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Breckenridge off the Beaten Path

Written on March 11, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge, breckenridge dining, breckenridge events

It’s a well-known fact that Breckenridge is a town for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The world-class skiing, biking, and hiking provide reason enough to plan a vacation to this Victorian wonderland, nestled right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. However, there’s a side to Breckenridge that you might not know. On your next trip, you might consider hanging up the skis for a day and checking out some of the opportunities that lie under the radar in Breckenridge.

Let your Artistic Side Show. The Arts District of Breckenridge hosts several workshops throughout the year that are specifically designed to get your creative juices flowing. While it might seem that your busy schedule keeps you from experimenting in creative projects throughout the year, a vacation leaves no better time to let your artistic talents loose. If you’re planning a trip in the winter, you’ll enjoy the holiday-themed workshops that let you create your own Christmas cards or ornaments. Or, you might prefer a lesson that’s relevant any time of the year, such as printmaking, Batik, or Tie-Dying. Workshops are open to all skill level and ages. Similarly, Breckenridge’s “Ready, Paint, Fire” is a local paint-it-yourself pottery shop that is also popular with both locals and visitors. Here you’ll have the chance to paint your own bowls, plates, and mugs, guaranteeing that you’ll take a one-of-a-kind souvenir home as a reminder of your visit.

Power up with a Yoga Class. The Breckenridge Recreation Center, in addition to several spas around town, offers public yoga classes for locals and visitors. Not only can yoga help you unwind those tense muscles, but it will help your mind relax as well. And, since unwinding and relaxing are key components to any vacation, you’re more than covered in Breckenridge. Check Carter Park for class types and times. Drop in students are always welcome.

Breckenridge Lodging Deals

Take an Adventure Far Below. Founded in 1887, the Country Boy Mine is known for the gold and silver it produced during World War I and II. As a way of preserving the past and keeping Breckenridge’s deep mining history alive, the County Boy Mine leads tours that travel more than 1,000 feet into an authentic gold mine. Additionally, you might try your luck panning for gold at the Mine once your tour is over.

Go Backstage. Don’t neglect your cultural side on your next trip to Breckenridge. Instead, reserve an evening for a stop at the Backstage Theatre, where the tradition of award-winning, live theater has been going strong for thirty-five years. The Backstage Theatre hosts a variety of performances, ranging in genres for all ages, but you should reserve seats early as this popular attraction sells out quickly. And, if you prefer to be the center of attention, check out the workshops that the Backstage Theatre hosts.

Appeal to your Culinary Powers. A vacation is never quite complete without a taste of the local cuisine. A wide variety of restaurants line Main Street, allowing you to choose the culinary treat that will delight your taste buds. Better yet, why not take over the role of chef on your own? If you’re visiting Breckenridge in the warmer months, be sure to plan a trip to the Farmers’ Market. Pick up some local food and create your own masterpiece from the comfort of your Breckenridge vacation home.

Breckenridge really is a town for everyone. And, even if hitting the slopes is your first priority, it’s never a bad idea to take a day off. Let your body relax and treat your creative side to a day of fun. Breckenridge is just the place to do it all.

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A Weekend Getaway in the Mountains of Breckenridge

Written on March 8, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, breckenridge, breckenridge dining, breckenridge events

You work hard throughout the year and, unfortunately, burn out is a common result of balancing all that you do. Why not give yourself a break and get away for a weekend of rest and relaxation in the welcoming town of Breckenridge, Colorado? With Breckenridge lodging deals, its prime location, and the abundance of activity, this Summit County mountain town is the perfect place to plan a weekend escape.

Convenience:

Unlike many other Colorado mountain towns, Breckenridge offers easy travel access and a convenient location. Just a little more than an hour’s drive from the Denver International Airport, Breckenridge is one of the easiest mountain towns to access by car or plane in Colorado. And, once you get to town, you’ll find all the conveniences you need within close proximity to your Breckenridge vacation rental, such as groceries, shopping, and dining.

Options:

Often, a weekend getaway is a perfect time to do nothing but relax, and Breckenridge is just the place to take this opportunity. Breckenridge vacation rentals often offer added amenities such as pools, hot tubs, and fireplaces to make your stay away from home comfortable and luxurious. And, speaking of luxury, Breckenridge boasts a host of spas that offer massage and body treatments to help your body rejuvenate. Still, for those who equate a getaway with activity, Breckenridge has much to offer. Regardless of the season, Breckenridge is an active town. Summer and early fall provide perfect weather for hiking, biking, fishing, and water sports. In winter and early spring, the activities of choice take place at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Four world-class peaks provide unmatched terrain for skiers and boarders, plus off-mountain activities such as snowshoeing and snowmobiling make for perfect daytime activities.

Breckenridge Lodging Deals

Hospitality:

The town of Breckenridge loves to welcome travelers. A weekend getaway is a perfect opportunity to get a taste of Breckenridge’s hospitality on Victorian Main Street. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick burrito or a four-course meal, you’ll find unlimited options and friendly service on Main Street. This center of town is also the location of many of Breckenridge’s town events and parties. Throughout the year, Breckenridge finds plenty of reasons to celebrate with parades, music festivals, competitions, and family events. From spring’s Mardi Gras Celebration to winter’s International Snow Sculpture Championship, Main Street is the place to let loose in Breck.

Lodging:

A weekend away should be complimented with comfort. Breckenridge lodging deals offer not only comfort, but also affordability and convenience. In the winter, you might rent a ski-in, ski-out condo that puts you right next to the mountain and gives you quick access to a day of skiing. In the summer, however, you might choose a townhome located right off of Main Street, putting you in premier access to shopping, dining, and town events. Of course, for larger groups, you might find that a vacation rental meets your needs best. With quick access to hiking and biking trails and all of the conveniences of home such as a large kitchen and dining area, a vacation home will give you ample room to relax and catch up on some much needed rest.

While you’re sure to long for more time in Breckenridge, a weekend still grants you plenty of opportunity to really experience the Rocky Mountains. A half-day of skiing followed by après ski happy hour specials will pack a full day. Combine that with a day of spa treatments and a four-course meal on Main Street and you’ve just defined a perfect weekend. There’s no question that you work hard throughout the year. Isn’t it time to treat yourself to some R&R in Breckenridge style?

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Celebrate Community with Breckenridge Vacation Rentals

Written on January 12, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge Lodging, breckenridge, breckenridge events

Being a part of a community is important. We often celebrate this with neighborhood block parties and citywide celebrations. However, when we go on vacation, community is not often a major consideration in our destination. But, since we’re giving our hard-earned money to our particular vacation spot, community just might be more important than we think. After all, by supporting a specific community by choosing it as our vacation destination, we are hopefully contributing to its success and development for years to come. For these reasons and many more, Breckenridge vacation rentals are a smart investment.

Breckneridge Main Street

Local Pride: Breckenridge’s historic Main Street is the heart and soul of town. Victorian-inspired shops, restaurants, and bars line the street, and horse-drawn carriages transport visitors from one end of town to the other. Vacationers love Main Street’s charming shops, delicious restaurants, and friendly bars. But, the entire reason Main Street exudes so much charm is because it is filled with local businesses. This means you won’t find the typical fast-food chains or large shopping monopolies. Instead, you will find local artists, retailers, chefs, and bartenders who are excited to share their town with you. These folks live by Breckenridge’s laid-back philosophy and welcome you with their hospitality. By supporting these local merchants, you help to guarantee that Breckenridge stays independent, which is the reason visitors like it so much in the first place.

Community Reciprocation: As you give to the Breckenridge community, it gives back to you. The town of Breckenridge prides itself on supporting community events that pay off for tourists and locals. For example, a free town shuttle takes passengers from one end of town to the other, a service that is unbeatable on cold and snowy afternoons. But, the real wealth of Breckenridge’s community giving is seen in its town events. As host to the International Snow Sculpture Championship, Mardi Gras Parade, and Ullr Fest, Breckenridge offers free and fun events all year long to locals and visitors.

Opportunities for Involvement: Several of Colorado’s mountain towns offer little more to visitors than mountain activity. Other than skiing and snowboarding, however, Breckenridge is a town that always has something going on. Between art workshops, community recreation, and many other scheduled classes and events, there’s no shortage of off-mountain activities to keep you busy.

Historic Roots: Other than Breckenridge, where else can you spend the morning skiing and the afternoon taking a historical look at the past? While Main Street is a historical landmark all to itself, Breckenridge also features several other opportunities to experience the history of the Wild West. The Country Boy Mine, for example, is a popular tourist destination that still gives guided underground tours to show and explain Breckenridge’s large role in the gold mining boom of the West. Additionally, the Barney Ford House Museum gives visitors a first-hand look at the home of an escaped slave whose journey on the Underground Railroad made him famous. And, you can pay a visit to Breckenridge’s earliest settlers who are laid rest at the Valley Brook Cemetery.

If you are looking for chain restaurants and big box stores to line the roads of your vacation destination, then be sure and steer clear of Breckenridge. This mountain town prides itself on its deep roots and strong community. Find out what makes Breckenridge stand apart from the crowd, and experience what it means to be a part of a unique community…even when you are on vacation.

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Winter Events to Complement your Breckenridge Co Lodging

Written on January 8, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Main Street, breckenridge, breckenridge events

Sure, skiers and boarders flock to Breckenridge for the Ski Resort’s four peaks, five terrain parks, and two half-pipes. Simply put: Breckenridge offers a lot on the mountain. But, skiers and boarders stay in Breckenridge because of another simple fact: The town of Breckenridge is hopping. While there’s no shortage of fun in the summer, the winter season is a time to celebrate in Breckenridge. It shouldn’t be hard to make sure your Breckenridge Co lodging puts you in close proximity to the action. Here’s what you have to look forward to this winter season.

Lighting of Breckenridge: Breckenridge has perfected holiday cheer. December 5^th marks the start of Breckenridge’s annual holiday tradition: The Lighting of Breckenridge. Locals and visitors alike gather with hot cocoa, cookies, and caroling near the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance cabin to await Santa. Once St. Nick himself arrives in a horse-drawn carriage, he leads the procession of carolers down Main Street to the Blue River Plaza. A countdown begins, and soon enough a large town tree is lit for the holiday season.

Breckenridge Winter Events

The Dew Tour: Back by popular demand, the Dew Tour returns to Breckenridge from December 17-20. Hosting three major, multi-sport events, Breck’s Dew Tour features men and women snowboarding and free skiing competitions. Although the Tour is so popular that it’s broadcast on NBC, you can watch the excitement of the superpipe and slopsetyle competitions slope-side in Breckenridge.

Ullr Fest: By January, it’s normally dumping snow on a daily basis in Breckenridge. And, the town not only notices, but pays respect for the more than 300 inches of powder that grace the town each year. As a yearly tradition, Breckenridge honors Ullr, the mythical Norse God of Snow, with a weeklong celebration of live entertainment, the Ullympics, and an ice-skating party along Main Street. Known as Ullr Fest, this celebration runs from January 10-16. In addition to the traditional yearly events, this year’s Ullr lineup includes a celebratory bonfire, a Breck-style Dating Game, the Ullr Parade, Comedy Night, and a Chili Cook-off.

International Snow Sculpture Championships: Breckenridge wouldn’t be able to move from January to February if it weren’t for the annual Snow Sculpture Championship. Held from January 26 to February 7, competitors from all over the world come to Breckenridge to carve magnificent sculptures out of 20-ton blocks of snow. Transforming ice before spectators’ eyes, artists are allotted just 65 hours, their hands, and a few approved tools to create their masterpieces.

Mardi Gras: Breckenridge kicks the party up a notch in February as it hosts its own Mardi Gras celebration on Main Street between the 13^th and 16^th. If you’ve never experienced a Masquerade Ball at 9,600 feet, this is certainly one event you won’t want to miss. The highlight is the Breckenridge Bacchus Ball, taking place on February 21^st and featuring live music, dancing, New Orleans-style food and beverages, and one very special event: the crowning of the 2009 Breckenridge Rex and Queen.

Spring Massive: April might mark the end of ski season, but it’s certainly not a sorrowful time in Breckenridge. The Spring Massive runs from the 1^st through the 18^th. This interactive event is packed with entertainment, family activity, and competitions. Free outdoor concerns, a Bite of Breckenridge, a Massive Beer Festival, and Comedy Nights are only a few of the many treats that fill Breckenridge’s April calendar.

In comparison to Breckenridge, all other ski towns are just that—a place to ski. Breckenridge, however, is a place to ski and stay. With the range of exciting events lining Breckenridge’s winter calendar, you’d be foolish to go anywhere else.

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Breckenridge condos for rent…ski to the lift

Written on November 20, 2009 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge events

The mountain has been open for just over a week now, which means the smile hasn’t left my face. While many ski town locals seem to think that tourists are both a blessing (they boost the town’s economy) and a curse (they turn the volume up a few notches from the quiet days of the off-season), I must disagree. I love to see visitors flock to town as soon as the lift lines open. And, I can help but think that they’ve made the right choice by choosing my ski town as their vacation destination. With the number of Breckenridge condos for rent and Breckenridge rental homes, there’s really no better town to pick for a ski vacation.

I guess the reason I say this is because of our long list of town events and nightlife choices in Breckenridge. For example, you’ll find me at The Speakeasy checking out a movie tonight, laying low so I’ll be early to bed and early to rise. After all, I make it a personal goal to arrive at the lifts before they open each Saturday. Will I see you there?

The Speakeasy is a great place to spend Friday nights in Breck

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Breckenridge Condos One Reason for Town Popularity

Written on November 15, 2009 by Theresa in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge, breckenridge events, breckenridge restaurants

Last March, an article was published in the New York Times travel section that praised Breckenridge, not only for its unmatched Ski Resort, but also for its mountain town charm. While these points aren’t breaking news to many of us who have lived in Breckenridge for some time now, it’s important to understand just why so many travelers (about 1.5 million annually) continue to make Breckenridge their vacation destination. Here’s a look at the reasons out-of-towners like to visit Breckenridge:

Mountain Terrain Stats: More than 2,300 acres make up the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Within that massive space, 155 trails are available for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers and boarders to choose from. Additionally, Breckenridge’s four terrain parks and three half pipes offer that extra excitement for thrill seekers. This means that there is something for all of Breckenridge’s many visitors, but that doesn’t equate to long lift lines. The relatively new Breck-Connect brings skiers and riders from the transportation center to the slopes in an 8-person gondola to keep the flow of visitors moving. And, 29 additional lifts spread throughout Breckenridge’s four peaks keeps the stream of traffic moving all day. Among these lifts, visitors will find the Imperial Express SuperChair, North America’s highest chairlift, which transports riders to an elevation of 12,840 feet.

Breckenridge Condos, Town and Ski Resort

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Main Street Charm: The real backbone of Breckenridge is Victorian-inspired Main Street, a walkable historic district that offers no shortage of bars, restaurants, museums, theatres, and shops. Unmatched in any other Colorado ski town, Main Street of Breckenridge offers so much entertainment that non-skiers find plenty to keep them entertained. And, a free town shuttle transports locals and visitors up and down Main Street. Or, for those who would rather spare some of the travel budget, horse-drawn carriages also offer rides up and down Main Street.

Breckenridge Condos, Restaurants and Bars Along Main St.

Town Events: Those who visit Breckenridge only for the skiing are certainly missing out. Because Breckenridge has more than 3,000 year-round residents, the town is always buzzing with excitement. The laid-back, friendly, and active vibe of Breck’s locals spills into town events, such as the International Snow Sculpture Contest, various sporting competitions, and Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Year round events and activities line the calendar and show visitors that there’s just as much fun to be had off the slopes.

Location and Hospitality: Breckenridge is also a popular destination because of its close proximity to Colorado’s Front Range and the Denver International Airport. Still, even though the town is just about ten minutes off of the interstate, it is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and any signs of I-70. Additionally, a variety of accommodation choices are available in Breckenridge. From Breckenridge condos to homes in Hocks Nest, visitors appreciate the affordability and value they find in Breck.

Breckenridge Condos

Focus on Improvements: Unfortunately, many Colorado ski towns do all they can to attract visitors and then make few changes in response to an increase in traffic. Not Breckenridge. In order to keep its small-town charm mixed with big mountain experience, Breckenridge is constantly making changes and additions as tourists continue to flock to town. Recently, the Breckenridge Ski Resort added an entire Peak 7 base village, adding additional lodging and dining options. The Ski Resort has also opened previously inaccessible terrain recently, expanding skiable area to account for new visitors.

With so many visitors choosing Breckenridge year after year as their vacation destination, the numbers speak for themselves. Get to Breckenridge, and see what all the fuss is about.

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Dodgeball…A new Halloween tradition?

Written on October 21, 2009 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, breckenridge, breckenridge events

The Town of Breckenridge does a great job of incorporating creative new ideas into the town calendar each year. This Halloween is no exception. For the first (and hopefully not last) time, the Breckenridge Recreation Center will play host to a Halloween Dodgeball Tournament. Why not plan a Halloween Breckenridge vacation and join us to dodge witches in true Breckenridge style?

Teams must be a minimum of six players with at least two females per team And, as if the excitement of any sporting tournament isn’t enough to get me excited, there is a catch…each player must dress up in costume. I’m already formulating my team, but I also have the added challenge of coming up with a uniform that will be fitting for incorporating knee pads. Any ideas?

Halloween Dodgeball

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Channel your inner artist in Breckenridge

Written on October 5, 2009 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, breckenridge, breckenridge events

I’m always impressed by the work of many of our local artists here in Breckenridge, but I’ll admit that I often forget just how much talent we have around town. While I love bragging about my bike rides, new hiking routes, and plans for ski season, I want to give myself the new goal of investing more in the local art scene.

So, this weekend I’m going to fulfill my goal by participating in the Oct. 10th Clay Workshop with Connie Christensen at the Quandary Antiques Cabin, a part of the Breckenridge Arts Council. I’m hoping that this class will give me head start on some creative gifts for the Christmas season. The cost of the workshop is $10 for SCAC members (Summit County Arts Council) and $25 for non-members. It runs from 9am – 12pm, and lunch follows.

While I can’t guarantee my inner artist will produce a masterpiece, I’m sure this workshop will give her just the jump start she needs to simply have some fun getting creative.

Get creative in Breckenridge

Calling all Artists to Breckenridge @ Yahoo! Video

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August is Unbelievable in Breck

Written on July 30, 2009 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, breckenridge events

One of the many things I love most about summer in Breckenridge is the music. All summer long, the Breckenridge Music Festival provides exactly what our town needs to keep us smiling and mellow before the ski season–music!

While I’m much more inclined to go for a rock concert or bluegrass festival, I’m trying something new this summer. So far I haven’t been disappointed.

The Breckenridge Music Festival plays host to the Champagne Concert Series. Every Sunday in August, a different house plays host to a piano and brass trio in an intimate setting that can’t even top a mountain view. Is that classy or what?

There’s something pretty cool about going to a sophisticated event like this, after a day of getting dirty and sweaty on the hiking/mountain biking trails. This is a non-pretentious town that also caters to finer living. We really do have it all up here!

If you’re visiting town, a Breckenridge condo can be rented within walking distance of the concert. Mild summer nights, intimate venues, and superior company—give me a break. Just get tickets. You can thank me later.

A View from Breckenridge

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Breckenridge Halloween Party: A Night to Remember

Written on November 1, 2008 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, breckenridge events

Having grown up in New York City, I was never able to experience a classic Halloween. Sure, we went trick-a-treating, but people would cautiously hand the treats through the doorway. Thus, imagine my delight when I worked the Halloween party at Briggle House last evening. Suffice it to say that it was the best Halloween party I’ve ever attended, except possibly the time, may years ago, when I came dressed as a Playboy Bunny, but we won’t talk about that here. Moving on…

From 5:30 to 8:30, all traffic was closed on Harris Street. Just about every home was opened for the trick-a-treaters, and most homes were decorated for the occasion. Kids could actually go inside people’s houses! Toto, I have a feeling that I’m not in New York City anymore!

The guides at the Briggle House were dressed as different characters from history. Depending upon the child, we could make it very scary or not scary at all. A great time was had by everyone! So the next time I tell you about a party in Breckenridge, come plan a Breckenridge vacation, and let your kids enjoy a fun, safe Halloween!

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