Why Breckenridge?

Unlike many American ski resorts that have been purpose built, Breckenridge is steeped in history. Long before the settlers from the East crossed the Continental Divide, it was part of the summer hunting grounds of the nomadic Ute native Americans. High in the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is reputed to have 300 days of sunshine a year which is probably why so many people come for a vacation and end up staying.

The town was formed in 1859 during the gold rush and Main Street was laid out parallel to the Blue River. Despite a successful gold-dredging boom from 1898 to 1942, the population dropped so much that Breckenridge nearly became a ghost town. In December 1961, Rounds and Porter, a Kansas lumber company, opened the Breckenridge Ski Area and a new era began.

Many of the original buildings have been preserved as museums and restaurants and are well worth a visit. Breckenridge has over 80 restaurants and bars from Burger and Pizzas to Asian and Fine Dining. The Gold Pan Saloon on Main Street is unchanged from 1879 with it's pot-bellied wood burning stove.

Those of you who like shopping will not be disappointed. There are shops selling stylish Clothes, Sportswear, Jewelry, Gifts and Fine Art. The redeveloped Outlet Mall at Silverthorne is also a must, with big name retailers like Timberland, Nike and Levi's all represented.

Enjoy an evening at the Backstage Theatre with shows designed for all ages and interest. The Speakeasy offers first-run movies in an intimate theatre within walking distance of Main Street. Photography lectures and workshops are also a fantastic way for you to enhance your skills and capture the awesome scenery in Summit County.

After a hard day skiing or taking part in all the amenities that Breckenridge has to offer, why not book yourself into one of the many Spas for some first rate treatment.

Breck has two supermarkets that sell all the ingredients for delicious home cooking. The biggest is the City Market on the outskirts of town with a popular Liquor store on the same complex.