A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Hilo for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Breckenridge or Hilo?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Hilo? 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 scenic, nature-filled, and charming ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Hilo

Hilo is a authentic, laid back, and mellow town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Breckenridge and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Breckenridge and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Breckenridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Hilo is known for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also home to The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Hilo is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is Breckenridge different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge is very popular for skiing. However, Hilo is not a skiing destination.

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.

Hilo is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Breckenridge or Hilo?

Hilo is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilo 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 Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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 Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. 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.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a popular place for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Hilo is a good option for a beach vacation. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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 Hilo?

Breckenridge is a great ski resort for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Breckenridge is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Hilo does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Breckenridge or Hilo.

Breckenridge is a very kid-friendly ski resort. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Hilo make for a high quality 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.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hilo is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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

Both Breckenridge and Hilo offer decent public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Breckenridge or Hilo a more walkable city?

Breckenridge is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Hilo?

Both Breckenridge and Hilo 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 Hilo. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Breckenridge than Hilo. 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 Hilo than Breckenridge 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 Hilo.

One day in Breckenridge or Hilo?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this friendly 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 Hilo?

Breckenridge is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo 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 hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Breckenridge or Hilo?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This ski resort offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this friendly 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 hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Breckenridge or Hilo?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hilo 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Breckenridge and Hilo, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Hilo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilo 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 Breckenridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Breckenridge than you might in Hilo.

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

Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Hilo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.