When the snow begins to blanket the Rocky Mountains, Vail transforms into a playground of adventure. The crisp alpine air and stunning scenery make every outdoor activity feel like a scene straight from a holiday movie.

1. Ski School and Snowboarding Lessons

No trip to Vail is complete without hitting the slopes—and the good news is, kids are more than welcome! Vail and Beaver Creek offer world-class ski and snowboard schools designed especially for children of all ages and experience levels.

Even if your child has never set foot on skis before, the expert instructors know how to make learning fun, safe, and confidence-boosting. Kids as young as three can join beginner lessons, while older or more experienced children can take advanced courses to refine their technique.

Each session focuses on safety, fun, and skill development, ensuring that your little one walks away not only with new abilities but also with an enduring love for winter sports. Parents can rest easy knowing their kids are in excellent hands while they enjoy some time on the mountain themselves.

2. Snow Tubing Adventures

If your family wants a thrilling snow experience without the gear or lessons, snow tubing is an absolute must. Head over to Sage Outdoor Adventures, where the excitement starts the moment you hop into one of their bright yellow rafts.

You’ll be towed up the hill by a snowmobile and then—hold on tight—zoom down two perfectly groomed tubing lanes! It’s pure joy from top to bottom, and parents can relax in the seating area below while watching their kids laugh and cheer their way through the ride.

This activity requires no special skills—just a sense of adventure—making it perfect for families of all ages.

3. Snowshoeing Through Vail’s Winter Trails

If you’re looking to slow things down and take in the natural beauty of the mountains, snowshoeing offers a peaceful yet active family outing. The Vail Nordic Center provides easy-to-follow, kid-friendly trails, making it an excellent option for beginners and young explorers.

Snowshoe rentals are available, and the trails are well-groomed for a comfortable walk through a winter landscape that feels almost magical. It’s a chance to connect with nature, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the serenity of Vail’s snow-covered forest paths together.

4. Ice Skating in Vail Village and Lionshead Village

Few activities capture the spirit of winter quite like ice skating under the stars. In Vail, you’ll find two beautiful outdoor rinks—the Solaris Ice Rink in Vail Village and the Arrabelle Square Ice Rink in Lionshead Village.

At Solaris, families can skate surrounded by twinkling lights, cozy cafes, and breathtaking views of the mountains. Meanwhile, Arrabelle Square offers a storybook setting, with European-style architecture and festive music that brings the holiday spirit to life.

Both rinks provide skate rentals for kids and adults, so the whole family can glide together across the ice before warming up with a cup of hot chocolate.

5. Magical Sleigh Rides

If you’re looking to make your Vail vacation truly magical, a horse-drawn sleigh ride is the perfect way to create lifelong memories. Wrapped in warm blankets, you’ll glide through snow-covered meadows while admiring the mountain views and the soft glow of lanterns lighting the path.

Two beloved local options include:

• Bearcat Stables – Offering both scenic rides and dinner rides, Bearcat Stables provides a cozy, classic Colorado experience. Their evening ride includes a hearty meal in a rustic cabin, complete with a crackling fire and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• 4 Eagle Ranch – Set in the heart of Colorado’s high country, 4 Eagle Ranch offers sleigh rides across wide-open fields with incredible mountain backdrops. After your ride, enjoy a homestyle dinner in their log lodge—a perfect way to end the night.

Whether you’re with little ones or teens, this is one of those Vail family experiences that feels straight out of a Christmas postcard.

Indoor Fun to Beat the Cold

Even in a snowy paradise, sometimes it’s nice to warm up indoors. Luckily, Vail offers plenty of cozy and educational spots where families can relax, explore, and keep the fun going.

6. Shopping and Strolling Around the Villages

Vail isn’t just about the slopes—it’s also home to some of Colorado’s best shopping. Both Vail Village and Lionshead Village feature charming, pedestrian-friendly streets lined with boutique stores, artisan shops, and cozy cafes.

Browse through high-end designer stores, local art galleries, and handcrafted jewelry boutiques. For kids, there are delightful toy shops, candy stores, and souvenir stands that make exploring even more exciting.

Parents can grab a warm drink or pastry while the kids pick out a sweet treat, turning a simple shopping trip into a fun family outing.

7. Colorado Snowsports Museum

For a mix of history and fun, take a trip to the Colorado Snowsports Museum, located right in Vail Village. It’s an engaging stop that celebrates the state’s rich skiing and snowboarding heritage.

The museum features fascinating exhibits on Colorado’s ski pioneers, vintage gear displays, and even a Hall of Fame honoring athletes who helped shape the sport. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, including virtual ski simulators, while parents can enjoy learning about how Vail became one of the most iconic mountain destinations in the world.

Best of all? Admission is free (though donations are encouraged).

8. Imagination Station

When the cold gets too intense, head indoors to Imagination Station, located in Lionshead Village. This creative play space is designed to inspire curiosity and innovation through hands-on exhibits in art, science, and engineering.

Kids can build, experiment, and play their way through a range of fun activities. There are rotating seasonal projects, making every visit unique. It’s perfect for younger kids who need to burn off some energy while staying warm indoors—and parents can either join in or enjoy a quiet moment nearby.

9. Vail Public Library

Tucked away in a cozy corner of town, the Vail Public Library is a hidden gem for families. Inside, you’ll find a welcoming space filled with children’s books, puzzles, and cozy reading corners with mountain views.

The library also hosts regular events like storytime sessions, craft workshops, and learning activities, providing a calm and creative environment for kids to explore. It’s a wonderful place to wind down after a day of adventure, encouraging young minds to relax and recharge.

Plan the Perfect Family Winter Getaway to Vail

Vail offers the perfect mix of outdoor excitement and indoor comfort, making it one of the top destinations for families visiting Colorado in winter. From the first glide on a ski slope to the quiet joy of reading by the fire, every moment here feels special.

Whether you’re planning a week-long ski trip or a short winter escape, Vail welcomes families with open arms, world-class amenities, and endless opportunities for fun.

So, bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and get ready to create unforgettable family memories in one of the most enchanting winter towns in the world.

Vail Transportation – Luxury Airport Transfers to Colorado’s Top Resorts

Experience Effortless Travel Across the Rockies

Traveling to Colorado’s legendary ski destinations should feel as inspiring as the mountains themselves. At Vail Transportation, we make every mile seamless, stylish, and stress-free — whether you’re headed to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Aspen, or any resort in the Rockies.

From Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) and Denver International Airport (DIA) to private terminals across the state, we specialize in door-to-door luxury transfers that blend comfort, precision, and class.

Our fleet includes 2022 or newer full-size GM SUVs and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, all equipped with premium interiors, snow tires, and top-tier safety features. Every vehicle is garage-kept and meticulously maintained, ensuring reliability no matter the weather.

Professional Chauffeurs. Unmatched Service.

Our team of professional, federally background-checked chauffeurs knows Colorado’s mountain roads inside and out. More than just drivers, they’re hospitality experts — assisting with your luggage, monitoring flight arrivals, and ensuring your ride is as smooth as possible.

Whether you’re arriving for a business trip or a mountain getaway, you’ll be greeted with punctuality, courtesy, and the level of service that defines Great Divide Transportation.

Where Luxury Meets Convenience

Sit back in plush leather seats, enjoy the quiet comfort of our modern vehicles, and take in the panoramic views of Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes. Every ride is personalized — whether you’re heading from DIA to Breckenridge, EGE to Vail, or Empire to Aspen.

We go beyond getting you from point A to point B — our mission is to elevate your travel experience. From start to finish, we ensure your journey is effortless, elegant, and on time.

Why Travelers Choose Us

• 🚘 Luxury Fleet: 2022+ GM SUVs and Mercedes-Benz Sprinters
• ❄️ Winter-Ready: Snow tires and advanced safety technology
• ⏱ On-Time Guarantee: Always punctual, always prepared
• 🧳 Full Assistance: Luggage handling and door-to-door service
• 🏔 Local Expertise: Colorado-based team that knows every mountain road

Located right between Denver International Airport and Colorado’s top resorts — at the intersection of I-70 and HWY 40 in Empire, CO — we’re perfectly positioned to get you anywhere in the Rockies quickly and comfortably.

Your Ride, Elevated

At Vail Transportation, we believe every journey should be as memorable as the destination. Whether you’re flying in for a corporate retreat, a ski vacation, or a special celebration, we’ll make sure you travel beautifully and arrive gracefully.

✨ Book your next ride today — and discover how effortless luxury travel across Colorado can be.