While the skiing in the Vail Valley is world class, it is just as much exhausting as it is fun. Sometimes you just need a day off. Luckily both Vail and Beaver Creek offer plenty to do aside from skiing.
Spas
In Vail be sure to check out the Rock Resorts Spa at the Arrabelle, rated among the top spas in the world, or Sonnenalp Spa, the oldest and most established spa in Vail. For something a bit less fancy, head to Dreaming Tree, Vail’s only locally owned and independent spa. Beaver Creek has an equally impressive array of spas, some of the best being Allegria Spa, with one of the largest varieties of treatments in the valley, and SpaStruck, known for its unique wet table treatments.
Shopping
Vail Valley is just as much a shopping destination as it is a skiing one. After all, the Kardashians have been here several times. Vail has no lack of top-of-the-line shopping, such as Gorsuch, a three-story, skiing-themed boutique, or Axel’s, a luxury mix of European and Western clothing. Don’t miss Pepi’s Sports, founded by Vail legend and former Austrian ski team member Pepi Gramshammer or Wild Bill’s Emporium, a Western-themed gift shop that is great for souvenirs. Although smaller, Beaver Creek offers a nice variety of sporting goods and boutiques. Some local favorites are Beaver Creek Sports, a well-known skiing and outerwear supplier, and Avalon Clothing, known for its wide selection of dress clothes and accessories. If you’re looking for more, head down the mountain to Avon, home to several outlets.
For the More Adventurous
If you’re feeling more active on your down day, hit the outdoor skating rink; both resorts have one. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the resorts and their surrounding areas if you’re looking for a taste of nature. Tours are available at both Vail and Beaver Creek’s Nordic centers. Vail is particularly known for Adventure Ridge, a winter adventure park offering tubing, mountain tours, and its famed Forest Flyer Alpine Coaster.
