Our first family trip to Breckenridge, Colorado was one I will never forget. There are multiple reasons why Breckenridge is family friendly destination in the winter, even if you don’t ski.
We ended 2023 by visiting another Colorado mountain town. Our family loves to ski, but this trip was all about the Breckenridge food scene and family friendly activities. We spent three nights in Breckenridge – and I’m already dreaming of going back.
Here are some of my tips for planning your first family trip to Breckenridge:
Tip 1: Stay Close to Main Street
We are a family of four and have two kiddos – a four year old and a six year old. From experience, we know we getting in and out of cars and driving places does not make for super happy kids. One of the reasons our trip was so amazing was WHERE we stayed.
We stayed in a small condo right on Main Street (The Carlin). The room had bunk beds – which our kids were obsessed with! We had a balcony where we were able to sit and enjoy the views. But aside from the views, we were able to walk everyone from our condo.
The heart of Breckenridge is on Main Street. It is a very walkable town as long as you stay in the right location. But even if you stay just off of Main Street, there is a free trolley that has multiple stops and drop offs. But with two littles, we were able to walk to all the restaurants, stores and activities.
Tip 2: Go See the Troll
You can’t visit Breckenridge without visiting Isak Hearthstone – the Breckenridge Troll. Our kids are still talking about the Isak the troll.
Don’t let the word “hike” scare you. This was a beautiful walk between trees that took three minutes. It is flat and if you go in the winter, the snow is packed down perfectly. The troll is MASSIVE. Take tons of photos and videos when you get there.
Check out this Instagram reel of our “hike” to the troll!
But after you visit Isak, head the opposite direction on the Illinois Creek Trail and take a beginner friendly hike through the woods. It will loop you right around to the start. The entire loop takes about 45 minutes or less.
If you want to up your hiking game and see some wildlife, check out the Blue River Trail in Breckenridge. The trail starts off in an open meadow where we saw two moose! Then it leads to a wooded trail where we didn’t see wildlife, but did see their tracks in the snow.
The Blue River Trail is just over 3 miles in and out. This trail is my favorite I’ve ever done – the beauty of it is indescribable.
Tip 3: EAT, EAT, EAT!
Plan to break that diet if you are visiting Breckenridge. I had no idea it was a culinary hub and foodies dream. I’m gluten free and had no problem finding delicious food at all their restarts.
Favorite Breckenridge restaurants: Fatty’s Pizza, Hearthstone, Blue Stag Saloon, Tin Plate and Dynamite Cookies for dessert! Check out the story highlight on my Instagram for pictures and videos.
No matter the season, Breckenridge is extremely family friendly. Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel – a full Breckenridge recap coming your way soon!
