Are you looking for local advice? Do you want to make the most out of your Vail winter ski vacation?
This article is your guide to experiencing the best of Vail, no matter your budget.
We consider Vail our home base every winter. Vail is known as one of the best ski towns in Colorado. After spending 12 years living in Colorado, we have discovered the best ways to maximize value and time on the slopes.
This article provides information on traveling to Vail, including: airports, ground transportation, hotels near Vail ski resort, restaurants and tips on skiing in Vail. We have the insider scoop on the magic of Vail Colorado.
How to get to Vail
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
The fastest way to get to Vail is by air. The closest airport to Vail ski resort is The Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE). Located just 35 miles west of Vail, this regional airport offers convenience at a luxury price point. American and United Airliners offer daily flights to EGE.
There are a few things to consider when flying into EGE. Limited flight options are available, most cities only offer 1 flight per day to/from EGE.
The winter season may present challenges. Therefore, when the storms hit, planes cannot land. This can cause major delays and re-routing through Denver Airport.
Skiing in Vail is best during periods of snow. If your goal is chasing storms, we do not recommend flying into EGE.
From EGE, it’s a 30 minute drive east on I70 to get to Vail. Luxury car service, shuttle service and Uber is available at the airport.
If you prefer to rent a car, car rentals are available in the terminal. Make sure to check road and driving conditions. Opt for an AWD or a 4X4 vehicle during winter.
Although EGE is the closest airport to Vail ski resort, we recommend flying into Denver International Airport.
Denver International Airport (DIA)
A more affordable and reliable option is flying into Denver. United and Southwest Airlines have hubs in Denver. These airlines offer flexibility, with a large variety of daily flights to most major cities.
When traveling with a snowboard bag or ski luggage, we prefer to travel Southwest Airlines.
Southwest Airlines Credit Card helps us fly to Denver on points! This saves us hundreds of dollars a year.
Southwest Airlines allows for 2 free checked bags, which can include a gear bag up to 50 pounds.
The United Credit Card saves us money on checked baggage. It offers member perks that make traveling more enjoyable. We have saved hundreds of dollars on baggage fees by using our United Airlines Credit Card.
Ground Transportation
There are multiple ways to get from DIA to Vail. Below is information on these options: Public Transportation, Shuttle Service, Rental Car or Turo.
Public Transportation
The cheapest way to get to Vail from Denver International Airport (DIA), is public transportation. If you have the time, and are traveling on a budget, this is the most economical choice.
Take the $10 RTD Train (A Line) located at the South Exit of the airport terminal.
The RTD train (A Line) runs from DIA to Union Station approx. every 20 minutes. It’s a comfortable, 45 minute train ride.
If you are on a time crunch, Uber is a faster way to get to Union Station from DIA.
From Union Station, take the $17 Bustang Bus (West Line) to Vail Transportation Center.
The Bustang is a very comfortable, large capacity coach. It offers ample storage space for gear bags and other luggage.
In ideal weather conditions, the bus ride takes 2.5 hours. It can take much longer in inclement weather.
The Bustang departs every 2 hours from Union Station; the seats are first come first serve.
To ensure a seat, it is best to get to the gate at least 30 minutes prior to departure. If the bus is full, you will need to wait 2 hours for the next bus to depart.
Download the RTD app to purchase tickets and for scheduling info.
Once you arrive at Vail transportation center, you can transfer to a free bus to get to your final destination.
Greyhound offers bus service from Union Station to Vail Transportation Center. Check Schedules for times and current pricing.
Shuttle Service
Epic Mountain Express Shuttle provides service from DIA to Vail Valley. Epic season pass holders are eligible for discounts.
Peak 1 Express Shuttle also provides daily service from DIA to Vail.
Are you looking for a private luxury experience? Black Mountain Limo offers private car service, from both DIA as well as EGE.
Rental Car
Most major rental car companies are available at DIA. All rental car offices are located off site. Shuttles are provided just outside the baggage claim area.
Walk out the baggage claim doors to the appropriate island, and find your rental car shuttle.
Turo
We love Turo! Renting a car on Turo is usually an easy option at DIA. Many cars are located in the airport parking lots. It can be a huge money and time saver!
Make sure to rent a 4×4 or AWD vehicle when driving to Vail in winter. The I70 can be a dangerous place during a storm.
Planning Your Route
Traffic is the most important thing to consider when traveling to Vail. Weekends are extemly busy, this is something that many travelers under estimate.
Locals who live in Denver, have a huge impact on traffic and public transportation options.
Denver’s weekend ski warriors travel I70 west on Saturday mornings. Every Saturday between 6am-11am, traffic is a nightmare.
Driving time can take as long as 4 hours to get to Vail from Denver on a Saturday. It can take even longer to get back to Denver from Vail on a Sunday afternoon or evening.
It is best to AVIOD weekend travel altogether.
The roads, airports, rental car companies and buses, are all impacted from weekend travel.
Friday afternoons can also get busy with traffic. Locals attempt to leave Denver after work on Friday’s, traveling I70 west, ahead of the Saturday morning traffic.
If you must travel on a weekend, get in early on a Friday and leave on a Monday. Attempt to plan your trip to avoid traffic.
Traveling in the opposite direction of the flow of traffic, will make your journey to Vail a breeze.
Where to Stay in Vail
Now that you have chosen your ideal travel route, where should you stay while skiing in Vail?
The Vail valley has lodging options for every price point. Hotels near Vail ski resort offer slope side luxury. Vail is known as one of the best ski towns in Colorado; for its ski in – ski out villas, boutique hotels and cozy AirBnB’s.
Budget travelers can find accommodations in nearby towns, with direct bus lines to the mountain.
Vail Village
If you are looking for a plush luxury experience, The Ritz-Carlton Vail sets the standard. The residences at the Ritz offer multi-bedroom villas, fully equipped with kitchens and living room spaces.
On site ski-valet is one of the many perks offered at the Ritz – Carlton.
If you have the budget; luxury and class is found at this plush property.
The Ritz is located near the Lionshead village, just a short walk to the ski lifts.
The Sebastian Vail is another luxury hotel option in the center village. Complete with: an onsite restaurant and bar, lounge area, kids play room, ski valet, gym, spa and really nice outdoor pools.
If you’ve got the cash to spend, The Sebastian has everything you need.
Gravity Haus Vail is the perfect blend of luxury meets active lifestyle. The upscale, trendy vibe, caters to the alpine adventurist. The added touch of warm cookies and hot cocoa at check in, are a real treat.
Offerings include: comfortable rooms, an elevated dining experience, full gym facilities, yoga and a spa.
Gravity Haus is located in the center village, just steps from the transit center and ski lifts.
The Manor Vail Lodge offers an ideal location, with all the comforts of a quality stay. This charming, 3 star property, offers studios and multi bedroom options.
Couples, groups and families can enjoy all the comforts of Vail, at a mid-range price point.
The in-unit kitchens and living spaces provide the ability to cook, and relax.
Staying at the Manor Vail Lodge, allows you to save money on food costs.
Budget Friendly Stays
If staying slope side is out of your budget, there are many options in neighboring towns. Skiing in Vail is expensive, saving money on lodging makes it more affordable.
Staying in the towns of Minturn or Avon can provide a more economical stay. While we love the luxury of the properties above, we tend to stay in neighboring towns most of the time.
Minturn
Minturn is an incredibly rad little spot. This old school ski town, 10 minutes west of Vail, is rich in history. The population in Minturn is only about 1,000 people.
The main street is comprised of a few quaint restaurants and one of the coolest place to a après-ski in Colorado.
The Minturn Saloon is the spot where skiers and snowboarders congregate after conquering the “Minturn Mile.”
The Minturn Mile, is a mile long back country run. The trailhead begins on the backside of Vail, and ends in the town of Minturn.
Once you ski out the gates, there is no skiing back to the resort. This is an experts only back country area, with unmarked natural hazards, trees, a creek crossing and no ski patrol.
Do not attempt this alone. Check with Ski Patrol about current conditions before exiting the gates. Link up with locals who can navigate the path and who know the terrain. You are responsible for your own rescue once you leave the ski resort.
Once you reach the trails end, the Minturn Saloon is a short walk away.
To get back to Vail from Minturn, you must take the bus or call an Uber. Locals who plan to ski the mile, usually stage a car in Minturn, or have friends drive over for an after ski pick up.
If you happen to be staying in the town of Minturn, you can potentially ski right back to your accommodations.
The Minturn Inn is a charming small Bed & Breakfast in the quaint cozy town. This historic B&B offers 9 rooms, each with antique furnishings.
If you are in search of a unique, old school cool experience, check out the Minturn Inn.
New ownership has recently taken over the Minturn Inn.
Are you traveling solo? Are you with a group of friends on a budget? The Bunkhouse hostel is a great option for those interested in shared living spaces.
Reserve a pod style bunk, or an open style bunk in a shared room.
The Bunkhouse offers clean bathrooms and showers. The shared kitchen is well equipped for cooking up homemade meals, although it can get crowded.
Beer and wine is available for purchase, however personal alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Parking is available 2 blocks away, which can be a pain when it’s cold and snowing.
Otherwise, it’s a great option for a short, cheap stay. I recommend reserving a pod, as it feels more private.
Avon
Just a 20 minute drive west of Vail is the neighboring town of Avon.
Beaver Creek Ski Resort is located in Avon, CO. The area has everything you need for a relaxing winter vacation.
The Christie Lodge is our favorite budget friendly option when staying in Avon. Choose from 1 or 3 bedroom, condo style units. All units come equipped with a small kitchenette, living area, fireplace and balcony.
The property has multiple indoor and outdoor hot tubs, game room and a gym facility. The Christie Lodge is conveniently located in walking distance to restaurants, shopping and the Avon Station transit center.
The Comfort Inn and Suites in Avon offers affordable rooms in a convenient location. Standard rooms, comfortable beds, and free breakfast make this a solid option. Enjoy the free bus to Vail or Beaver Creek just a block away.
Bob’s Place, a lively sports bar, is located across the street. With lots of restaurants and shops nearby, staying in Avon is a great budget friendly option.
With so many lodging options and hotels near Vail ski resort, it’s easy to find something that fits your style and budget.
Getting Around in Vail
Buses
The bus is the easiest way to get around Vail. The town of Vail offers FREE buses. Using bus transportation saves on hefty parking fees. Buses are very frequent and usually run on time.
The Free Eco Vail/Beaver Creek Express Bus provides transportation between Avon Transit Center and Vail. This makes it incredibly easy to get to Vail from neighboring towns.
The ECO bus provides paid bus service around Eagle County, including: Eagle, Edwards, Avon, Minturn, Eagle Vail and the Vail area.
Download the ECO app for bus schedules and to purchase bus tickets.
Parking at Vail Ski Resort
Parking in Vail is expensive. Most hotels and properties charge a daily parking fee. These fees can be upwards of $60 a day.
Basic daily parking at Vail Ski Resort is $40 a day.
There are two main parking structures at Vail Ski Resort. One is located across from Center Village below the Vail Transporation Center and the other is located directly across from Lionshead Village.
Dining in Vail
There are endless delicious restaurant and après-ski options to choose from. We have dined at many great spots in the Vail Village.
Regardless of where you choose, you won’t be disappointed. For dinner in Vail, here’s a few highlights of our favorite spots.
Restaurants
Mountain Standard – You will definitely need a reservation to get into this popular spot! Wood fired cuisine and rustic mountain vibes give this restaurant our #1 vote. Conveniently located in the Vail Village, this is a must dine while in Vail.
Elway’s – Quality Steakhouse and dining experience that consistently delivers. Great wine selection and craft cocktails make this our go to spot for special occasions in Vail.
The Slope Room – Located inside Gravity Haus, the Slope Room offers an elevated dining experience. Classy and sophisticated vibes, great bar and delicious cuisine.
Chasing Rabbits – This place has a one-of-a-kind vibe. The unique atmosphere offers a bar, arcade and restaurant.
Modern Mediterranean, fish, meat and rabbit are all featured on the menu. The upscale food is pricy, but worth a splurge.
Joy Sushi – For affordable, no frills sushi, Joy Sushi is a hit. Fresh fish and delicious rolls combined with a casual dining experience.
This small family owned restaurant is located in a strip mall next to the Safeway in Vail. This is also a great option for a quick and healthy to-go order.
Fattoria – Our favorite Italian food in the Valley. Farm to table, fresh handmade pastas and homegrown ingredients from their own greenhouse. Located in Avon, 20 minutes west of Vail. Good wine selection and trendy craft cocktails. Reservations are necessary.
This is a must stop if you are staying in Avon.
Wherever you choose to dine in Vail, make sure to check for reservations. Vail is a lively place, and can be hard to get last minute reservations during busy times.
Conclusion
However you decide to travel, Vail will not disappoint. Flying directly into the Vail area by way of the Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), gives quick and easy access, at a premium price.
This serves as an option for those traveling in good weather. However, limited flight options and a steep price tag may detour most.
Denver International Airport is our recommendation when traveling to Vail. The large airport offers extensive daily flight options to most major cities. Flying into Denver is less expensive than flying into Eagle County Regional Airport.
Once you arrive in Colorado, the ground transportation is seamless. There are lots of transportation options that include: rental cars, Turo, shuttle service and public transportation.
When planning your route, keep in mind, weather and traffic conditions. Weekends are extremely busy, this is something that many travelers under estimate. Don’t let traffic ruin your trip or cause you to miss your flight.
Booking lodging in Vail can be overwhelming with so many different options. If you are looking for a luxury experience, staying slope side in Vail Village is a great option.
If you are looking for a budget friendly lodging experience, check out hotels in nearby towns. The towns of Minturn and Avon, offer up the best affordable lodging.
Gettin around in Vail is made easy with the convenience of public transportation. The Town of Vail offers free buses.
The ECO bus serves the surrounding areas in the region for a small fare. Make sure to download the ECO app for schedule info and ticket purchases.
Dining out in Vail is a real treat, with so many amazing restaurants to choose. Check out our favorite spot, The Mountain Standard in Vail Village, or Chasing Rabbits for a truly unique dining experience.
If dining in Avon, Fattoria offers up delicious farm to table Italian food.
Looking for a lively bar in Avon? Bob’s Place is a great tavern to watch sports games.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Vail is an incredible experience. We hope our travel tips help you easily navigate your travel plans. Vail is a magical place full of options to fit every budget.
Do you want to explore more of Colorado’s best skiing? Check out our article “Best Ski Resorts in CO: Top Tips & Local Advice.”
Enjoy More Skiing In Vail
Want to experience skiing in Vail more this season?
People always ask us, “How do you get so many days in Vail?”
After recently moving away from Colorado, we use unique travel hacks to get 30+ days a season in at Vail. We are addicted to chasing blower pow and getting face shots with our friends.
Check out our article “How to Save Money Skiing And Snowboarding In Colorado” for our complete list of travel hacks.
We love sharing our experiences and advice with fellow ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Hope you all enjoy Vail as much as we do!
