Breckenridge is an ideal destination for prospective vacation homeowners thanks to its close proximity to Denver, as well as its affordably priced real estate compared to Aspen or Vail.
Buying a second home in Breckenridge or purchasing a timeshare means joining a community that welcomes participation, and is keen to create a quality year-round vacation place for everyone. At almost 10,000 feet above sea level, Breckenridge is the oldest continuously occupied town on the western slope. It has more than 250 historically registered buildings in the downtown area, making it home to one of the largest historic districts in the state.
Proud of its historical treasure, the town has design guidelines that preserve the historic district while creating flexible zoning for new development. Second homeowners may rest assured that there is a master plan and a vision project in place to support development. For example, recognizing the need for open space, Breckenridge instituted a .5% sales tax to acquire and protect public open space.
Although the town is home to a small permanent population of approximately 3,406 residents, the peak population (including day visitors, day skiers, overnight guests, and vacation homeowners) is estimated to exceed 36,000 on a busy day.
Located in the Colorado playground of Summit County, Breckenridge leads its fellow ski-town neighbors (Copper Mountain, Keystone, Beaver Creak, and Vail) in number of ski visitors each year. Residents believe this is because the town offers outstanding slopes for a number of snow sports and a charming downtown with shops, restaurants, and bars.
The town's laid-back atmosphere rivals that of its other Summit County counterparts. Whereas Vail has a decidedly upscale feel, much like that of Aspen, "Breck" is where you can après ski with a fine glass of wine at an upscale restaurant one evening, and throw back a couple of brews with the locals the next. Anything goes in Breck - and it's what the locals are most proud of.
Winters may attract the most visitors, but Breckenridge is no less appealing in the summer and early fall. The area is alive with outdoor activity from hiking and mountain biking, to kayaking, white water rafting and some of the best fly-fishing in the state. (Many locals and residents catch rainbow and brown trout from the banks of the Blue River, as it runs directly through the center of town.)
The town was discovered in 1859 when gold was found in the surrounding hills. Through the latter half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, Breckenridge was known for both its silver and gold mines.