Breckenridge

Breckenridge's quaint main street could be a painting of the mountain resort of your dreams.

The oldest and largest town in Colorado's famous Summit County started out, like many, as a mining town, and locals aren't about to forget it — the 250-plus buildings on the National Historic Register attest to that. Take one of the 12-block downtown walking tours or check out the 1875 Edwin Carter Museum, thought to be the oldest museum in the state. Also take time to stop by the church built by "Father" Dyer, an itinerant Methodist minister who visited town frequently, often using snowshoes to get around.

Four mountain peaks make up the resort, providing 2,358 acres of amazing skiing and enough variety to suit even the most seasoned skier. Nordic centers cater to cross-country skiers and snowshoers, as well. In summer, you can ride the ski lift up to hiking trails with unparalleled views. For outdoor pleasure there's also cycling and golf. There are even Jeep tours that take you to area ghost towns. Summit County sports a challenging paved bike trail system, connecting Breckenridge with other nearby towns.

Diners will find a mix of cuisine, from seafood to Mexican and Italian to continental, as well as a range of places to stop in for a quick bite or sit and savor several courses. Lodgings range from romantic bed-and-breakfast inns to luxe ski resort hotels. There are also many budget-friendly options available for families.

Festivals punctuate the annual calendar, from the Ullr Fest (celebrating the Nordic god of snow) and the Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships in winter, to the annual summer music festival in the newly renovated Riverwalk Center.

Whether you go for the masses of wildflowers in summer or the snow sports of winter, be sure to walk down the quaint Main Street, do some window shopping and admire the well-preserved architecture.