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

Should you visit New Bern or Breckenridge?

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

Should I visit New Bern or Breckenridge? 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.

New Bern

New Bern is a quaint, charming, and laid back town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a scenic, nature-filled, and charming 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

New Bern and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • 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 New Bern or Breckenridge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although New Bern and Breckenridge are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while New Bern attracts visitors for its museums. Breckenridge is more touristy than New Bern and is known 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. New Bern is famous for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is New Bern different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern
Breckenridge

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

New Bern offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

New Bern
Breckenridge

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

New Bern offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Breckenridge has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular place for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Breckenridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.


Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular place for its resorts. However, New Bern is not a resort destination.

Breckenridge has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

New Bern is not a resort destination.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular place for its historic old town. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern does not have a historic old town.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, New Bern is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge is a good destination for hiking. 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.

New Bern is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is well known for shopping. Also, New Bern 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 New Bern. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, New Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Breckenridge is not to be missed. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

New Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is well known for its Christmas markets. However, New Bern does not offer Christmas markets.

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

New Bern does not offer Christmas markets.


Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Families?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Breckenridge is 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.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is well known for romance. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Breckenridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular place for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.


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

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with a few options for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is New Bern or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

New Bern
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

New Bern is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or New Bern?

How long in New Bern or Breckenridge?

Both New Bern 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 New Bern. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for New Bern, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

Families should spend more time in Breckenridge than New Bern. 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 New Bern. 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 New Bern 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 New Bern or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    New Bern 1-2 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

The beautiful ski resort of Breckenridge offers nightlife and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Breckenridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

Breckenridge is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Breckenridge, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern 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.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Breckenridge has to offer. This ski resort offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or New Bern?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in New Bern is $140, 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 New Bern and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New Bern $76
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New Bern $152
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in New Bern and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in New Bern 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 New Bern


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: New Bern Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New Bern $34
    Breckenridge $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into New Bern or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and New Bern 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
    New Bern $41
    Breckenridge $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New Bern $26
    Breckenridge $94

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New Bern $30
    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 New Bern and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is New Bern much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to New Bern would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in New Bern 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 New Bern.

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


Which is Bigger, New Bern or Breckenridge?

New Bern has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of New Bern 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.