Live Like a Local – Top Visitor Tips

We asked locals to share their top visitor tips. Read on for great advice about what to see and do along with what to expect during your visit.

Tanya from Gallegos Corporation says, “The locals are friendly. Don’t look so shocked when a passerby makes eye contact and greets you with a ‘hello’. The interaction is sincere and reciprocal responses are appreciated.” Our tip: be ready with a smile and some pleasant conversation anytime you’re out and around town.

Sarah from The Hythe suggests, “For a pretty aggressive workout, hike to the top of Vail Mountain via the Berry Picker trail from Lionshead and then take the Eagle Bahn Gondola back down – you get a beautiful hike up, take in the views at the top, and then enjoy a nice ride back down.” Our tip: if you aren’t adjusted to the altitude, we suggest you do it in reverse, ride up and hike down. It’s a pretty steep climb and not for the faint of heart – it’s a great workout for seasoned hikers.

Magda from Antlers at Vail says, “Go down valley (that means west). Minturn, Avon, Edwards, Eagle, Gypsum – all our towns have something unique and can offer different entertainment to guests. Whether it’s biking, hiking, fishing, there’s a lot happening west of Vail.”

Jonathan from Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail says, “Plan ahead and book a few things in advance. Having several reservations for dinners prior to arriving and a few activities already planned, usually ensures you have more fun.” Our tip: buy tickets online, have equipment reserved, book that rafting trip or sleigh ride (depending on the season), and hold tables at your favorite restaurants ahead of time. It may save some time and frustration in the end.

Ineke from Town of Avon shared: “In the summer, I recommend spending a day at Nottingham Lake in Avon. The Lake has fishing, paddle-boating, and SUP (Stand-Up-Paddleboard) rentals, plus a fantastic children’s playground, a beach and swim area, picnic tables and barbecue grills.”

Hanna from East West Hospitality’s top tip: “Come visit in late fall. It’s a time that few people really think about visiting us. There’s something magical about snow on golden aspens followed by 70 degree weather. It’s unpredictable, but it’s so special.” Our tip: layer up on clothing; the weather can change on you pretty quickly.

Matthew from Highline Vail says, “For ski visitors, try to ship your equipment (boots, skis and snowboards) to your hotel prior to your trip so you travel with less luggage, the airlines can’t lose or delay your equipment, and it’s one less thing to worry about.” Our tip: if you’re in ski-in / ski-out lodging, consider the many public transportation options to bring you from the airport. If you’ve shipped your equipment, getting on an airport shuttle is that much easier.

 

This blog was made possible through a grant from the Colorado Tourism Office.