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Peak Experiences: Try Summer in Vail

Vail, Colorado can be as captivating and magical in the summer months as it is picturesque in winter

Travelers itching to get out can get out – way out to the top of the Rockies in a summer vacation that includes a trip to Vail, Colorado. Signature events are returning to the iconic mountain destination, as new outdoor dining options open, a new hip hotel debuts and big adventures are just around the bend. Visitors can explore wide open spaces, paddle pristine rivers, climb mountains and take the trails on two wheels.

In-person events return to Vail, Colorado this summer including outdoor concerts at the Ford Amphitheater.

Summer 2021 Events in VailLive, larger format events return to Vail in a socially distanced manner this summer. Each event has modified to meet current state mandates for mask wearing, social distancing, etc. Guests interested in attending events in Vail this summer are recommended to check each website for the latest updates and changes as rules for gatherings shift throughout the summer. For a complete list of summer events, visit DiscoverVail.com/events.

In addition to signature events such as GoPro Mountain Games, Bravo! Vail music festival and Vail Dance Festival returning in person this summer, Vail will offer live, pop-up music entertainment in the streets throughout the summer in Vail Village and Lionshead. New events also include the Vail Wine Classic Aug. 12-15 where master winemakers and enthusiasts gather to sample some of the best wines from around the world and the North American Van Show, which is a mobile adventure showcase with vans, 4x4s, recreation vehicles, trailer, toy haulers, overlanders and more Sept. 24-26.

New Flights to Paradise: Vail/Eagle County AirportGetting to Vail is easy as American Airlines and Delta Air Lines launch expanded service and new flights to Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE). For the first time in the airport’s history, Delta will offer daily, non-stop service from Atlanta, Georgia in the summer. The flight will operate on a 757 aircraft starting June 5. In addition, American will launch non-stop service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport on an A319 aircraft beginning June 3. American also offers year-round non-stop service to EGE from Dallas/Fort Worth and United Airlines will continue daily, year-round service from Denver International Airport.

 

New in Hospitality

This summer will bring the opening of Gravity Haus’ in Vail with 22 newly renovated, luxe guest rooms. The boutique hotel features the 18,000 square foot Dryland Fitness, the Spa at Dryland Fitness and Unravel Coffee, which serves house-roasted coffee from zero-emissions Bellweather Roaster. Guests can also sample Slope Room at Gravity Haus, one of the hottest new restaurants to debut in Vail. The cozy, sexy Old West-themed restaurant features locally-sourced meat and produce from Rocky Mountain farmers and ranchers on its new American and steakhouse menu.

Sonnenalp Hotel is opening Treff Café, a European street bar with authentic German fare, coffee, fresh pastries, wine, creative cocktails and more. Vail’s iconic high-end retailer, also opened Gorsuch Ski Café at the top of Bridge Street for Illy brewed coffee, grab and go breakfast items, sandwiches and an aprés, happy hour menu. The Café also serves specialty coffee drinks, wine, beer and craft-house cocktails and classic European Schnapps.

For a new late night option, Vail brings the Bad Kitty Lounge. The speak-easy inspired basement lounge features mixologists who specialize in unique twists to classic cocktails.

Lodging rates begin at $159 this summer based on dates and availability.