FAMILY‑FRIENDLY SKI TRIP PLANNER: A GUIDE TO VISITING BRECKENRIDGE WITH KIDS
Breckenridge is built for family vacations—mountain magic, small-town charm, and plenty of ways to keep everyone active (and happy) from the first chairlift to the final hot chocolate. Whether you're planning your first ski trip with kids or returning for another winter getaway, the key to a smooth trip is planning ahead.
This guide walks you through the essential pieces of a family-friendly ski trip in Breckenridge: where to stay, how to get on the mountain, what to do off the slopes, and tips to keep it all stress-free.
Step 1: Choose the Right Lodging
Where you stay makes a big difference on a family trip—proximity to the slopes, space to spread out, and amenities that make downtime easier.
What to Look For:
- Ski-in/Ski-out or shuttle access for easy mountain mornings
- Multiple bedrooms so parents and kids can rest on their own schedules
- Full kitchens to keep snacks and quick meals on hand
- Hot tubs or game rooms for après-ski family fun
- Walkability to town for quick runs to restaurants or rentals
Many of our guests with young kids love neighborhoods like Warrior’s Mark, Shock Hill, and Peak 9 Village for their mix of convenience and comfort.
Need help matching your group to the right home base? Our team can help guide the search.
Step 2: Get Lift Tickets and Lessons in Order
For Kids New to Skiing:
- Breckenridge Ski & Ride School offers half-day and full-day lessons starting at age 3 (for skiing) and age 5 (for snowboarding).
- Group lessons are divided by age and ability to keep things fun and appropriately paced.
- Book lessons early—spots fill up fast, especially over holidays and weekends.
Lift Ticket Tip:
Families skiing 3+ days often save money by purchasing an Epic Day Pass instead of daily lift tickets. The earlier you buy, the better the deal. If your trip came together late, you can still save by purchasing tickets online in advance—never wait until you're at the window.
Step 3: Make Time for Off‑Slope Activities
Even the most eager skiers appreciate a break from the mountain. Breckenridge offers plenty of winter fun that doesn’t require skis or snowboards.
Kid-Approved Winter Activities:
- Sledding at Carter Park – A free sledding hill near downtown (bring your own sled or pick one up in town).
- Ice skating – Check out the Stephen C. West Ice Arena for indoor and outdoor public skate sessions.
- Snowshoeing or Nordic skiing – Try easy trails at the Breckenridge Nordic Center.
- Breckenridge Recreation Center – Offers a climbing wall, indoor pools with a waterslide, and open gym time for active afternoons.
- Scenic sleigh rides – Cozy and fun for all ages, especially in the evening with blankets and views.
Step 4: Plan for Simple, Family-Friendly Dining
Feeding a crew after a full ski day can feel like a project. These local spots make it easy.
Breckenridge Restaurants Families Love:
- Downstairs at Eric’s – Pizza, arcade games, and a casual vibe
- Blue Moose – A local favorite for breakfast (and very kid-tolerant early mornings)
- Fatty’s Pizzeria – Big portions and no one blinks if the kids are a little noisy
- Ollie’s Pub & Grub – Family-friendly menu with plenty of space
- Empire Burger – Fast, filling, and great for lunch after the slopes
If your rental has a kitchen, picking up groceries from City Market or Breckenridge Market & Liquor gives you the flexibility to cook a few meals in and save time (and budget).
Step 5: Pack Smart for Colorado Winter
Mountain weather changes quickly, and dry air can surprise out-of-state visitors. Here’s a quick checklist of what families should bring:
- Waterproof layers (jackets, pants, gloves)
- Neck gaiters and goggles for windy or snowy days
- Plenty of sunscreen and lip balm
- Moisturizer for skin adjusting to the high-altitude air
- Slippers or cozy socks for downtime at the rental
- Snacks for kids who need fuel between runs
If you forget anything, Breck has well-stocked gear shops and rental outfitters that can help fill in the gaps.
Plan Your Family Ski Trip with VisitBreck
The best family trips to Breckenridge are the ones that feel balanced—plenty of time on the slopes, easy transitions off the mountain, and space to relax when the day winds down. Our team at VisitBreck helps families find the right home base.
From finding lodging that fits your crew to offering local tips once you’re here, we’re your on-the-ground resource for a seamless winter vacation.
MORE ABOUT PINNACLE LODGING
Pinnacle Lodging is a locally owned and operated team, proudly rooted in Summit County. With a deep love for the mountains and years of industry expertise, we’re known for our high-touch, personalized approach and long-standing relationships with happy homeowners.
Our curated portfolio of over 170 luxury homes, mountain condos, and cozy townhomes is backed by seamless operations, local expertise, and a client experience that keeps property owners with us year after year.
Thinking about a new property manager? See what makes our local team different here.