The words “ski vacation” make me picture myself in a cozy lodge, cocktail in hand, wrapped in a fuzzy blanket, rather than flying down a mountain at terrifying speeds. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good ski town. The snow-dusted rooftops, twinkling lights, and après-ski energy are unmatched. But when my partner’s out chasing powder, I’m chasing something else. Usually a fireplace, a spa, or maybe the world’s best hot chocolate.
Luckily, there are plenty of destinations that strike the perfect balance for both slope-lovers and those of us who prefer to spectate from the hot tub. These are the ski towns for non skiers and snow lovers alike – places where you can enjoy all the winter magic without strapping on skis.
Park City, Utah
“Park City has a lively energy that extends far beyond the slopes,” says Dean Seguin, Publisher at Travelzoo. “Its historic Main Street is filled with independent boutiques, wine bars and art galleries, creating a walkable downtown that feels more Sundance than snowplow.”
If skiing’s not your thing, Park City still delivers plenty of fun. You can unwind with a blissful massage at one of the town’s high-end spas, wander through the Wasatch Mountains on a snowshoe adventure, or get your adrenaline fix on the alpine coaster. When hunger strikes, the culinary scene more than holds its own. Savor mountain-inspired dishes at Riverhorse on Main, then toast the day with a whiskey cocktail at High West Distillery, the only ski-in distillery in the world (yes, really).
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is one of those ski towns for non skiers that feels straight out of a snow globe. Because the slopes circle a picture-perfect mountain village, you don’t need skis to enjoy the magic.
Spend the day sipping glühwein at a cozy café, shopping for Swiss chocolate, or riding the Gornergrat Railway for amazing Matterhorn views. Adventure seekers can try winter hiking or ice skating, while wellness lovers can unwind in one of the town’s luxurious alpine spas. When the sun sets, Zermatt’s lantern-lit streets and fondue-filled restaurants make it hard to call it a night.
Breckenridge, Colorado
One of the best ski towns for anyone who’d rather skip the slopes, Breck has plenty to keep you busy (and cozy). Grab a gooey treat at Mountain Top Cookie Shop and warm up with hot chocolate, catch an indie film at the Eclipse Theater, or take a guided snowshoe hike through the forest. For unbeatable mountain views, drive up to Sapphire Point, or unleash your inner kid while sledding at Carter Park.
“Living in Denver, I feel lucky to have so many amazing mountain towns within just a couple of hours,” says Jonathan Marsico, President and Co-Founder of ShipSkis. “If you’re more of a low-key traveler, Breckenridge has this really easygoing Main Street energy with great coffee spots, breweries, and shops – perfect for a relaxed weekend.”
Banff, Alberta, Canada
If you’re dreaming of a snowy escape without the pressure to ski, visit Banff. It’s a winter wonderland tailor-made for relaxation and scenic adventures. Spend a blissful afternoon soaking in the steamy Banff Upper Hot Springs or browsing the charming shops and cozy restaurants along Banff Avenue.
For the most amazing views, ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where you can take in the Rockies in all their glory. And don’t miss the frozen waterfalls at Johnston Canyon or the postcard-perfect, snow-dusted shores of Lake Louise.
Avoriaz, France
Avoriaz in the French Alps, part of Portes du Soleil, is one of the largest ski areas in the world. This car-free resort looks like it’s been sculpted right out of the cliffs, and with horse-drawn sleighs instead of shuttles, just walking around feels like stepping onto a snow-covered movie set.
“Afternoons roll straight into après-ski with live DJs on the slopes and bars have people dancing in ski boots by 4 p.m.,” says Georgia Fowkes, travel advisor at Altezza Travel. “By midnight, the vibe feels like a mountain rave – and that’s before the festival crowd even arrives.”
Big Sky, Montana
Among the best places to visit in Montana, Big Sky proves that you don’t need skis to fall in love with winter. This serene alpine escape invites visitors to explore snowshoe and Nordic trails that wind through peaceful pine forests or indulge in a spa day at spots like Santosha Wellness Center.
Foodies can savor elevated mountain cuisine at Montage Big Sky or One&Only Moonlight Basin, while thrill-seekers can glide through Moonlight Basin on a sled pulled by a team of spirited Alaskan huskies. With its growing art, dining, and live music scene, and easy access to Yellowstone National Park, it’s one of those ski towns for non skiers that delivers the full mountain experience, minus the skis.
Stowe, Vermont
Head to Stowe, Vermont for a New England-style ski vacation. “It’s of course a great place to actually go skiing – it has tons of slopes and is considered by many to be one of, if not the, best towns in the New England area for skiing,” says Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago. “But it also has so much to offer beyond skiing. Its village is easily walkable and has lots of charming shops, restaurants, and other activities. All of that ranges from affordable to fancy, so there’s something for everyone.”
Head to hotspots like The Alchemist Brewery and Idletyme for some delicious food and beer, or wander over to the ice skating rink at Spruce Peak Village for a bit of exercise. The area is also home to several great snowshoeing and hiking trails.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Perfectly situated between Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Jackson Hole is an adventurer’s paradise, and one of the ultimate ski towns for non skiers. The charming Jackson Town Square is full of Wild West character, complete with cozy bars like the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and elevated dining at The Bistro.
Stay at the Four Seasons in Teton Village, where you can ice skate, go on a Wildlife Safari, or unwind with après-ski cocktails in the Sno ’65 poolside dome or Ascent Lounge. For something truly unforgettable, take a snow coach tour through Yellowstone or head up to the Snow King Observatory for incredible stargazing that’ll make you forget all about the slopes.
