12 Ski Towns to Visit Even If You Don't Ski

Explore these 12 Ski Towns offering more than just slopes! Discover charming shops, indulge in gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in vibrant après-ski scenes. Enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, or scenic gondola rides. With cozy lodging and stunning mountain views, these destinations promise unforgettable vacation experiences, regardless of your skiing ability. Perfect for a winter getaway!

Thinking about a winter getaway but not a fan of hitting the slopes? You're in luck! Many charming ski towns offer a wealth of activities beyond skiing, from snowshoeing and ice skating to cozying up by the fire with a good book. These destinations boast stunning scenery, delicious dining, vibrant nightlife, and unique cultural experiences, making them perfect for a winter escape, regardless of your skiing abilities. So, pack your warmest layers and get ready to explore our list of 12 ski towns perfect for the non-skier.

12 Ski Towns for Non-Skiers: A Winter Wonderland Awaits

Here are 12 incredible ski towns that offer plenty to do even if you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground. We've highlighted some key activities and attractions to help you plan your perfect winter adventure:

Town	Location	Why Visit (Besides Skiing)	Must-Do Activities
Park City, Utah	Utah, USA	Known for its upscale amenities, film festival, and historic Main Street.	Explore historic Main Street, visit the Sundance Film Festival (if timed right), indulge in fine dining, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Aspen, Colorado	Colorado, USA	A glamorous destination with high-end shopping, art galleries, and stunning mountain views.	Browse the art galleries, enjoy gourmet meals, go ice skating at the Aspen Recreation Center, take a scenic gondola ride (even without skiing).
Banff, Alberta	Alberta, Canada	Breathtaking scenery, natural hot springs, and abundant wildlife.	Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, explore the town's shops and restaurants, take a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, visit the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site.
Whistler, British Columbia	British Columbia, Canada	A vibrant village, world-class dining, and exciting outdoor adventures.	Explore the village, ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola (offering spectacular views), try snowmobiling or dog sledding, visit the Audain Art Museum.
Telluride, Colorado	Colorado, USA	A charming town with a rich history, stunning waterfalls, and a relaxed atmosphere.	Ride the free gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village, explore the historic downtown, hike to Bridal Veil Falls (winter conditions permitting), enjoy the local breweries and restaurants.
Stowe, Vermont	Vermont, USA	A classic New England town with picturesque scenery, charming shops, and delicious local cuisine.	Visit the Trapp Family Lodge (of "The Sound of Music" fame), explore the town's shops and restaurants, take a scenic drive through the Vermont countryside, sample local maple syrup and cheeses.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming	Wyoming, USA	Rugged mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and a true Western atmosphere.	Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art, take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, explore the town square, enjoy the local breweries and distilleries.
Lake Placid, New York	New York, USA	Home to two Winter Olympics, offering a rich history and a variety of winter activities.	Visit the Olympic Jumping Complex, tour the Olympic Museum, go ice skating at the Olympic Oval, explore the town's shops and restaurants.
Vail, Colorado	Colorado, USA	A sophisticated destination with upscale shopping, fine dining, and a vibrant nightlife.	Explore Vail Village, enjoy the fine dining options, go snow tubing or ice skating, take a scenic gondola ride.
Zermatt, Switzerland	Switzerland	Car-free village with stunning views of the Matterhorn, offering a charming and peaceful escape.	Take the Gornergrat Railway for stunning views of the Matterhorn, explore the village, visit the Matterhorn Museum, go winter hiking.
Chamonix, France	France	Famous for its mountaineering history and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.	Ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car for incredible views of Mont Blanc, explore the town, visit the Musée Alpin, go snowshoeing.
Queenstown, New Zealand	New Zealand	Adventure capital of the world, offering a wide range of thrilling activities and stunning scenery.	Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, try bungy jumping or white water rafting (even in winter!), explore the town's shops and restaurants.

Beyond the Slopes: Embrace the Winter Charm

These ski towns offer a unique blend of winter beauty and exciting activities that go far beyond the slopes. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, you're sure to find something to love in these charming destinations. From exploring historic streets to indulging in delicious cuisine to simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, these ski towns offer a memorable winter escape for everyone. So, ditch the skis and embrace the magic of winter in one of these fantastic locations!

Planning Your Non-Skiing Ski Town Getaway

When planning your trip, consider the time of year, your budget, and your interests. Research local events and attractions, book accommodations in advance (especially during peak season), and pack appropriately for cold weather. Don't forget to factor in travel time and transportation options to and from your chosen destination. With a little planning, you can create an unforgettable winter vacation in one of these amazing ski towns, even if you don't ski.