I grew up going skiing in Colorado with my family for spring break each year, my first time back as an adult was to Breckenridge four years ago and I was so excited to go back again last week. I feel like it’s important to mention skiing is HARD and exhausting but at the same time so fun. Breckenridge is an adorable ski town just under 2 hours west of Denver. The easiest way to get to Breck (as the locals call it) is to fly into Denver and then rent a car. You could also take a shuttle bus if you are not wanting to rent a car. The drive isn’t that bad at all (depending on the weather, it could take longer if it’s snowing) and I think that’s mostly because the views are so breathtaking and fun to look at. It’s not like driving 2 hours in Kansas where everything is flat, brown and boring.
Lodging
We were lucky enough to stay in this gorgeous cabin that was rented through the company Erick works for. They used it the week before for an employee retreat and we were lucky enough to get to stay there the last 3 days they had the house along with a few of his other coworker friends + their wives. I would def recommend looking into a house or condo that’s a skin-in/ski-out location. This means your place is right on or within a short walking distance to the 4 o’clock run and/or peak 8. The 4 o’clock run is the ski run that takes you to the main chair lift at Breckenridge Ski Resort. Peak 8 is one of the popular ski mountains with lodging and restaurants. It’s so nice not having to worry about loading up your skis/poles into a car and driving into town + finding a place to park for the day. This is the site I would recommend using, they have homes/condos at all different price points + sizes.
Ski Gear + Lift Ticket
Most people rent their ski or snowboarding gear in Breckenridge which is super easy to do. There are so many places to rent your equipment and and I recommend just renting from the shop closest to your house/condo. They will do all the work for you by picking out your gear based on your size and experience along with measuring you for your perfect fit. They will also explain how to get in and out of your equipment too. ***IMPORTANT** Ski boots suck, they just do but if you have wide calves like me make sure you speak up and tell them they’re too tight on your calve even if the boot is fitting your foot perfectly. I skied an entire day in pain because my boots were way to tight on my calves and I just thought it was normal because everyone says ski boots suck. I went back the next day and had them re fit me and OH MY GAWD, what a difference it made. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Click here for full list of ski rental places, make sure to reserve in advance which will make it easier when picking everything up too. You can purchase your lift tickets either online (which I recommend) or in person at the Gondola. The Breckenridge Ski Resort lift ticket can also be used in Vail, Colorado which is only a 30 minute drive away. We were going to go one day but ended up staying in town.
Ski/Snowboard Lessons
Whether you’re new to skiing or your just a little rusty Breckenridge offers group or private lessons for children and adults. I took ski lessons when I was a kid and remember the fundamentals however I would def recommend taking a quick refresher class to save yourself the hassle, the stress, a possible injury and an argument with your significant other :).
Apres Ski: Shopping, Eating & Drinks
Shopping in downtown Breckenridge is so much fun. It’s full of charming little boutiques as well as brands your familiar with like The North Face, Patagonia, Lululemon and more.
Coffee + Breakfast //
BoLD – This cute restaurant is int he middle of downtown and offer ‘an upscale breakfast followed by a Mediterranean inspired lunch, happy hour & dinner. I got the tequila sunrise morning cocktail + chicken and waffles. Erick got the biscuits and gravy + coffee, everything was delish.
Starbucks – It’s not common in 2020 to see a charming yellow building/house run as a modern day Starbucks. While the outside has it’s own personality the menu + inside is what you’re used to seeing.
Unravel Coffee – This coffee shop is inside of the new Gravity Haus Hotel and right on trend for that insta worth snap shot. If you’re from KC, it reminds me of the Crossroads hotel.
La Francaise French Bakery – We didn’t get the chance to stop by but I had this charming little french cafe on my list and hope to be able to go one day. It not only looks so cute but delicious too!
Crepes A La Cart – A small stand alone cart serving up various sweet, savory & build-your-own crepes with a small outdoor seating area. A staple and top ranking must have in Breck.
The Blue Moose – this boutique bar and kitchen is certainly the cozy with beatle kill wood ceilings and barn wood walls that make for the perfect mountain atmosphere.
Lunch + Dinner //
Mi Casa Mexican – Delicious Mexican dining with all your favorites on the menu. The ‘natural marg’ was so fresh and tasty.
Flip Side – The most delicious burgers, truffle fries and adult shakes. I got the ‘One Red Door Burger’ which had crispy shallots / melted brie / applewood bacon date aioli – so so good.
Rita’s – Specialty margs & taco bar, sign. me. up! We sadly didn’t make it here either but it’s said to be a very popular place among the locals. Looks so good!
Aurum Food & Wine – This place looks so fun, they serve dinner + drinks.
Brewery’s + Bars //
What to do in Breckenridge Besides Ski
If you’re not one to ski or snowboard the mountains there’s still so much that Breckenridge has to offer.
- Shop & Explore Downtown: Obviously as mentioned above Breckenridge truly has the most charming downtown. There are so many cute shops, restaurants, bars, spa’s and more.
- Sleigh Rides: You can either take a classic sleigh ride, fully equipped with hot cocoa or take your ride to the next length with dinner and a sleigh ride combined. Learn more here!
- Snowmobiling: Whether you are experienced and have done this before or are completely new to snowmobiling, it’s perfect for everyone. The routes on the mountain are perfectly groomed and you have the option to either have the tour led by a professional or have it unguided. Learn more here!
- Snow Tubing & Sledding: There are a ton of parks in Breckenridge that offer snow tubing and sledding, fun for all ages. Click here to learn more!
Ski Gear + Mountain Outfit Inspo
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