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

Should you visit Detroit or Breckenridge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Breckenridge, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Detroit

Detroit is a hardworking, overlooked , and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming, breathtaking, and adventurous ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Detroit and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Detroit or Breckenridge?

Both Breckenridge and Detroit have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Detroit is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Breckenridge is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Detroit is well known for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Detroit different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a skiing destination.


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

Detroit
Breckenridge

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

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Detroit
Breckenridge

Dining out at restaurants in both Detroit and Breckenridge can be an enjoyable experience.

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Breckenridge area. 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 Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Detroit 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.

Detroit offers plenty to do in the evening. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Music?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Detroit is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Detroit Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Breckenridge

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

With a selection of resorts, Breckenridge makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Detroit
Breckenridge

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Breckenridge. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Detroit does not have a historic old town.


Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Breckenridge?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Breckenridge is well-known for its shopping. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Detroit does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge has a large number of Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Detroit does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Breckenridge is very family-friendly. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


Is Detroit or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Detroit
Breckenridge

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Detroit and Breckenridge.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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

Is Detroit or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Detroit
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.


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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Breckenridge?

Both Detroit and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Detroit 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 Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Detroit or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Detroit or Breckenridge?

In Detroit, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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.

A weekend in Detroit or Breckenridge?

Detroit is a fun place to experience. 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 live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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.

Five days in Detroit or Breckenridge?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the hardworking destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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.


A week in Detroit or Breckenridge?

Detroit is a popular place to visit. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Detroit?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $200. 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 Detroit and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Detroit or Breckenridge? 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 Detroit


Hotels in Breckenridge


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: Detroit Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Breckenridge $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

Also for Detroit, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    Breckenridge $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Breckenridge $94

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Breckenridge $7.79

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

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


Which is Bigger, Detroit or Breckenridge?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Detroit and Breckenridge, 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.