Tucked up in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is probably best known as a world-class ski destination, with four peak resorts offering terrain for all abilities.
But what many visitors don’t realize is that there’s much more to experience in Breckenridge beyond the slopes. From arts and culture, to dining, events, and the great outdoors, Breckenridge has something for everyone, even those who don’t ski or snowboard.
And that’s what makes Breckenridge and greater Summit County such a great place to visit (and live) – there’s so much to see and do as you uncover the secrets of this charming ski town. So, if you’re planning a trip to the area and want more than just the powder, here’s our list of top things to do in Breckenridge.
Check Out The Arts and Culture in Breckenridge
Breckenridge may be best known for epic skiing and mountain views, but the town also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene perfect for apres-ski or enjoying on its own.
Get Inspired with Breck Create and the Arts District
The Breckenridge Creative Arts District builds on the town’s artistic heritage with art centers, studios, classes, concert, and activities. Try your hand at pottery, painting, glass blowing or metalsmithing with hands-on art classes open to all levels and ages.
Festivals like WAVE bring vibrant displays of light, water, and sound installations. And free summer concerts, artist talks, and rotating exhibitions give a pulse to the Historic District.
Stop By The Backstage Theatre
Since 1974, the intimate Backstage Theatre has delivered top-notch musicals, dramas, and comedies, recently staging Broadway favorites like “Hairspray” and “The Producers” with extraordinary production value. Enjoy the shows from expanded, cushy new seating while sipping specialty cocktails sold right in the theater before lights go down.
Visit Breck’s Art Galleries and Public Art
From fine art photography and Western landscapes to sculpture installations and jewelry, Breckenridge art galleries and boutiques offer one-of-a-kind pieces to browse or take home.
Don’t miss gallery walks like Art Around Town for behind-the-scenes looks at artists’ creative processes. Outdoors, wander through world-class public art across the area, and make sure to visit one of the city’s incredible art galleries to enjoy the area’s inspired creations.
Explore the Historical Architecture
Underneath the modern mountain town lies Victorian history waiting to be uncovered on walking tours. Hear true tales of Breckenridge’s gold rush heyday, Wild West shootouts, ghosts, and glory days while exploring preserved 19th-century buildings, humble miner’s cabins, and colorful characters who once roamed these same streets.
From snow sculptures and gallery crawls to Broadway musicals at 9,000 feet, Breckenridge delivers inspiration and entertainment for art and culture lovers – not just during ski season but all year round.
Where to Catch a Show: Breckenridge’s Top Music Venues
From intimate acoustic sets to thumping late-night dance parties, Breckenridge serves up live music across an array of unique venues.
The Riverwalk Center is the crown jewel for big-name acts or the National Repertory Orchestra performing the scores to cinematic classics live on stage. The multi-use center hosts the annual Breckenridge Music Festival spotlighting genres from classical to country.
The new Breck Music AirStage brings free tunes directly into neighborhoods around town through a vintage retrofitted Airstream turned mobile concert hall. Pack a picnic and soak in the scene as this roaming stage backs pop-up performances in parks and public spaces.
As the sun goes down, the energy shifts to Breckenridge’s late-night bars and clubs like the rockin’ Gold Pan Saloon or DJ-fueled dance party at Cecilia’s Nightclub. The Blue Stag Saloon often features regional bands cranking out country and rock covers for a fired-up crowd. And the laidback RMU beer garden by Peak 8 regularly draws lively acts from folk and funk to EDM and reggae underneath twinkling stars and strings of lights.
Indoor Fun in Breckenridge
There are plenty of recreational activities in Breck that don’t require a set of skis – and you may just find your new favorite hobby in town!
At Downstairs at Eric’s, an arcade bar on Main Street, challenge friends to pinball, PacMa, or racing games while taking in the nostalgic fun. For brain-bending team competitions, get locked up inside creatively themed puzzle rooms at Escape Room Breckenridge and Mountain Time Escape Rooms.
At the Breckenridge Recreation Center in the heart of town, amenities ranging from bouncy houses to tennis courts ensure year-round active fun for kids and kids at heart. After working up an appetite, recharge at their juice bar before soaking sore muscles in the outdoor hot tubs.
Stop By the Sports Buffet
If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind indoor sports experience during your Summit County vacation, be sure to visit our newest attraction – The Sports Buffet. This exciting venue features five high-definition sports simulators, each in a private room hosting up to six players. Bring your own equipment or use ours to play over 12 different sports, including golf, baseball, football, hockey, and more!
The cutting-edge simulator technology combines realistic graphics and responsive sensors to create an incredibly immersive gameplay experience. You really feel like you’re on the field or course! Whether you want to practice your swing, play a competitive game with friends, or just try something new, The Sports Buffet has you covered.
Book one hour of simulator time for just $70 total (not per person). With up to six people per room, it’s a fantastic value. The Sports Buffet is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm so you can drop in for a session anytime. Their sports blog details all the simulator sports offered, from virtual rounds at famous golf courses to dodgeball games and archery practice.
For indoor fun the whole family or friend group will love, check out The Sports Buffet’s HD sports simulators during your next Breckenridge vacation. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
