5 New Things to Explore in the Vail Valley in 2026

With Vail Mountain officially open and winter settling into the valley, the season we’ve all been waiting for is here. The forecast is currently showing fresh snowfall for Christmas, so the anticipation is building, and the mountains are beginning to take on that unmistakable holiday magic that makes this time of year so special.

As the year begins its wrap up, the valley is alive with twinkling lights, fresh tracks, and festive gatherings. I wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season filled with warmth, celebration, and time well spent together. Looking ahead to 2026, I’m hopeful for a year filled with new opportunities, memorable moments, and continued reasons to love calling the Vail Valley home. Happy Holidays everyone!

• 5 New Things To Explore In The Vail Valley – From new restaurants and private clubs to new flights into Eagle County Regional Airport, there are 5 new things to explore in the Vail Valley as we round out the year. Check them out and let me know if you’ve experienced any of them!
• Bandon Dunes Golf Opening in Florida – Dream Golf, the developer behind the acclaimed Bandon Dunes and Sand Valley golf destinations, is bringing its signature style to Northwest Florida with a new project near the 30A corridor called Old Shores – an 18-hole public golf course designed by Tom Doak that aims to deliver a world-class golf experience on the Gulf Coast. This addition is poised to elevate the region’s golf scene by offering a high-caliber destination that complements the popular beach communities and other courses around Highway 30A.
• Featured Listings You’ll Love – From a turn-key, designer condo in an amenity rich development to a unicorn residence on the Vail Golf Course, and a wonderful condo at the entrance to Beaver Creek, these listings each have a unique appeal that goes beyond the page.

Owners may design a custom home with an approved architect or select a pre-designed floor plan with the option to participate in the Old Shores rental program. With VRBO naming this area the nation’s #1 rental market, plus easy access to pristine beaches, local attractions, and a nearby new airport, Old Shores presents a rare opportunity. The sales director for these estate homesites is a trusted friend and colleague of The Little Blue Book, so reach out if you’d like a personalized introduction or more details. VIEW THE LOOKBOOK

 

From new restaurants and private clubs to new flights into Eagle County Regional Airport, there are 5 new things to explore in the Vail Valley as we round out the year. Check them out and let me know if you’ve experienced any of them!

 

01. New Direct Flights at EGE

New nonstop service from Eagle to Charlotte, NC on American Airlines

Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is thrilled to announce new seasonal non-stop service to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), operated by American Airlines. This highly anticipated route will provide daily connectivity from December 18, 2025, through January 5, 2026, bringing EGE to an impressive 16 total non-stop winter destinations. Flight schedules are as follows (flight schedules are subject to change):

• CLT-EGE: depart CLT at 9:00 am and arrive EGE at 11:10 am
• EGE-CLT: depart EGE at 11:55 am and arrive CLT at 4:45 pm

EGE Joins United’s “7-Hub Club” with nonstop service to Washington Dulles

Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) proudly announces the addition of new United Airlines nonstop service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) for the upcoming 2025-2026 winter season. This significant new route marks EGE’s induction into United Airlines’ exclusive “7-Hub Club,” signifying direct access to seven of United’s major hubs across the country. The new EGE-IAD service will operate once weekly on Saturdays, commencing December 20, 2025, and continuing through April 4, 2026. Flight schedules are as follows:

• IAD-EGE: Saturdays, departing IAD at 12:30 pm and arriving EGE at 2:45 pm
• EGE-IAD: Saturdays, departing EGE at 3:45 pm and arriving IAD at 9:45 pm

Delta announces new nonstop flights from EGE to Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP)

Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is excited to announce new seasonal nonstop service to Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP), operated by Delta Air Lines. This highly anticipated route will begin in Winter 2025/2026.

• Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) to Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
• Frequency: Daily December 22 – January 5 and Saturdays January 10 – March 28

02. New Restaurant: Lily Sushi & Ramen

I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Lily Sushi & Ramen recently and WOW! From the service to the food – everything was top-tier and I highly recommend checking this place out. Especially for a warm bowl of ramen after a cold day on the slopes.

Here’s what they have to say “Welcome to Lily Sushi & Ramen restaurant, a cozy and modern restaurant located in the heart of Avon, Colorado. We serve authentic Japanese ramen, fresh sushi, and creative Asian fusion dishes made with premium ingredients. Whether you’re dining in or ordering to-go, we’re here to bring you a warm and flavorful experience.”

03. New Restaurant: Fuji Mt Sushi & Hibachi

Craving fresh sushi and hibachi in Avon or Beaver Creek? Fuji Mt. Sushi & Hibachiis a new family-owned restaurant serving favorites like the California Roll, Hibachi Steak, and Shrimp Tempura for lunch and dinner. Guests consistently praise the premium fish, generous portions, and friendly, efficient service.

Located at 240 Chapel Place near the Chapel Square shopping area, the restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a vibrant menu available for both dine-in and takeout. I haven’t been able to check this place out yet, but if you’ve been, please let me know what you think!

04. New Local Artist Spotlight: Frank + Hank

Recently, I was introduced to Frank Carfaro – a local artist whose work is as incredibly impactful and his story. I highly encourage you to check out his website and follow him on Instagram. Here’s a bit about his story:

“At age 51, I was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder after decades of being misdiagnosed with ADHD and treated with medications that ultimately caused harm. That turning point led me to move to Colorado and channel my experience into art that sparks conversation and awareness around emotional and behavioral health – an issue that now touches nearly everyone in some way. I created Frank + Hank to share my story and help others avoid the long, painful path I experienced; today, I speak with individuals and groups and have been grateful to see this work positively impact many lives.

Hank – my longtime alter ego – is a creative, charismatic presence that embodies the light-and-dark duality of bipolar disorder, a theme reflected throughout my tactile, hands-on work in steel, stone, wood, and concrete. My inspiration comes from lived experience and the balance between nature and man-made materials. Prior to this chapter, I spent 27 years building DESIRON after leaving Wall Street, growing it from a flea-market beginning to a nationally recognized design brand with major press including Architectural Digest, Vogue, and The New York Times, and work featured in television (Sex & The City), film, and iconic collaborations. I’m deeply grateful for that journey and for the opportunity to use creativity today in service of awareness, healing, and connection.”

05. New Private Club: The Sixty Two Society

At only 62 memberships, this independently owned, boutique club embodies a new standard of mountain access, culinary mastery, and meaningful connection, just steps from Gondola One. The Societyis tailored for those who appreciate the finer things in life and seek an unparalleled level of personalized service. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to Vail’s finest dining and social events, all designed for those who appreciate exceptional service and exquisite cuisine.  VIEW THE VIDEO

Additional benefits include:

• Exclusive Ski Access & Ski Valet Services in Partnership with Gorsuch
• Personalized Concierge Services
• Complimentary Luxury Transportation
• Select Ski & Snowboard Activities
• Private Society Suite
• Year-Round Social Calendar
• Exclusive Event Privileges
• Preferred Dining Reservations/Discounts At The SIXTY TWO RESTAURANT

Ask me about potential opportunities for off-market properties!

Rare One-Level UNICORN Mountain Modern Residence with Gore Range Views! Discover effortless single-level living in this truly unique, one-of-a-kind mountain modern home at the renowned Fall Ridge condominium. Originally a spacious commercial office, this custom residence was completely reimagined and rebuilt down to the studs in 2022, offering 2,517 sq ft of open-concept living space with 4 bedrooms + den and 4.5 en-suite baths. Enjoy breathtaking Gore Range views from this RARE huge expansive, private L-shaped patio—nearly 900 sq ft—perfect for entertaining or relaxing in tranquility….VIEW MORE DETAILS

Currently the only available 3-bedroom, 3-bath residence at the coveted Frontgate | Avon, this impeccably designed residence 205 combines sophisticated mountain living with unparalleled amenities. One of the most spacious three-bedroom layouts in the complex, it features 9-foot ceilings in the inviting open-concept great room, and a generous 164 sq ft patio that opens directly onto the serene Mountainside Courtyard – an ideal setting for indoor-outdoor entertaining. Offered beautifully furnished, this turnkey retreat allows for an effortless transition into your mountain lifestyle…VIEW MORE DETAILS

Co-Listed With Leigh Flanagan
Private Creekside Corner Residence with Luxury Amenities: Located just to the east of the gates to Beaver Creek, The Ascent provides luxury residences and exceptional amenities, just steps to the Eagle River and paved path, Nottingham Lake and Park, and all that the town of Avon has to offer. Residence 202 is ideally positioned on the far west end of the building w/peaceful northwest views overlooking the Beaver Creek stream & mature trees. This 1,639 SqFt residence features a functional kitchen…VIEW MORE DETAILS