A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Olympic National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Olympic National Park? 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. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a pristine, stunning, and vast park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Breckenridge and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Olympic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Olympic National Park is more popular for its museums, resorts, and hiking. Breckenridge is well known for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Olympic National Park is well known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Breckenridge different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Foodies will find both Breckenridge and Olympic National Park both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Breckenridge. 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.

Olympic National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Breckenridge. 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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.


Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

Olympic National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

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.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a popular place for its old town. However, Olympic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see the old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Olympic National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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 Olympic National Park?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Olympic National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge is a world class destination during the Christmas season. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Olympic National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a well-known place for its Christmas markets. However, Olympic National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see its Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Olympic National Park does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Breckenridge or Olympic National Park.

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 Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Both Breckenridge and Olympic National Park offer respectable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Breckenridge or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Olympic National Park

Breckenridge is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable ski resort. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

In either Breckenridge or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than Olympic National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Breckenridge than Olympic National Park. 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 Olympic National Park. 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 Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums and food that this pristine park 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

Breckenridge is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums and food that this pristine 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 Olympic National Park?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

Olympic National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park is $124. 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 Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Olympic National Park? 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 Olympic National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $19
    Olympic National Park $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $185
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $193
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $197
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $197

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Olympic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park 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
    Olympic National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

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

  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $7.99
  • Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $32
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $67
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Olympic Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Olympic Full Day Small Group Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Olympic National Park $5.57

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 Olympic National Park, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Olympic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Olympic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.

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