Gift Shop

The Historic Schoolhouse Museum & Gift Shop

Housed in the historic one-room schoolhouse that was used to educate the local schoolchildren of local farming and ranch families, the Gift Shop is a must-visit stop in the Gardens. As you stroll through this preserved piece of Vail history, you’ll discover:

Art for Your Garden: Unique sculptures and weather-resistant pieces that bring the beauty of the alpine home.
Outdoor Essentials: Premium accessories designed for the rugged, elegant Colorado lifestyle.
Entertaining in Style: Durable, high-end serviceware perfect for your next backyard party or mountain picnic.

Located in the Children’s Garden near the main entrance.

Open Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend
10am – 4pm Daily

All proceeds from Gift Shop sales support the gardens work in education, horticulture and conservation.

Books, Seeds and Science at the Education Center

Just a short walk along Betty Ford Way, our Education Center offers a selection of treasures for the curious-minded and science seekers. In addition to seasonal indoor exhibits and interactive displays, you’ll find:

A Botanical Library: Locally and nationally sourced books on alpine ecology, horticulture, and Rocky Mountain history. Including On The Roof Of The Rocky Mountains: The Botanical Legacy of Betty Ford Alpine Gardens book.
Garden Starters: A curated selection of seeds for you to take home to your own garden.
For Little Explorers: Interactive, sustainable toys that inspire the next generation of scientists and conservationists.
Kirsten E. Liebhaber Memorial Library: The library is located in the Education Center back offices. It is a non-circulating collection with the primary purpose to support staff research and Members’ gardening needs.

On the Roof of the Rocky Mountains

On the Roof of the Rocky Mountains: the Botanical Legacy of Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is available at the Schoolhouse Gift Shop and the Education Center or order online below.

Seasonal Ice Cream Cart

You can find Artisanal Snacks & Seasonal Sweets at the Seasonal Ice Cream Cart located within the Gardens. Perfect for a mid-stroll break on a sunny Vail afternoon, or when you need just a quick stop and a small bite to sustain you until the next big meal.

Every Purchase Supports Conservation

We are a privately funded 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Unlike other retail shops in the village, 100% of the proceeds from our shops directly support our work in:

Education: Funding programs for local students and visitors.
Horticulture: Maintaining the delicate beauty of our five-acre sanctuary.
Conservation: Protecting rare alpine species through our global seed bank and research.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens