Rhonda’s Recs: Vail, CO

We sat down with our founder and Vail local, Rhonda Swenson, to get her must-do’s in one of our favorite Colorado mountain towns. From dreamy hikes to happy hour deals to trivia nights, Rhonda shares the deets on the best things to do in Vail, CO.

Living in Vail year-round has given me the chance to explore every trail, patio, and hidden gem, and I’ve gathered a list of my absolute favorites for a weekend here in the valley. These are the places I return to again and again—the ones I recommend when friends come to visit.

My Favorite Hikes

Grouse Creek Loop (Minturn)
If I’m heading out with my dogs, this trail is always at the top of my list. The creek follows the path, so they stay cool while I get to enjoy a gorgeous, shaded hike. You can keep it short with an out-and-back or extend it into a 2.5-hour loop over to Meadow Mountain. I love that it works for whatever kind of hike I’m in the mood for.

Berry Picker (Vail Mountain)
Berry Picker may be well known, but there’s a reason it’s such a favorite. It winds up Vail Mountain and rewards you at the top with stunning views of Mount of the Holy Cross. I usually treat myself to lunch or a drink once I get there. Depending on the day, I’ll either hike back down or take the gondola (which is free!) to give my knees a rest.

Cross Creek (Holy Cross Wilderness, outside Minturn)
When I want a longer day on the trail, Cross Creek is my go-to. The Holy Cross Wilderness is breathtaking, and this trail takes you deep into it. The scenery is constantly changing—meadows, creeks, mountain vistas. Even if I don’t do the full distance, a shorter out-and-back still feels incredibly rewarding.

My Go-To Après Spots

After time on the trails, I always make room for a good drink or meal with friends. Here are some spots I’ve been loving lately:

Avanti F&B Vail – Vail’s newest slopeside spot, and one of the liveliest. The patio is perfect, and there’s always something happening—bike rides, trivia nights, Friday Afternoon Club, or yoga followed by brunch. It’s become one of my regular hangouts.
The Fitz Lounge (Manor Vail) – This is a quieter favorite with a flower-filled deck overlooking Gore Creek. Add live music and a glass of wine, and it’s the perfect pre-concert stop before heading to the Ford Amphitheater.
El Segundo (Vail Village) – For tacos and margaritas with a view, this is the place. I love sitting on their west-facing deck as the sun sets—it’s a beautiful way to wind down the day.

More Things To Do

I’m a big believer in shopping local, and the Farmer’s Markets around the valley are one of the best ways to do it. I’ll often spend part of my weekend at one of these:

Vail Village: Thursdays (Meadow Market) 1–5:30 p.m. + Sundays 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
Minturn: Saturdays 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Edwards: Saturdays 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

And I always make time for live music. Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and the Vilar Performing Arts Center have great shows throughout the summer and fall.

That’s how I like to spend a perfect summer or fall weekend in Vail: a mix of outdoor adventures, great food and drinks, local shopping, and live music. Whether you’re here for just a couple of days or an extended stay, I hope you enjoy these local favorites as much as I do.