Breckenridge - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Breckenridge

Breckenridge is one of the most popular ski destinations in Colorado, and for good reason. The town is situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning scenery and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. In the winter, Breckenridge is a mecca for skiing and snowboarding, with five different ski areas to choose from. And in the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the many rivers and lakes in the area.

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Things to Do at Breckenridge

There are endless things to do in Breckenridge, Colorado. In the winter, visitors can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at one of several resorts. There are also miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and a variety of snow parks for sledding and tubing. In the summer, Breckenridge is a mecca for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The town also has a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and studios to explore. And of course, no visit to Breckenridge would be complete without taking a ride on the historic Breckenridge Ski Resort gondola. Whether you're looking for a winter wonderland or a summer paradise, Breckenridge has something for everyone.

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History of Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a town in Summit County, Colorado, United States. The population was 4,540 at the 2010 census. Breckenridge was founded by a gold prospector named A.E. Breckenridge in 1859. The town was originally called "Breckinridge", but the name was later changed to "Breckenridge" to avoid confusion with the nearby town of Breckinridge, Kentucky. The area around Breckenridge was extensively mined for gold and silver during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town also served as a supply base for miners working in the nearby mountains. In recent years, Breckenridge has become a popular ski resort destination, with several major ski areas located nearby. The town is also home to manyPointing summits historical sites, including the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, the Barney Ford House Museum, and the Edwin Carter Museum.

Best Time to Visit Breckenridge

The best time to visit Breckenridge and Summit County is during the summer months. While the town is bustling with tourists, there are still plenty of activities to keep you busy, from hiking and biking to fishing and rafting. The weather is also warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to enjoy all that the area has to offer. 

Tips for Visiting Breckenridge

  1. Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. In the winter, Breckenridge is snowy and cold, so make sure you have plenty of warm clothing. In the summer, the weather is milder, but it can still be cool at night, so bring a jacket.
  2. There are a lot of things to do in Breckenridge, so it's helpful to plan your trip in advance. That way, you can make sure you don't miss anything that you really want to see or do.
  3. One of the best ways to get around Breckenridge is on foot. Not only is it convenient, but it also allows you to really take in all the sights and sounds of the town. However, if you're planning on doing any hiking or other activities that require a lot of walking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
  4. Shopping is another popular activity in Breckenridge, especially for souvenirs and gifts. There are several boutique shops as well as larger stores like Walmart and Target located in town.
  5. Dress in layers when skiing in Breckenridge. The weather can change quickly, and you'll want to be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures. 
  6. There are a lot of things to do in Breckenridge, so it's helpful to plan your trip in advance. That way, you can make sure you don't miss anything that you really want to see or do.
  7. Although it's a small town, Breckenridge has a lot to offer in terms of nightlife and dining. If you're looking for something specific, it's a good idea to ask around or check online ahead of time so that you don't waste any time searching when you could be enjoying yourself.
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Breckenridge

  1. Breckenridge was founded in 1859 as a gold-mining town. It is the oldest continuously inhabited town in Colorado.
  2. In the winter, the town is a popular ski destination, with four ski resorts: Breckenridge Ski Resort, Keystone Resort, Copper Mountain Resort, and Arapahoe Basin Ski Area.
  3. The altitude of Breckenridge is 9,600 feet (2,926 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in the United States. 
  4. Due to its high altitude, Breckenridge has a subpolar oceanic climate, with cool summers and cold winters. Snowfall is heavy in Breckenridge, averaging about 190 inches (482 cm) per year. 
  5. The Breckenridge Arts District is home to many art galleries and studios, as well as the Backstage Theatre and the Riverwalk Center performing arts venue. 
  6. Every July, Breckenridge hosts the Breckenridge Music Festival, a three-week event featuring symphony orchestra concerts, opera performances, and other musical events.
  7. The town has a rich history, and many of its buildings are still standing from the 1800s. The population of Breckenridge grew rapidly during the Gold Rush, but declined just as quickly when the mines began to play out. 
  8. Today, Breckenridge is home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, with five peaks and over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain. 





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How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Breckenridge

A general rule of thumb is to allow at least 3-4 days to explore Breckenridge and the surrounding area. This will give you enough time to hit the slopes, take in the sights, and enjoy some of the best après-ski activities that the town has to offer.

How to Reach Breckenridge

The drive from Denver to Breckenridge takes about 2 hours. From Denver, take I-70 west to exit 203 for Frisco/Breckenridge. Take a left onto CO-9 South and follow for about 34 miles. Turn right onto Main Street and continue for about 1 mile until you reach Breckenridge. You can also reach Breckenridge by bus or train. There is an Amtrak station in Fraser, Colorado, which is about 10 miles from Breckenridge.

Entrance Fee of Breckenridge

There is no entrance fee to explore Breckenridge, summit county, Colorado. However, there are some activities that may have a small charge associated with them. 

Opening Hours of Breckenridge

The town is open 365 days a year, with businesses typically operating from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, hours may vary depending on the season and the specific business. For example, restaurants and bars may stay open later in the evening, while shops and galleries may close earlier. 

Attractions Near Breckenridge

Edwin Carter Museum

Edwin Carter Museum

0.59km from Breckenridge

Edwin Carter Museum is located in Summit County. The museum is dedicated to Edwin Carter, a naturalist who lived in the area during the late 1800s. The museum houses a collection of Carter's artifacts, as well as a variety of exhibits on the natural history of the area. Visitors can learn about the geology, wildlife, and plants of the Rocky Mountains, as well as the human history of the region. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults.

Barney Ford Museum

Barney Ford Museum

0.62km from Breckenridge

The Barney Ford Museum in Summit County, is dedicated to the life and legacy of Barney Ford, an escaped slave who became a successful businessman and civil rights leader. It tells the story of Ford's journey from slavery to freedom, highlighting his courage and determination. Visitors can also learn about Ford's work to improve the lives of African Americans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum is located in the town of Breckenridge, and is open year-round.

Blue River Plaza

Blue River Plaza

0.71km from Breckenridge

Blue River Plaza is a popular shopping destination in Summit County, Colorado. The plaza is home to a variety of stores, restaurants, and businesses, as well as a movie theater and a bowling alley. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic view of the Rocky Mountains from the plaza. The plaza is located near the base of the Blue River ski area, making it a convenient place to stop for supplies or grab a bite to eat after a day on the slopes. With its wide range of amenities.

Stephen C West Ice Arena

Stephen C West Ice Arena

0.95km from Breckenridge

The Stephen C West Ice Arena is located in Summit County, Colorado and is a popular spot for ice skating and hockey. The arena opened in 1979 and was named after former Denver Nuggets coach, Stephen C West. The arena has two ice rinks, a concessions stand, and a pro shop. The arena is open year-round and offers public skating, figure skating, hockey, and broomball. The arena is also home to the Summit Eagles Hockey team and the Summitimer Figure Skating Club.

Maggie Pond

Maggie Pond

0.97km from Breckenridge

Maggie Pond is a large body of water located in Summit County. The pond is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities. Maggie Pond is also home to a variety of bird species, including ducks, geese, and herons. In addition to its natural beauty, the pond is also notable for its history. In the early 1900s, the pond was used as a dumping ground for mining waste. As a result, the water is now highly acidic and unsuitable for plant or animal life.

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge Ski Resort

2.51km from Breckenridge

Breckenridge Ski Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado, near the town of Breckenridge. The resort offers a variety of trails and terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The summit of the resort is 12,998 feet, and the base elevation is 9,600 feet. There are four peaks at the resort, and the longest run is 3.5 miles. Breckenridge Ski Resort is known for its wide variety of terrain, including moguls, groomed trails, powder bowls, and terrain parks.

Discover More Attractions in Summit County, Home of Breckenridge

Summit County

Summit County

46 attractions

Summit County, Colorado is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state. The county is home to four world-class ski resorts: Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin. And with more than 300 inches of snowfall each year, there's no shortage of powder for shredding. But Summit County isn't just a winter playground. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and golfing. There's also an abundance of shops and restaurants to explore in the

Location of Breckenridge

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