15 Best Things to Do in Avon (CO)

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Avon is more than just a gateway to world-class skiing; it’s a vibrant, year-round mountain paradise waiting to be explored. Imagine waking up to crisp mountain air, surrounded by towering peaks, with a day full of adventure stretching before you. Avon, often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor Vail, offers a charming, authentic, and slightly more laid-back experience, making it a perfect base for your high-altitude escapade.

From serene alpine lakes to thrilling outdoor activities, educational centers, and a burgeoning culinary scene, Avon truly has something for everyone. Whether you are a solo adventurer seeking solitude on a mountain trail, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family eager for unforgettable memories, this guide will unlock the very best of Avon. The best time to visit depends on your interests: winter (December-April) for snow sports, summer (June-September) for hiking and water activities, and shoulder seasons (May, October, November) for quieter trails and potentially better deals.

Benchmark Lake Reservoir

Escape the hustle and bustle by venturing to Benchmark Lake Reservoir, a hidden gem offering tranquility and stunning natural beauty just a short drive from Avon. This pristine high-alpine lake is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a peaceful retreat where you can truly connect with nature. You can expect to see crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding pine forests and towering peaks, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for photography or simply unwinding.

The area is a popular spot for fishing, with opportunities to catch various trout species, and the calm waters are also ideal for paddleboarding or kayaking on a warm summer day. Surrounding trails offer moderate hiking opportunities, leading you through lush forests and offering panoramic views of the valley below. It’s an ideal spot for anyone seeking a quiet escape, from solo adventurers desiring solitude to families looking for a gentle outdoor activity. The lack of commercial development ensures a truly unspoiled experience, reminding you of the raw beauty of the Colorado wilderness.

Walking Mountains Science Center

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world at the Walking Mountains Science Center, a hub of environmental education and outdoor exploration located just minutes from Avon. This non-profit organization is dedicated to inspiring a deeper connection to nature through engaging programs and exhibits. You can expect to discover interactive displays that explain local ecology, geology, and wildlife, making complex scientific concepts accessible and fun for all ages.

Beyond the indoor exhibits, the center boasts several beautiful nature trails that wind through aspen groves and along Gore Creek, offering opportunities for self-guided exploration or participation in guided nature walks. They host a variety of workshops, lectures, and family-friendly events throughout the year, from stargazing nights to wildlife tracking classes. It’s a fantastic destination for curious minds, families with children, and anyone interested in learning more about the unique Rocky Mountain ecosystem. Their commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the facility, providing an inspiring example of living in harmony with nature.

EagleVail Golf Course

For golf enthusiasts, the EagleVail Golf Course offers an exceptional high-altitude golfing experience with breathtaking mountain backdrops. Designed by Devlin/Von Hagge, this 18-hole championship course is renowned for its challenging layout, featuring narrow fairways, strategic bunkers, and significant elevation changes that will test golfers of all skill levels. You can expect meticulously maintained greens and fairways, ensuring a top-tier playing surface.

Beyond the game itself, the course provides stunning panoramic views of the Gore Range and Vail Valley, making every swing a scenic delight. Wildlife sightings, including deer and elk, are common, adding to the unique mountain atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for avid golfers, couples looking for a recreational challenge, or even solo players wanting to enjoy a round amidst incredible scenery. The course also features a practice facility, pro shop, and a restaurant, making it a comprehensive golfing destination.

Northside Kitchen

When your stomach starts rumbling in Avon, make a beeline for Northside Kitchen, a beloved local institution famous for its hearty breakfast and brunch, and equally delightful dinner offerings. This charming eatery embodies the comfort and warmth of a true mountain town diner, serving up classic American dishes with a refined touch. You can expect generous portions of delicious, freshly prepared food, from their legendary cinnamon rolls and fluffy pancakes to savory omelets and unique Benedicts.

For dinner, they offer a diverse menu that often includes comforting pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and perfectly cooked steaks. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, often bustling with locals and visitors alike, creating a lively yet friendly dining experience. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo diners looking for a satisfying meal in a relaxed setting. The friendly staff and consistent quality make it a must-visit for any food lover in Avon.

The Christie Lodge

While not an attraction in the traditional sense, The Christie Lodge stands out as a fantastic base for exploring Avon and the wider Vail Valley, offering a comfortable and amenity-rich experience that enhances any trip. This popular lodging option provides spacious, condo-style units, making it ideal for families, groups, or extended stays. You can expect well-equipped rooms with kitchenettes, living areas, and often private balconies, providing a home-away-from-home feel.

The lodge boasts an impressive array of on-site amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, and a game room, ensuring there’s always something to do even on a rest day. Its central location in Avon means easy access to Nottingham Lake, local restaurants, and the free town bus system that connects to Beaver Creek and Vail. It’s perfect for travelers seeking value, comfort, and convenient access to all the area’s activities without breaking the bank on luxury resort prices. The welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly facilities make it a popular choice year after year.

Vail Valley Brew Fest at Avon

If your visit aligns with late summer, you absolutely cannot miss the Vail Valley Brew Fest at Avon, an annual celebration of craft beer set against the stunning backdrop of Nottingham Lake. This lively festival brings together a fantastic array of regional and national breweries, offering attendees the chance to sample an incredible variety of ales, lagers, stouts, and more. You can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, delicious food vendors, and a palpable sense of community as beer lovers gather to celebrate their passion.

Beyond the tastings, the festival often includes educational sessions, brewing demonstrations, and opportunities to meet the brewers themselves. It’s an unmissable event for craft beer aficionados, social butterflies, and anyone looking for a fun, festive outdoor experience. The setting by Nottingham Lake adds to the charm, making it a truly memorable day out in the Rockies.

Kiwi International Delights and Coffee Co.

Step into a little piece of New Zealand and Australia at Kiwi International Delights and Coffee Co., a charming and unique cafe that offers a delightful break from the typical mountain town fare. This cozy spot is a true local favorite, known for its warm hospitality and authentic flavors from down under. You can expect to find a tempting array of freshly baked goods, including savory pies (think steak and cheese!), sausage rolls, and sweet treats like Lamingtons and Anzac biscuits, all made with traditional recipes.

Their coffee program is equally impressive, serving expertly crafted espresso drinks using high-quality beans. It’s the perfect place for a quick, delicious breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re a homesick Kiwi, an adventurous eater, or simply looking for a unique cafe experience, Kiwi International Delights offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for a casual, tasty meal.

Nottingham Lake & Beach

Nottingham Lake & Beach is the vibrant heart of Avon, a picturesque oasis that offers an incredible array of recreational activities year-round. This man-made lake, surrounded by a paved walking path and a sandy beach, is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. In summer, you can expect to see people swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing in the clear waters.

The sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles, while the surrounding park area hosts free concerts, movies, and community events throughout the warmer months. In winter, the lake often freezes over, transforming into a magical ice skating rink. The paved path around the lake is ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, or biking. It’s an excellent destination for families, offering safe and varied activities for children, as well as for couples seeking a romantic lakeside walk or solo adventurers looking for a scenic spot to relax.

The Children’s Museum at Beaver Creek Resort

For families visiting the Vail Valley, The Children’s Museum at Beaver Creek Resort offers a delightful and engaging indoor escape, particularly on a snowy or rainy day. Located just a short, free gondola ride up from Avon, this museum is specifically designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds. You can expect a vibrant, hands-on environment filled with interactive exhibits that encourage imaginative play and learning.

From a miniature grocery store and construction zone to an art studio and a science exploration area, children can explore various themes and develop new skills through play. The museum often features rotating exhibits and special programs, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. It’s perfectly suited for children aged 2-10, providing a safe and stimulating space where they can burn off energy and engage in educational fun. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful design and the opportunity for their kids to learn while having a blast.

Vail Ski Resort

No visit to the Vail Valley would be complete without experiencing the legendary Vail Ski Resort, one of North America’s premier ski destinations, just a short drive from Avon. Spanning over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, Vail offers an unparalleled winter sports experience for every skill level. You can expect vast, impeccably groomed slopes, challenging moguls, and the iconic Back Bowls, renowned for their wide-open powder fields.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Vail offers Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and a vibrant pedestrian village filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The mountain’s sheer size and variety mean you can explore new runs for days without repeating yourself. It’s the ultimate playground for passionate skiers and snowboarders, families seeking a luxury winter vacation, and anyone eager to experience the grandeur of a world-class mountain resort. The history of Vail, from its humble beginnings to its global renown, adds a layer of prestige to every turn.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Discover a botanical marvel at 8,200 feet above sea level at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in the world. Located in Vail, just a short drive from Avon, these exquisite gardens are a testament to the beauty and resilience of alpine flora. You can expect to wander through meticulously curated collections of alpine and rock garden plants, a tranquil children’s garden, and beautiful waterfalls and ponds.

The gardens are designed to showcase plants that thrive in high-altitude environments, with species from various mountainous regions around the globe. It’s a peaceful sanctuary perfect for a leisurely stroll, photography, or simply finding a quiet bench to enjoy the serene surroundings. Ideal for nature lovers, gardeners, photographers, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the mountain grandeur. The gardens also host educational programs and events, highlighting their commitment to horticulture and conservation.

Vail Brewing Company

For craft beer enthusiasts, a visit to Vail Brewing Company (VBC) in EagleVail (between Avon and Vail) is a must. This local brewery has quickly established itself as a go-to spot for expertly crafted beers in a relaxed, community-focused setting. You can expect a rotating selection of innovative and classic brews on tap, from crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and sour ales, ensuring there’s something to please every palate.

The taproom often features a lively atmosphere, with locals unwinding after a day on the slopes or trails, and visitors enjoying a taste of the local scene. VBC frequently hosts live music, trivia nights, and food trucks, making it a great spot for an evening out. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking to sample local brews and soak in the laid-back mountain vibe. Their commitment to quality and community shines through in every pour.

Colorado Snowsports Museum

Delve into the rich history of winter sports in Colorado at the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame, located in Vail Village. This fascinating museum offers a captivating journey through the evolution of skiing and snowboarding in the state, from its early days as a mode of transportation to its current status as a global recreational phenomenon. You can expect to see an impressive collection of vintage ski equipment, photographs, historical documents, and interactive exhibits that tell the stories of Colorado’s snow sports pioneers, Olympians, and the development of its iconic resorts.

The Hall of Fame section honors the individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport. It’s a must-visit for anyone with an interest in skiing, snowboarding, or Colorado’s unique cultural heritage, offering a unique perspective on the region’s enduring passion for winter. Ideal for history buffs, families, and solo travelers seeking an engaging indoor activity.

Vail Valley Food Tours

Embark on a delicious culinary journey with Vail Valley Food Tours, offering a unique way to experience the local dining scene and learn about the area’s history and culture. These guided walking tours take you to several hand-picked restaurants and eateries in Vail or Beaver Creek, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes and drinks while hearing fascinating stories about the chefs, ingredients, and the valley itself.

You can expect a curated selection of tastings, often including appetizers, main courses, desserts, and sometimes beverage pairings, ensuring you get a comprehensive taste of the local gastronomy. The tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who share insider tips and historical anecdotes, making it more than just a meal – it’s an immersive cultural experience. It’s ideal for foodies, couples, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a unique and delicious way to explore the area beyond the slopes.

Timberline Tours

For those seeking an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable outdoor adventure, Timberline Tours offers a variety of thrilling experiences, from whitewater rafting to jeep tours and ziplining, making them a premier adventure outfitter in the Vail Valley. You can expect professionally guided excursions led by experienced and safety-conscious staff, ensuring a safe yet exhilarating time. Their whitewater rafting trips range from mellow scenic floats perfect for families to challenging Class III-IV rapids for thrill-seekers on rivers like the Eagle or Colorado.

Jeep tours take you deep into the backcountry, offering incredible views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Ziplining provides a bird’s-eye view of the stunning mountain landscape as you soar through the air. It’s an ideal choice for adventure enthusiasts, families with older children, and groups looking to add an exciting dimension to their mountain vacation. Timberline Tours provides all necessary equipment and expert instruction, allowing you to focus on the fun.

Plan Your Visit

Avon, Colorado, is truly a jewel in the Rocky Mountains, offering an unparalleled blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From the serene shores of Benchmark Lake and Nottingham Lake to the thrilling slopes of Vail Ski Resort and the educational wonders of Walking Mountains Science Center, your itinerary will be bursting with diverse experiences. You’ve discovered how to savor international delights at Kiwi International, enjoy local brews at Vail Brewing Company, and even immerse yourself in culinary tours or historical snowsports.

This guide provides the practical insights and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan your perfect mountain getaway, whether you’re traveling on a budget or indulging in luxury. Embrace the spirit of the Rockies, explore the vibrant local scene, and create unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and let Avon captivate your heart – your Colorado mountain escape awaits!