3-Day Winter Itinerary for Vail: Ski, Après, and Explore
With legendary slopes, upscale dining, and cozy mountain charm, Vail, Colorado is the ultimate winter destination. But with so much to do, planning the perfect trip can feel overwhelming. Whether you're visiting for a long weekend or a short mountain escape, this 3-day winter itinerary for Vail combines the best skiing, après-ski, and off-mountain adventures to help you make the most of your stay.
Day 1: Arrive and Acclimate
Morning: Arrival & Check-In
Settle into your luxury Vail vacation rental with LocalVR and take a few moments to adjust to the altitude. Hydrate, unpack, and get familiar with the village.
Midday: Explore Vail Village
Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Vail Village. Stop into boutiques, gear shops, and art galleries. Grab a light lunch at Up the Creek or Mountain Standard for local flavor.
Afternoon: Gear Up & Ski Warm-Up
Pick up rentals (if needed) and hit the slopes for a few warm-up runs. Beginner? Stick to Gopher Hill or Sourdough Express. More experienced? Cruise some Front Side blues like Lodgepole or Simba.
Evening: Casual Après & Dinner
Après: Head to Los Amigos for slopeside views and margaritas.
Dinner: Try Vendetta’s for hearty Italian classics or La Bottega for alpine cuisine.
Day 2: Full Ski Day & Iconic Après-Ski
Morning: Big Mountain Skiing
Fuel up with breakfast at The Little Diner before catching the Eagle Bahn Gondola. Spend your morning exploring Vail’s legendary Back Bowls—try Sun Down Bowl or China Bowl for open powder turns.
Midday: On-Mountain Lunch
Dine mid-mountain at The 10th (reservation recommended) for upscale alpine cuisine with panoramic views.
Afternoon: Blue Sky Basin Adventure
Make your way to Blue Sky Basin—a favorite for intermediate and advanced skiers. Runs like Champagne Glade and Lover’s Leap offer natural beauty and thrilling descents.
Evening: Classic Après & Fine Dining
Après: Celebrate your day at The Red Lion with live music and mulled wine.
Dinner: Book a table at Sweet Basil, one of Vail’s most renowned fine dining spots.
Day 3: Relax & Explore Beyond the Slopes
Morning: Spa or Snowshoe
Give your legs a break with a morning at The Spa at Vail Athletic Club or opt for a snowshoeing tour through Booth Falls Trail or Vail Nordic Center.
Midday: Lunch & Local Culture
Warm up with a fireside lunch at Flame in the Four Seasons, followed by a visit to the Colorado Snowsports Museum—a hidden gem in Vail Village.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Ski or Ice Skating
If you still have energy, sneak in a few final runs or visit the Vail Square Ice Rink in Lionshead for a fun farewell activity.
Evening: Cozy Final Night
Wrap up your trip with a relaxing evening in your vacation rental—order takeout, soak in a hot tub, and toast to a trip well spent.
Vail offers more than just epic skiing—it’s a complete winter experience filled with mountain adventure, culinary delights, and alpine charm. With this curated 3-day itinerary, you’ll ski world-class runs, enjoy lively après-ski, and still have time to explore everything this iconic destination has to offer. Book your stay with LocalVR for premium vacation rentals that put you in the heart of it all.
