Top 6 Romantic Things To Do in Vail
Vail, a charming mountain town in the Colorado Rockies, is like stepping into a snowy fairytale. With its epic skiing and cozy winter vibes, it’ll have you swooning in no time. But with so many fun things to do (even outside of winter sports), how do you choose the activities that really get the sparks flying?
Having personally navigated Vail’s romantic landscape (it’s a tough job, but someone’s gotta do it), we’ve curated the crème de la crème of romantic things to do in Vail.
From outdoor enthusiasts and gourmet food lovers to spa aficionados and those simply seeking luxurious relaxation, the Vail Valley caters to every kind of couple. And since it’s a ski town, you know we’re focusing on the winter season. Although the summertime offers plenty of romantic activities as well, from hiking and biking to rafting and hot air balloon rides.
Craving even MORE winter wonderland romance? Check out our 10 Romantic Winter Getaways in the USA!
1. Snowshoe Through Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, one of the highest botanical gardens in the world, transforms into a magical, snow-draped wonderland in the wintertime. Rent snowshoes at the Education Center for a quiet, scenic hike through the gardens and along Gore Creek. The stillness here is perfect for a moment of reflection together as you explore the serene, frosty trails.
After your walk, warm up inside the Alpine House to discover rare plants from across the globe. It’s a fascinating indoor complement to your outdoor activities. Best of all, admission is free, with donations warmly welcomed to support their beautiful work. Keep an eye out for active winter wildlife as you wander!
2. Walk Around Vail Village
No romantic trip is complete here without exploring the charming Bavarian-style Vail Village, with its cobblestone streets, covered bridges, and unique alpine architecture. Start your day with the best coffee in town at Two Arrows, followed by window-shopping in the unique boutiques and art galleries.
Don’t miss an idyllic gondola ride up the mountain for breathtaking views you can’t get anywhere else! As the evening sets in, the village takes on a new energy. Enjoy a private wine tasting at Root & Flower, or for a special night out, check the schedule at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater for a concert under the stars.
Hotel recommendation
Christiania Lodge
For an affordable and charming stay, check out the Christiania Lodge. It’s one of the only true ski-in, ski-out resorts, so you’re literally just steps from the gondola. Unlike larger ski resorts, it has a warm, homey vibe with a nice bar that often features live music. You get amazing value right in the village, leaving you with more money for après-ski fun!
Want to see all our top picks? View our 5 Most Romantic Hotels in Vail.
3. Carve the Slopes Together
If you ski or snowboard, you already know this is at the top of the list for things to do in Vail! With over 5,200 acres of legendary terrain, the Vail Ski Resort offers an epic day on the mountain for most skill levels (if you’re a beginner, take lessons!). From the wide-open Back Bowls to the groomed trails on the front side, you can find your perfect run and enjoy the gorgeous Colorado backdrop together.
Take a midday break and book a table at The 10th. This on-mountain restaurant offers panoramic views of the Gore Range, letting you enjoy an elevated lunch while warming up. Reservations are required, but it’s worth the splurge for all that comes with it — complete with an awesome cloakroom to ditch your boots.
For more romantic slopes beyond Vail, check out our list of the 5 Most Romantic Ski Resorts in the USA.
4. Recharge at Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Right along the Colorado River, Iron Mountain Hot Springs is the ultimate relaxing date. This riverside retreat features over a dozen natural mineral pools, each with a different temperature. You can float between them, find your favorite, and soak in the stunning landscape — it’s the perfect place to unwind together after a day on the slopes.
Be sure to head to the adults-only section, which has pools inspired by famous global hot springs (and no kids – woohoo!). Want an adrenaline rush? Try the quick cold plunge pool before warming up again. To cap off a fantastic experience, grab a drink from the full bar and sip it poolside. It doesn’t get much better than this!
5. Snuggle Up on a Dog Sled Ride
For an unforgettable experience, add dog sledding to your list of romantic things to do in Vail. Glide through serene, snow-covered forests and meadows behind a team of adorable huskies. The adventure offers spectacular views of the pristine mountain landscape, making it well worth every penny.
With a company like Mountain Mushers, it’s a truly magical ride, and the friendly mushers ensure you have plenty of time to meet the pups and capture the moment with photos. After your ride, cap off the perfect winter day with the famous “haut chocolate” at The Remedy Bar in the Four Seasons. Just try to avoid going during the après-ski rush.
What to Pack for a Romantic Trip to Vail
When packing for Vail, layering is key to staying warm without looking like the Michelin Man. The higher elevations mean the weather can change quickly. Here’s a list of essentials:
6. Cozy Up for Dinner in a Private Gondola
What, you’ve never had dinner in a gondola? Book a private fondue dinner with Alpenrose in your own cozy cabin, parked right in the center of Vail Village (no dizzying heights or movement involved – just deliciousness!). For two luxurious hours, you’ll enjoy a delicious feast in your intimate gondola, complete with a heater, mood lighting, and a Bluetooth speaker for your own soundtrack.
The experience is so interactive and fun! After a starter salad, you get to cook your main course right at the table, either grilling meats or making raclette cheese to dip with fresh bread. It’s a warm, memorable, and completely unique date night that combines great food with the coolest ambiance. Don’t skip it!
7. Go Ice Skating at Beaver Creek Village
Take a short drive over to Beaver Creek, a beautiful and picturesque village less than 20 minutes from Vail. At its heart is a charming outdoor rink, perfect for a romantic spin around the ice skating rink or for cuddling up together on one of the plush couches that line the perimeter.
The village creates a wonderfully intimate atmosphere with fire pits to warm up by. On certain days, you can even enjoy s’mores and hot chocolate right by the rink. It’s a quieter, more relaxed scene than Vail Village, making it ideal for a peaceful, romantic evening together.
Fall in Love with Vail
There’s a special kind of magic in Vail’s winter air — the kind that turns a simple romantic getaway into a chapter of your own love story. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with each other.
Have you and your partner experienced the magic of Vail? We’d love to hear about your favorite memory in the comments below.
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Romantic Things To Do in Vail – FAQ
Is Vail a walkable town?
Yes, Vail is highly walkable, with pedestrian-friendly villages, car-free zones, and over 15 miles of paved, multi-use trails connecting the town to the surrounding valley. A free shuttle system and a scenic path along Gore Creek also make it easy to explore without a car.
Is Vail expensive?
Oh yeah, Vail is expensive, especially during its peak season from December to March. As a luxurious resort town, it’s known as one of the more expensive ski spots in the U.S., due to high costs for things like lodging and real estate. It definitely caters to a high-end crowd.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might want to check out Ski Cooper. It’s one of Colorado’s most affordable ski areas and is super close to the cool, historic town of Leadville.
How difficult is Vail skiing?
Vail is generally great for intermediate skill levels, with tons of runs for those who enjoy shorter slopes. If you’re a beginner, it has some green runs and lessons, but first-timers might find other resorts easier for learning the ropes.
