30 October 2026 |
WHERE TO STAY, EXPLORE, AND EAT.
Feel that slight chill in the air? If you’re a fan of snowsports, that’s a clear sign that the best season of all is coming — ski season. Should you be planning your winter getaways in search of powder days and an après scene, consider Vail. Home to over 5,000 acres of skiing, the beloved destination is a convenient jaunt courtesy of its local airport or an under three hour drive from Denver. With plenty of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities alongside nightlife, there’s plenty to do, even if the idea of sliding down a mountain gives you anxiety. Here’s where you should stay, explore, and eat.
STAY
If you’re looking for a stylish yet relaxing stay, look no further than the Hythe. Located in Lionshead Village, the Eagle Bahn Gondola is a short walk away, ensuring that you’ll be among the first to hit the trails on a powder day. As a member of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, the hotel was renovated in 2021 and boasts 344 guest rooms, suites, and residences. Featuring interiors by Wilson Ishihara Design, you’ll find an expansive space inspired by the origins of Vail as well as the surrounding area. Custom furniture, pieces by local artists like Topher Straus, and locally made marble are among the thoughtful details that evoke a classic European alpine chalet by way of Colorado.
Think of the Hythe as a quiet haven meant for peaceful early mornings and unwinding after a long day. A heated outdoor pool and hot tub are both ideal for soothing sore muscles, though if you prefer a massage, the hotel also has a spa. Called Well & Being, besides offering great massages guests can also take advantage of a Himalayan salt lounge and an oxygen bar which can help with adjusting to the altitude. And speaking of tired legs, to make things easier you’ll also find a rental shop on the ground floor to ensure you have everything you need for a day on the mountain.
DINING AND DRINKING
Name a better après snack than a freshly made pretzel dipped in cheese served alongside raclette with all the fixings topped off with a glass of red wine. It’s among the offerings at Revel Lounge, located inside the Hythe, making for the ideal start to a meal that’s full of cozy offerings that reflect its farm-to-table appeal. From perfectly grilled steaks to lighter fare like salads and steaks, it’s easy to stay close to home after a long, fun day and feel completely satisfied. Also worth nothing is Margie’s Haas, the breakfast-only restaurant that has a menu full of hearty dishes ideal for starting your day. The ideal morning order? The brisket hash and the banana foster overnight oats that hit both sweet and savory notes.
Should you find yourself in Vail Village, Root & Flower is a favorite for drinks and snacks. Choose from over 20 wines or opt for the cocktails, all of which have botanical ingredients ranging from a mezcal creation that includes bell pepper to a spin on the classic G&T that uses house made citrus tonic with your choice of vodka, gin, or tequila. Tack on the smoked trout kimchi dip or truffle popcorn and you have yourself a perfect pre-dinner aperitivo.
Conceived as a gastropub, reservations are suggested at Mountain Standard because there will definitely be a wait. The menu is hearty so come hungry and order strategically. The ideal combo? Start with an order of oysters (the mezcal spiked shooter is amazing) and if the bone marrow is available, get that too. And for those who like a little adventure, add on a shot of bourbon that’s meant to be poured down the length of the bone and into the mouth. From there, entrees are all hits and finish off with the Snickers ice cream bar as a sweet treat.
All that red meat adding up and seeking something lighter? Head to Matsuhisa. The famed Japanese restaurant, founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, has a Vail Village outpost and can be a welcome reprieve on the palate. Classics like the signature miso black cod, crispy rice spicy tuna, and any nigiri your heart desires are all available.
TO DO
Enjoy a Ski Day
Vail is massive, there’s no other way to describe it. With over 5,000 acres there’s plenty of terrain for all levels but the most famous are its seven Back Bowls. Depending on timing, the resort offers sunrise DJ sets at the entrance and it’s truly a special experience to dance to music among the snow and trees before heading down the trails. Even if you don’t catch a set, riding or skiing this section is a dream, full of wide expanses. Prefer tree runs with secret powder stashes? Make your way to Blue Sky Basin and you’ll be rewarded.
Play in the Snow, Without Hitting the Slopes
Not into skiing or snowboarding but want to take advantage of all the fluffy snow? Try a snowmobiling tour or a guided snowshoe tour. If you’ve ever had fantasies of yelling “mush!” or simply like being surrounded by cute puppies, dog sledding excursions are also available.
Browse the Shops
For those seeking retail therapy or just feel like having a browse, Vail Village has plenty of boutiques worth poking into. Moncler and Loro Piana stand out with their luxe ski and après offerings, making it easy to pick up some new gear or a cozy cashmere sweater. Kemo Sabe, the infamous hat shop, has a location here while Elleston carries the likes of Stella McCartney, Marni, Proenza Schouler, and more.
