Vail, Colorado, transforms into a magical winter wonderland each year, offering countless opportunities for family-friendly fun. If you’re planning a trip to Vail this winter, here’s a list of must-try activities to make lasting memories with your kids. Take your choice of any or all of these fun winter activities for kids in Vail!
1. Go Ice Skating at Vail Square or Solaris Plaza
Vail offers two iconic outdoor ice skating rinks: one at Vail Square in Lionshead Village and another at Solaris Plaza in Vail Village. Skating under twinkling lights while surrounded by stunning mountain views is an enchanting experience. Both rinks provide skate rentals, making it easy for everyone to join in on the fun, from beginners to seasoned skaters.
2. Go Snow Tubing with Sage Outdoor Adventures
Snow tubing is an exhilarating way to enjoy the snow without needing special skills. Sage Outdoor Adventures offers dedicated tubing hills that are fun and safe for kids. With long, thrilling runs and the convenience of a lift to bring you back up the hill, this activity guarantees hours of laughter and excitement.
3. Challenge Your Family at Escape Room Vail
For an indoor adventure, head to Escape Room Vail. Designed to entertain and challenge participants of all ages, these themed rooms require teamwork to solve puzzles and complete the mission before time runs out. It’s an excellent activity for bonding and testing your family’s problem-solving skills.
4. Guided Hike or Snowshoe with Walking Mountains
Introduce your kids to the beauty of Vail’s winter landscape with a guided hike or snowshoe tour from Walking Mountains Science Center. Expert guides provide engaging, educational tours suitable for families. It’s a great way to learn about the local ecosystem while soaking in the serene beauty of the Rockies.
5. Relax in a Hot Tub or Heated Pool
End your day of adventures with a soak in a hot tub or a dip in a heated pool. Many accommodations in Vail feature these amenities, offering the perfect way to unwind. Kids will enjoy splashing around while parents relax and soak their muscles after a fun-filled day.
6. Take a Snowmobiling Adventure
Arrange a guided tour through Sage Outdoor Adventures or another local outfitter to take you through snow-covered forests, open meadows, and scenic mountain terrain, offering incredible views and a fun, family-friendly adventure that’s perfect for adding a little adrenaline to your Vail getaway.
7. Go Sledding
Sledding is a fun and free (or inexpensive) winter adventure for families. All you need is a little snow, a hill and a sled. Some hotels (including Antlers at Vail) offer complimentary loaner sleds. The best Vail sledding hills will be found slightly outside of Vail proper. A few different sized hills can be found at Bighorn Park in East Vail.
Vail’s winter activities offer something for every family member, from the adventurous to the laid-back. Whether you’re skating under the stars, marveling at ice castles, or sharing laughs in bumper cars, your Vail winter getaway will be unforgettable. So bundle up, hit the slopes (or the ice), and make the most of your family time in this snowy paradise!
