15 Epic Things to Do in Breckenridge in Winter (For Non-Skiers & FAmilies on a Budget!)
Discover 15 amazing things to do in Breckenridge in winter besides skiing! From FREE activities like the gondola and sledding to budget-friendly family adventures. Perfect for non-skiers visiting Colorado's best mountain town.
The Non-Skier's Guide to Breckenridge
Here's a little secret: Breckenridge in winter isn't just for skiers.
I know, I know—shocking, right?
But hear me out. While everyone else is shelling out for lift tickets and navigating the slopes, you can be riding a FREE gondola to Peak 8 for mountain views, sledding for FREE at Carter Park with local families, walking the groomed Blue River Path at no cost, and exploring Victorian Main Street without spending a dime.
Worried Breckenridge is too expensive? It doesn't have to be. There are plenty of free and budget-friendly Breckenridge activities that give you the full mountain experience without the ski resort price tag.
And when you do want to splurge, adventures like dog sledding, Country Boy Mine's monster truck sleigh ride, and heated ATV tours to Georgia Pass are there waiting.
Don't ski but your family does? Perfect. This non-skier's guide to Breckenridge will keep you entertained while they're on the slopes. (And if someone wants to learn, check out our beginner's guide to skiing in Colorado for lesson tips and gear rental advice.)
Traveling with kids? These family-friendly activities are specifically designed for restless little ones who need to move, explore, and burn off energy.
So whether you're visiting family who ski while you don't, traveling with little ones, or just prefer your winter adventures a bit less... vertical, this guide is for you.
Is Breckenridge Expensive?
It can be, but it doesn't have to break the bank. I'll show you the free and affordable activities that make Breckenridge accessible for families on a budget, plus where to splurge for those once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
How to Get to Breckenridge (Without Driving in Snow!)
First-Timer Tips: Altitude & Getting Around
Altitude Matters: Breckenridge sits at 9,600 feet, and altitude sickness is real. If you're unsure what symptoms to watch for or how your body might react, I recommend reading up on high altitude travel tips before you leave—it covers everything you need to know.
Here's what locals recommend:
Spend your first day/night in Denver (5,280 feet) to acclimate
Drink WAY more water than you think you need (seriously, double it)
Take it easy your first day—no marathons up the sledding hill
Kids especially need extra hydration and rest breaks
Don't Want to Drive in Snow? Smart move. Let's be real—dealing with I-70 in winter is nobody's idea of a good time. If you're flying into Denver International Airport and want to skip the rental car stress (and expense), you've got solid options:
Gold Rush Transportation has been getting people safely to the mountains for years. They know every curve of that highway and exactly when to leave to beat traffic.
Peak 1 Express is another reliable choice, especially if you're coordinating with a group.
Summit Express rounds out your options—all three companies have great reputations and reasonable rates (starting around $45-65 per person).
Trust me on this: having someone else navigate I-70 while you relax means you start your vacation actually relaxed.
Once You're in Breckenridge: Ditch the car entirely! The town has FREE buses, FREE shuttles, and a FREE gondola that make getting around ridiculously easy. More on that below.
FREE Things to Do in Breckenridge
Yes, you read that right—FREE. These activities won't cost you a dime and are perfect for families on a budget:
BreckConnect Gondola – FREE scenic ride from town to Peak 8 (no lift ticket required!)
Carter Park Sledding Hill – FREE sledding just blocks from Main Street
Blue River Recreation Path – Groomed trail perfect for walking, snowshoeing, or fat biking (Frisco to Breck, totally free)
Main Street Strolls – Window shopping, holiday lights, Victorian architecture
Free Museums – Barney Ford Museum, Edwin Carter Museum (learn about Breckenridge history)
Free Buses & Shuttles – Get around town without a car
Want more winter hiking options? Many of our favorite Breckenridge hiking trails are accessible in winter with microspikes or snowshoes—and they're stunning covered in snow.
These free activities alone could fill an entire day. Now let's dive into the paid experiences that are absolutely worth it.
What Can You Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing? (Epic Adventures for Non-Skiers!)
Country Boy Mine: History, Hot Chocolate, and High-Speed Sledding (Perfect for Families)
This might be my favorite thing on this entire list.
Picture this: you're riding in a sleigh attached to a monster truck (yes, you read that right), sipping hot chocolate while your guide shares fascinating mining history.
The views? Absolutely stunning. The customer service? Top-notch.
But here's where it gets really good—after the tour, you can either take the sleigh back down at a leisurely pace, or you can hop on a sled and fly down at speeds that'll make your heart race. There's additional sledding and tubing for the whole family, plus s'mores. All supplies provided.
Seriously, if you only do one thing from this list, make it this one.
ATV Adventure to Georgia Pass
Here's something you don't see every day: a heated, fully enclosed ATV that fits the whole family—car seat buckles and all. Even in the dead of winter, you'll be cozy as you climb to the top of Georgia Pass with views that'll make you forget your feet ever existed.
This is perfect for families who want adventure without freezing their tails off. The kids get the thrill of an ATV ride, and you get incredible scenery without worrying about frostbite.
Tennessee Pass Yurt and Snowshoe Adventure
Want to feel like a real Colorado backcountry adventurer? Head up to Leadville (which is worth the drive just for the scenery, honestly) and book a yurt experience at Tennessee Pass. You can do a full overnight adventure or just snowshoe out for dinner and back—both options are magical.
There's something about sitting in a warm yurt after snowshoeing through fresh powder, eating a hot meal while the wind howls outside, that makes you feel like you've really earned your mountain cred. Plus, the stars at that elevation? Unreal.
Good Times Dog Sledding
If you've never tried dog sledding, you're missing out. These pups are SO excited to run, and their enthusiasm is absolutely infectious.
Good Times Adventures has been running tours since 1986 from their location at 6061 Tiger Road, just a few miles from downtown. The 90-minute experience takes up to six people and you'll take turns mushing a team of Siberian Huskies along a 6-mile trail through the Swan River Valley. You can book online or call (970) 453-7604. PRO TIP! Dress in layers because you'll start cold and end up warmer than you think.
Leadville Scenic Railroad
Open cars. Stunning views. Kids who can actually move around without getting scolded.
The Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad is perfect for families with energetic kids who aren't great at sitting still. This 2.5-hour roundtrip climbs 1,000 feet through the San Isabel National Forest with views of Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert—Colorado's two tallest peaks.
The best part? Kids can move between open, enclosed, and covered cars while the train's in motion, so no one has to stay planted in their seat the whole time.
Coach tickets run about $57 for adults and $34 for kids, and you can book at their site or call (866) 386-3936. The depot is at 326 E 7th St in Leadville.
Bonus: the drive to Leadville from Breck takes about an hour over Hoosier Pass and it's gorgeous enough to be its own activity, though you'll want to leave extra time for cautious winter driving on that mountain pass.
Georgetown Loop Train Ride
Here's my biggest tip for the Georgetown Loop: **leave at least 2 hours early**.
I'm serious. I-70 is wildly unpredictable and if you miss your train time, you're out of luck because those tickets are non-refundable. But it's absolutely worth the drive.
This historic narrow-gauge railroad crosses the stunning Devil's Gate High Bridge and winds through old silver mining country with views that'll make you forget about the traffic stress. The train ride takes about 70 minutes, or you can add a mine tour for the full 2.5-hour experience.
You can board at either Devil's Gate Station (I-70 exit 228) or Silver Plume Station (exit 226), and reservations are strongly encouraged because seats fill up fast on weekends. Book online or call (888) 456-6777.
Trains run daily from May through Columbus Day, then weekends through December with heated cars and holiday themes.
Classic Winter Fun in Breckenridge (Perfect for Families & Non-Skiers)
Sleigh Rides
You've got two great options here:
Golden Horseshoe offers a classic sleigh ride experience with all the bells (literally) and whistles.
Keystone and Frisco also have excellent sleigh ride operations. There's something timeless about bundling up under a wool blanket and gliding through snow-covered meadows behind a team of horses. It's basically a Hallmark movie, except real and without the forced drama.
Tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
Sometimes the best adventures are the simplest. Tubing is the perfect activity for families with kids who want mountain fun without the skiing learning curve.
Frisco Adventure Park (about 15 minutes from Breckenridge) offers excellent tubing hills with a magic carpet lift so you don't have to walk back up. It's reasonably priced compared to ski lift tickets, and kids as young as 3 can participate.
Why families love it:
No skill required—literally anyone can do it
Adrenaline rush without danger
Kids burn off energy FAST
Way cheaper than ski lessons
Usually causes lots of laughter
Grab a tube, climb to the top (or take the lift), fly down, and repeat until your cheeks hurt from laughing or you can't feel your toes anymore—whichever comes first.
Snowmobiling
For those who want a bit more adrenaline (and speed) than a sleigh ride but less technical skill than skiing, snowmobiling hits that sweet spot. You'll cover way more ground than you could on foot, and the views from the backcountry trails are absolutely worth it.
Nordic Center Snowshoeing (Great for Non-Skiers!)
The Nordic Center offers excellent snowshoe trails with rentals available if you don't have your own gear. Snowshoeing is literally just walking in snow—if you can walk, you can snowshoe. There's no learning curve like skiing or snowboarding.
Why non-skiers love snowshoeing:
Peaceful and meditative
You set your own pace
Can actually have conversations (unlike trying to talk while skiing)
Access to beautiful trails away from crowds
Great workout without feeling like a workout
Equipment rental is affordable (~$20-30)
Best beginner snowshoe trails near Breckenridge:
Gold Run Nordic Center trails (groomed and easy)
Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve
Boreas Pass Road (stunning views, gentle grade)
Budget tip: Remember that FREE Blue River Path I mentioned earlier? It's also perfect for snowshoeing with your own equipment—just another way to enjoy Breckenridge without spending money.
Free Things to Do in Breckenridge (Yes, Really Free!)
BreckConnect Gondola: The Best FREE Activity in Breckenridge
Here's Breckenridge's best-kept secret for non-skiers: The BreckConnect Gondola is completely FREE.
That's right—no lift ticket, no charge, nada. This scenic gondola takes you from downtown Breckenridge to the base of Peak 8, offering incredible mountain views along the way. You'll glide over Cucumber Gulch (keep your eyes peeled for moose!), and kids absolutely love it.
What makes this perfect for non-skiers:
You get the mountain experience without skiing
Access to base area restaurants and cafes (Robbie's and Cafe Ullr)
Watch skiers from the comfort of a warm cafe
Amazing photo opportunities
It's FREE (worth repeating!)
Pro tip: Ride up mid-morning, grab lunch at the base, do some people-watching, then ride back down. You'll feel like you were part of the mountain action without ever strapping on skis.
Carter Park: FREE Sledding Hill (Budget-Friendly Family Fun)
Want the quintessential mountain town experience without spending a fortune? Carter Park's sledding hill is where local families go, and it won't cost you a penny.
Located just four blocks from Main Street, this is hands-down one of the best free things to do in Breckenridge with kids. The hill is perfect for all ages—gentle enough for toddlers, fun enough for teens. Plus, walking back up the hill helps kids burn off that hot chocolate energy.
Budget tip: Bring your own sled from home, or pick one up at a local shop for around $15. Many vacation rentals also have sleds you can borrow.
After you're done sledding, Main Street is a short walk away for hot chocolate and warming up by a fireplace.
Blue River Recreation Path: FREE Groomed Trail for Walking & Snowshoeing
This is one of Breckenridge's hidden gems, and it's completely free to use. The rec path from Frisco Nordic Center to Breck Rec Center is regularly groomed and perfect for:
Walking or jogging
Snowshoeing (if you have your own equipment)
Fat biking
Dog walking (yes, dogs allowed!)
The path allows mixed traffic, but honestly, there's plenty of room for everyone. It's peaceful, scenic, and offers a low-key way to enjoy the mountains without paying for guided tours or equipment rentals.
Exploring Historic Main Street & Free Museums
Sometimes the best activities don't cost anything. Breckenridge's Victorian Main Street is gorgeous year-round, but especially magical in winter with twinkling lights and snow-covered peaks as your backdrop.
Free museums worth visiting:
Barney Ford Museum – Learn about this remarkable freed slave who became a successful entrepreneur
Edwin Carter Museum – Colorado's second-oldest museum (completely free!)
Both offer fascinating glimpses into Breckenridge's mining history and are perfect for families on rainy (or snowy) days.
Indoor Activities in Breckenridge for Kids (Perfect for Bad Weather Days)
Mountain Top Explorium (Children's Museum)
For families with younger kids (ages 2-10), this place is an absolute lifesaver when:
The weather turns nasty
You need to get the wiggles out indoors
Kids need a break from outdoor activities
You want something educational that doesn't feel educational
The museum has hands-on exhibits about Colorado wildlife, Rocky Mountain geology, craft stations, dress-up areas, science experiments, and construction zones. Basically, enough activities to keep little ones engaged for hours while you sit down for five blessed minutes.
The details: It's located at 100 S Park Ave (Unit C100) in downtown Breckenridge—NOT at Peak 8 like some outdated guides say. Open daily, usually 9am-3:30pm (though they close at 2pm on Wednesdays). Admission runs about $15 per kid, $6 per adult, and grandparents get in for $1 (best deal ever).
Parking is limited, so either use the free Summit Stage bus or park in the Ice House Lot about a block behind Main Street. Check mountaintopbreck.org for current hours and programs, or call (970) 453-7878.
This is especially clutch on those snowy afternoons when the whole family needs a warm, dry place to regroup.
Where to Eat in Breckenridge: Budget to Splurge
Is Breckenridge Expensive for Food?
It can be, but you have options!
I've organized restaurants by price point so you can splurge where it matters and save where it doesn't.
Burgers and sweet potato fries at Eric’s
Budget-Friendly (Large Portions, Small Prices)
Downstairs at Eric's (111 S Main St) - Best pizza/burgers, plus arcade for kids.
Michael's Italian (326 S Main St) - Huge portions, great pizza. You'll have leftovers.
Sancho's (500 S Main St) - Happy hour 3-6PM daily: $5 margaritas, $1 chips/salsa, $6 queso/guac.
Blue Stag Saloon (323 S Main St), Northside Pizza (315 N Main St), Rita's (301 S Main St) - All solid budget options with good happy hour deals.
breakfast burritos at Semplice are amazing!
Breakfast & Coffee
Semplice Cafe (209 N Main St) - Amazing breakfast burritos, limited seating.
Cool River Cafe (Behind 325 S Main St, along riverwalk) - Locals' favorite.
La Française French Bakery (411 S Main St, Lower Level) - Authentic French pastries.
Daylight Donuts (305 N Main St, Unit C) - Perfect cake donuts, opens 6AM, cash or credit ($10 min).
Mid-Range
Giampietro (100 N Main St, Unit 212) - Top pick for pasta.
Tin Plate Pizza (110 S Ridge St) - Artisan sourdough pizza in a 138-year-old mining cabin.
Special Occasion Splurges
Aurum (209 S Ridge St) - Book way ahead. Rootstalk (207 N Main St) - James Beard Award winner. Radicato (137 S Main St) - Handmade pasta along the Riverwalk. Blue River Bistro (305 N Main St) - Mountain views. Hearthstone (113 S Ridge St) - Historic Victorian home, hand-cut steaks.
Insider Secret Spots
Canary Speakeasy at Hotel Alpenrock (550 Village Rd) - Ask an employee to find Breckenridge's only speakeasy. Bespoke cocktails.
Mary's Mountain Cookies (128 S Main St) - BOGO day-old cookies at opening.
Want More Brewery & Happy Hour Info?
Check out our complete Breckenridge Breweries Guide for the best happy hour deals and craft beer spots in town!
Breckenridge bridge near downtown
Money-Saving Pro Tips: How to Do Breckenridge on a Budget
Stay in Silverthorne to Save BIG on Lodging
Here's the thing nobody tells tourists: Silverthorne is just 15 minutes down the road from Breckenridge, and lodging is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper.
You'll save enough on accommodations to splurge on those fancy dinners and adventures. The drive is nothing—you'll barely notice it—and Silverthorne has its own charm plus a huge outlet mall if you're into that.
Budget breakdown: You could easily save $100-200+ per night staying in Silverthorne versus in Breckenridge proper. That's $700-1400 savings on a week-long trip that you can put toward activities, dining, or actually relaxing without financial stress.
Skip the Rental Car
Take a shuttle from Denver Airport (around $45-65 per person), then use Breckenridge's FREE public transit once you arrive:
FREE buses throughout town
FREE BreckConnect Gondola
FREE Main Street trolley
Lodging shuttles (most properties offer these)
Savings: $400-800 for a week-long rental car, plus you avoid parking fees and the stress of mountain driving.
Free Activities Are Actually Amazing
Remember that groomed rec path I mentioned? Free and gorgeous. The gondola ride? Free with incredible views. Carter Park sledding? Free. Main Street window shopping and architecture? Free and festive.
You could easily spend an entire day doing free activities and have just as much fun (maybe more) than people who paid hundreds for ski tickets.
Pack Your Own Snacks
Altitude makes you hungry and thirsty. Bring reusable water bottles and fill them everywhere (restaurants, lodging, public fountains). Pack granola bars, trail mix, and snacks for the car and activities.
Silverthorne has a Walmart and Whole Foods. In Breckenridge, the local City Market has tons of food options including fresh fruit and vegetables.
Savings: $50-100+ that you'd otherwise spend on convenience store purchases.
FAQ: Your Breckenridge Winter Questions Answered
Is Breckenridge good for families with kids?
Absolutely! Breckenridge is one of the most family-friendly mountain towns in Colorado. With free sledding at Carter Park, the Children's Museum, free gondola rides, affordable activities, and restaurants with kids' menus and large portions, it's perfect for families. Plus, the altitude adjustment is easier than higher Colorado destinations.
What can you do in Breckenridge if you don't ski?
Tons! Dog sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, free sledding, the free gondola to Peak 8, snowshoeing, spa treatments, exploring historic Main Street, visiting free museums, ATV tours, tubing, ice skating, and more. This entire guide is dedicated to non-skiing activities—you won't be bored.
How do you get around Breckenridge without a car?
Breckenridge has excellent FREE public transportation:
Free buses throughout town (The Breck Free Ride)
Free BreckConnect Gondola
Free Main Street trolley
Most lodging offers free shuttles
You genuinely don't need a car once you're in Breckenridge.
Is Breckenridge expensive?
It can be, but doesn't have to be. Stay in nearby Silverthorne to save on lodging ($100-200/night savings). Take advantage of free activities (gondola, sledding, museums, walking trails). Eat at budget-friendly restaurants with large portions. Skip the rental car and use free public transit. With smart planning, Breckenridge is very doable on a budget.
How do you deal with altitude in Breckenridge?
Breckenridge sits at 9,600 feet. Here's how to adjust:
Spend your first night in Denver (5,280 ft) to acclimate
Drink 2-3x more water than normal
Take it easy your first day—no intense activities
Avoid alcohol the first day
Rest when your body tells you to
Kids especially need extra hydration and rest breaks. Most people adjust within 24-48 hours.
When is the best time to visit Breckenridge in winter?
December through March offers the best snow. For budget travelers, avoid peak holiday weeks (Christmas/New Year's, Presidents' Day weekend) when prices spike. January and early February offer good snow with fewer crowds and better lodging deals.
On Your Way Home: Stop and Stretch Your Legs (or See Some Animals)
Instead of just white-knuckling it back to Denver, make your drive home part of the adventure:
Instead of just white-knuckling it back to Denver, make your drive home part of the adventure:
Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary (3470 County Road 7, Erie) - Rescued farm animals with amazing stories. Tours available on weekends.
Ya Ya Farm and Orchard (6914 Ute Hwy, Longmont) - Century-old farm with heirloom apples, farm animals, and seasonal activities.
The Bee Hugger (12590 Ute Hwy, Longmont) - Local raw honey, U-pick sunflowers (seasonal), farm animals to feed. Open daily.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge (6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City) - Free 11-mile wildlife drive to see bison, deer, prairie dogs, and bald eagles. Perfect final stop before Denver.
Sawmill Lake: One of our favorite hikes near downtown Breckenridge.
Final Thoughts: Breckenridge is for Everyone (Not Just Skiers!)
If you're planning to split your trip between Colorado Springs or Denver and Breckenridge or Vail, consider staying in Fairplay. Yes, you'll have to go over a mountain pass, but it's only 30 minutes from Breck and you'll save a bundle. Plus, Fairplay itself is charming in that authentic, non-touristy mountain town way.
The truth is, Breckenridge in winter offers so much more than just skiing. Whether you're riding a sleigh on a monster truck, snowshoeing to a backcountry yurt, riding the free gondola for mountain views, or just enjoying free sledding at Carter Park with your kids, you'll find plenty of ways to make memories without ever strapping on a pair of skis.
For non-skiers: You won't feel left out. There are enough activities to fill your entire trip, from adventurous to relaxing.
For families on a budget: The combination of free activities (gondola, sledding, museums, trails) and affordable dining options means you can have an amazing Breckenridge experience without breaking the bank.
For families with kids: Between the Children's Museum, sledding hills, dog sledding, and family-friendly restaurants with large portions, your kids will have the time of their lives.
And honestly? You might have more fun than the skiers. The non-skiing activities often offer more variety, better weather protection, and way less physical exhaustion. But don't tell the skiers I said that.
Ready to plan your Breckenridge winter adventure? Save this post, bookmark those restaurant recommendations, and start building your itinerary. The mountains are calling—and you don't need skis to answer.
Have you done any of these Breckenridge winter activities? Found a hidden gem I didn't mention? Drop a comment below—I'm always looking for new ways to explore Colorado in winter!
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