The Ultimate Guide: 10 Things to do in Breckenridge

It’s about time I wrote this ultimate guide of 10 things to do in Breckenridge Colorado. This pretty mountain town is one of my favorite places in Colorado! Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions for tourists in winter, but there are many other activities to choose from.

But first, a little history about Breckenridge:

Breck was established in 1859 after prospectors discovered gold in placer mines (dug straight down) along the Blue River and Idaho Springs during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. Soon others rushed to Summit County to stake a claim.

Last month, I bushwhacked through the forest and came upon a clearing. When the snow sloped downward in a large bowl, I turned back. I didn’t want to fall into a placer mine by accident! These commonplace mines are located along most trails.

General George E. Spencer named the town after Vice President, John C. Breckinridge and gained the first post office between the Continental Divide and Salt Lake City. Yes, flattery wins. When the VP sided with the Confederates as a brigadier general, the townspeople changed the spelling to Breckenridge.

In 1961, the first ski runs were cut into the Ten Mile Range on Peak 8. Since then, Breckenridge Ski Resort has expanded to Peaks 6 – 10 providing a wide variety of terrain for all abilities of skiers and boarders.

10 things to do in Breckenridge:

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Spend the day or half a day skiing or riding one of the most beautiful mountains in Summit County. With 2908 acres and 187 trails, you could easily spend a whole week exploring Peaks 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Make sure to have your picture taken by Epic Mix at the top of Peak 8!

Park in town and take the gondola to Peak 7 or 8. From there the Breckenridge Ski Resort is yours to explore.

Snowshoeing

Bring them with you or rent at one of three Charter Sports locations in Breckenridge.

There are many awesome snowshoe trails in Breckenridge.

Click for the conditions of winter trails in Breck.

The Nordic Center

Check out the Breckenridge Nordic Center for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing where equipment can be rented. Or stop by their rustic lodge for a drink and snacks and enjoy the view. There’s plenty of free parking.

Ice Skating

This is a blast and a good workout. I grew up in Wisconsin and figure-skated after school. Not challenging enough? There’s a hockey rink next door. The indoor rinks are available to the public for a very reasonable fee.

Shopping

Spend the day shopping. Main Street is lined with boutiques and restaurants of all kinds. From high-end retailers like Overland Sheepskin to souvenir shops, I’m sure you will find something to take home with you.

Breckenridge dining, drinking, shopping

Restaurants

My favorites include Giampietro Pizza for a slice and a salad. Flipside Burger for handcrafted shakes, triple fried fries, and natural burgers. Southridge Seafood Grill for the obvious, and Legends Steak and Italian for their cozy atmosphere and a delicious meal. Stop by The Crown for a cup of hot chocolate, or something stronger, and play a game while resting up for tomorrow’s activities. There are several seating areas and games to choose from.

Breckenridge Recreation Center

Want to stay in shape while on vacation? The Breckenridge Recreation Center includes indoor tennis, a pool and splash area, a gym, rock wall, racquetball, and several fitness and weight rooms. They are all open to the public.

Ghost tour

I took the ghost tour a couple of years ago. It was filled with documented historical highlights of the town along with incredible stories. I remember reading about the wind sheer that leveled trees down the mountain all the way to the cemetery but didn’t know the bone-chilling events leading up to it. The town had formed a procession to that very site the day before.

Escape Room Breckenridge

That was the most intense hour I’ve ever spent in Breckenridge. When you sign up, they may add people to your group. The more puzzle-solvers the better. It takes a team to unlock the clues before time is up. Tick, tock… Escape Room Breckenridge

Weekend Events

From Ullr fest to the International Snow Sculpture Challenge and Mardi Gras there is always something going on in Breckenridge. Check this link to see what’s on Breck’s event calendar.

2020 UPDATE:

Sleigh ride and dinner!

Our family went on a sleigh ride and enjoyed a surprisingly amazing buffet dinner through Breckenridge Stables. It was very cold so dress like you’re going to play in the snow. They provide wool blankets, but I would bring a warm one.

I could go on and on, but these ten ELEVEN ideas should fill your time pretty quickly. I hope you add Breckenridge, Colorado to your ultimate travel bucket list!

Have you been to Breckenridge? Which activity intrigues you the most?

Escape Room – You Have to Try This.

Snowshoeing Photo Essay

Breckenridge’s Short-Lived Masterpieces – Photo Essay