Location: Vail

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Though a year-round destination, Vail was predominately created by and for skiing. As popular as skiing is in the winter, activities such as hiking, cycling and golfing fill the void in the summer.

The small town offers signature, year-round events, dozens of nightlife hotspots, diverse dining, luxurious spas and hundreds of shops. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or some much needed R&R, there's an activity for everyone to enjoy while in Vail:

INDULGE. Nothing repairs sore ski muscles like the Hot Toddy for the Body treatment at the spa at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, where a scrub containing sweet almond oil, jojoba beads, and shea butter scented with cinnamon and nutmeg is massaged into the skin to eliminate dry patches and relax muscles.

SOCIALIZE. Stop in après ski or post-hike at Larkspur in Edwards and join locals for a classic Larkburger paired with parmesan truffle fries and a local brew.

CHALLENGE. The Birds of Prey down-hill course at Beaver Creek is one of the most difficult downhill courses in the world, featuring a vertical drop of 2,484 feet loaded with steep pitches and sharp turns.

SHOP. The Vail Farmer's Market is the largest in Colorado. Stock up on everything from organic, locally grown produce and meats to wine from Colorado's Bookcliff Vineyards and goat cheese from Jumpin' Good Goat Dairy.

EXPLORE. Spend the day with Vail Valley Anglers and experience fishing for brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout paired with hiking and wildlife spotting.

DINE. A Vail Village classic, Sweet Basil is headed by executive chef Paul Anders, who continues to produce a creative menu of modern American cuisine.