When a long weekend beckons, consider an in-state escape that offers both adventure and relaxation. Summer is the ideal season to spend time with loved ones under the sun, and there’s no better place to do that than in the mountains. In this blog, we’ll guide you through where to go, what to do, and where to stay, ensuring you have all the tools to plan your summer getaway in Colorado.
Where to Go: Edwards, Colorado
Head to the mountains. A popular base camp for skiing in the winter within the Vail Valley, Edwards turns to lush greens and an outdoor playground in the summer. The charming town of Edwards, CO is easily accessible for Colorado locals:
- 2 hour drive from Denver, CO
- 3 hours from Colorado Springs, CO
- 2 hour drive from Grand Junction, CO
If the car journey is too intrusive on your vacation time, you can book a direct flight into Eagle County Regional Airport from Denver International Airport or the Colorado Springs Airport. For the lucky remote workers, you can avoid weekend traffic by heading to Edwards during the week, enjoying the serene landscape at your own pace. See more direct flights into Eagle County Regional Airport.
Why Edwards?
- Proximity to Denver: Close enough for a quick drive yet far enough to feel like a true escape
- Scenic Beauty: Lush greenery and stunning mountain views
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, biking, rafting, you name it and Edwards probably has it
- Local Culture: Vibrant dining scene, unique shops, and galleries
Being in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Edwards holds all the summer activities you could want in a getaway destination. Think Saturday Farmers Markets, bike rides along the Eagle River, and local shopping.
Where to Stay: The Inn at Riverwalk
To make your getaway truly a getaway, you’ll need to make your stay different from your normal. No tent camping or day trips from the city. Choose a stay where you can sit back and relax. The Inn at Riverwalk in Edwards, CO is your best choice in the Vail Valley to stay close to all the outdoors and fun of the Vail Valley but far enough to feel the escape of a getaway.
- Location: Situated on the Edwards Riverwalk, The Inn is surrounded by local restaurants and shopping, all along the Eagle River.
- Ambiance: An upscale mountain Inn with decor and amenities reflecting its picturesque setting.
- Amenities: The Inn at Riverwalk guests have the Vail Valley at their fingertips, with all the amenities necessary to get outside or stay “inn”, including:
- Plush Feather Top Beds
- Gear Garage
- Outdoor Pool and Hot tub
- On-Site Restaurant
- Pet-Friendly Rooms
- 24-hour Coffee Bar
- On-Site Gym
- Central Location to the Vail Valley
- Exclusive Discounts for Guests
The Inn at Riverwalk Room View
Outdoor Activities
If you’re staying at The Inn at Riverwalk, you can grab a bike from the hotel’s Gear Garage and take a relaxing ride along the river or hit the road for a Day Trip to the Flat Tops. An hour’s drive from Edwards, the Flat Top Wilderness Area takes you deeper into the mountains to 235,000 acres of pristine lakes, hiking trails, and alpine tundra.
Bikes aren’t the only thing offered in the Gear Garage. The Garage is equipped with seasonal gear and activities with how you play in mind. Those visiting in the summer can take advantage of hybrid bikes, lawn games like giant Jenga, and even a Polaroid camera (film included).
For golf lovers, there are 17 private and public golf courses in the Vail Valley. Some popular courses include Eagle Vail Golf Club and Eagle Ranch Golf Course. Once a working ranch, Eagle Ranch Golf Course has beautiful views and grounds. Looking for something more kid-friendly? Beaver Creek Mini Golf is a great spot to take it easy and bring the kiddos. And the good news- no matter where you golf, at this elevation your ball will carry a long way!
Upper Piney Lake Trail I An hour’s drive from Edwards, CO
Different Ways to Get Away
Nature Adventures
Make your getaway one spent more outdoors than inside. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with a raft trip down the Colorado, or Eagle River. If you prefer the trees, explore numerous Easy Hiking Trails and Mountain Biking in the Vail Valley.
Relaxation and Leisure
For a more laid-back experience, indulge in gourmet dining, spa treatments, and luxurious accommodations. Our top picks include:
- Craftsman Brew Company for dining
- Laying out by our riverside pool
- Spa treatments for relaxation
- Cafe163 for brunch
- Eagle Valley Trail for 63 miles of scenic walking and biking
- Betty Ford Alpine Gardens for a peaceful stroll
- Pick up local goods at Edwards Farmers’ Market
See more ways to unwind in Edwards and the Vail Valley in our blog on Why Fall is the Best Time to Book a Girls’ Getaway.
The Inn at Riverwalk Double Queen Room I Guests enjoying complimentary coffee and teaSocial Escapes
Make your next getaway a social escape where you can hit pause on your work emails and notifications and reconnect with friends and loved ones in Edwards. Some favorite social escapes include enjoying summer events like the GoPro Mountain Games, and booking group activities like whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or jeep touring.
Attend Concerts and Live Music Events
As far as concert series and music festivals go, there are many to choose from in Edwards and around the greater Vail Valley. When it comes to venues, these two bring in some of the biggest crowds:
- Vilar Performing Arts Center: Located in Beaver Creek, this venue offers an array of musical and dance performances close to Edwards.
- Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater: Situated in nearby Vail, this amphitheater allows you to picnic on the lawn while enjoying live music under the stars.
Concert Series and Music Festivals
- Hot Summer Nights: This popular summer concert series brings nationally touring artists for free shows. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy great music without spending a dime. This series includes performances from artists like Allen Stone and Lindsay Lou, and has been ranked by USA Today as the #1 Outdoor Concert Series Venue in the U.S.
- Avon LIVE!: Held in nearby Avon, CO, this series features eleven open-air shows weekly in the summer.
- Minturn Concert Series: Enjoy shows at Little Beach Park every Thursday evening from June to August.
- Bravo! Vail Music Festival: Held June 20 – August 1, this beloved festival hosts live music daily bringing in local and nationally touring artists.
- Vail Jazz Party: Celebrate jazz music at this Labor Day Weekend party from August 29 to August 31.
- Vail Dance Festival: A two-week celebration of dance that attracts renowned performers from around the world.
No matter your musical taste, the Vail Valley offers something for everyone. Enjoy the vibrant music scene and make the most of your summer in this beautiful area!
See You In Edwards.
Your weekend away is calling and it’s a peaceful retreat to Edwards, CO. If you need convincing to make your getaway to Edwards this summer here are five more reasons to bring your family. Book your stay and start planning your next getaway to Edwards, CO.
