Breckenridge Beyond Skiing: 6 Family-Friendly Winter Activities for Non-Skiers

Marvel at the mountain views while snowshoeing or cross-country skiing

Complete with a gorgeous alpine lodge that serves light fare and warm drinks, you could easily spend all day exploring the trails around the Breckenridge Nordic Center. Getting to the lodge was a quick ride on one of the shuttle buses that run extensively throughout Breckenridge. Upon arrival, you can choose between snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and adventuring on a snowcat!

We brought our own snowshoes and the daily trail passes were reasonably priced for a full day of fun ($30/adult and free for children 12 and under). If you don’t have your own gear — no problem! There are cross-country skis and snowshoes available for rent.

Kid-approved tip: The views are amazing and especially impressive from inside the A-frame lodge while sipping on a hot chocolate or beverage of your choice!

Head to the hills — the sledding hills that is!

What kid doesn’t love to careen down a hill at top speed?! The free sledding hill at Carter Park is just steep enough to pick up the right amount of speed. It is not too steep for walking back up multiple times for another go. One of the best parts is the free sleds available for use. This is especially useful for vacationers who don’t have their own sleds and want to avoid buying one for only a couple hours of use. There were plenty of sleds there when we arrived. Just return them when done for the next person to use!

A paid option for sledding/tubing is the Frisco Adventure Park, which is about a 15-minute drive from Breckenridge. For $40/person you get an hour of tubing fun.

Kid-approved tip: Bring some snacks/drinks to Carter Park. There is an open pavilion with picnic tables that are perfect for taking a break in between flying down the hill. Public restrooms are also available on-site.

Snowmobiling or dog sledding, anyone?

If you really want to get outside your comfort zone, try some dog sledding. Good Times Adventures offers an incredible dog sledding experience for families. Be sure to book early as their spots are limited and fill up quickly.

In addition, trying your hand at snowmobiling, especially if you have older children, might be just the right amount of adrenaline-pumping fun for your family. There are multiple outfits that provide this service, so a quick online search will find the best location for your needs.

Ice skating for the whole family

Ice skating - another great winter activity! You can rent skates at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena and find their public skate times online. They even do a Disco Skate, complete with music and a disco ball on some Friday and Saturday nights.

Soak in the mountain views while soaking in a heated pool or hot tub!

It’s not every day you get to swim outside while the snow falls around you. Talk about a core memory for your kids?! I highly suggest staying at accommodations, which include an outdoor pool and/or hot tub. Not only does it make for an incredible experience, but it’s also relaxing after a long day of outdoor activities.

Explore Main Street for some shopping and charm

If you’ve never been to Breckenridge, I think the length of the main street and the amount of shops/restaurants will pleasantly surprise you! There are more than enough shops to spend an entire day (and more!) meandering through while searching for the perfect souvenirs to bring back home. A day of exploring Main Street is the perfect way to break up your active outdoor activities and give the kids a break.

Kid-approved tip: Pick up some cookies at the Mountain Top Cookie Shop to munch on while you shop. You won’t regret it!

• The Crown: Great selection of coffees, paninis and flatbreads. Our recommendations: the cubano latte, lincoln panini and pesto flatbread.

• Downstair’s at Erics: Kid-approved for a fun mix of pizza and arcade games. Parents will appreciate the extensive beers on tap.

• Crepes a la cart: Whether you prefer your crepes savory or sweet, this Breckenridge mainstay is perfect anytime of day. Seating is outside and limited but very picturesque when the snow is falling and the fire pit is roaring.

• BoLD: Perfect brunch option with large servings and a ton of seating for big groups. Our service was cheery, quick and efficient!

• Broken Compass Brewing: Great hangout for families. Many beer offerings on tap with board games for kids to stay occupied. Very casual atmosphere and while they don’t serve food, you are welcome to bring in take-out from area restaurants.

• Amazing Grace: Small cafe offering fresh and healthy sandwiches and excellent coffee. Vegan options available.

• Daylight Donuts: Perfect for coffee and donuts — need I say more?

• Mountain View Coffee Bar: Coffee shop with cool vibes and great prices!