Over the past decade or so Colorado has completely transformed, attracting tourists and adventurists worldwide. Colorado is my old stomping grounds (I grew up “shredding gnar” or snowboarding if you’re unfamiliar with skater lingo); and I couldn’t wait to get back on the slopes again!
While planning my trip, I realized Breck had so much to offer and can actually be a bit overwhelming, especially to a new visitor. So I decided to break down my itinerary into “11 of the best things to do and eat” in this charming little mountain town of Breckinridge, Colorado. Enjoy!
Where to Stay?
1. Beaver Run Resort
This lodge is a Ski-in Ski-out resort complete with an indoor/outdoor pool, hot tubs, restaurant, bars (the Elevation Bar has some surprisingly delicious nachos!), on-site ski lessons, free shuttle, equipment rental and great hospitality! If you stay here, there is no need to catch a lift up to the slopes or worry about fighting the crowds. You just walk out of the locker rooms, put on your skis or board and you’re literally on the mountain, just a few feet from the lifts. When I lived in Colorado I was here all the time and just drove myself, but now that I don’t, I wouldn’t want to do it any other way.
What to Do?
2. Ski or Snowboard
“Breck” has ALWAYS been my slope of choice! It’s so big so make a plan beforehand so you know exactly what slopes you’re actually on. If you’re a beginner, stick to the green slopes and maybe explore a couple of blue slopes as you get comfortable. Also, beat the lift lines by planningto ski Mon-Thursday’s. Night and day difference in the crowds on a weekday versus weekend.
3. Visit the Ice Sculpture Championships
This occurs every year in January (check the schedules).These artists are super talented, and in person, it’s so cool to see the detail they put into their work.
4. Tour a Gold Mine and Pan for Gold
The “Country Boy Mine”, located in Breckenridge is open year-round and great for adults and kids. Make a reservation to hold your place on the tour. It’s better to go on a warm day since you will be panning for gold in a creek outside the mine. Don’t forget to love on the donkeys, they’re very friendly. Hee-haw!
5. Heat Things up in a Hot Tub
The hot tubs at the resort fill up quickly, so make sure to snatch one up before the lifts close at 4pm, as everyone wants a quick dip before dinner.
6. Ride the Gondola
Take the Gondola to Peak 7 or 8 and have lunch or a cocktail. It’s free and you can catch some gorgeous views and pictures.
What to Eat & Drink?
7. Aurum
Definitely make a reservation as it is small and has a huge following.
Take a Lyft or the resort shuttle to “Main Street” as most of the restaurants and shops are located in close proximity to Main. All the food here is great, but I devoured the Seared Sea Scallops! Don’t forget to finish dinner with a selection of “Digestiffs”.
8. Hearthstone
Take the shuttle or walk if the weather is nice. I’m not a red meat eater, but my boyfriend ordered a rack of lamb (a Colorado staple, like elk) and still talks about it being the best meat he’s ever eaten (he’s a huge foodie, so that speaks volumes).
9. Mountain Flying Fish
It’s so weird to think about going to a good sushi restaurant in the Mountains, but the “Mountain Flying Fish”is LEGIT!! The same owner has upheld its glory for nearly 20 years. Best sushi in the Rockies! Try the sea urchinhand-roll, the nightly dragon roll, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, ask about the kama cheek combo. It’s the fish cheek meat that’s apparently a delicacy and usuallyonly reserved for friends or family of the chef. There’s only one combo available every night. For drinks, order the sake flight!
10. Crêpes á la Cart
Make sure the weather isn’t treacherous because there’s always a wait! And remember: “it’s not fast-food, it’s food made to order.” Touché! They have two locations, I visited the food cart on Main. Believe me when I say, it’s worth the wait!! Each crepe is about $9-$12, but you won’t need more than one, unless you want to try 3 .. like me! My favorite was the Bananas Foster. Get this, even the locals waited in line for it!
11. Breckenridge Distillery
A winter vacation would not be complete without visiting the highest distillery in the world, reaching 9,600 ft above sea level!
If you like whiskey on a cold day, order the Barrel-Smoked and Elevate. This is a fun twist on your traditional “Smokey Olde Fashion”, it’s literally served in a mini smoked barrel! It smells and tastes like everything you love about a campfire.
To eat, try the Brussel Sprouts or deviled eggs and the D.B. Burger.
Heads up! Tours are only offered during the day with the last tour at 5:30pm. I would have loved to go, but we spent too long in the hot tub.
Travel tips; take a Lyft or Uber and definitely make a reservation for dinner as this hip restaurant is smokin’(!) popular!
I want to hear about your experiences! Have you tried any of the above or any other suggestions!
Make tons of mini Snow-Globe memories in Breck!
For more travel and food recs, check out my Trip Advisor and Yelp here!
Choose Your Own Adventure 