Where to Stay & Ski
Grab your skiing gear or hiking boots and get ready for some fun adventures! But first, you’ll definitely want to read this guide on where to stay in Breckenridge, CO!
I recently talked with a Breckenridge local, who gave me some incredible tips on how to make the best out of your trip. I also did my own research to ensure that all your questions will be answered by the end of the article.
This guide has everything on the best areas in town, the top hotels for tourists, and lots of local tips to be sure your trip runs smoothly. Plus, I included a couple of fun activities that you should try while here.
I’d highly recommend booking your hotels here in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the winter season when the town gets packed with tourists and avid skiers!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here are some of the top hotels in Breckenridge, CO:
Overview of where to stay in Breckenridge, CO
Breckenridge is a resort town set at the base of the Rocky Mountains’ Tenmile Range, just a 1h 30min drive away from Denver, in Colorado.
The town is known for its ski resort and for the fact that it attracts tons of avid winter sports lovers every year, especially since it has the highest chairlift in North America (which is known as the Imperial Express Superchair).
However, our local guide told me that Breckenridge is more than just a ski resort town! This place also has a charming Downtown area, a rich mining history that you can learn about while here and it also offers tons of summer outdoor activities from mountain biking to hiking.
Although a small town, Breckenridge has a couple of areas that are best suited for tourists.
Our local guide told me that Downtown Breckenridge, which is centered around the Main Street (map) is by far one of the best places for first-time visitors as that’s where you’ll find tons of shops, restaurants and hotels. Plus if you or your travel buddies are not skiers you’ll find plenty of fun things to do and see here.
If you want to hit the slopes for the majority of your trip here, then The Peaks will be the perfect area for you. That’s also where you’ll find lots of higher-end accommodations since it’s so close to the ski resort.
Baldy Mountain District is perfect for those traveling on a budget and also for those who want to stay in a more secluded area. According to our local guide, this area is pretty tranquil and it’s mostly home to vacation rentals (home and apartments) rather than big hotels.
Those traveling during the warmer months know that the area around Breckenridge Golf Club is the best place to stay in Breckenridge during the summer, as it’s close to lots of green spaces and of course you can play golf!
Best hotels in Breckenridge, CO
Ready to find the hotel of your dreams in Breckenridge? Then check out this section where I included a list of accommodation for all budgets!
Luxury hotels in Breckenridge
The price range for the luxury hotels in this list ranges from US$300 to US$500 per night for 2 people:
Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge
Boasting some amazing views of the Rocky Mountains this stunning hotel is located on the Main Street in Downtown and it offers a complimentary breakfast, ski storage and an outdoor pool.
One Ski Hill, A RockResort
A great hotel recommended by our local guide that’s located at the base of Peak 8 and which offers ski-in/ski-out access, apartments with a fireplace, an indoor pool and a spa center where you can relax after a day of spent skiing!
Gold Point Resort Breckenridge
How stunning is this hotel that’s tucked away between the trees? The accommodation offers studios and apartments, some of which come with a balcony and fireplace. You’ll also find an outdoor fireplace, a hot tub and ski storage.
Ski and Racquet Club Condo
Set near Main Street, this apartment comes with everything you need for your stay, including a kitchen, an indoor fireplace, mountain views and a patio.
Mid-range hotels in Breckenridge
If you’re looking for something that’s not so expensive then check out this short list of mid-range hotels. The prices range from US$200 to US$300:
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan
Boasting an outdoor and an indoor pool (with a water slide), ski storage and free parking, this accommodation is surely a keeper! Their rooms come with a balcony, a kitchenette and a flat-screen Tv.
Mountain Thunder Lodge
Feel at home in these cozy studios that come with a kitchen, a balcony and an indoor fireplace. This accommodation also offers ski lockers, a heated outdoor pool and free parking.
Gravity Haus
This accommodation has a modern design and it comes with a restaurant, family rooms and ski-to-door access.
Budget hotels in Breckenridge
Traveling on a budget? No worries, I’ve got you covered with this list of affordable accommodations in Breckenridge. The prices range from US$130 to US$200:
Marriott’s Mountain Valley Lodge at Breckenridge
The rooms here come with a private kitchen, a balcony and a flat-screen Tv. You’ll also find at the accommodation an outdoor pool, ski storage and a spa center.
River Mountain Lodge
Sleep like a baby in the comfy rooms of this accommodation that comes with free parking, an outdoor pool and 4 hot tubs.
Fireside Inn & Hostel
This hostel is great for those traveling on a tight budget and it comes with free parking, a shared kitchen, ski storage and free parking.
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Tips for visiting Breckenridge, CO
Hopefully, you’ve already found your dream hotel from the list above! Now I think it’s time to get to the juicy part and give you some amazing tips that I’ve learned from our local guide:
- If you’re coming for a quick trip (2 to 3 days) and you’re staying only in Breckenridge then you won’t need a car. However, if you’re staying for almost a week or more and you want to explore other towns nearby you’ll need a car (which you can easily rent out)
- For those who don’t want to rent a car but are staying within driving distance of the ski resort, book a hotel that offers a shuttle bus (preferably a free one) to the ski resort
- If you want to avoid big crowds and higher prices avoid going during the Christmas holidays and also during Spring break
- Getting a season pass for the ski resort may be cheaper than buying day lift tickets (but you’ll need to book them in advance)
- If you want to rent ski gear, you can do so through the ski resort when you get your ski pass
- Look for local events (there are many, and I’ll talk about them below) ahead of time so you can plan your trip around them
- Book hotels super in advance especially if you’re coming for skiing as the prices are pretty high for accommodation, so it might help to secure your spot earlier and maybe save a few bucks
- Opt for a hotel/resort if you’re visiting for the first time since you’ll have more amenities. But, if you’ve been there before and want more flexibility (maybe your own kitchen, etc) check the houses/apartments to see if you can find something cheaper
- You can spend 3 to 4 days and get to see much of the town and resort
- Breckenridge is a safe town, and you can usually walk alone at night but stick to the main touristy area (Downtown and The Peaks) since there are always other people around there
How to get to Breckenridge, CO
Wondering how to get to Breckenridge? Whether you’re flying into Denver and then driving from there or you’re doing a whole road trip, you’ll find all the details you need just below:
By bus
If you are landing on Denver International Airport (land at Denver International Airport (map), you can take a shuttle bus from there directly to Breckenridge. The journey usually lasts around 2h and the rates start somewhere at US$60 but that can vary depending on the company.
Here’s the website of a company that I found during my research.
By car
Whether you’re coming with your own car or renting one from the airport or some other place this is probably the most comfortable way to get to Breckenridge. It takes around 1h 50 min to arrive in Breckenridge from Denver International Airport.
Private Transfer
If you don’t want to deal with buses and carrying your luggage around, you can arrange for a private transfer from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge. I found this private transfer that costs US$770 per person.
On a tour
If you’re visiting only Denver but want to see more of Colorado including the town of Breckenridge, you can check out the day tour from Denver, which costs US$140.
During the tour you’ll do some scenic drives in the Rocky Mountains, stop for pics and then stop in Breckenridge where you’ll have time to explore around and do a bit of shopping!
Things to do in Breckenridge, CO
Let the fun begin! Now that we’ve covered some of the most important parts, let’s check out a couple of fun things that you can do while in Breckenridge:
1. Hit the slopes at the Breckenridge Ski Resort
I’ve already talked so much about it, but I had to include this! If you’re visiting between November and April (maybe even May if you’re lucky), there’s no better place to have an incredible time than this ski resort.
Definitely head on their website to check out the current passes, opening season and other details. Our local guide told me that each year they’ll have different offers, prices and things like that, so give it a good look to see what’s more convenient to you!
2. Check out all the local events
According to our local guide, this town is big on events and it won’t miss an opportunity to celebrate and have fun!
The one event she recommended is the International Snow Sculpture Championships, which is a world-renowned event where participants from all over the world come to hand-carve huge blocks of ice and turn them into art pieces!
Usually the event takes place from 20sth January but double-check the accurate dates for the year you’re visiting (that applies for all the events).
This is just one of them though! Here are a couple more and the dates for each one:
- Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas (first week of Dec)
- Ullr Fest (around 10th of Dec)
- Breckenridge Wine Classic (last week of Aug)
- Breckenridge Film Fest (last weeks of Sept)
- International Festival of Arts (last weeks of Aug)
3. Have fun hiking & mountain biking in the summer
Visiting during the summer time? Don’t worry there are plenty of things to do even then including fun outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking around Breckenridge!
One amazing trail that our local guide recommended is the McCullough Gulch trail (map). But, there are a couple more that you can check out like the Boreas Pass Loop Trailhead (map), the Snowflake Trailhead (map) and the Illinois Creek Trailhead (map).
4. Go on gold-mine tour
Before becoming the famous ski resort that is now, Breckenridge was known firstly for its gold mining!
That’s right! And the best way to learn more about its history and mining days is by going on a fun tour in a real open mine! I found this great tour that costs US$47 where you’ll get to go underground, in the Country Boy Mine and see the old tunnels!
During the tour, you’ll also learn more about the history of gold mining and you’ll also try panning for gold in the river!
5. Explore the historic Downtown
As I mentioned the Downtown area is centered around Main Street (map) which is lined up with historic buildings!
This street is also packed with lots of boutique shops, cafes and restaurants! The best way to explore is just to go on a walk down the street and admire the gorgeous buildings. Don’t forget to stop by some of the stores to get some souvenirs!
There are also a couple of museums that you can check out here like the Breckenridge History Museum and the Breckenridge History: Barney Ford Museum.
If you’re looking to do a bit of shopping head to Towne Square Mall (map), Simply Breck (map) and Lace and Lariat (map).
Where to eat (best restaurants, cafes, bars)
Looking for some fab places to enjoy some yummy food and drinks while holidaying in Breckenridge? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this short list of places:
- Hearthstone Restaurant (map) – a recommendation from our local guide, this place is housed in a historic house and it offers some amazing mountain views in an elegant setting
- Aurum Food & Wine (map) – this rustic place was also a recommendation for our guide and it has an amazing food & wine menu
- Blue River Bistro (map) – a cute bistro that serves artisanal cocktails, yummy food and live jazz music playing in the background
- Breckenridge Tap House (map) – beer lovers will love this restaurant that serves tacos, burgers and many other yummy things
- Amazing Grace (map) – if you’re a fan of organic food then you’ll definitely want to check out this place which serves dishes made out of natural ingredients
FAQs about the best hotels in Breckenridge, CO
❄️ Where should I stay in Breckenridge, Colorado, in the winter?
One of the best places to stay in Breckenridge, Colorado, in winter is the Peaks, right near the Breckenridge Ski Resort.
🏞️ Which is the best place to stay in Breckenridge, Colorado?
👪 Where to stay in Breckenridge, Colorado, with the family?
The best area to stay in Breckenridge with the family is Baldy Mountain District, which is a bit more quiet and tranquil.
💰 How much does staying at Breckenridge cost?
Breckenridge hotels are quite expensive, especially during the winter season, when you can expect to pay from US$300 and up for a hotel room for 2 people.
🐶 What are the best pet-friendly hotels in Breckenridge, Colorado?
🎄 What’s the best place to stay in Breckenridge at Christmas?
For a festive Christmas stay in Breckenridge, consider the Historic District, where you’ll find charming shops, cozy lodges, and easy access to the festivities.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Breckenridge
What a dreamy place!
I hope that this post on where to stay in Breckenridge, CO, with all its insightful tips from our local guide helped you decide how to plan your holiday!
There’s a lot of info to digest, especially when it comes to the hotel bit, so if you’re still not sure which hotel to pick, here are my top-rated 2 favorite ones:
Just remember to book your hotels in Breckenridge, CO in advance, as this is one of the most popular destinations in Denver and it gets lots of tourists, especially during the winter months!
Have fun exploring Breckenridge and if you have any other questions about this destination don’t
Happy exploring,
Victoria
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