Best Outdoor Patio -- Rural

When spring hits, the Wildflower opens up its gorgeous patio, known as The Terrace. Situated on the backside of Gore Creek and at the base of Vail Mountain -- which means you're protected from the wind -- the enormous wooden deck offers wildflower-framed views of the mountains, with huge yellow and white umbrellas providing shelter from the sun. This is where locals gather to nibble on the Wildflower's sublime salads and to-die-for desserts -- the strawberry-rhubarb cake with kiwi sauce is a charmer -- and sip champagne while dreaming of the ski season to come.