Story Ideas
Breckenridge Summer 2011
1) Made in Breckenridge: The craft movement follows local history
2) Art at 9600 feet: Uncover the unexpected in the Arts District of Breckenridge
3) Bike Breck: The best of town’s two-wheeled adventures
4) Learning vacations: Let curiosity fuel the fun
5) Find balance in Breck: Pamper your body, mind and spirit
6) New at the Base of 8: Luxe lodging and big thrills
This summer, kick it up or kick back in Breckenridge, Colorado. Whether sampling the fresh air and sunshine, playing hard and breaking a sweat or setting out on a family-friendly excursion, this historic mining town delivers.
Seeking a relaxation session? Sample the independent restaurant scene, find the perfect gift downtown or pursue fine – and fun – art in the Breckenridge Arts District. Many people think of Breckenridge, Colo. as a top ski destination, but most don’t realize there is much more to discover, throughout the year. Founded more than 150 years ago by prospectors in search of gold (and they found it), Breckenridge still attracts visitors in search of adventure. The added bonus? A history lesson to boot.
Made in Breckenridge: The craft movement follows local history
Driven by an enduring independent spirit, Breckenridge boasts a vibrant ‘made-in-Breck’ food and beverage scene: more than 70 independently-owned and operated restaurants and bars, one of Colorado’s (and the nation’s) first microbreweries – the Breckenridge Brewery – and one of 14 craft distilleries in the state.
The Breckenridge Distillery is the world's highest: a 4,000-sq-ft facility turning out single-malt whiskey (three year process), vodka, infusions and bourbon whiskey. What makes the product so unique? Ice-cold runoff from the high mountain peaks, mineral-rich soil and lots of patience.
Art at 9600 feet: Uncover the unexpected in the Arts District of Breckenridge
In 2004, Breckenridge art loyalists set about creating a comprehensive arts campus in the heart of town. The original design objectives, coming to fruition now, encourage a new vibrancy in downtown Breckenridge. Today, existing creative outlets mix with restored historic structures to house unique workspaces for artists and artists-to-be.
Ongoing workshops for all ages, and in various media, are offered at the Fuqua Livery Stable and Robert Whyte House; the Quandary Antiques Cabin was recently transformed into a ceramics studio; and the Tin Shop houses guest artists who open their doors for demos. Mix it up with events such as the Breckenridge Festival of Film or Second Saturdays, theater performances at the Backstage and music of various genres at the Riverwalk Center.
Bike Breck: The best of town’s two-wheeled adventures
Breckenridge’s easily-accessed trail network leads to well over 1,000 miles of mountain biking across Summit County. Many trails (which serve as routes for both amateur and professional races) are preexisting paths and flumes used by miners in search of gold. Road cyclists can explore the surrounding counties via mountain passes, bike paths and state highways.
Heck, hop on a cruiser and join the weekly ride or explore historic downtown; in-town bike lanes make it a snap for any ability to saddle up. Prefer to sit back? Tour the shops and restaurants with Breckenridge Pedicabs. Or, visit for events including Breck Bike Week and the inaugural USA Pro Cycling Challenge.
Learning vacations: Let curiosity fuel the fun
At Colorado Mountain College, foodies can focus on basic techniques such as knife skills and bread-making or explore the flavors and advanced techniques of international chefs. Learn the science of distilling or microbrewing, taste the results right here in town and discover how to incorporate the Breck-made libations into recipes.
Lovers of the outdoors can pursue their favorite activities and give back to their passions: sign up for a mountain bike skills clinic or take part in hands-on learning by volunteering to build sustainable trails. Budding artists can further explore their creativity with workshops and lectures in painting, music or film. In Breck, it’s easy to take a vacation to the next level and leave with more than a rekindled sense of adventure.
Find balance in Breck: Pamper your body, mind and spirit
The spa scene in Breckenridge is blossoming – this small mountain town is home to more than 13 spas and wellness centers – and it goes far beyond massage: think acupuncture, oriental herbal medicine, yoga, all-inclusive relaxation packages and treatments to combat the dry air and intense sun of this high-altitude environment.
Travelers can step back to natural with fresh, healthy food selections at one of the many independent restaurants in town. And after a long day of outdoor play, recharge the body and the spirit with a recovery massage or relaxation treatment.
New at the Base of 8: Luxe lodging and big thrills
A plush resort located at the base of Peak 8, One Ski Hill Place sets the new standard of luxury in Breckenridge. In addition to lavish suites and incredible views, travelers can relax with amenities including a bowling alley, aquatics center and movie lounge.
Just outside the doors, thrill seekers can race down the slopes (summer and winter) on the new Gold Runner Coaster, which offers 2,500 feet of elevated rollercoaster track. Ride as a single or with a family member in the two-seater cars, which give you the controls to manage your speed through the hairpin curves and twists. Even better? Restaurants, shopping and downtown activity outfitters sit a short gondola ride away from the new offerings.
