Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Breckenridge, Colorado

If you’re considering a vacation to Breckenridge, you’re in for a real treat. This once-booming Coloradan gold-mining town has transformed into a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy carving through fresh powder on world-class ski slopes.

But here’s the twist: Breckenridge offers something special for every season. While my experiences are purely winter-based (I visited the town a few times while working a ski season at the nearby resort of Vail), the town and surrounding mountains are just as lively and festive during summer.

Before booking your flights, it’s worthwhile getting acquainted with a few key details. Being well-prepared can elevate your trip from simply great to absolutely extraordinary. So, I’ve put my experience onto paper and carved out some of the most interesting facts, pro tips, and top recommendations for your next trip to Breckenridge:

Make Sense of the Public Transport

Breck’s public transport is a breeze to understand. Like many ski resort towns, the town has free public transport covering major points of interest. Called the Free Ride buses, the network is simple, following a color-coded route that makes it easy to understand schedules and directions. There is absolutely no need for a rental car once you’re in the town.

However, the Free Ride bus system only connects the ski resort with the downtown area. To venture further outside of town, you’ll want to get familiar with the Summit Stage bus network, which connects Breckenridge with neighboring towns like Frisco and Keystone.

Traveling further throughout Colorado might mean you’ll have to catch a long-distance bus, which is provided by companies like Bustang or Pegasus.

Bring Sunscreen, Even in Winter

It might not be the tropics, but don’t underestimate the power of the Colorado sun. At Breckenridge’s high altitude, UV rays are intense year-round. Even when it’s cold and snowy, the snow’s white color actually reflects sunlight and adds to the burn factor.

Lather sunscreen on all your exposed body parts multiple times throughout the day to stay protected. Sunscreen is always sold at ski resorts, and many even have free bulk bottles set up around the resort for those days when you forget to put on your own.

Pro Tip: My favorite ski sunscreen product is the Supergoop Mineral Sun Balm SPF 40. It costs around $25 and is packaged in a flat tin, making it easy to stash in your ski jacket.

Breckenridge is Part of the Epic Ski Pass

There are two main ski passes in North America: the Icon Pass and the Epic Pass, and Breckenridge is part of the latter. The Epic Pass allows you to ski at various Vail Resorts-owned ski destinations worldwide. If you plan to ski or snowboard in Breck and elsewhere during the year, consider purchasing a long-term ski pass.

At $1004 per adult, they’re a bit of an investment, but if you end up skiing more than seven days total throughout the year, you will have already made your money back. To put things into perspective, a daily pass at Breck costs between $113 and $132, depending on the dates.

Pro Tip: The earlier in advance you purchase your Epic pass, the more affordable it is. If you’re from around the area, there are also local passes available for a discounted rate.

Keep Track of Colorado’s Road Conditions

As you can imagine, the weather in these valleys and mountains can be unpredictable. If you’re driving to Breck, it’s important you check weather and snow conditions before you leave. Depending on the weather, you might be required to drive only 4×4 vehicles or put chains on your tires.

Winter storms can also cause serious delays, so plan your trips accordingly so you don’t have to rush to catch a flight! Is there anything worse? I don’t think so.

The Closest Airport is Avon, but the Biggest is in Denver

If you’re flying into Colorado, there are two airport options near Breckenridge. The Eagle County Regional Airport in Avon is the closest, around an hour and fifteen minutes drive by car. However, flights into Avon are especially rare and pricey.

You’re more likely to fly into Denver International Airport, which offers better flight options and prices. DIA is an hour and 45 minutes, or 100 miles, from Breckenridge in the opposite direction as Avon.

Pro Tip: If you aren’t able to rent a car, consider catching a lift with the Epic Mountain Express. They offer door-to-door shuttle services between the main ski resorts and airports. This particular trip starts at $60 per person in one direction, and they even offer discounts for Epic Pass holders.

Hydrate

I shouldn’t have to remind you to drink water, but staying hydrated in a high-altitude mountain range like this one is paramount. Dehydration can cause altitude sickness, so it’s a good idea to keep a bottle of water on you at all times. If this isn’t possible while on the slopes, there are free water stations around the town and at mountain-top diners.

The Main Town is Just Seven by Two Miles Big

Breckenridge is small. It’s so small, you could walk the length of the town in under 20 minutes. But even though it’s compact, the town center is packed with charming restaurants, shops, and historic buildings. Once you’re in the town, you’ll have no need for a car and can use the Breck Free Ride bus system to get around.

The Town Has More Than 200 Shops and 100 Dining Options

Seriously, did I mention the town is PACKED with shops and restaurants? There is something for every type of Traveler here. Blue River Bistro is one of my favorite places to grab an artisanal cocktail. Downstairs at Erics is the best Sports bar to watch your favorite team take on their opponents, and Flip Side Breckenridge is a local staple for traditional home-cooked American meals.

They’re all within walking distance of one another. While food might seem overpriced (a burger is around $20 without a tip), portions are usually generous enough that one meal can usually feed two.

Book Accommodation in Advance

Accommodation in Breckenridge can fill up super fast, especially during peak winter seasons. Make your reservations in advance to secure reasonable prices. Whether you’re eyeing out a comfortable condo for the whole family or a hotel room for two, there are plenty of options and special deals available throughout the year.

Pro Tip: If a spontaneous trip is on the cards for you, there are also some last-minute specials and discounts to take advantage of. The problem is, you’ll never know when and won’t be able to plan ahead.

Call It Breck, For Short

Be cool. Here, we call Breckenridge ’Breck’ for short. Embrace the nickname—it’s all part of the town’s laid-back and approachable vibe.

The Town Was Once a Small Mining Town

I recommend learning a bit about Breckenridge’s History before you visit. The town dates back to the mid-1800s when it flourished as a mining town during the Gold Rush. Back then, it was known as Colorado’s Kingdom. In fact, it’s one of the world’s largest historic districts, with over two hundred buildings and structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Breckenridge Welcome Center and Museum, set in a 19th-century log cabin, is a great place to learn about the town’s past. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays, and entrance is free!

Breck Receives More than 300 Days of Annual Sunshine

You might not expect it from an iconic winter ski resort, but Breckenridge has over 300 days of annual sunshine. Even during the winter, the abundant sunshine combined with snow-capped peaks and festive lights makes for a magical atmosphere.

Plan to Spend at Least Four Days at The Resort

Although small, there is a lot to do in Breck. Especially since skiing or snowboarding can quickly eat up a full week without experiencing anything else the town has to offer.

Pro Tip: Do yourself a favor and spend a minimum of four days in the resort, checking out the best restaurants and shops, adventures, and activities aside from skiing.

Where to Stay

To make the most of your trip, I recommend staying in the small town center of Breck. While it is a lot cheaper to stay in more residential neighborhoods further out around the town, staying central means you’ll be within walking distance of the ski lifts and dining options. Trust me: when you’re dressed head to toe in ski gear and carrying heavy equipment, this can make a big difference to your overall experience.

Breckenridge Isn’t Just for Winter Sports

While the town is undoubtedly known for its winter ski facilities, it offers so much more than just skiing in winter! In the summer, the mountains come alive with different sports, from hiking to mountain biking and fly fishing.

The nearby Dillon Reservoir (a twenty-minute drive away) is famous for kayaking or paddleboarding, making the town a year-round adventure destination.