Parking in Vail, CO

How abundant are parking spaces/ garages in Vail Village and Lionshead Village?

Parking in Vail, Colorado, particularly in the main areas of Vail Village and Lionshead Village, is somewhat limited and can be challenging, especially during peak ski season, summer festivals, or holidays. Both villages are designed to be pedestrian-friendly, so streets are narrow, and surface parking is scarce.

Vail Village:

  • Vail Village has a few public parking garages, with the main ones being the Arrabelle, Vail Village Parking Garage, and Solaris Parking.
  • These garages are paid, and availability can fill quickly during busy times, so arriving early is recommended.
  • Street parking is extremely limited and mostly restricted to permit holders or short-term zones.

Lionshead Village:

  • Lionshead also has public parking garages such as the West Lionshead Parking Structure and the Solaris structure that spans both areas.
  • Paid parking is the norm, and free parking is rare.
  • During ski season or events, these garages can reach capacity quickly, so planning ahead is important.

Tips for Parking in Vail:

  • Consider staying at a hotel that offers complimentary or validated parking if you’re staying overnight.
  • Use public transportation or the free shuttle buses that circulate between Vail Village, Lionshead, and surrounding areas to avoid the hassle of parking.
  • For day visitors, arriving early in the morning increases your chances of finding a spot in the garages.
  • Pay attention to signage for peak times, special events, or permit-only areas.

Overall, parking in Vail Village and Lionshead is available but limited and mostly paid. Planning ahead, using shuttles, or choosing lodging with included parking can make your visit much smoother.


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