There’s a reason Vail Valley consistently ranks among the top mountain destinations in the country, and it’s not just about the skiing. Year-round, communities like Vail, Beaver Creek, and Avon offer an enviable mix of adventure, luxury, and livability. If you're considering moving to Vail Valley, this guide will walk you through the unique character, real estate options, and everyday perks of its most popular towns.
Vail: The Iconic Alpine Hub
Real Estate
Vail’s real estate is every bit as sought-after as its slopes, offering a wide range of options for different lifestyles. In Vail Village and Lionshead, luxury condos place you just steps from the lifts—perfect for those who want to be immersed in the resort's energy. East Vail, nestled beneath the dramatic cliffs of the Gore Range, offers a quieter, more residential atmosphere, while West Vail provides larger homes and townhouses with easy access to shopping and I-70. With a mix of ski-in/ski-out convenience, modern design, and strong long-term value, Vail remains one of the most desirable places to live in the valley.
Local Festivals
Vail’s festival calendar reflects the town’s deep appreciation for both outdoor adventure and the arts. Each June, the GoPro Mountain Games take over the village, turning it into a high-energy celebration of sports, music, and mountain culture. As summer continues, the Bravo! Vail Music Festival and the Vail Dance Festival bring internationally acclaimed performances to the open-air Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, creating unforgettable evenings under the stars. When winter rolls around, the season begins with Vail Snow Days—an annual tradition filled with live music, après gatherings, and the excitement of the first major snowfall.
Dining
Dining in Vail is a highlight all on its own. For fine dining, Sweet Basil and Matsuhisa are staples, while Mountain Standard offers upscale comfort food in a stylish setting. Locals swear by Pazzo's Pizzeria for post-ski pizza and Yeti’s Grind for a proper cup of coffee before heading out for the day. The culinary scene here is varied, sophisticated, and always evolving.
Favorite Activities
While skiing Vail’s 5,300 acres of terrain is the cornerstone of winter life, the outdoor lifestyle extends well beyond the slopes. When the snow melts, locals head out to hike Booth Falls, ride scenic switchbacks on Vail Pass, or paddleboard on the clear waters of Piney Lake. Golfers enjoy teeing off at the Vail Golf Club, while anglers can cast a line into the Eagle River, one of the valley’s premier fly-fishing spots.
Beyond the trails, Vail Village offers a walkable mix of high-end boutiques and gear shops, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. For a dose of culture, the Colorado Snowsports Museum and seasonal art installations provide a thoughtful look into the area’s heritage and creative spirit.
Beaver Creek: Quiet Sophistication and Slope-Side Ease
Real Estate
Beaver Creek is known for its privacy, elegance, and attention to detail. Homes here range from upscale condos in Beaver Creek Village to stunning mountain estates in Bachelor Gulch and Arrowhead, many offering ski-in/ski-out access. These are full-service communities where HOA-managed properties include shuttle access, maintenance, and concierge-level services—perfect for second-homeowners and those who value peace and convenience.
Local Festivals
While Beaver Creek is more understated than Vail, it still offers an impressive event lineup. Winter starts with the Birds of Prey World Cup, one of the most respected downhill races on the circuit. In summer, residents enjoy the Beaver Creek Art Festival, Wine & Spirits Festival, and weekly outdoor concerts in the village. Events here are intimate, well-curated, and a natural extension of the community’s relaxed vibe.
Dining
Dining in Beaver Creek reflects the community’s understated elegance—polished, thoughtful, and quietly exceptional. Splendido at the Chateau is a longtime favorite for special occasions, where guests enjoy seasonal fine dining in an intimate alpine setting, often accompanied by live piano music. For something more playful yet equally well-executed, Hooked serves up inventive seafood dishes with a creative twist, combining fresh ingredients with unexpected presentation. And for those looking for a truly memorable evening, Beano’s Cabin offers a one-of-a-kind culinary escape. Reached by sleigh ride in the winter or shuttle in the summer, this rustic mountain lodge pairs elevated cuisine with a cozy, tucked-away atmosphere that feels like a hidden treasure.
Favorite Activities
What draws people to Beaver Creek isn’t just the scenery—it’s the ease of enjoying it. Skiing here feels like a well-kept secret, with perfectly groomed runs, short lift lines, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes every day on the mountain feel personal. In the summer, locals take to quieter trails like Overlook and Royal Elk, enjoying panoramic views without the crowds.
But life in Beaver Creek isn’t all about being outside. The Vilar Performing Arts Center, tucked right into the village, offers a packed year-round schedule of concerts, theater, and dance in an intimate indoor setting. Residents also enjoy curated art installations throughout the resort, boutique shopping, and relaxing afternoons at the spa or over wine with friends. And of course, the daily tradition of complimentary cookies at the base—a small but iconic touch—captures the warm, welcoming rhythm that defines living in Vail Valley’s most refined corner.
Avon: Laid-Back Living and Full-Time Functionality
Real Estate
Avon has become the go-to community for those who want to put down roots in Vail Valley without the premium price tag of its resort neighbors. The Wildridge neighborhood sits high above town and is known for its spacious single-family homes and expansive views of Beaver Creek and the surrounding peaks. Closer to the town core, neighborhoods like Eaglebend and Nottingham offer a mix of condos and townhomes that appeal to first-time buyers, working professionals, and families looking for walkable access to parks, trails, and restaurants. Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or a full-time base, Avon’s variety and relative affordability make it a standout for year-round living.
Local Festivals
Avon may be small, but its community calendar is packed with energy. Every summer, AvonLIVE! transforms Nottingham Park into an outdoor concert venue with a laid-back vibe, food trucks, and sunset mountain views. The town’s biggest event, Salute to the USA, draws thousands each July 3rd with live music, local vendors, and the most spectacular fireworks show in the valley. Throughout the year, smaller events like outdoor movie nights, holiday craft fairs, and family-friendly festivals keep the local spirit alive, giving residents plenty of reasons to gather, connect, and celebrate where they live.
Dining
Avon’s food scene blends casual comfort with a few elevated surprises. Vin48 is a longtime favorite, known for its seasonal menus, creative cocktails, and a cozy wine bar that’s perfect after a long day outdoors. Just down the road, Northside Kitchen delivers consistently great breakfasts, from house-made pastries to hearty omelets—and a cult-followed donut case. For dinner, Ticino offers handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. And for mornings that call for caffeine and quiet, local staples like Loaded Joe’s serve up fresh coffee and a low-key spot to work, meet friends, or just take in the day.
Favorite Activities
In Avon, it’s easy to shift from work mode to mountain mode without missing a beat. After a busy day, locals often head straight to Nottingham Lake—whether it’s for paddleboarding, casting a fishing line, or simply unwinding on the lawn with mountain views all around. The Eagle Valley Trail, which winds right through town, offers a scenic route for biking, jogging, or walking the dog along the river.
When winter arrives, the Riverfront Express Gondola makes skiing at Beaver Creek effortless, connecting Avon to the slopes without the hassle of driving or parking in the village. For indoor wellness, the Avon Recreation Center serves as a true community hub, with a full gym, pool, and fitness classes that keep residents active year-round.
With adventure in every direction and a town designed for real, everyday living, Avon offers a lifestyle that feels both balanced and energizing—ideal for anyone looking to make living in Vail Valley more than just a seasonal escape.
Ready to Find Your Place in the Valley?
Whether you're looking for a full-time residence, a second home, or a mountain retreat, The Smits Team brings unmatched local knowledge and decades of experience to help you find the right fit. From the energy of Vail to the calm of Beaver Creek or the practicality of Avon, they’ll guide you through every step of living in Vail Valley.
