A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Park City Utah for Skiing, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Park City Utah? 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 adventurous, scenic, and nature-filled 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a active, high energy, and adventurous town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Breckenridge and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

Both Park City Utah and Breckenridge have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Breckenridge is more popular for its historical sights, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Park City Utah is known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Park City Utah is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.

How is Breckenridge different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

For skiing and winter sports, both Breckenridge and Park City Utah provide amazing 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.

Park City Utah is among the world's best ski destinations. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Breckenridge or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

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 Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Park City Utah just to party. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.


Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

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 Park City Utah Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Breckenridge is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

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 Park City Utah?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Both Breckenridge and Park City Utah are superb shopping destinations.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Park City Utah does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Breckenridge is a top place to visit during Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Park City Utah does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Breckenridge is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Park City Utah does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Breckenridge offer plenty to see during the holidays. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Park City Utah does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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, Park City Utah is a very family-friendly destination. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

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 Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for couples.

Park City Utah makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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

Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Both Breckenridge and Park City Utah are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Park City Utah is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.


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

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Park City Utah can get you to some places easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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

Is Breckenridge or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Park City Utah

Breckenridge and Park City Utah both are amazing 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 Park City Utah. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this adventurous 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 Park City Utah?

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this high energy 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Park City Utah 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, Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah is $320. 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 Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Park City Utah? 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 Park City Utah


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 Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $19
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $195
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $192
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $184

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $114

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah 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
    Park City Utah $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Park City Utah $68

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

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Park City Utah $46

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 Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Park City Utah?

Park City Utah has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Park City Utah, 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.