Easy and family travel don’t always go together. Traveling with kids usually means more planning, more logistics, and more things to think about. Strollers. Car seats. Backpacks. Snacks. You know the feeling of needing a vacation after the vacation? Fortunately for us, this wasn’t that.
Beaver Creek is different. We already knew this from spending a few winters here, but I’m going to say the quiet part out loud: Summer might be even better. Just 35 minutes from Eagle County Regional Airport, Beaver Creek is tucked into the Colorado Rockies and somehow manages to check every box for families: beautiful, easy, and full of things everyone will love.
Why Beaver Creek Is One of the Best Summer Destinations for Families
The village is incredibly walkable, which means no car needed, something that makes such a difference when traveling with kids. Everything from restaurants, activities, coffee shops, the creek, the alpine playground, and the base of the mountain is just a short walk away.
We loved the slower mornings, making spontaneous ice cream stops, and letting the girls play while we actually sat down and drank our coffee (while it was still hot). That never happens at home 🙂
Where We Stayed: The Osprey Beaver Creek
We stayed at The Osprey, a boutique hotel located in the heart of Beaver Creek Village and the best home base for our trip. The location made it easy to pop in and out of the village for coffee stops, a run around the village for the scavenger hunt, or walking to Creekside Park without turning it into an whole expedition. The hotel itself has that elevated yet cozy alpine feel I’m always drawn to, and the pool was a chef’s kiss amenity for families after a full day outside.
The Best Things to Do in Beaver Creek in Summer With Kids
Ride the Gondola + Have Lunch on the Mountain
One of my favorite parts of Beaver Creek was how easy it was to experience the mountain without a huge undertaking. We rode the gondola up and had lunch at Spruce Saddle Lodge where the views alone are worth the trip. The girls loved the ride and of course the chicken fingers at the top!
Spend an Afternoon at the Summer Adventure Center
The Summer Adventure Center was located at the base of the mountain, and we did all of the amazing activities on repeat:
- climbing wall
- bungee trampoline
- mini golf
- gem panning (Nora and Lily’s personal favorite)
Book the 4×4 Tour
I’m not going to lie…I went in a little blind to this experience. It was one of those ‘yes’ moments where you happily oblige and don’t ask questions, and sometimes, that’s the best way to go in. Zero expectations, 10/10 would recommend! Our family of four went up the mountain in a safari Jeep, and I literally have no notes. Our guide was incredible, the Aspen trees were showing off, and Nora and Lily couldn’t stop giggling. The best!
Explore Beaver Creek’s Hiking Trails
Beaver Creek has more than 60 miles of trails, and there are options for everyone. During the day that Nora went to Young Explorer’s Camp, we hiked the Village Loop with Lily in the carrier. She still talks about the hike one week later!
The Kid-Friendly Experiences That Make Beaver Creek Special
Young Explorers Camp
Nora spent one full day at Beaver Creek’s Young Explorers Camp and loved every minute. The program includes outdoor adventures, games, hiking, and activities designed for kids ages 5–12. I picked her up a little early so that we could all head to a 4×4 tour, and she was a little disappointed to see me… that’s how much I knew she was having a great time.
Cookie Time
Every afternoon at 3pm, Beaver Creek serves fresh chocolate chip cookies in the village. I got used to this after skiing down the mountain in winter, but I was ecstatic to find out that this incredible tradition was still on offer in the summertime, too.
Hawk’s Nest Cabin
When my kids are a little older, I know this will be their favorite spot. Designed for ages 10-18, this kid-focused hangout space feels like it was designed by someone who really understands what kids want: games, music, cozy spaces, and a place to just be. I walked in to check it out, and they had the World Cup playing, mocktails on offer at the bar, and staff members playing foosball. Another day, they had a painting class. And suddenly, I wanted to be 10 again, ha!
Scavenger Hunt
Beaver Creek Village offers the family-friendly Eager Beaver Scavenger Hunt. Participants grab an Adventure Guide to solve challenges, locate giant art installations across the village, and win a prize upon completion. Nora is at the perfect age for this activity (5.5) and Lily follows in her big sister’s footsteps. It was so fun running across the village to solve puzzles at all the different stations.
Creekside Park
Think alpine-inspired family park where nature, play, and mountain serenity meet. We visited every day because it’s that magical. Between the open-air pavilion, yoga on the lawn, relaxing creekside pockets, and the Birds of Play playground, there was truly something for everyone here. I could go on and on about how much I adore this space.
Where to Eat in Beaver Creek
A mountain destination doesn’t always mean casual food. Beaver Creek has plenty of elevated options that are perfect for families.
Citrea
Mediterranean-inspired cuisine right in the village with a fun, lively atmosphere. In the winter, it overlooks the ice skating rink. In the summer, it’s next to the turf and lawn games. A win for everyone!
Hooked
Fresh seafood in the middle of the mountains might sound unexpected, but this was such a fun dinner. Nora and Lily got to feed fish (and eat chicken fingers), and Alex said he’s never had better sushi.
Beaver Creek Chophouse
A classic choice with beautiful mountain views and amazing steak. Nora approved!
Tips for Visiting Beaver Creek in Summer
What to know before you go:
Remember the altitude: Beaver Creek Village sits at over 8,000 feet, so hydrate more than you think you need to, pack sunscreen and electrolytes.
Pack layers: Mountain weather can change quickly. Mornings and evenings are often cooler, even in summer.
Don’t over-plan: Beaver Creek is special because it allows you to slow down. Leave room for pool time, wandering the village, and those unexpected moments.
Why I Love Beaver Creek for Families
As a travel advisor, this is exactly the kind of destination I love recommending to families looking for something that feels elevated but still easy. There are plenty of beautiful mountain destinations in Colorado. What makes Beaver Creek stand out is how effortlessly it brings everything together. And the best part? We never felt like we needed a vacation from the vacation.
