a Creekside Dinner Series this summer. The fine dining experience is headed by the new Executive Chef pascal Coudouy and can be enjoyed at Gessner, Tiki on the Creek Bar & Grill.
The Antlers at Vail
The Antlers at Vail offers fully equipped suites, multiple on-site restaurants, activities for kids of all ages, an outdoor heated pool, and hot tubs – the perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring the great outdoors. If you plan on heading to Vail this summer, you’ll want to take advantage of Antler’s 50th-anniversary celebration. The hotel is honoring its golden anniversary with special packages, contests, and a fun “50 things to do in Val for under 50” list. Access to these offerings is available at http://www.antlers50.com.
The Ritz-Carlton Club
The Ritz-Carlton Club features luxurious accommodations in the heart of Vail Village with access to private ski slopes and complimentary lifts.
The Lodge
The Lodge at Lionshead provides charming mountain lodgings at an affordable price along with convenient access to shops, ski slopes, and bike paths.
With so many great options available – you’re sure to find the perfect family-friendly hotel for your vacation in Vail!