2024 Best of Breckenridge Award Winners
The Best of Breckenridge team is excited to announce the winners of the second annual Best of Breck Awards! We want to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to all 500+ people who participated in voting. We surveyed Breckenridge locals and visitors to gather their honest opinions on the best offerings in town! Categories include Best Restaurants, Best Retail, and Best Activities. Use this guide to discover must-visit places and things to do during your next trip to Breckenridge!
It’s no surprise that a well-established ski town like Breckenridge is home to many amazing restaurants. From casual sports bars to the award-winning fine dining, this town boasts some of the best cuisine in Colorado. Sometimes, the best part of a trip to the mountains is the post-hike or après-ski meal. There’s nothing more satisfying than sinking your teeth into a delicious meal after a day full of adventuring. These are our 2024 Best of Breck Award-Winning Restaurants.
Best Happy Hour
For a casual yet upscale dining experience, head to Blue River Bistro. Don’t miss their exceptional happy hour with 2-for-1 martinis and apps, earning them the title of best happy hour two years in a row! With a lively, welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect choice for date nights, special occasions, or a midweek treat. Our go-to? The crispy tiger shrimp—it’s simply delicious!
Best Breakfast and Best Brunch
If a classic American breakfast, diner-style, is calling your name, don’t miss out on Blue Moose! Known for the best breakfast in town, it’s the perfect stop to kick off any season in Breckenridge. We always take our friends and family here when they visit—it’s a must for fueling up before the day’s adventures. Try the hearty Country Benedict or satisfy your sweet cravings with their French Toast. And don’t sleep on their coffee cocktails or the fun Breakfast Cereal Shot Flight!
Best Dessert/Treat
Higgles, a small business on Main Street, delivers big flavors that pack a serious punch. It’s no wonder this spot has become a crowd favorite—each day brings new, in-house creations with unique flavor twists and classic fusions. Known for its quirky concoctions, Higgles has earned its status as a local legend, keeping patrons hooked and coming back for more.
Best Bar, Best Après Ski, and Best Late Night
Rocky Mountain Underground (RMU) began as a custom ski shop, crafting skis for friends and family in exchange for just 30 beers. Now, they bring their passion and expertise to the Breckenridge community by crafting some of the best cocktails in town. Stop by to drop off your skis for a wax or kick back with a beer at their bar. In the summer, enjoy live music from local bands on the patio. With exciting new renovations on the way, be sure to check their website for the latest updates before planning your visit!
Best Fine Dining and Best Date Night Restaurant
For à la carte or a 7-course tasting menu experience in Breckenridge, Rootstalk is the undisputed fine dining champion—and now a proud James Beard Award recipient. Whether you’re dining at the bar, in the main room, or the root cellar, this foodie paradise offers exceptional service and an ambiance that strikes the perfect balance between upscale and relaxed making it the best date night restaurant as well. Rootstalk is the go-to spot for an unforgettable dining experience in Breck.
Best Coffee Shop
Nestled in the heart of Main Street, The Crown is a cozy haven of warmth and charm, owned by a local couple who embody true mountain hospitality. Known for its quality drinks, delectable cuisine, and commitment to community, The Crown blends good food, good drinks, and good people seamlessly. The rustic-yet-chic space features captivating artwork by talented local artists, adding to its inviting mountain vibe. For an unforgettable Breckenridge experience, a visit to this charming coffee spot is a must!
Best New Restaurant
Open seven days a week, Molly Jack’s is one of the hottest new restaurants on Main Street in Breckenridge. Catch an exciting game while enjoying everything from smoked salmon dip and vegetable spring rolls to a fish fillet sandwich and a pub-style burger. While Molly Jack’s is new, its owners bring nearly 20 years of industry experience. Next time you’re in Breckenridge, pay this place a visit
Best Children’s Activity
Experience a world of family entertainment right off Main Street at Downstairs at Eric’s! Dive into a vast selection of arcade games, featuring beloved classics like Pac-Man and Big Buck Hunter, along with table games, racing games, and much more. The venue also features a spacious restaurant with a diverse menu that includes pizzas, wings, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and various entrees. Plus, Downstairs at Eric’s is the perfect destination for game day, offering an impressive beer selection and 25 HDTV flat screens to catch all the action!
Best Date Night Activity
We like to refer to the Eclipse as one of Breck’s hidden gems. With a single screen and a full bar, this charming venue creates an ideal atmosphere for a cozy date night! Enjoy delicious popcorn, candy, and a variety of beer and wine while watching a seasonal film or the latest box office hit.
Best Indoor Activity
Breckenridge Recreation Center
The Breckenridge Recreation Center is a hub for fitness and entertainment in our vibrant mountain community. Offering discounted winter and summer passes for locals and day-use options for visitors, the Rec Center is the perfect place to stay active—even on vacation.
Best Event
There’s no question why Ullr Fest is Breckenridge’s top event of the season. This fun-filled weekend is a favorite for locals and visitors alike each December. As the snow falls, Breckenridge celebrates with the world’s unofficial longest shot-ski, an Ullr-themed parade, and a massive bonfire.
If you need another reason to fall in love with Breckenridge, let’s talk about shopping! As you stroll along Main Street, you’ll discover a variety of exciting stores to explore. From ski shops and souvenir shops to charming clothing boutiques, there’s something for everyone. After a day of shopping in Breckenridge, you’ll feel like a celebrity! Check out our 2024 Best Apparel Winners below!
Best Boutique
Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk
Visiting Marigolds is always an exciting adventure in shopping! This family-run boutique offers a delightful array of items, from cookbooks and clothing to handmade jewelry and antiques. While “junk” may be in the name, you’ll discover only high-quality treasures in this eclectic shop.
Best Apparel Shop
Mountain Goat Clothing Company is a unique boutique located on Main Street, celebrated for its premium outdoor and casual apparel. Catering to both locals and visitors, this shop features a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories that seamlessly combine style and functionality. You’ll discover brands like Cotopaxi, Toad & Co, Topo Designs, Kavu, and many more, including local favorites! Known for its friendly customer service and distinctive, locally inspired merchandise, Mountain Goat is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to embrace Breckenridge’s outdoor spirit in style.
Best Ski & Snowboard Shop
There’s a reason Slope Style Ski + Bike maintains its perfect 5-star Google rating. Enjoy personalized service, expert advice, and access to the largest ski demo fleet during winter at this exceptional ski shop. Their dedicated team of ski experts ensures your gear is always in peak condition. Visit Slope Style Ski + Bike for an authentic local experience that goes above and beyond your expectations!
