A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Sun Valley for Skiing, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Breckenridge or Sun Valley?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Sun Valley? 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. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a outdoorsy, active, 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 Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Sun Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Breckenridge and Sun Valley are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Sun Valley attracts visitors for its museums, food, resorts, and hiking. 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. Sun Valley is famous for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Breckenridge different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

For skiing and winter sports, both Breckenridge and Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is among the world's best ski destinations. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Breckenridge or Sun Valley?

Sun Valley is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Sun Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

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 Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Both Breckenridge and Sun Valley are nice when it comes to partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sun Valley. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

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 Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

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

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

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 Sun Valley?

Breckenridge is a great destination for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Breckenridge is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Sun Valley does not offer Christmas activities.

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

Sun Valley does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Sun Valley does not offer Christmas markets.

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

Sun Valley does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Sun Valley 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, Sun Valley is a very family-friendly destination. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

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 Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

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 Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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 Sun Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley can get you to some places easily. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

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

Is Breckenridge or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Breckenridge and Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Sun Valley?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley.

One day in Breckenridge or Sun Valley?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy 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 Sun Valley?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sun Valley 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. 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 Sun Valley?

Breckenridge, a popular ski resort, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this outdoorsy 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 Sun Valley?

Breckenridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sun Valley 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 comparing the travel costs between Breckenridge and Sun Valley, we can see that Breckenridge 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 Sun Valley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Sun Valley?

Breckenridge has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Sun Valley, 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.