Vail, Colorado

Where to Stay: Scenesters will love The Sebastian, Vail’s newest boutique hotel (rooms, from $295; 16 Vail Rd.; 970-477-8000), while families will prefer the classic Ritz-Carlton in nearby Bachelor Gulch (rooms, from $179; 130 Daybreak Ridge, Avon; 970-748-6200).

When to Go: July 31–August 13. The Mark Morris Dance Group celebrates its 30th anniversary at this year’s Vail International Dance Festival.

Top Tables: In town, longtime favorite Sweet Basil (dinner, from $60; 193 E. Gore Creek Dr.; 970-476-0125) serves elegant entrées like roasted Muscovy duck breast with foie gras and Scottish salmon with parsnip and cippolini onions. On Kelly Liken’s seasonal menu are plates such as ahi crudo with blood orange and basil purée (dinner, from $80; 12 Vail Rd.; 970-479-0175), while at the Ritz-Carlton, Spago Beaver Creek, by Wolfgang Puck, offers fresh, delicious garden-to-table dining (dinner, from $65; 130 Daybreak Ridge, Avon; 970-343-1555).

Other Activities: Botanical tours through the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens (530 S. Frontage Rd., Ford Park), rock-climbing trips in Vail Valley

and the Colorado specialty sport of disc golfing—think ultimate Frisbee meets mini-golf.

Getting There: Direct flights are available to Vail/Eagle County Airport, a 45-minute drive from the resort.