Betty Ford Alpine Gardens: A Rocky Mountain Oasis
Explore the world's highest botanical garden in Vail, Colorado, featuring stunning alpine flora and serene mountain views. Open year-round, free admission!
Discover the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in North America, nestled in Vail, Colorado. Explore diverse alpine flora from around the world in a serene mountain setting, with free admission and year-round access.
A brief summary to Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
- 522 S Frontage Rd E, Vail, Colorado, 81657, US
- +1970-476-0103
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months (mid-June through August) to experience the gardens in full bloom.
- Check the calendar for tours, workshops, and special events like yoga in the gardens.
- Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as shade is limited.
- Consider taking the free Vail bus to the Golden Peak or Ford Park stop.
Getting There
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Walking
From Vail Village, walk east along South Frontage Road or take the scenic path alongside Gore Creek (Betty Ford Way) to Ford Park. The gardens are located east of the Vail Village, approximately a 10-minute walk.
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Public Transport
Take the free in-town bus to the Golden Peak bus stop. From there, walk across the street through the Manor Vail Lodge breezeway into Ford Park. Alternatively, take the Orange, Blue, or Yellow routes to the Ford Park bus stop and follow the path past the tennis courts to the gardens. Bus service is free.
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Parking
Parking is available at the Vail Village Parking Structure (Exit 176, head east on South Frontage Road) for $2/hour, with the first hour free. It's a 7-10 minute walk to the gardens. The Ford Park Parking Lot, located half a mile east of the Vail Village parking structure, also offers parking for $2/hour, with the first hour free. Note that during events in Ford Park, a $20 parking fee may apply.
Discover more about Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Manor Vail
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Visit Vail
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The Wren at Vail by East West Hospitality
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Larkspur Events & Dining
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Gravity Haus Vail
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Education Center, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
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Covered Bridge
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10th Mountain Division Memorial
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Vail Village
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Albert Einstein Statue
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International Bridge
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Vail International Gallery
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Vail Interfaith Chapel
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Vail
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First Chair
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Red Lion
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Patagonia - Vail Village
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Gorsuch
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Vail Resort Wear
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