Vail is a world-class resort known for its incredible skiing, vibrant atmosphere, and alpine architecture inspired by classic Swiss ski villages. While a trip here can certainly seem pricey, it is possible to visit Vail on a budget. Here are a few tips on how to save money on a trip to one of Colorado’s finest destinations.
Where to Stay
Finding a place to stay in Vail doesn’t have to break the bank. Beyond hotels, there are affordable condo rentals available in Vail that can help keep your trip on budget. These types of rentals often come in a variety of sizes from studios to four bedrooms to fit your needs. Below are a few great places to stay:
Vantage Point in Lionshead has everything you’ll need at one of the most affordable rates around. It’s a great option for families or groups on a tight budget but still offers amenities such as a full kitchen, hot tubs, and a quick walk to the lifts.
The Wren is another fantastic option for those trying to save on lodging. Its central location makes it the perfect choice for those more focused on spending their day on the slopes than taking advantage of lodging amenities.
Where to Eat
Vail is home to many incredible fine-dining restaurants, but there are also more modest options. Here are some ways to avoid the resort pricing while eating in Vail.
Great Inexpensive Restaurants
A hidden local favorite is La Cantina, tucked away inside the Vail Transportation Center. Cantina serves “San Diego Mexican food” and has remained one of the most reasonably priced places to eat anywhere in Vail. You can easily get a full meal here for around $15 before tip.
Other great spots are Pazzo’s Pizzeria, where you can get yummy Italian fare for reasonable prices; or Loaded Joe’s, a coffeehouse in the neighboring town of Avon serving espresso drinks and a full menu.
Bring Snacks on the Hill
Buying lunch from the food courts or restaurants on the mountain can easily become a chunk of your budget for the day, especially if you’re feeding a group. Opt to bring your snacks and pack a lunch to save some money. Many people will bring the food they’ll need for their day of skiing in a backpack.
Cook Your Meals
If you've chosen lodging with a full kitchen, such as the condos in Antlers at Vail, cooking some of your meals at home can save you a lot of money on your food budget. Safeway and Vons in Vail will have everything you need to cook your meals. For cheaper groceries, you can go to Walmart in Eagle-Vail.
Travel Tip: Schedule a grocery delivery to arrive on your first day. This can be coordinated with the help of the front desk staff or your travel consultant.
Inexpensive (And Even Free) Activities
One of the things that makes Vail such a great place to visit is the amount of activities outside of just skiing! While the mountain shouldn’t be missed, there are many things to do around the area that don’t require paying for a lift ticket. Some events and activities around Vail are free, and there’s often something going on in the village.
Free Concerts and Events
Vail’s events throughout the year bring acts like Modest Mouse, Greensky Bluegrass, Damian Marley and more to play in the beautiful setting of Vail Village, or the Ford Amphitheater toward the edge of town. There are usually several events per season with live music, such as Vail Snow Days in December, the GoPro games in June, and more. There are always new events happening in Vail, and most of them are free.
Ice Skating
There are a couple of ice skating rinks in Vail where you can create fun winter memories! Rent ice skates either in Lionshead Village or Solaris in Vail Village for an inexpensive family-friendly activity.
Snowshoeing
The Walking Mountain Science Center at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead offers free snowshoe tours throughout the winter season. Snowshoes are provided as a naturalist guide takes you around the mountain on an hour-and-a-half-long stroll. All you need to do is come dressed for the elements.
Scenic Gondola Rides
Vail offers scenic ride tickets for both of its gondolas. Scenic rides are a fraction of the price of a regular lift ticket and allow those who may not be skiing to enjoy the beautiful ride up to the top of the mountain. Check with the lift ticket office, as scenic rides on the Eagle Bahn gondola are usually free after the rest of the lifts close around 4 PM.
Exploring Vail’s Villages
One of the most enjoyable activities in Vail is simply walking through its villages. Vail’s iconic architecture itself is a sight to see, and incredible mountain views are everywhere you look. Wandering through town and exploring is a memorable and beautiful experience in any weather and every season.
Vail on a Budget is Possible!
No matter if you’re trying to plan your first family vacation to this beautiful Rocky Mountain spot, or if you’re a seasoned skier trying to squeeze as many days into your season as you can, there are plenty of ways to keep the costs down on your trip to Vail. Exploring what the resort has to offer doesn’t have to break the bank if you follow these tips. Enjoy your trip to Vail!