Watching Hallmark movies during the winter holidays is a tradition for many, which is why we at American Ski Exchange were excited when Winter in Vail was filmed in our hometown—just steps from our ski shop! Starring Mean Girls’ Lacey Chabert and Tyler Hynes, the movie brought Vail to the small screen, but did it get everything right?
Being the local experts that we are, we took a closer look at the movie and fact-checked some of its details. Here’s your true or false guide to Hallmark’s Winter in Vail.
1) TRUE: The opening scenes show real aerial views of Vail Village
The breathtaking aerial shots of the covered bridge and bell tower are unmistakably part of Vail Village.
2) TRUE: Parking is restricted on Main Street in Vail Village
In an early scene, Tyler tells Lacey that she can’t park on Main Street, and he’s absolutely right. The area is strictly for pedestrians and skiers. The only vehicles allowed are for deliveries to restaurants and ski shops—like ours!
3) FALSE: Edelweiss Mountain Top Restaurant doesn’t exist in Vail
While Vail boasts incredible restaurants and family-owned businesses (like American Ski Exchange, serving Vail since 1986!), Edelweiss Mountain Top Restaurant isn’t one of them. That scene was filmed in Alberta, Canada, where much of the movie was shot.
4) FALSE: Vail doesn’t have an annual Strudel Festival
Sadly, no official Strudel Festival exists in Vail, but we do have an annual Oktoberfest celebration, where you can find plenty of delicious apple strudel!
Oktoberfest is a beloved tradition, already scheduled for September 2024. Grab your Lederhosen or Dirndl and join the fun! More details can be found at Oktoberfest Vail.
For incredible European cuisine year-round, check out Pepi’s Restaurant and Bar for authentic Austrian flavors.
5) TRUE: Vail is a small town, but everything is nearby
Vail may feel like a cozy town, but it offers plenty to do. The village is divided into East Vail, West Vail, Lionshead, and Vail Village, all within a short distance, making it easy to get around.
6) TRUE: Many locals work multiple jobs
Ask almost anyone in Vail what they do, and you’ll likely hear more than one answer. Many locals balance full-time jobs with hospitality work on evenings or weekends, especially during ski season.
7) FALSE: Vail doesn’t have horse-drawn carriages
While a romantic carriage ride would be picturesque, it doesn’t happen in Vail Village. The streets are pedestrian-only, so this charming scene was definitely filmed in Canada.
8) FALSE: Vail’s gondolas aren’t brightly colored
In the movie, the gondola cars are vibrant and colorful, but in reality, Vail’s gondolas are sleek and silver.
9) TRUE: There is snow tubing at the top of Vail Mountain
At the top of Lionshead Gondola, you’ll find Eagle’s Nest Tubing, a thrilling way to race down the mountain in a snow tube. However, the scene in the movie wasn’t filmed in Vail—we can tell by the mountain scenery. That said, snow tubing in Vail is just as fun as it looks on screen!
10) TRUE: Vail has beautiful ice skating rinks
The ice-skating scene in the movie takes place at Alderhof Ice Rink in Lionshead Village, surrounded by well-known local businesses like The Blue Moose (a favorite pizza spot) and Rimini (a coffee and gelato café).
Photo Credit: The Arrabelle at Vail Square
11) TRUE: Vail has some of the best hot chocolate
Lacey raves about Vail’s hot chocolate, and she’s absolutely right. The nostalgia for rich, warm hot chocolate is real! Check out our guide to Best Hot Chocolate in Vail for the top spots to enjoy this winter treat.
12) TRUE: Vail locals LOVE to ski
If there’s one thing Winter in Vail got completely right, it’s that Vail is a skier’s paradise. Whether it’s downhill skiing on Vail’s famous slopes or Nordic skiing through the backcountry, locals live for the snow.
For your next ski or snowboard trip, visit American Ski Exchange for ski/snowboard rentals, winter gear, and expert recommendations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned skier, we’ll make sure you hit the slopes fully prepared!
Spend Your Own Winter in Vail!
While Winter in Vail took a few creative liberties, the magic of Vail is very real. From skiing and snowboarding to hot chocolate and incredible local restaurants, Vail is the ultimate winter escape.
Planning a trip? Stop by American Ski Exchange for the best ski rentals, gear, and insider tips to make your visit unforgettable.