Photo credit: Carl Scofield / Vail Resorts

BRECKENRIDGE
Now best known for its world-class ski resort, Breckenridge Colorado, the oldest and largest Colorado town in high-altitude Summit County, also affords a rich mining and frontier history that's been diligently protected by Breckenridge locals. In fact, the town's 254-building National Historic District is one of the largest in Colorado. The Summit Historical Society regularly shows off seven historic sites on their 12-block public walking tour of downtown Breckenridge.

Two interesting spots include the 1875 Carter Museum and Barn, which is said to be the oldest museum in Colorado, and the abandoned Country Boy hard-rock mine, where visitors can pan for gold near the Blue River - the place where gold was first panned in Colorado in 1859.

Skiers rave about the massive, yet accessible four-mountain resort at
Breckenridge, where 2,043 acres of ski runs practically bump into town,
offering both families and expert skiers something to slide down. In the
summer, Colorado sport enthusiasts should try the Jack Nicklaus-designed public golf course or explore the 100 miles of paved biking trails leading to Keystone, Frisco, or Vail.

When it comes to lodging, Breckenridge Colorado truly offers something for everyone. With accommodations ranging from simple hotel rooms to luxurious private residences, and locations both near the slopes and in the vibrant village of Breckenridge, visitors won't be disappointed with their lodging options.

And at night Breckenridge Colorado earns its reputation as one of the best party towns in the Rocky Mountains. Visitors young and old will enjoy the great variety of eateries and fine dining, and shops that entice the imagination and please the pocketbook.