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Good Times Adventures

Family-Friendly Things to Do in and Around Breckenridge

Traveling with Kids in Breckenridge, Colorado: Adventures for Kids and Parents Alike

Breckenridge is full of magic for travelers of all ages. Whether your kids are just learning to love the snow or you’re looking for ways to keep everyone happy off the slopes, there’s plenty to explore. At Good Times Adventures, we welcome adventurers as young as five on our dogsledding and snowmobiling tours, but we know that doesn’t fit every family. Luckily, there are many other family-friendly things to do in and around Breckenridge.

Here are some of our favorite kid-friendly activities—starting right in our own backyard.

Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides

One of the best winter experiences for families is right here at Good Times Adventures: Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides. Step back in time as you glide through the mountain landscape on a horse-drawn sleigh. Choose between scenic hot cocoa ride, a private romantic sleigh, or dinner theater experience with a hearty, family-friendly meal, a dose of local history—plus a show!

And don’t worry if the snow doesn’t start falling. These pros offer a wagon hayride to make sure you can still have all the fun, even if the weather isn’t on your side.

  • Why it’s great for kids: Horses, bells, blankets, and plenty of photo ops—plus no need to drive anywhere else if you’re visiting us. 
  • Best for: Families with young kids or multigenerational groups. 
  • Insider tip: Every ride includes their custom hot cocoa bar with up to 17 unique toppings. Adult hot chocolate is also available for purchase for a little extra warm-up. 
  • More info: You can learn more and book online at goldenhorseshoesleighrides.com.

Carter Park Sledding Hill (FREE!)

Sometimes the simplest winter thrill is the best. Carter Park’s free sledding hill is a must-do for younger kids and one of the best family-friendly activities in Breckenridge.

  • Why it’s great for kids: Gentle slopes, wide lanes, and plenty of room to play. 
  • Best for: Burn-off-energy afternoons after a tour or lesson. 
  • Insider tip: The sled rack outside City Market in Breckenridge is usually stocked early—grab one in the morning before they’re gone. And if you’re feeling lucky, check out the Sled Shed at the hill—a take-one, leave-one sled exchange. There’s no guarantee there will be any sleds available, but it’s worth a peek. 
  • More info: For details on sledding rules, sled shed usage, and safety guidelines, see the official Breckenridge sledding guide at gobreck.com—Sledding in Breckenridge.

Breckenridge Troll (FREE!)

Isak Heartstone, the 15-foot wooden troll, is a local treasure hidden on a short trail near the Stephen C. West Ice Arena.

  • Why it’s great for kids: A short walk to a giant, friendly troll—perfect for photos and a quick adventure. 
  • Best for: Short attention spans and an easy outing. 
  • Insider tip: Make it an early morning with hot coffee to beat the crowds. Brew a cup at home or swing by The Crown, a cozy café on Main Street, for a favorite local caffeine jolt. Winter boots are a must in the winter season—the short trail can get slick. 
  • More info: Directions and tips on finding the troll at gobreck.com—How to Find the Breckenridge Troll

Frisco Adventure Park—Tubing and More

Just 10–15 minutes from Breckenridge, Frisco Adventure Park is a winter playground with a multi-lane tubing hill, beginner ski/snowboard hill, and terrain park. It’s a great option for families looking to escape the crowds on the larger ski hills, with a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for younger skiers and riders. The hill is uncrowded and offers a mellow surface and hands down the most affordable place to get started.

  • Why it’s great for kids: Tubing is a thrill for almost any age (height restrictions apply), and the beginner ski/snowboard hill and small terrain park are perfect for first-timers to practice away from the big-mountain crowds. 
  • Best for: Families wanting variety or something bigger than a sledding hill. 
  • Insider tip: Lessons are also available on site! Book your first lesson with less of an audience at snowschoolers.com. 
  • More info: 

Ice Skating

There are several options for ice skating in and around Breckenridge, ranging from indoor arenas to picturesque outdoor ponds. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly skate indoors or a scenic experience outside, there’s something for everyone.

While you should always check individual websites for current hours and conditions, this round-up guide is a great place to start: insiderfamilies.com—Family Guide to Breckenridge Ice Skating.

  • Why it’s great for kids: Indoor rinks keep weather worries away, and outdoor ponds offer the quintessential mountain skating experience. 
  • Best for: Families wanting a break from skiing or looking for a less equipment-heavy outing that still gets everyone moving. 
  • Insider tip: Rentals are available at most locations, but conditions change quickly in the mountains, so call ahead.

Breckenridge Gondola (FREE!)

Even if you’re not skiing, the free BreckConnect Gondola is a fun ride with big views and a break from the wind.

  • Why it’s great for kids: It’s like a ride in the sky with views of town, peaks, and sometimes even wildlife. 
  • Best for: Families needing an easy activity or a change of pace. 
  • Insider tip: Ride it to the Peak 7 and Peak 8 stops even if you’re not skiing—kids love hopping off to explore the base areas, grab a hot chocolate, or watch the skiers come down. 
  • Bonus tip: If you’re staying in the Shock Hill neighborhood, you can also hop on mid-way and avoid parking in town. 
  • More info: uncovercolorado.com—BreckConnect Gondola

Breckenridge Recreation Center

Need a break from the cold and a place to get those wiggles out? The Breckenridge Rec Center is a local gem with a full aquatic center, climbing wall, gym, and indoor track. Day passes for guests are available starting at $20 for adults and $10 for kids.

  • Why it’s great for kids: The pool has slides, a lazy river, and plenty of room to splash. 
  • Best for: Active families who want to mix up outdoor and indoor fun. 
  • Insider tip: Mornings are quieter than afternoons and weekends. Bring your own lock and towel to save a few dollars, and consider a multi-day punch card if you’ll visit more than once. 
  • More info: breckenridgerecreation.com

High Line Railroad Park and Playground (FREE!)

For train lovers, this small but charming park has real train cars to explore, a playground, and interpretive signs about Breckenridge’s railroad history. It’s free and self-guided, open year-round during daylight hours—a simple, flexible stop for families.

Nordic Centers

For a quieter mountain experience away from the ski crowds, Breckenridge’s Nordic centers are a perfect fit. These spots offer groomed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and exploring snowy forests at your own pace. They’re especially great for families who want to mix exercise with sightseeing and love the idea of a slower, more peaceful day outdoors.

  • Pricing: Nordic outings are far more affordable than downhill skiing. Trail passes are about $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, and kids 12 and under ski free. Rentals (skis, boots, poles, or snowshoes) generally run $20–$35 per person per day. 
  • Why it’s great for kids: Nordic skiing and snowshoeing are a fun way to burn energy and see the mountains from a different perspective. Snowshoeing is especially beginner-friendly, and kids love spotting animal tracks. 
  • Best for: Families who prefer a peaceful, outdoor option away from ski hill crowds or who want a workout without downhill gear. 
  • Insider tip: Trails are best mid-morning, when they’re freshly groomed and the sun is starting to warm things up. Both centers offer rentals—so you can pick up skis, poles, boots, or snowshoes on-site. Bring snacks and water; trails can take you a few miles from the lodge. 

WHERE TO GO:

  • Breckenridge Nordic Center – Just minutes from downtown and close to Peak 8, this center has classic and skate ski trails, snowshoe paths, cozy cabins, and lessons for all ages. 
  • Gold Run Nordic Center – Located on the Breckenridge Golf Course property, this center is a little farther out but quieter, with wide, family-friendly trails and less traffic.

Your Adventure Awaits

Breckenridge and nearby Frisco offer endless ways to create mountain memories, whether you’re dashing through the snow, tubing down a hill, or simply sipping cocoa by a fire. From big adventures to quiet moments, there’s something here for every age and energy level.

Pro tip: Weekends and holidays fill up fast, so plan ahead and book your must-do activities early—even before you book those plane tickets! Mixing things up—like a morning dogsled run, a midday gondola ride, or an afternoon splash at the Rec Center—keeps the day fun and balanced.

Traveling with children 5 and over? We’d love to host you for a snowmobiling or dogsledding adventure. Learn more at goodtimesadventures.com.

Want more ideas? Stay tuned here for more inside info or follow along on our social channels (@goodtimesbreck) for a peek behind the scenes of life in the mountains.