12 Exciting Things To Do In Vail With Kids

Are you looking for a family-friendly destination that offers thrilling adventures and unforgettable experiences? Look no further than Vail, Colorado! Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this stunning resort town boasts a plethora of exciting activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and zip-lining, here are 12 of the most exciting things to do in Vail with your little ones. Get ready for an adventure-filled vacation like no other!

Skiing at Vail Ski Resort

Vail is a premier ski destination located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. For families looking for an unforgettable winter vacation, Vail Ski Resort is the go-to spot for skiing, snowboarding, and winter fun that caters to all ages and abilities.

When it comes to skiing with kids, Vail has you covered. The resort offers a variety of beginner-friendly terrain including magic carpets, gentle slopes, and specialized ski school programs that cater specifically to kids. If you're traveling with young children, consider enrolling them in the ski school to give them a chance to learn and develop their skills in a safe and nurturing environment.

For older kids and more experienced skiers, Vail boasts a vast variety of terrain including bowls, glades, chutes, and bumps. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, there's something for every level of skier. The resort also offers guided backcountry skiing tours, which are perfect for adventurous families looking to explore the untouched powder of the Rocky Mountains.

In addition to skiing, Vail provides an array of kid-focused activities including tubing, ice skating, sleigh rides, and even zip-lining through the treetops. With amenities like childcare, gaming arcades, and a movie theater, Vail ensures that every member of your family has plenty to do when they're not on the slopes.

When planning your family vacation to Vail, it's a good idea to book your lodging in advance to secure your preferred accommodations. The resort offers lodging options for every budget and preference, ranging from cozy condos to luxurious hotels with ski-in/ski-out access.

Overall, skiing at Vail Ski Resort with kids is an unforgettable experience that caters to all ages and abilities. From the beginner-friendly slopes to the epic backcountry tours, Vail is the perfect destination for families that want to have an exceptional winter vacation.

Snowboarding at Vail Ski Resort

Vail Ski Resort is one of the best places to go snowboarding with kids. With its wide range of terrain and activities, Vail offers a unique and exciting vacation experience that your family won't forget.

If you're looking for the perfect place to teach your kids how to snowboard, Vail Ski Resort offers outstanding beginner slopes. These areas are ideal for younger children and beginners, and they provide an enjoyable and safe experience that the whole family can enjoy. In addition, Vail provides snowboarding lessons for kids, including private and group sessions, to help them build skills and confidence on the slopes.

Vail Ski Resort is home to the largest skiable terrain in the United States, which means that there is plenty of space for you and your kids to explore. The resort offers a range of terrains for all skill levels, from gentle cruisers to challenging black diamonds. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, your family will never run out of new runs to explore.

One of the best parts of Vail Ski Resort is the variety of off-mountain activities that it offers. From snowshoeing to ice skating, there are plenty of activities that you and your kids can enjoy. You can also take a family-friendly sleigh ride or check out one of the resort's many events, such as live music or holiday celebrations.

Another great thing about Vail Ski Resort is that it offers a variety of family-friendly dining options, including casual restaurants and fine dining. You can also bring your own snacks and have a picnic in one of the resort's many scenic spots.

In conclusion, Vail Ski Resort is the perfect destination for families looking to go snowboarding. With its wide range of terrains, snowboarding lessons, and off-mountain activities, Vail offers an unforgettable winter vacation experience. So if you're looking to hit the slopes with your kids, be sure to check out Vail Ski Resort.

Ice skating at Vail Square Ice Rink

Going on a family vacation can be an exciting and memorable experience, especially if you choose a destination that has activities for both kids and adults. Vail, Colorado, is a prime example of such a location, with a myriad of family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. One of these activities is ice skating at Vail Square Ice Rink.

Located in the heart of Vail Village, Vail Square Ice Rink is an outdoor skating rink that offers a picturesque view of the mountains. This rink is open from late November to mid-April, and it is one of the favorite activities among families visiting Vail with kids during the winter season.

To make the most of your ice skating experience, you and your family can take advantage of the rink's several amenities, including skate rentals and ice-skating lessons. Beginners or children who are starting to learn the basics of ice skating can benefit from the group lessons offered at the rink, while expert skaters can enjoy the open skating and play ice hockey.

Ice skating is also an excellent way for kids to stay active and develop their physical skills. This activity engages several muscle groups while also improving balance and coordination. It also provides a fun way for kids to enjoy the outdoors and burn off some of their energy while creating new memories with their family.

Aside from the thrill of ice skating itself, the Vail Square Ice Rink is surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. You can grab a bite to eat or warm up with a hot chocolate at one of the many restaurants and shops nearby.

Overall, ice skating at Vail Square Ice Rink is a great way to experience the winter wonderland of Vail with kids. This activity offers a fun and memorable experience that both kids and adults are sure to enjoy. So when planning your next family trip to Vail, be sure to add ice skating at Vail Square Ice Rink to your itinerary. Your kids will thank you for it!

Tubing at Adventure Ridge

Vail with Kids: Tubing at Adventure Ridge

Vail, Colorado is a destination that offers numerous activities for families traveling with kids. Aside from skiing, one adventure that should be on your itinerary is tubing at Adventure Ridge.

Adventure Ridge is a mountain activity center located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Vail Mountain. It offers a wide range of activities such as ice skating, snowmobiling, and skiing. The highlight of Adventure Ridge, however, is their tubing park.

The tubing park at Adventure Ridge is designed for kids and adults alike. It features multiple lanes that offer different levels of difficulty. The park is equipped with a magic carpet, which will take you to the top of the tubing hill, making it easy for kids to participate in the activity.

For younger children or those who may be nervous about tubing, there is a designated slower lane that is perfect for getting used to the activity. For the more adventurous family members, there are faster lanes that provide a thrilling ride down the hill.

Once you reach the bottom of the tubing hill, the staff will tow you back up to the top via the magic carpet so you can enjoy as many runs as possible during your session. A session lasts for an hour, and there are a limited number of guests allowed at each session, so it is recommended to book ahead of time.

Aside from tubing, Adventure Ridge also hosts a variety of other activities such as ski biking, snowshoeing, and dining options. There is also an indoor arcade and bouncy castle, which can provide a fun break from the cold if needed.

In conclusion, if you are planning a family trip to Vail, make sure to include tubing at Adventure Ridge as part of your itinerary. It is an exciting and family-friendly activity that everyone can enjoy, and it is sure to create lasting memories. Don't forget to book ahead of time to secure your spot, and prepare for a fun-filled adventure with your family in Vail.

Sledding at Gore Creek Mini Tubing Hill

Vail with Kids: Sledding at Gore Creek Mini Tubing Hill

Looking for a fun activity to do with your kids while in Vail? Look no further than the Gore Creek Mini Tubing Hill, located just minutes from Vail Village.

This family-friendly tubing hill offers four lanes of tubing for kids of all ages (and adults too!), with a gentle slope that's perfect for younger children. The tubes are easy to handle and can be connected to form trains, making for even more fun.

While tubing is the main attraction, kids can also enjoy a playground area and hot chocolate on cold days. And for parents, there's a cozy warming hut with comfortable seating and hot beverages available for purchase.

But perhaps the best part about the Gore Creek Mini Tubing Hill is that it's affordable. Rates start at just $25 per hour for a family of four, with discounted rates for additional hours or larger groups.

So if you're looking for a fun and affordable activity to do with your kids on your next trip to Vail, make sure to check out the Gore Creek Mini Tubing Hill. It's sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Visiting Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Type	Botanical garden in Vail, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 1,051
Address	522 S Frontage Rd E, Vail, CO 81657
Phone	(970) 476-0103
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–4 PM Friday - 10 AM–4 PM Saturday - 10 AM–4 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - 10 AM–4 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–4 PM
Profiles

If you're planning a trip to Vail with kids, one attraction that should be on your must-visit list is the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Located in the heart of Vail, this outdoor wonderland showcases hundreds of alpine plants in their natural habitat, making it a unique and educational experience for the whole family.

Here are some reasons why visiting Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is a must for families visiting Vail:

• Education: A trip to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is an opportunity for your kids to learn about the diverse flora of the Rocky Mountains. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants, including rare and endangered species, and you'll find informative signage throughout the gardens to help educate your kids about what they're seeing.
• Interactive activities: The gardens have several hands-on activities for kids, including a scavenger hunt and a nature-inspired playground. The gardens also offer guided tours led by a knowledgeable and engaging staff, which can provide a more in-depth understanding of the gardens and the Rocky Mountain ecosystem.
• Beautiful scenery: The scenery at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is breathtaking, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Vail Village. Whether you wander through the gardens on your own or take a guided tour, your family will be able to soak up the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
• Accessibility: The gardens are easily accessible for families with strollers or wheelchairs, with wide paths and benches scattered throughout the gardens for resting and enjoying the views.
• Free admission: Best of all, admission to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is free! This makes it an affordable attraction for families looking to take in Vail's natural beauty without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, a visit to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is a must for families visiting Vail. With its educational exhibits, interactive activities, and stunning scenery, it's a great way to immerse your family in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. So, grab your sunscreen and walking shoes and set off on an adventure that your family will never forget!

Hiking at Booth Creek Falls Trail

When it comes to planning a family vacation in Vail, Colorado, there's no shortage of activities that will keep children entertained. Skiing and snowboarding may be top of mind, but when the weather is mild, hiking is a fantastic option - especially along the Booth Creek Falls Trail.

Located just four miles east of Vail Village, Booth Creek Falls is an easy-to-moderate hike that is perfect for families with children. The trailhead begins just off Booth Falls Road and is marked by a small sign. The first section of the hike is relatively steep, but it quickly levels off, passing through groves of aspen and pine trees.

As you make your way along the trail, you'll cross a series of bridges over Booth Creek, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic or a rest in the shade. The final stretch of the trail climbs steeply up to the waterfall, which pours into a deep pool at the base of the rock face.

The hike to Booth Creek Falls covers two and a half miles round trip, with an elevation gain of roughly 1,000 feet. While this may sound like a lot, the well-worn path is easy to follow and the payoff at the end is well worth the effort.

To help make the hike enjoyable for children, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and encourage them to take breaks as needed. Dressing in layers is also a good idea, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.

Overall, hiking to Booth Creek Falls is a great way to spend a day with your family in Vail. The trail offers beautiful scenery, a chance to get some exercise, and an opportunity to connect with nature. So, whether you're staying in Vail for a weeklong vacation or just passing through, be sure to check out Booth Creek Falls Trail for an unforgettable experience with your kids.

Visiting the Colorado Snowsports Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame
Type	Museum in Vail, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 190
Address	231 S Frontage Rd E, Vail, CO 81657
Phone	(970) 476-1876
Hours	Thursday - 11 AM–6 PM Friday - 11 AM–6 PM Saturday - 11 AM–6 PM Sunday - 11 AM–6 PM Monday - 11 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–6 PM
Profiles

If you're planning a family trip to Vail, Colorado, one fun and educational stop to add to your itinerary would be the Colorado Snowsports Museum. Located at the base of Vail Mountain, this museum is the perfect way to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of snow sports in Colorado.

As you enter the museum, you'll be greeted with an interactive timeline that walks you through the development and evolution of snow sports in the region. From the earliest skiing practices of the Native Americans to the evolution of modern ski resorts, this museum has it all.

One highlight of the museum is the "Skiing Through Time" exhibit, which features vintage ski equipment and clothing from the early 1900s all the way up to modern times. Your kids will love seeing the different styles of skis, boots, and clothing, and will be amazed at how much they've changed throughout the years.

Another fun feature of the museum is the "History of Ski Racing" exhibit. Here, your family can see how ski racing has evolved over time, and learn about the various competitions held in Colorado, including the World Championships and the Winter Olympics.

If your kids are looking for a more hands-on experience, the museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits that allow them to try on vintage ski clothes, test their skills on a ski simulator, and learn about the different types of snowflakes.

Overall, the Colorado Snowsports Museum is an excellent destination for families visiting Vail with kids. With its engaging exhibits and interactive displays, it's a fun and educational way to learn about the history and culture of snow sports in Colorado. Plus, it's a great way to warm up and take a break from the cold winter weather!

Riding the Eagle Bahn Gondola to the top of Vail Mountain

Vail is a winter wonderland for families, and there's no better way to kick off your family adventure than by taking a ride on the Eagle Bahn Gondola. This incredible gondola takes you to the top of Vail Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and a variety of exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy.

If you're visiting Vail with kids, taking a ride on the Eagle Bahn Gondola is a must-do activity. The gondola is open year-round and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and landscape. During the winter months, you can ride the gondola up to the slopes for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. In the summer months, the gondola offers access to hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through the forested terrain.

Once you're at the top of Vail Mountain, there's plenty to keep the kids entertained. Adventurous kids will love ziplining over the mountain and trying their hand at the Adventure Course, which features obstacles such as rope bridges, cargo nets, and balancing logs. For a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely walk along one of the many hiking trails, or simply enjoy the mountain views while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa.

In addition to the Eagle Bahn Gondola, there are a variety of other family-friendly activities to enjoy in Vail. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool at the Vail Cascade Resort and Spa or go ice skating on the outdoor rink in the heart of Vail Village. You can also take advantage of the many kid-friendly restaurants and shops in the village, as well as the free concerts and events that take place throughout the year.

Overall, riding the Eagle Bahn Gondola to the top of Vail Mountain is a great way to kick off your family adventure in Vail. With stunning views, exciting activities, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions in the surrounding area, Vail is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun-filled winter getaway.

Playing at the Imagination Station playground

Vail is a picturesque destination to visit with kids, filled with fun-filled activities to do with your little ones. One must-visit place that your kids will love is the Imagination Station playground, located in Lionshead Village in Vail.

The Imagination Station is a spacious, safe, and age-appropriate playground, perfect for children of all ages. The playground features a comprehensive play area with various slides, swings, and climbing structures designed to accommodate different age groups.

If you have toddlers, you don't have to worry about them getting too rough in the Imagination Station, as the area designated for them is equipped with age-appropriate safety measures such as cushioned floors and low-level play equipment. The larger play area for older kids offers endless fun with climbing walls, waterplay features, and fun interactive stations.

One unique feature of the Imagination Station playground is the bouncy, interactive floor that reflects different shapes and patterns. Kids can jump and play on this colorful ground, enjoying the fun visual illusions created by the grooves in the ground.

Adjacent to the playground, there is a covered picnic area where you can sit and enjoy a snack or a meal while keeping an eye on your kids as they play. Bathrooms, water fountains, and vending machines are also available.

The Imagination Station is more than just a playground, and it's also a learning center that offers interactive exhibits and educational play areas. Children can learn about the world, science, history, and technology while playing in the various stations set up for them.

Overall, the Imagination Station playground is an excellent destination to take your kids while in Vail. It’s a place where they can have fun, learn, and interact with other children. The playground is open year-round, and admission is free, making it a budget-friendly activity to enjoy with your family.

Fishing at Gore Creek

Vail is a great place to visit with kids, as there are plenty of outdoor activities to take part in. One of the most popular activities is fishing at Gore Creek, a pristine mountain stream that runs through Vail.

To fish at Gore Creek, you'll need a Colorado fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores. You'll also need to bring your own equipment, including a fishing rod, reel, and bait. If you don't have your own equipment, there are several local shops that rent gear.

Overall, fishing at Gore Creek is a fantastic activity for families visiting Vail with kids. With a little bit of preparation and patience, you're sure to have a great time and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Horse-drawn carriage rides with Bearcat Stables

Characteristic	Description
Name	Bearcat Stables
Type	Horseback riding service in Edwards, Colorado
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 129
Address	2701 Squaw Creek Rd, Edwards, CO 81632
Phone	(970) 376-4647
Hours	Thursday - 8 AM–9 PM Friday - 8 AM–9 PM Saturday - 8 AM–9 PM Sunday - 8 AM–9 PM Monday - 8 AM–9 PM Tuesday - 8 AM–9 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–9 PM
Profiles

When planning a family vacation to Vail, Colorado with children, there are plenty of fun activities to keep everyone entertained. One activity that is sure to delight both children and adults is going on a horse-drawn carriage ride with Bearcat Stables.

Bearcat Stables offers a variety of horse-drawn carriage rides in the Vail area, from scenic journeys through the forest to romantic rides under the stars. But perhaps the most popular option for families is the “Sleigh Ride Dinner,” which includes a 30-minute carriage ride followed by a hearty dinner in a cozy cabin.

The sleigh ride itself is magical, with the sound of hooves crunching in the snow and the jingle of bells adding to the festive atmosphere. The carriage is pulled by a team of gentle draft horses, who are used to handling the snowy terrain and are comfortable around people of all ages.

Before the carriage ride, the staff at Bearcat Stables will provide warm blankets and hot cocoa for everyone aboard. The route takes you through the beautiful forests and fields of Vail, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The guide will share interesting facts about the area, and you can all enjoy the quiet beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

After the ride, you’ll be greeted with the smells of a delicious dinner cooking in the cabin. The menu typically includes hearty fare such as prime rib, chicken, or salmon, along with sides like roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. There are also plenty of kid-friendly options, such as mac and cheese, for picky eaters.

The cabin is decked out in holiday decorations, with a cozy fireplace adding to the warmth and ambiance. Kids can enjoy playing board games or making s’mores by the fire while adults relax with a drink from the bar.

Overall, a horse-drawn carriage ride with Bearcat Stables is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Vail in the winter, while also providing a fun and memorable activity for the whole family. Whether for a special occasion or just a fun night out, it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

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