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

Should you visit Breckenridge or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Seattle? 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. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Breckenridge and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Seattle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle. Although Breckenridge and Seattle are both popular with visitors, Seattle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seattle is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Breckenridge is known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Breckenridge different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is renowned for snow skiing. However, Seattle is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Breckenridge is among the best in the world. 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.

Seattle is not a skiing destination.


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

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Theater?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

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

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.


Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Breckenridge
Seattle

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

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Seattle

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

Breckenridge offers a nice historic old town area. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

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 Seattle?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Seattle does not offer Christmas activities.

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

Seattle does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Seattle does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Seattle does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Breckenridge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly ski resort. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Both Breckenridge and Seattle 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.

Seattle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.


Is Breckenridge or Seattle Better for Students?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle is a well-known place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Breckenridge
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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

Is Breckenridge or Seattle a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Seattle

Breckenridge is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.


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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Breckenridge and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Seattle. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

Families should spend more time in Breckenridge than Seattle. 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in Breckenridge or Seattle?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This ski resort offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Seattle?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Breckenridge or Seattle?

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Breckenridge has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the outdoorsy big city of Seattle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Breckenridge or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Seattle 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Seattle 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 Seattle is $205. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $187
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $195
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $198
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $198
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $198

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • One-Way Transfer: Cruise Piers to Airport : $28
  • One-Way Transfer: SeaTac Hotels to Seattle Cruise Terminals : $33
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer(Seattle Airport To/From Seattle): $58
  • Seattle Departure Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Executive Sedan : $63
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Seattle - Arrival Private Transfer: $71
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $75
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Airport (SEA) - Departure Transfer: $75
  • Seattle Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer from Seattle hotels to Smith Cove Terminal : $75
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Seattle Airport: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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
    Seattle $51

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Bite-Sized Seattle History & Food Tour: $15
  • Seattle : Fun Cooking Classes With Chef Seamus: $55
  • Secret Food Tours Seattle: $65
  • Pike Place Market: Walking Food Tour: $66
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $67
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $67
  • International District Food Tour: $69
  • Seattle Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Ballard Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Street Food Tour of South Lake Union: $75
  • Plant Based Food Tour in Pike Place Market: $79
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Seattle $16

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
  • 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: $114
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260

Tours and Activities in Seattle

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

  • Experience Mining For Genuine Montana Sapphires in Seattle: $5.00
  • Historic Ballard: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring Seattle's Quirky History: $5.20
  • Self Guided 'Trolling for Treasures in Fremont' Solo Walking Tours: $6.50
  • Space Needle Park Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Downtown Seattle Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Space Needle Park Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Everett by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Seattle by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Seattle Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Uncover Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Seattle Mariners Baseball Game Ticket at T Mobile Park: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Seattle $16

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:

  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Seattle Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
  • Bodacious Bordeaux Wine Tasting Pass in Woodinville: $45
  • Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Artisan Hill Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Half Day Private Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle : $120
  • Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour : $120
  • Day Private Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle: $180
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $262
  • Snoqualmie Falls + Wine Tasting: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour: $263


When comparing the travel costs between Breckenridge and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Seattle, 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.