Vail Valley: Deals and Activities Outside of Ski Season

Vail Valley -- comprised of Vail and Beaver Creek -- is world renowned as a winter ski destination. Experience the charm of these Colorado mountain towns outside of ski season -- when hotels and resorts slash their rates by as much as 50% and outdoor activities are in abundance.

There are tons of cheap, or even free, activities in Vail Valley:  

• Take a ride on Vail’s gondola and watch the sunset from atop of Vail Mountain. The views are spectacular, and tickets are only $15, including a $10 credit redeemable at the mountaintop restaurant and bar.
• Rock out at the annual free Bud Light Summer Concert Series on Tuesday evenings through summer. Shows showcase music ranging from rock to country to bluegrass to funk.
• Hiking is always free and a great way to get outside and enjoy the nature of Vail Valley. Check out these hiking maps of Vail and Beaver Creek, which detail the mountain trails.
• Get a taste of Colorado with the free Vail Farmers Market and Art Show featuring locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, Colorado wine and beautiful clothing and jewelry. This event occurs every Sunday through Sept. 19.  

In the wintertime, rooms in Beaver Creek and Vail are in high demand, and it’s not uncommon for hotels to charge upwards of $500 per night. Spring through fall is the best time to find deals in these locations, as hotels drastically lower their rates.

Travelers can stay at luxurious resorts for 40%-50% off regular prices. Here are a couple of our favorite deals: 

• $99 per night at the Beaver Creek Lodge -- Named one of Travel + Leisure's World's 500 Best Hotels. Travel any day of the week through Oct. 31 (blackout dates apply).  
• $119 per night at the Vail Marriott Mountain Resort & Spa -- 4-star resort near the shops and nightlife of Vail. Travel select dates October-November.  

Getting to then getting around Vail Valley doesn’t have to be expensive. Look for flight deals into Denver’s airport instead of the Vail Eagle County Airport; it’s cheaper and only 2 hours and 20 minutes from Vail. Also, don’t feel pressured to book an expensive rental car. There is daily service on the Greyhound bus from Denver to Vail, and tickets cost only $40 roundtrip per person; it’s quick, easy and only a fraction of the price of a car rental. Once you get to Vail Valley, Beaver Creek and Vail are easily walkable, but the town offers free bus service that runs regularly year-round.