One of my favorite Colorado destinations, period, is Breckenridge. A town up in the Rockies that was founded during Pikes Peak Gold Rush era. Though a time of mining and frontier past, Breck has since evolved into the vibrant town that it is today with well-preserved downtown buildings, museums and active saloons; remnants from our rich history.
Today, Breck Ski Resort is a major contributor to the Colorado economy and year after year sees hoardes of skiers flocking its slopes. Summer guests can also come there to fish in clear lakes, hike up to waterfalls and see colorful wildflowers blooming on the mountain passes.
Without taking into account when you arrive, Breckenridge is going to give you a mind free vacation. A Complete Visitor’s Guide for the Coolest Things To Do in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Top Activities in Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge imbues visitors with an intoxicating blend of not only rich history but also natural wonder.
Elsewhere, the downtown houses a mix of brilliantly restored edifices serving as shops, galleries or eateries that are all buoyed by it’s inherent quaintness.
Popular attractions include the downtown mining history museum, large troll named Isak Heartstone, beautiful vistas of neighboring mountains and Dillon Reservoir that entice visitors to this mountain town throughout the year.
Discover the Best Things to do in Breckenridge, CO.
1. Start Your Journey at the Breckenridge Welcome Center
Located at 203 South Main Street, the Breckenridge Welcome Center is an ideal starting point for anyone in town to take a look around.
Not only does this center offer historical musings, but it also serves as an information hub with maps and recommendations on things to see in the area.
The exhibits look back on the town’s mining heritage, offer a little information about wildlife in the area and trace how skiing has evolved over time here.
For more on the history of Breckenridge, leave from its center with a complimentary Historic Walking Tour.
Here are a few reasons visiting the Breckenridge Welcome Center should be at top of your list — they help to make understanding, learning and experiencing all this mountain town has to offer effortlessly accessible.
2. Experience the Charm of Historic Main Street
At the heart of those traits is Downtown Breckenridge — centered around its Historic Main Street.
The thoroughfare once teeming with gold miners during the gold rush now thrives in a new age.
The marvelous collection of preserved and restored Victorians on most of Historic Main Street are from the mid to late 19th century.
Once saloons and general stores, these structures now hold a collection of modern fare.
One of the most significant buildings is The Barney Ford House Museum, built by freed slave T.D. Block(native son) in acknowledgment to another native born hero Barney Ford.
The former residence of a runaway slave who eventually became one of Breckenridge’s most prominent businessmen and civil rights advocates offers an insightful glance into the broader history that has shaped this ever-evolving town.
Historic Main Street is not only historically significant, but it features a number of attractions as well.
A vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike Abounds with unique boutiques, galleries, restaurants & breweries
Annual events only add to the street’s constant excitement.
What cannot be denied however, is the backdrop of these crazy streets -the beautiful Rocky Mountains continue to loom above each city early evening providing a picturesque and omnipresent dose of reality amongst all this craziness.
3. Take a Hike to Visit the Breckenridge Troll
Isak Heartstone—referred to as the Breckenridge Troll by locals—is a magical place for anyone who appreciates art or folklore.
Danish artist Thomas Dambo is no stranger to creating large-scale installations from reclaimed materials, and this new 15 foot tall wooden sculpture continues the fun.
The whimsical personality, details and design make visitors of all ages enthusiastic to be lured in by Isak.
It sits serenely in the midst of the trees, quietly awaiting a spot for people to capture photographs and create memories.
Trollstigen Trail, in Illinois Gulch: This is a short trail close to town that can be accessed by hikers of all fitness levels.
A wooden sign within the forest will lead you to Isak Heartstone, less than a mile on foot from your car.
And take a photo for your Instagram.
4. Explore the Barney Ford Victorian House Museum
The Barney Ford Victorian House Museum- a historical landmark named after an escaped slave who rose to the title of wealthiest black man from Colorado, offers visitors even more local charm.
This museum at 111 East Washington Avenue was originally Ford’s home and still preserves the legacy of his fascinating life in Colorado.
The museum is maintained as a shrine, presenting what has to be the definitive exhibit of everything Ford ever did.
Guests can explore his risky flight from slavery, how he made a fortune as well as pushed tenaciously on the matter of African-American voting right.
In every room throughout the mansion, is Victorian furniture that offers a glimpse inside Ford’s private life.
More than just a historic landmark, the Barney Ford Victorian House Museum is also a site dedicated to the memory of man whose contributions still resonate in Colorado.
More people interested in the history of Fort Collins should stop btw this museum and check out through it’s exhibits, reflecting not just relentless character from Barney Ford.
5. Explore the Edwin Carter Discovery Center and Museum
One of the most interesting historical spots in Breckenridge is the Edwin Carter Discovery Center and Museum; a monument to gold miner turned dedicated taxidermist/naturalist Edwin Carter.
Located at 111 North Ridge Street, this museum used to be the log cabin residence where Carter resided and dedicated his life towards preserving much of Colorado’s wildlife.
The Museum’s two floors of exhibition reveal the life and specimens of Carter.
Original displays, some as old as the mid 1800s help to tell the story of Rocky Mountain wildlife.
Aside from the displays, there are also lots of interactive educational activities that make it a perfect destination for families.
In addition to the indoor exhibits, the Edwin Carter Discovery Center offers a beautiful outdoor interpretive trail.
Running amidst a calm garden, this lane is adorned with sign posts that tell stories of both vegetation and animals here.
6. Enjoy an Evening at the Breckenridge Backstage Theatre
Located downtown at 121 South Ridge Street is the Breckenridge Backstage Theatre, and this venue delivers a fun time for audiences.
First opened in 1980, the theater presents musical acts, comedy and classic films.
Besides its live shows, it also hosts regular art residencies and community events like concerts and symposiums.
This small, intimate setting is ideal for the Backstage Theatre and its shows.
And so, for the culture-laden enthusiast this makes an excellent and interesting option that you can pull off on a night.
7. Visit the Sunday Farmers Market at Main Street Station
The Sunday Farmers Market is a lively marketplace, located at 505 South Main Street where locals and visitors stock up on conversation as much as groceries.
Open on Sundays from 9 am until noon in the summertime, this market holds a wide range of local treats including orchard fruits and berries, greenhouse vegetables and herbs fresh gourmet salsas honeys home made hummus french breads freshly made pastas.
Aside from offering so much in the gastronomic department, they also have a roster of arts and crafts crafted by local artisans which provides visitors with an avenue for one-of-a-kind keepsakes or presents that showcase heart.
The market is alive with a warm and welcoming vibe —think live music, cooking classes demonstratings, powerful chats.
8. Bring the Kids to Mountain Top Explorium
Mountain Top Children’s Museum – If you’re traveling with kiddos, don’t miss this gem at 605 South Park Avenue.
This museum has been designed for children to encourage inquisitiveness and learning through interactive exhibits including plenty of hands on activities.
One highlight is the ‘Wonder Lab’, where young scientists can play with magnets, light and sound doing interactive experiments.
At the same time, the Kidstruction Zone helps children work together and use their imagination to construct items with a variety of materials.
A haven for tots, ‘Studio Imagination’ encourages toddlers to explore and get creative as they build their own houses with cushions or play in the large sandpit.
The exhibition ‘Mountain Rangers’ can be recommended for nature lovers to learn more about the local mountain world and wildlife.
There is a ‘Mine Shaft’ for kids to explore as well, where they can discover Breckenridge’s mining past while finding hidden treasures.
For animal lovers, the exhibits at Rocky Mountain Wild showcase local animals and habitats in their natural setting.
Mountain Top Children’s Museum provides a unique and fun learning experience for Breckenridge families.
9. Enjoy a Picnic at Blue River Plaza
Central to Breckenridge, Blue River Plaza is perfect for a picnic.
Located at 137 South Main Street, this riverside plaza has plenty of room for a picnic blanket where you can spread out and enjoy your food while gazing up at the incredible mountain vistas.
Next to Blue River Plaza is the Riverwalk Center, which hosts everything from concerts and film screenings to art festivals.
Main Street is within walking distance and you have lots of choices where to shop, eat and hang out.
Next to the plaza is also the serene Blue River (well, some days). It’s very picturesque and you can go on a casual walk along its bank.
10. Explore Trains at High Line Railroad Park
High Line Railroad Park, BreckenridgeSituated at the junction of Boreas Pass Road in Breckenridge While this railroad park overlooks a given name locust plains procession check to track fun for child of every age.
The park is the resting place of Engine No. 9, one of only a handful of it’s kind narrow gauge locomotives remaining in the U.S., as well as other railroading relics and artifacts.
In the park is Rotary Snowplow Park, with a steam-powered rotary snowplow from 1900 that removed deep snow drifts to keep rail lines clear during Colorado’s challenging winters.
Visitors can go and inside the engine cab as well as into the rotary snowplow for an up close feel.
Children also have a playscape modeled after the Old West town and including train-shaped climbing apparatus.
Throughout the park, interpretive signs offer information about the history of the railroad and its importance to Breckenridge.
The park also marks the beginning of the Boreas Pass Road trail, which provides a picturesque trek amongst well preserved sections of historic railbed and trestles.
The High Line Railroad Park has a rich history full of interesting exhibits that make it one place nobody would want to miss when you are interested in the countless contributions made by railroading legacies all over the Rocky Mountains.
11. Spend a Day at Carter Park and Pavilion
Located on South High Street, Carter Park and Pavilion is another local favorite gathering space in Breckenridge.
The park accommodates a heated pavilion, picnic tables and grills, children’s play equipment.
In the spring, summer and fall months the multi-use field is perfect for games like soccer or volleyball, while in winter it transforms into a hugely visited sledding hill.
During snowy conditions the sleds are available for both residents and tourists with plenty of snow-infused fun to be had hurtling down the sloped track.
However, sea beasties aside, the park is dog friendly – there’s a large dedicated area where dogs can run and play unrestricted by leads.
Further increasing its attraction, the pavilion has breathtaking views of the Tenmile Range and is a popular site for weddings and other special events.
It is a versatile recreational spot in Breckenridge throughout the year, as it serves not only residents but also tourists who want to enjoy time outdoors on cross country skiing or snowshoeing trails beginning here in winter and pleasant hiking and mountain biking routes!
12. Enjoy a Scenic Ride on the BreckConnect Gondola
Ride the BreckConnect Gondola for a fun journey.
More than just transportation, the gondola plays an integral role as a link between the town of Breckenridge and the run.
Once a day, the gondola sets out from it’s station on Watson Avenue and gently floats across above floor after wooden floor of postcard perfect vistas — over rooftops, down Main Street’s middle-of-the-road (the town shuttered anything that could compete with lunch-and-beer breaks) and toward snow-covered Rocky Mountains.
The journey only takes 10 minutes long, covering almost four thousand feet and climbs more than 400 vertical feet to offer an extreme swing ride experience you should seriously consider.
The gondola ride cost for the year is zero, and it takes you around everywhere so definitely something none should miss out undertaking.
13. Savor the Spirits at Breckenridge Distillery
Breckenridge Distillery 1925 Airport RoadThis one is just to stop in and grab some good booze for later or your kid if at he/she feels down.
This distillery has gone on to become one of the most well known craft producers in Colorado since it opened its doors back in 2008.
With everything from their award-winning vodka to spiced whiskey and aged rum, there really is a great small batch spirit for everyone.
The distillery offers a range of tasting flights, guided tours and barrel-aged cocktails.
Guests can take a tour of the production process and learn more about Breckenridge Distillery history — all while tasting some (or 14) of its best products.
14. Try Your Luck at Panning for Gold at Country Boy Mine
Learn all about Breckenridge’s mining history at the county boy mine.
The visitors center is located at the end of French Gulch Road, and offers the ability to walk 1,000 feet into one of Summit County’s oldest and deepest gold mines.
You can explore what life was like for miners in the gold rush era and see different sorts of mining equipment with a guided tour.
It also has some interesting pieces on display giving insight into both the mining history of the area and the everyday life of miners.
On the surface, there is a heritage park on which you can walk round see various mining buildings and process plant as well few remaining picturesque locations for some interesting photos.
For many people, the panning for gold alone is worth a visit.
The experienced staff will guide you though the same techniques used by 19th-century prospectors as they did in their gold mine, and get to have a try at panning for real Gold on the creek just besides of it.
You might get lucky.
15. Explore Historic Mining Equipment at Lomax Placer Mine
A quick trip from downtown Breckenridge and tucked away into Lomax Gulch sits the historic location of the Lomax Placer Mine.
A gold mine of rich history from the 1860s still active to this day.
The park even has a few miners’ cabins and a small collection of old mining equipment that can transport visitors back to an earlier era.
Expert guides tell colourful stories about the miners of old, their secret lives and give a sneak peak into mining techniques with demonstrations.
You will also given the opportunity to pan for gold under expert instruction showing you exactly how and where in your bucket of dirt those glittering flecks can be found.
It is of historical significance, and all around the views are unbelievable—all you can see for a long way in any direction is mountains.
The happy hour spot is located on the south edge of Breckenridge and its proximity to town make it a popular choice for locals as well as travelers coming in from Fairplay.
16. Enjoy Ice Skating at Stephen C West Ice Arena
189 Boreas Pass RdIn Breckenridge, you’ll find ice skating at Stephen C West Ice Arena to be one of the most popular winter activities.
This centre has two rinks—one indoor, one outdoor—and is where much of the ice related fun in town happens.
Programs for the arena run year round and include public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, figure skating instruction or free skate rentals if you need.
Stephen C West Ice Arena offers a fun, lively ambiance and plays host to visitors of all ages.
17. Take in the Scenery at Sapphire Point Overlook
High on the banks of Dillon Reservoir sits this gem in White River National Forest: Sapphire Point Overlook.
The surroundings mountains and lake are beautiful than it appears in the picture.
A trail near Sapphire Point that is a gentle 0.6-mile loop and open to all hiking levels.
The hike also involves a stroll on the path that will take you through cedar and pine forest to open meadows come july time, including masses of wildflowers.
The air gets thin at 9,500 feet though the gradual incline makes it accessible for most.
Hikers will likely also see woodsy critters like chipmunks and squirrels on the trail.
Sapphire Point Overlook This place is a perfect combo of nature and peace at it’s best, if you are in Breckenridge do visit Sapphire Point.
18. Explore the Hiking Trails Around Breckenridge
With the diversity available in our own backyard, Breckenridge has some of Colorado’s most scenic and varying hikes catering to any level outdoorsman.
Whether you like walking through lush meadows or hiking the harder rocky mountain paths, there are routes for everyone.
One of the best possible ways to experience this pristine wilderness is by hiking — with Rocky Mountain views around every corner, there are few better vistas.
The Breckenridge Welcome Center has all the information about great trails in town and local recommendations, too.
Listed below are a few of the popular hiking trails in Breckenridge.
19. Wander Along Spruce Creek Trail
Ranking among the most popular, Spruce Creek Trail offers a plethora of peaceful forest settings in addition to dramatic mountain views.
The trail located in close proximity to Breckenridge can be accessed via Spruce Creek Road, the parking being conveniently wide.
Difficulty: Moderate * This 6.2 mile loop is a moderate challenge suitable for both avid hikers and those looking to stretch their legs minus the crowds
The trail winds through dense spruce forests adjacent to the slow moving Spruce Creek, exactly as its name suggests.
And every so often, after climbing for hours on end, you reach one of these clearings to take in incredible views out over the peaks and down into the valleys far beyond.
This trail features a wide basin at the top that is home to tranquil Lower Mohawk Lake
The trail is also often edged by seasonal wildflowers, which bring bright color to the verdant surroundings.
As you tour the area be on the look out for squirrels, birds and some times even a deer.
Don’t forget your camera though, because there are a lot of scenes on Spruce Creek Trail to snap some photos.
20. Marvel at White Falls on McCullough Gulch Trail
This article features the McCullough Gulch Trail as one of the popular hiking trails to offer in Breckenridge.
Located south of the city bounds, this trail delivers hiking ensconced in natural beauty and a moderate level of difficulty.
The 6.4-mile, round-trip trail boasts spectacular views, waterfalls, alpine lakes and wildflower-strewn meadows.
The experience quickly started with a woody hike that took us higher up all the way to White Falls where, as spectacular waterfall can be found.
Past the falls, a brief hike brings trail-goers to an alpine lake so still and peaceful that its presence feels impossibly serene beneath large peaks.
The McCullough Gulch Trail gives you the opportunity to see all manner of wildlife including marmots, mountain goats and a variety of birds as well.
Bright, vivid-colored wildflowers dot the trail in spring and summer.
There is quite a bit of wildlife around so you will definitely see squirrels and grackles, but watch out for actual deer along the way too!
Spruce Creek Trail: Bring your camera because Spruce Creek presents many beautiful photo opportunities.
21. Explore the Scenic Peaks Trail
A Breckenridge fixture, Peaks Trail allows users to get a taste of the Colorado wilderness from town all the way up north towards Frisco.
One of the most iconic 15.3 mile point-to-point trails known for incredible views of The Tenmile Range and lush forests
This easy trail climbs gradually through dense stands of spruce and fir, opening up to broad views of craggy peaks and the Dillon Reservoir.
As you hike through the area, you might stumble upon relics of the past while mining was a major industry in these parts with old cabins and mines scattered about.
Wildflowers are found throughout the trail in bright, vibrant hues of every color when out for hikes on hot sticky summer days.
Look for foxes, mule deer and birds as you could spot a few during your journey.
The trail is easier than it feels but overall moderate with tougher sections, especially as you approach Frisco.
Peaks Trail is a multi-use trail, so it also has hikers and bikers to watch out for.
It is a locally popular snowshoe and cross-country ski area in the winter.
22. Ascend to the Summit of Quandary Peak
As one of Colorado’s best-known ‘fourteeners,’ Quandary Peak can be a challenge for anyone looking for an adventure.
The hike to the summit is, approximately 6.7 miles round-trip starting from a trailhead just south of Breckenridge.
From the top, beautiful panoramas of distant mountains spread for miles around and while it is very demanding with over 3,300ft climb during your ascent in elevation you will feel accomplished.
Trails traverse dense pine forests and alpine settings that a variety of flora & fauna call home.
Expect to see mountain goats along the way and, in summer, plenty of wildflowers on this rugged trek.
The summit offers sweeping 360-degree vistas of the Colorado Rockies in all directions.
While not technically challenging, this hike is best left for those with some experience under their belts due to the store amount of distance and terrain you will cover.
23. Stay Active at the Breckenridge Recreation Center
Another place to go and get active in Breckenridge is the Recreation Center.
Amenities will include a fitness center with state-of-the-art cardio equipment and scheduled group exercise classes, as well as an indoor pool complete with lap swimming opportunities and water slides.
The outside offers a climbing wall, batting cages and playground giving the complex family appeal.
The center also has a full-sized ice rink complete with an NHL-regulation sheet of ice, as well three locker rooms.
A year-round facility, the Center offers a plethora of programs from lessons in skating and hockey leagues to drop-in puck games.
24. Dive into Winter Activities at Breckenridge Ski Resort
One of the most popular winter destinations in Colorado is Breckenridge Ski Resort.
At the base of Peak 8, it provides a lot do to including skiing and snowboarding good for all levels (12 chairlifts), also tubing exhibits tours and fuses & trails.
The resort is home to 187 trails across all ability levels — and spans five peaks totaling 2,908 acres.
Special programs like Breck Create and Kidtopia are also available to provide even more fun for the littlest visitors.
From beginner to expert on the mountain, Breckenridge Ski Resort has something for everyone.
Just the right location to experience winter expeditions with loved ones family and friends!
25. Experience Cross-Country Skiing at Breckenridge Nordic Center
As a result of those looking to enjoy an unique approach when it comes to what Breckenridge has offer in regards the winter landscape will find that at the Breckenridge Nordic Center. In winter, a similar 45 km of trails can be explored on skis or snowshoes in cooler weather or mountain bikes with oversized tires thanks to varieties specifically designed for use. Cross country skiing in Breckenridge offers guests a wonderful way to enjoy outdoor body motion again while featuring some of Colorado’s most beautiful winter landscape. The center is welcoming to all skill levels with lessons, guided tours and rentals offered.
Conclusion
Few places in America have as much to offer travelers at any time of year than Breckenridge, Colorado.
By exploring mountain biking trails and fat biking in winter, sequencing into white water raft adventures.
From scenic drives or dog sledding to viewing the natural beauty, Breck has everything you want.
Therefore, if you are planning a family vacation in Colorado this place makes perfect sense and is at the top with respect to your bucket list.
