Traversing Colorado’s breathtaking Rocky Mountains? Uncover hidden gems as you comb through all the best things to do in Breckenridge, Colorado. Chock-loaded with historical shops, museums, and ski resorts, this beautiful mountain town is a must-see destination for any Colorado trip itinerary.
Perched in the heart of the Rockies, Breckenridge is stacked with hundreds of hiking trails and year-round outdoor activities, including some of the finest skiing in the world. Digging into the top tourist attractions in Breckenridge, you can scout for souvenirs & outdoor apparel on historic Main Street, strap on a pair of skis to carve the pistes at Breckenridge Ski Resort, or discover Colorado’s gold mining history at Country Boy Mine.
Can’t decide what to do on your Breck vacation? Flee to the Rocky Mountains with this complete guide to the best places to visit in Breckenridge, CO.
Got more travel plans on the horizon? Check out all our other attractions guides and our Colorado Travel Guide for more ideas on where to go, when to visit & what to do!
Must-see places to visit in Breckenridge, CO
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Itching to hit the slopes? Skiers need to start their Breckenridge trip at Breckenridge Ski Resort to feel the thrill of over 187 trails spread across 2,907 skiable acres.
Explore the beauty of nature across five Rocky Mountain peaks at one of Colorado’s most popular ski resorts. Breckenridge Ski Resort offers runs for every level of skier or snowboarder, from beginner to advanced. Aside from hittin’ the ski slopes, other winter activities in & around this famous Colorado ski resort include dog sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and fat biking.
Visiting in the summer? Enjoy the warm Breckenridge weather and indulge in fun Colorado summer activities like romping along the Alpine Loop hiking trail, flying through the air on Expedition Zipline Tour, or gawking at the mountain views from the gondola on the resort’s scenic chairlift ride.
Treat your eyes to the refreshing panoramic views as you go mountain biking on the trails and flip around terrain parks like Trygve’s Terrain Park and Park Lane Terrain Park. If you want more action, head to Peak 8 Fun Park to shriek in delight on the Gold Runner Coaster, bounce around at Riperoo’s Bounce House, or shoot up to 20 feet in the air on the bungee trampoline!
Boreas Pass Road
Enjoy Colorado’s exquisite mountain views on the stunning 22-mile drive along Boreas Pass Road. Traversing Colorado’s central Rockies, the roadway connects the Colorado alpine town of Breckenridge with historic Como in Park County.
Along Boreas Pass Road, you’ll immerse in the magnificent beauty of Blue River Valley and stunning views over the Tenmile Range as you cross over the Continental Divide.
Up for some hiking? Park your vehicle at Bakers Tank Trailhead, lace up your hiking shoes, and meander through the woods along one of the area’s many hiking trails. In winter, many of the trails around Boreas Pass also double as cross-country skiing routes.
To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent at the Selkirk CG on the Summit County side of the route. The campground offers 15 campsites, available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Breckenridge Nordic Center
Want to enjoy winter activities in Breckenridge without zipping down the mountainside? Head over to the Breckenridge Nordic Center to enjoy some of the area’s finest snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Featuring 20 miles of trails, this ski area is one of the coolest places to go in Breckenridge for active winter fun.
Relish a one-hour Snowshoe Adventures trip that’ll lead you smoothly down Breckenridge Nordic Center’s groomed trails. You can tackle the trail and enjoy this pristine slice of nature by yourself or in a group; it’s all up to you!
Or engage in a Snowcat Adventure Tour, riding around the trails in a heated, all-glass cabin. The tour unlocks beautiful views of the Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve. You’ll also learn about the center’s history while warming up with hot chocolate and s’mores.
Didn’t bring along your gear? Check out the center’s shopping arena. Here, you can rent or buy all the equipment you’ll need to tackle all the winter outdoor activities at Breckenridge Nordic Center.
Breckenridge Historic District
Looking to learn all about the rich history of Breck? Take a walk in the Breckenridge Historic District to unravel the elements that make this Colorado mining town so remarkable.
Take a walk in the historic downtown, housing a blend of commercial, residential, and religious buildings. In Breckenridge Historic District, you’ll admire the facades of three 19th-century churches along with several beautiful Victorian buildings. Many of the district’s loveliest buildings lie along Main Street, Ridge Street, and Lincoln Avenue. Backed by a backdrop of Tenmile Range, you’ll enjoy the panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains as you roam around the historic buildings.
If you’re an art enthusiast, saunter down to South Main Street to explore the Gary Soles Gallery and Breckenridge Gallery, two of the town’s finest art galleries. History lovers, on the other hand, can check out the Edwin Carter Museum. One of the only museums in Breckenridge, the museum chronicles the tribulations of its namesake conservationist and the impact he had on the region.
Craving a little comfort food? Grab a fork and dig in for lunch or dinner at popular local restaurants & dining spots like the upscale Hearthstone Restaurant or the family-friendly Downstairs at Eric’s.
Warm up with a cup of joe at one of Breckenridge’s many cafes & coffee shops, including the Mountain View Coffee Bar and the Cool River Coffee House. For a quick tipple, sip local craft beer at the Breckenridge Brewery & Pub, one of the area’s finest breweries. Or experience the town’s nightlife at bars like Ollie’s Pub & Grub Breck.
For more thrills, stroll just west of the historic center to ride the BreckConnect Gondola to Epic Discovery. One of the top family-friendly destinations in Breck, Epic Discovery offers a slew of fun activities for kids and adults alike, including a ropes course, climbing wall, mini golf, and an alpine rollercoaster.
Country Boy Mine
Ever longed to learn about the life of a gold rush miner? Drive to the Country Boy Mine in Summit County to uncover the area’s long mining history.
At Country Boy Mine, you’ll learn all about the lives of miners in a gold mining town in the 19th century. Take a gold mine tour 1,000 feet down and discover old mining equipment like hammers, shovels, and chisels. You can also choose to go on a gold rush of your own and slide down the 55-foot ore chute.
If you’re visiting Country Boy Mine with family, savor the fun at the treasure hunt events. Follow the clues and scour for buried treasure with a metal detector—you might just find something amazing!
Peaks Trail
Searching for more trails and outdoor activities around Breck? Lace up your boots and check out the Peaks Trail. Running nine miles between Breckenridge and Frisco, this popular hiking and biking trail started its life as an old mining road in the 1800s.
With minimal elevation gain, the Peaks Trail is one of Breck’s most popular routes for hikers and mountain bikers. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views over the Tenmile Range as you careen alongside an old mining aqueduct. You can join the trail either from Peak 7 in Breckenridge or Rainbow Park in Frisco.
If you’re looking for a longer hiking adventure, the Peaks Trail also connects to the Gold Hill Trail. The 6.6-mile round-trip will transport you through 770 feet of elevation gain, unleashing breathtaking views of the Upper Blue River Valley. The Gold Hill Trail is also part of the famous Colorado Trail, stretching 400 miles between Denver and Durango.
High Line Railroad Park
Fascinated by trains? Spend time exploring High Line Railroad Park in downtown Breckenridge to discover the area’s railroad history. For train and railway enthusiasts, this historic park is one of the coolest tourist attractions in Breckenridge.
Take a walk in the small museum at High Line Railroad Park to marvel at the vintage narrow-gauge rotary plow and other locomotives. Discover the park’s prime attraction, Engine No 9, parked in Rotary Snowplow Park. Be sure to save time to explore other interactive exhibits like the flatcar exhibit, boxcar diorama, and the replica of a C&S caboose.
If you’re visiting High Line Railroad Park with kids, set them loose to enjoy themselves in the railroad-themed playground. Kids will also savor the fun of blowing Engine No 9’s whistle.
Spruce Creek Trail
Offer your eyes a refreshing and relaxing view! Take the Spruce Creek Trail and gaze at some stunning scenery as you walk through its spruce and fir forests.
Located near Blue River, the Spruce Creek Trail runs 6.2 miles return. Enjoying hikes on the out-and-back trail, you’ll witness the beauty of Lower Mohawk Lake. Ascend further to enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Helen.
Moving forward on a steeper incline, you can also marvel at the rough section of the Tenmile Range. Experience the beauty of Continental Falls through the steeper part of the trail.
If you’re hiking the Spruce Creek Trail in winter, be sure to carry your microspikes or wear snowshoes.
McCullough Gulch Trail
If extra challenging trails are not your cup of tea, opt for the moderately difficult McCullough Gulch Trail. Located at an elevation of 951 feet, the trail is part of the White River National Forest.
Begin your McCullough Gulch Trail hike at the old mining road and move towards the steep track leading to a field of boulders. Gaze at the fascinating beauty of wildflowers and surrounding mountains through the pines on the way up. As you’ll ascend, you’ll enjoy marvelous views of the valley and a stunning lake.
Find a quiet place to spread out your picnic mat and spend some relaxing time with your family. You may even spot some mountain goats and find places to play in the residual snow in the summers!
Gold Run Nordic Center
Looking for more winter activity options around Breck? Hit up the Gold Run Nordic Center and witness eye-popping views along its 15km of snowshoe trails and 30km of cross-country skiing trails.
For winter sports enthusiasts, there’s plenty to enjoy at Gold Run Nordic Center. Feel the cool winter wind brush your face as you tackle various adventurous activities like snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, fat biking, and sleigh rides.
After burning a few calories, check out the remodeled clubhouse at this popular Breckenridge ski area. Refuel with a delicious lunch while warming up in front of the fireplace.
Need a refresher on your skills? Book yourself in for private and group ski lessons. If you need equipment, you can rent or buy gear from the on-site pro shop.
Quandary Peak
Looking for more challenging hiking options around Breck? One of the most popular day trips from Breckenridge is to head towards Quandary Peak in White River National Forest and feel the elevation gain with each step.
The highest summit in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak can be accessed from Hoosier Pass. Although only 6.75 miles return, the hike ascends 3,450 feet over rocky terrain and is strenuous. It’ll all be worth it in the end as you marvel at mesmerizing views of the Rocky Mountains, with several “fourteeners” peeking into the vista, like Mt. Bross, Mt. Lincoln, Mt. Cameron, and Mt. Democrat.
Breckenridge Recreation Center
Feeling the need to stretch your body during the Breckenridge road trip? Venture into the Breckenridge Recreation Center and warm up with a little exercise.
Covering an area of 69,000 square feet, the Breckenridge Recreation Center offers visitors a plethora of both indoor and outdoor activities.
If you’re traveling in summer, burn off a few calories in the lap pool, cool down in the swimming pool, or enjoy some water thrill by sliding down the two-story water slide. For a more chilled-out visit to the rec center, refresh and relax with a sauna and spa session.
If you prefer to be outdoors, challenge yourself on the tennis court, basketball court, and softball fields. The center also features a skate park if you’re traveling with your board in tow.
Mountain Top Explorium
Looking for a fun excursion with the kids? Surprise them with a trip to the Mountain Top Explorium. Located downtown, this children’s museum is one of the most popular Breckenridge attractions for families scooting around Colorado.
Packed with a number of interactive activities, the Mountain Top Explorium provides kids with plenty of hands-on learning opportunities. Unlock their imagination with fun & educational exhibits like the Mountain Top Medical Center, Rocky Mountain Wildlife, and Creation Station.
Barney Ford Museum
Up for experiencing a time-traveling history tour? Head to the historical Barney Ford Museum on East Washington Avenue to uncover a remarkable story.
Located in downtown Breckenridge, the Barney Ford Museum unwraps the fascinating tale of a man who escaped slavery to become a successful businessman and civil rights activist.
At the historical museum, you can take a guided or self-guided tour to admire the elegant Victorian design and immerse yourself in Ford’s life through portraits and furnishings.
During the high tourist season, the Barney Ford Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. There’s no set admission fee; recommended donation is $5.
Breckenridge Distillery
Looking for a fun apres-ski activity? After hitting the slopes, sprint over to the Breckenridge Distillery on Airport Road to sample some of America’s finest craft vodka and gin.
Ranked as Whisky Magazine’s 2021 Visitor Attraction of the Year, Breckenridge Distillery offers weekly behind-the-scenes tours. On the Sunday tasting tour, you’ll taste the award-winning Breckenridge Vodka, Gin, and Bourbon Whiskey. At the end of the tour, you’ll snag a Glen Carin tasting glass to take home with you.
Built up an appetite on your tasting tour? Head to the on-site restaurants for an eating spree. Chow down delicious meals and appetizers, including smoked pork belly buns, Kobe New York strip steak, charred sweet potatoes, and confit pork jowls.
Wash it all down from 3 pm to 5 pm with one of the restaurant’s happy hour deals!
Blue Lakes Trail
Looking for more outdoor fun around Breck? Meander along the Blue Lakes Trail to marvel at breathtaking views of beautiful snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes.
Start your Blue Lakes Trail adventure at the trailhead, located at the end of Blue Lake Road off Highway 9, about 7 miles south of Breckenridge. As you traipse along the 2.5-mile out-and-back trail, you’ll soak up incredible vistas over Quandary Peak, North Star Mountain, and Wheeler Mountain as wildflowers sway in the breeze.
Carter Park
Not into snowboarding or skiing? Find your way to Carter Park. Not far from the center of town, the popular public park is blessed with family-friendly amenities like picnic tables, courts, and fields.
In winter, enjoy gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains from the top of the sledding hill, the prime spot in Carter Park. In the summer months, the whole family can enjoy outdoor sports like tennis, volleyball, and baseball.
If you’re traveling with your pup, let them play and wander in the Carter Dog Park while you enjoy the scenic views.
Isak Heartstone
Searching for Breck’s quirkier side? Take a walk in the woods to say “hi” to Isak Heartstone. Located on the Trollstigen Trail, this giant wooded troll sculpture stands 15 feet tall and is one of the town’s coolest destinations for anyone who loves fun, quirky art.
Isak Heartstone was built by Danish artist Thomas Dambo in 2018 for the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts. The friendly wooden troll has since become a local favorite, becoming an instant Instagram star.
The easiest way to visit Isak Heartstone is to either walk from town or take the free shuttle bus from the base of the BreckConnect Gondola. The 1-mile-long Trollstigen Trail winds into Illinois Gulch from the Illinois Creek Trailhead.
Recommended places to stay in Breckenridge for sightseeing
Unsurprisingly, Breckenridge’s accommodation scene developed for the ski crowd. Many of the best places to stay in Breckenridge lie around the Historic District and its slopes, particularly around Peak 9 and Four O’Clock. Expect a wide mix of lodgings here, including hotels, ski lodges, condos, and other vacation rentals.
Water House on Main Street
Make these cozy apartments your home away from home in Breck. After a day on the slopes, relax in front of the stone fireplace in your own space or soak away the stress with mountain views in the outdoor plunge pools.
Marriott’s Mountain Valley Lodge at Breckenridge
Located on the edge of Maggie Pond, this condo hotel delivers exquisite mountain and water views from every angle. Besides the spacious and comfortable studios and villas, guests will enjoy elegant shared spaces with a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, hot tub, and BBQ facilities.
Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge
With its Main Street location, this popular resort-style hotel is the perfect spot for launching your Breckenridge adventures. Shake away the winter blues with a plunge in the steaming outdoor pool, admiring the surrounding snow-capped peaks. End your evening with appetizers and a cocktail in the Base Camp Lounge, the hotel’s on-site restaurant & bar.
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