How to Spend 7 Days in Vail: A Day-by-Day Travel Guide

Adventure, Relaxation & Rocky Mountain Magic All Week Long

Whether you’re visiting Vail for the first time or returning for another unforgettable alpine adventure, this 7-day itinerary is packed with the best experiences in and around Vail, Colorado. From thrilling Jeep tours and horseback riding to scenic gondola rides and day trips to natural hot springs, here’s how to make the most of a full week in the Rockies.

🗓️ Day 1: Arrival + Explore Vail Village & Betty Ford Gardens

🏨 Morning – Arrive & Check In

Settle into one of Vail’s best accommodations:

• The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Vail www.ritzcarlton.com/vail

• Sonnenalp Hotel www.sonnenalp.com

• Tivoli Lodge www.tivolilodge.com
  

🌸 Afternoon – Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Visit the highest botanical garden in North America, located just a short walk from Vail Village. Stroll through wildflowers, alpine plants, waterfalls, and peaceful walking paths.

• Website: www.bettyfordalpinegardens.org
  

🥂 Evening – Dinner + Drinks

Grab dinner at Mountain Standard or Almresi, and wind down with a cocktail at Remedy Bar at the Four Seasons.

🗓️ Day 2: Vail 4x4 Jeep Tour – Top of the Rockies

🚙 Afternoon – Top of the Rockies Jeep Tour

Take the signature Jeep tour with Vail 4x4 Tours and explore alpine terrain you can't reach without 4WD.

• Duration: 4 hours (Starts at 2:00 PM)

• Highlights: Panoramic views of the Continental Divide, Mount of the Holy Cross, and wildflower-covered meadows

• Book here: vail4x4tours.com
  

🍽️ Evening – Casual Dinner

After the tour, grab a relaxing dinner at Bully Ranch or enjoy some pizza and local beer at Pazzo’s Pizzeria.

🗓️ Day 3: Gondola Ride + Horseback Riding

🚠 Morning – Gondola Ride up Vail Mountain

Ride Gondola One or the Eagle Bahn Gondola for stunning views of the Gore Range. Enjoy mountaintop hiking or simply take in the fresh air.

• Tickets: www.vail.com
  

🐎 Afternoon – Horseback Riding

Go horseback riding through scenic mountain trails with one of Vail’s local outfitters:

• Vail Stables www.vailstables.com

• Beaver Creek Stables www.beavercreekstables.com
  

🧀 Evening – Wine & Charcuterie

Dine at Sweet Basil or enjoy small plates and wine at Leonora inside The Sebastian.

🗓️ Day 4: Day Trip to Glenwood Springs – Hot Springs + Adventure Park

🚗 Morning – Drive to Glenwood Springs (~1.5 hours)

Scenic drive through Glenwood Canyon to explore the historic town and its natural wonders.

💦 Soak – Glenwood Hot Springs

Soak in the world's largest mineral hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.

• Website: www.hotspringspool.com
  

🎢 Adventure – Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Ride the mountain coaster, explore caverns, and take in cliffside views.

• Website: www.glenwoodcaverns.com
  

🍔 Dinner in Glenwood Springs

Grab dinner at Slope & Hatch or The Pullman, then head back to Vail.

🗓️ Day 5: Rafting + Minturn Market

🛶 Morning – Whitewater Rafting

Choose a half-day trip on the Eagle River or Colorado River with local outfitters like:

• Sage Outdoor Adventures www.sageoutdooradventures.com
  

🛍️ Afternoon – Explore Minturn Market (Saturdays)

Stroll the quaint Minturn Market for local art, food vendors, crafts, and live music.

• Website: www.minturn.org/minturn-market
  

🍻 Dinner at Minturn Saloon

Famous for its margaritas and Colorado-style comfort food.

• Website: www.minturnsaloon.com
  

🗓️ Day 6: Piney Lake Jeep Tour + Lakeside Relaxation

🚙 Morning – Piney Lake Jeep Tour with Vail 4x4

Head out on a scenic Jeep tour to Piney River Ranch, tucked away deep in the mountains. Vail 4x4’s Piney Lake Tour gives you off-road access with incredible views.

• Book here: www.vail4x4tours.com

• Tip: Bring your camera for moose sightings and wildflower fields!
  

🛶 Afternoon – Kayak or Relax by the Lake

At Piney River Ranch, rent a canoe or kayak, or enjoy a cold drink on the deck.

• Website: www.pineyriverranch.com
  

🍖 Dinner at Piney River Ranch Lodge (seasonal) or Back in Vail

🗓️ Day 7: Vail Farmers Market + Beaver Creek Day Trip

🍓 Morning – Vail Farmers’ Market (Sundays)

Browse dozens of stalls offering fresh produce, handmade goods, live music, and gourmet bites along Meadow Drive.

• Website: www.vailfarmersmarket.com
  

⛰️ Afternoon – Beaver Creek Village

Drive (or take a short shuttle) to nearby Beaver Creek for a half-day adventure. Explore the charming village, hike to Beaver Lake, or try the alpine slide.

• Website: www.beavercreek.com
  

🍷 Farewell Dinner at Vin48 (Avon) or Grouse Mountain Grill

• Vin48: www.vin48.com

• Grouse Mountain Grill: www.grousemountaingrill.com
  

🎒 Final Thoughts

A full week in Vail gives you the perfect balance of adventure, exploration, and relaxation. Whether you’re riding mountain trails with Vail 4x4 Tours, soaking in hot springs, or wandering the farmers' market, this itinerary will help you experience the very best of the Colorado Rockies.

🚙 Book Your Jeep Tours:

• Top of the Rockies Tour

• Piney Lake Off-Road Tour👉 www.vail4x4tours.com