Taking a vacation to the mountains doesn’t have to empty your bank account. There are loads of completely free attractions, activities, and entertainment in Breckenridge and the surrounding Summit County area. Don't let high prices stop you from going on your perfect family mountain getaway. Take a moment and read about our 20 favorite free things to do this summer in Summit County!
- Picnic at the park: Whether you’re in Breckenridge, Frisco, Silverthorne, Dillon, Copper Mountain, or anywhere else in the Summit County area, you’re sure to be within stumbling distance to a scenic park. Check out the interactive trail and park map on the Summit County website to find your ideal picnic spot.
- Take a hike: Summit County is the perfect place to view the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. There are hundreds of trails to explore so get your hiking boots on and enjoy the Colorado countryside!
- Library fun for the kids: There are three branches of the public library located in Frisco, Silverthorne, and Breckenridge, and all three regularly host fun and free events for families. View their calendar for events like Read to a Dog, Music on the Deck, Lunchtime Lecture series, and more!
- Farmers market: The farmers market is a great way to spend an afternoon and grab some fresh produce and unique hand-made gifts, though you certainly don’t need to buy anything to enjoy the sights of the market! The Dillon Farmers Market also offers free music every Friday through the summer. On Sundays, make sure to visit the Breckenridge Market as well!
- Frisco historical tour: In downtown Frisco, take a walk and discover the rich history of the area through the free Frisco Historic Park and Museum. You’ll see some of the first permanent homes that were established in the area and historic artifacts as you make your way through the park.
- Breckenridge historical tour: Like Frisco, Breckenridge also offers several free museums and exhibits that showcase the town’s unique history. Visit the Barney Ford Museum and learn about how Ford escaped slavery in the mid-1800s. Just down the road, visit the Edwin Carter Museum and see his conservation efforts on display.
- BreckConnect Gondola: Hop on the Gondola for a free ride from downtown Breckenridge to the base of Peak 8. You’ll see gorgeous views of the mountains, the town, and the Cucumber Gulch Nature Preserve. You can even bring your dog! Learn everything you need to know about the BreckConnect Gondola in our recent blog!
- Copper Mountain yoga: Looking for a free way to get in some exercise during your stay? Check out Center Pose Yoga presented by Subaru in Copper Mountain! Come stretch it out with them every morning on the weekends through the summer. First-timers get a free Subaru yoga mat while supplies last.
- Disc golf: Pack your discs and hit one of the scenic disc golf courses in the area! In Dillon, check out Dillon Lake Disc Golf. In Frisco, make sure to visit Peak One Disc Golf. Both are free to the public and a great way to enjoy the afternoon.
- Bike the trails: If you happened to bring your bike along on your trip, you can bike the over 50 miles of paved recreational pathways found all throughout Summit County. Whether you’re looking for an easy ride to enjoy the mountain sights or a more challenging elevated ride, there’s a pathway perfect for your afternoon!
- Breckenridge Welcome Center Museum: If you’re enjoying the day on Main St. in Breckenridge, stop by the Breckenridge Welcome Center Museum and explore their free, self-guided exhibits. The museum features the history of the town and an extensive history of the growth of the ski industry.
- Carter Dog Park: If you travel with your furry friend, stop by Carter Dog Park! It is a free, 24-hour park with one acre of fenced area for pups to roam. If you didn’t bring your dog, you can still enjoy the tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and pavilion.
- Drive the historic Boreas Pass: Originally built as a railroad pass to connect Breckenridge to Como, the Boreas Pass is now a scenic 22-mile drive where you’ll see historical structures like old boxcars, the original track, the Section House, and more.
- Visit the Dillon Amphitheater: Through the summer months, the Dillon Amphitheater premieres dozens of free music shows and events. It is one of the most picturesque venues in the area overlooking the Dillon Reservoir and the Rocky Mountains and is sure to leave your family with lasting memories.
- Dillon Nature Preserve: While you’re in Dillon, make sure to also stop by the Dillon Nature Preserve. It features miles of trails where you can enjoy the views of Dillon Bay and the mountains. Make sure to take plenty of pictures of the scenery!
- Breckenridge sawmill and mining exhibits: If your family is interested in more history of the area, take a tour of the free Washington Mine and Milling Exhibit. After you’ve brushed up on your mining history, visit the Breckenridge Sawmill Museum to discover the buildings and tools needed to transform Breckenridge from a log cabin settlement to an established township.
- Go on a troll hunt: Take a walk through downtown Breckenridge and discover the new Trollstigen trailhead where Isak Heartstone the troll resides. He is an imposing, 15-foot-tall wooden troll, but don’t worry, he’s friendly!
- Ride the trolley: Explore downtown Breckenridge on the free Main Street Trolley. The trolley runs the full length of Main St. from north to south with multiple stops in between.
- Brews and Tunes at Copper Mountain: Join 10 Barrel Brewing as they sponsor free live music on West Lake every Friday through the summer at Copper Mountain. Take a look at the Brews and Tunes schedule to see who’s playing this week!
- High Line Railroad Park: If you’re interested in the train history of Breckenridge, visit the free High Line Railroad Park. Perfect for train enthusiasts and kids, you’ll find real railroad equipment and a playground to enjoy at the park.
Taking a trip to the Colorado Rockies doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re still looking for the perfect place to stay with your family, consider a vacation home with River Ridge Rentals. Renting a vacation home, complete with multiple bedrooms, living spaces, kitchens, and all the amenities of a home, is an excellent way to add value to your trip.