A Travel Price Comparison for Colorado Breckenridge vs. Beaver Creek for Skiing, Families, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Breckenridge or Beaver Creek? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming, breathtaking, and adventurous ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a active, adventurous, and charming town. And you can't forget about the skiing, food, and hiking.

Breckenridge and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Breckenridge and Beaver Creek are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Beaver Creek attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also well known for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Breckenridge different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaver Creek and Breckenridge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

For skiing and winter sports, both Breckenridge and Beaver Creek provide fantastic options.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Breckenridge should be on your list. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Beaver Creek is among the world's best ski destinations. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.


Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Breckenridge has a few options to choose from. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.


Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge and Beaver Creek offer a relatively similar set of nice luxury resort options.

With a selection of resorts, Breckenridge makes a nice vacation spot. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge is a good destination for visiting its old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.


Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Beaver Creek does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Breckenridge. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Beaver Creek does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for visiting Christmas markets. However, Beaver Creek does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge offers plenty of Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Beaver Creek does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is a very family-friendly destination. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Beaver Creek make for a very good place to visit.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.


Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Breckenridge or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Beaver Creek

Breckenridge and Beaver Creek both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Breckenridge on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Beaver Creek. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Both Breckenridge and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Breckenridge has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Breckenridge than Beaver Creek. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Breckenridge. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Beaver Creek, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Breckenridge than Beaver Creek. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Breckenridge that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Beaver Creek if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Beaver Creek, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Breckenridge is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Beaver Creek is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Beaver Creek, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this active destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Breckenridge is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Breckenridge?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Breckenridge is $200, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Breckenridge and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Beaver Creek? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Breckenridge


Hotels in Beaver Creek


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Breckenridge Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $19
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $200
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $200
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $199
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $196
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $189

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Breckenridge change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Breckenridge $61
    Beaver Creek $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Backcountry Ski Tour: $275
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Self-Guided Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $9.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Breckenridge and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Breckenridge much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Breckenridge would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Breckenridge and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Breckenridge.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Breckenridge Expensive? and Is Beaver Creek Expensive?.