Off the Slopes in Vail: 5 Activities for Non-skiers in Colorado

As one of the largest resort mountains in North America, Vail attracts avid skiers and snowboarders from all over the globe. However, there are many additional things to do in Vail. These activities celebrate the area’s mountain terrain and keep visitors busy, ensuring everyone has a great time. To help non-skiers in Colorado, here are some ideas when getting off the slopes in Vail.

Off the Slopes in Vail: Top 5 Activities

Learn About Local Culture

At Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum in Vail Village visitors learn about the history of the town and surrounding area. Galleries, artifacts and narratives cover things like the Winter Olympics, the history of skiing and snowboarding, a Hall of Fame, and the famous 10th Mountain Division who trained at Camp Hale. This infantry group was instrumental in developing skiing techniques and equipment innovation, making the sport what it is today. Admission: Free, but $5 donations are welcome.

Shop Vail Village

Whether looking to beef up mountain gear and casual wear or shop the latest fashions, shoppers will find it in the village. Vail has hundreds of boutiques situated on cobblestone heated streets, providing a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

Start with the local shops, including longtime favorite The Golden Bear, which sells signature Vail jewelry. Families should check out Fuzziwigs — a local candy store — and The Toy Store packed full of games and toys. For fashion and accessories, shop Oakley and The North Face. During warmer seasons, check out Vail Farmers Market. The markets operates 16 weekends and year and features dozens of local vendors.

Head Into the Wild

Eagles Nest Wilderness Area and Holy Cross Wilderness Area both make for great day trips and give visitors a chance to explore the Rocky Mountains a little closer to the valley floor. There’s plenty to do, too. Plan a guided or unguided hike. Go river rafting or tubing. Then take a balloon ride or test those fly-fishing skills.

To get started, visit Epic Discovery. The company operates several seasonal activities, including ziplining, mountain biking clinics, summer tubing and 4×4 tours. If visiting during the winter, rent showshoes and snowmobiles.

Visit Minturn

For another day trip off the slopes in Vail, head down-valley to Minturn. This old mining town offers a getaway from Vail’s busy resort. Visitors enjoy a slower pace, historic architecture, galleries and Western antique stores. The town has two busy seasons: January to March and early September into the holiday season.

Little Beach Park and Amphitheater and Eagle River Park offer a place to picnic and admire nature’s beauty. While in the area, guests enjoy fishing, rafting, canoeing and kayaking. After spending time outdoors, sample the local food scene at nearly a dozen restaurants.

Indulge With a Spa Day

Everyone needs to let go and relax. Get some much needed pampering at the top Vail spas that offer massages, skin treatments and tranquil facilities. Many of these have earned top honors and pair Colorado culture into treatments. Schedule a massage and let muscles relax, or try local natural products that promote health and wellness. Customize the day with everything needed to recharge the mind, body and spirit.

Escape to Colorado and browse Vail vacation rentals. Then read about the top Vail signature events for local culture.