When you are ready to take that much needed vacation (and aren't you always ready?), there are so many places and activities to choose from in the world. If you are not planning a trip across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe or even all the way to Asia, then keep it close and do your research on a fun and unique place to visit and explore right here in the United States.
Let's see, what are the most exciting and relaxing options? Well, you could head south or west and try a beach somewhere for an ocean getaway. You could head north and check out how the Northeast and get your hands on some lobster in the northernmost part of the States. But, I know a place that would be perfect in the west. Yes, that's right, "Go West, young man!" It's all right there in Breckenridge, Colorado.
I have done the research for you, so sit back, relax, and enjoy your vacation!
Here are some must do activities, no matter what the weather is like!
1. Visit the Breckenridge Welcome Center and Museum. Every new visitor and even those who come year after year need to stop by the Breckenridge Welcome Center and Museum. The building where the center is located was once called the Bailey Building. This historical site exposed a log cabin that was between the additions that were built later. The cabin was renovated and now serves as a beautiful part of the Welcome Center. What is really fun about spending some time here is you can learn so much about the area through a wonderfully innovative museum right inside the log cabin.
2. Check out Main Street. Right in the heart of this genuine, yet very quaint mountain town is Main Street that bustles all-year round. There are plenty of tasty restaurants, a multitude of shops to explore, and also annual festivals that happen year round that make Main Street even more entertaining. The colorful buildings alone will keep you busy photographing and enjoying their beauty.
3. Learn the History of Breckenridge. You don't have to love knowing more about the history of our country to have an amazing experience learning about this town. There are well over 10 historical museums where you can see just how Breckenridge established its powerful gold mining and was one of the leading locations to try and get rich. There are walking tours that will give you a glimpse into what life was like in the gold mining days.
4. Be a Foodie. There are many towns and cities across the country that have a great food scene and Breckenridge is no different. If it is fine dining or just a burger that you crave, then your tastebuds will love it here. It's fun to pick a new place to try while you are on vacation and see what you love the best and return again next time. Or if you are feeling really adventurous, check out one of the food tours that are popping up in town. This is a great way to see exactly what Breckenridge has to offer and be shown around by a tour guide who knows all the hot spots. If you are really into cooking and want to learn more about how the professionals make their best dishes, you can take culinary classes to increase your home skills. At Colorado Mountain College, they offer a few options for classes while you are in town. But if it's a food and wine tasting that interests you, try the Breckenridge Cheese and Chocolate for one of their events that happen throughout the year each week.
5. Learn About Distilling and Beer Making. A very popular place to visit is the Breckenridge Distillery. Here you can take the full tour or simply visit their bar and restaurant, but make sure you try their products that are blended with the Rocky Mountain snow. This distillery is well known because it is considered to be the highest in the world. The views here are breathtaking. There is even a free shuttle (you love free!) that runs daily, so even if you are staying at the Breckenridge villas, you can get there and back so easily. Here's your chance to indulge a little on vacation! After visiting the distillery, check out Broken Compass Brewing Company. Here you will find some of the best tasting beers to try and the staff is knowledgeable on every kind. If you are a beer enthusiast this will be the right stop for you. Also offered are events with local restaurants that will teach you how to pair a good stout, for example, with the right steak. Sign me up!
6. Visit Riverwalk Center. This is a must see for anyone who loves the Arts or anything to do with music too. The Riverwalk Center is an award-winning performing arts building offers so many options when it comes to the Arts. What used to be an outdoor amphitheater is now an over 700-seat venue that is indoors and fully heated. But in summer months when the weather is just right, there is large lawn that extends off of the theater, so now you can watch the orchestra under the stars as well. You can buy snacks and beverages and enjoy a beautiful evening.
7. Hit Up the Oxygen Bar. Since Breckenridge is at such a high altitude with an elevation of over 12,000 feet. If for any reason you don't feel well while experiencing higher altitudes, visit the Oxygen Bar for some relief. Or come here first before you head up the mountain for a little preventative oxygen because they also offer free aromatherapy fragrances which will help kickstart your relaxing vacation. Even if you indulge in adult beverages and don't feel all that great in the morning, swing by and get refreshed.
8. Go On an Haunted Tour. If you aren't too afraid, this is a fun activity to try especially if you have older kids. This is a great way to get to explore a new area and learn more about the history of the town of Breckenridge. There are many different kinds of tours you can take including walking tours, house tours, and then you will learn about the ghosts of the wild west. The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance provides informative tours with expert tour guides year-round that features what is left of the area's past mining history.
Breckenridge may be best known for its skiing and many other outdoor activities, but don't forget there is much more to this Gold Rush historic town. Main Street alone has so much to offer with the stunningly beautiful painted buildings from the 1880's and 1890's and all the restaurants, galleries, and shopping.
So year-round, head West to Colorado and visit and explore all of these wonderful things to do in any kind of weather!
Glamamom says
We LOVE Breck!
Ruthie Ridley says
Wow, these look like incredible activities!! We have never been to Colorado and I cannot wait to take the family!
Terri Beavers says
These look like some fun activities to do. I'd love to learn more about beer making. I think that would be a cool event to attend.
Dogvills says
Oh wow. I would love to do all of the activities you suggested except for the last one - going on a haunted tour. I will leave that to the more courageous at heart. Breckenridge, CO is such a beautiful, scenic place.
Coralie says
What a beautiful place to visit. I will have to look into taking my family on a trip there in the summer.
Lisa Rios says
I really want to go on the haunted tour! It's my dream to go on one. I want to go to CO... it's been on my bucketlist for a while now.
Jenny says
Never been to Colorado, but I definitely want to visit there some time in my lifetime. It would be cool!!
Kelly Reci says
Colorado is such a wonderful place. I heard a lot of good things about it. And it makes me more excited to visit Colorado. This a great guide for me since I'm actually planning to go there.
sara lafountain says
We are planning a family trip to Colorado and I will have to add Breckenridge to our list! Thank you for sharing these fun activities. Pinning for later!
Gladys parker says
I'd first explore the Breckenridge Cheese and Chocolate, two of my favorite things! I live vicariously through all you big city bloggers. Our city is small and not glamorous at all. This use to be a booming industrial town in years past. The history of Breckenridge is what I would enjoy most.
Nancy P says
These look like great activities to participate in all year round in Colorado. I would love to visit Breckenridge.
Ada says
I love Colorado! I'm dying to go again soon because it's been awhile. I've never been to Breckenridge though.
amy says
Oh I would love to go on a haunted tour! I'll have to put Breckenridge Colorado on my travel bucket list
Nichole Arnold says
It is a dream of mine to visit Colorado! Love seeing all the amazing places to visit and things to do. Bookmarking this page!
Marysa says
I haven't been to Breckenridge, or Colorado for that matter! Sounds like a fun place to visit. It would be cool to go with the family, since there is plenty to do there.
Melissa Dixon says
I love Colorado, there is so much to fo there and see. It is such a beautiful state.
Kathy says
Sounds like a lot of great things to do. I have always wanted to go to Colorado, especially this time of year. I think it would be so beautiful to see.
Lily Ashley says
Oh what a wonderful place to visit.I think i will put this place on my bucket list.
Victoria Heckstall says
I always wanted to visit Colorado. And actually, I'm looking for something that I can do while I'm there. I'm looking for the best spot to visit. Looks like it's not a problem at all. Thanks for sharing
Toni | Boulder Locavore says
I couldn't agree more! Colorado is such a beautiful place!!
Kristi says
One of my favorite areas. We've been out there the last two summers, never enough time to do everything but always enjoy it.
travel blogger says
I would love to check out the Breckenridge distillery! That is awesome that there is a free shuttle! Looks like a great place to take a vacation!
Sue Reddel says
Some many fun things to do in Breckenridge! I've never heard of an oxygen bar before. Sounds like a perfect way to beat that feeling some people get in higher elevations.
Claudia Krusch says
I would love to go explore Breckenridge someday soon. It sounds like there are a ton of fun things to do for the whole family.
Marissa Zurfluh says
Looks like I need to make a trip to Colorado! There is quite a bit to do there.
Pam says
Oh, I would definitely go on the haunted tour. I love learning about ghosts of different places.
AnnMarie John says
It's really one of the best places to take the family to! I think you're going to have loads of fun here! It's nice to go to a place that has a lot of activities lined up for the whole family to enjoy!
GiGi Eats says
EASY! I will just go and BE A FOODIE! hahahaha! My life will forever revolve around WHAT I am eating next, LOL!
Vera Sweeney says
Breckenridge is one of the most beautiful cities in Colorado. Lots to do, all year round. My kids and I could take in the sights on Main Street, while my husband learns about distilling and beer making.
Christie says
Wow! I never realized there was so much to do in Breckenridge, Colorado! I've always associated it with being a ski town. Looks like a vacation in the summer is in order.
Tatanisha Worthey says
I have no problem being a foodie! That's our favorite thing to do when visiting new areas is try out the local food!
Maureen says
Wow I had no idea there was so much you can do year-round in Colorado, that's pretty awesome. I Love that Colorado has so much to offer for residents and visitors.
Sara Welch says
We love Colorado in general! So much to do and see, especially nature wise! Gorgeous.
Ashley says
I want to visit Colorado solely to be a foodie. The food always looks amazing there.
Bill Sweeney says
I could go for a trip to Breckenridge, Co.! Just for the view, food, and the beer? Yeah, those do it for me!
robin rue says
I have never been anywhere in Colorado. I would love to go to Brekenridge someday.
Stacie says
Oh wow! Breckenridge looks so beautiful. Honestly, it's never been on my radar, but now it's on my short list of places to visit.