A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Breckenridge vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Breckenridge or Niagara Falls? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a scenic, nature-filled, and charming ski resort. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a breathtaking, impressive, and iconic city. The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Breckenridge and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Niagara Falls, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Niagara Falls is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Breckenridge and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. Breckenridge is well known for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Breckenridge different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Niagara Falls and Breckenridge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for snow skiing. However, Niagara Falls is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Breckenridge should be on your list. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Niagara Falls is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Niagara Falls offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Foodies will find both Breckenridge and Niagara Falls both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Breckenridge. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Both Breckenridge and Niagara Falls are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.


Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Breckenridge is a popular place for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Breckenridge makes a nice vacation spot. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Breckenridge is a popular place for its old town. However, Niagara Falls does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see the old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Niagara Falls does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

Niagara Falls is a popular spot for hiking. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.


Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Breckenridge is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Niagara Falls has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Breckenridge and Niagara Falls are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Niagara Falls is a very family-friendly destination. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.


Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Niagara Falls make for a high quality place to visit.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Niagara Falls makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Both Breckenridge and Niagara Falls are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Niagara Falls is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Niagara Falls has a few public transit options. There is a bus system through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.


Is Breckenridge or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Niagara Falls

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Breckenridge on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable ski resort. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting? and Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Breckenridge and Niagara Falls. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Niagara Falls. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 2-3 days is enough time in Niagara Falls.

Families should spend more time in Breckenridge than Niagara Falls. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Breckenridge, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Breckenridge than Niagara Falls. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Breckenridge that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Niagara Falls if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Niagara Falls 2-3

One day in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Niagara Falls, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this impressive city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Niagara Falls is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the breathtaking destination of Niagara Falls. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Niagara Falls is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Niagara Falls or Breckenridge?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
    Niagara Falls Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Breckenridge $301
    Niagara Falls $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Breckenridge is $301, while the average daily cost in Niagara Falls is $149. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Breckenridge and Niagara Falls in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $143
    Niagara Falls $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $286
    Niagara Falls $152
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Niagara Falls

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Niagara Falls? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Breckenridge


Hotels in Niagara Falls


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Breckenridge Hotel Prices and Niagara Falls Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $38
    Niagara Falls $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Niagara Falls

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Niagara Falls:

  • Private Transfer Buffalo Airport BUF to Buffalo or Niagara Falls: $42
  • Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) to Buffalo - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Buffalo to Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Buffalo Niagara Airport to Niagara Falls, Ontario: $95
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Buffalo Airport (BUF): $96
  • Shared Airport Transfer: Buffalo Niagara International Airport to Niagara Falls NY: $99
  • Niagara Buffalo Airport Arrival: Private Transfer to Niagara Falls Ontario: $101
  • Transfer Buffalo Niagara International Airport BUF to Niagara Falls,Canada: $101
  • Niagara Buffalo Airport Departure: Private Transfer to Buffalo Niagara Airport: $101
  • Transfer from Niagara Falls,Canada to Buffalo Niagara Int Airport (BUF): $102
  • Private Departure Transfer to Buffalo Airport (BUF): $104
  • Private Departure Transfer: Buffalo, NY to Buffalo Niagara International Airport: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Prices for flights to both Niagara Falls and Breckenridge change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Breckenridge $119
    Niagara Falls $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Niagara Falls

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Niagara Falls.

  • The Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Food Tour: $105
  • Guided Night Tour w/ Dinner & Hotel Transfer: $139
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake: Sunset Wine Tour with Dinner: $162
  • Sunset Niagara-on-the-Lake Small Group Wine Tour with Dinner: $177
  • Night Tour w/ 3 Course Dinner & Light Show: $193
  • Night Tour with Fireworks Boat Ride & Dinner: $197
  • Night on Niagara Walking Tour with Fireworks Cruise + Dinner: $197
  • Niagara Falls USA Night, Lights & Dinner : $199
  • Niagara Falls Canada: Premium Night Tour with Boat & Dinner: $215
  • Niagara Falls Premium Night Tour: Fireworks Boat Cruise & Dinner: $242
  • Day & Night Tour with Boat Ride and Dinner: $279
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake Private Wine and Dinner Tour in Private SUV: $287

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $82
    Niagara Falls $19

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $12
  • Self-Guided Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Ridden-Fall Foliage EBike Guided Tour of Breckenridge: $95
  • Self Guided Ebike Tour of Breckenridge Lake Loop: $108

Typical Entertainment Prices in Niagara Falls

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Niagara Falls are as follows:


  • Maid of the Mist
    $37

Tours and Activities in Niagara Falls

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Niagara Falls are as follows:

  • Niagara Peninsula: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $8.84
  • Explore Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.99
  • RiverBrink Art Museum: Historical Walking Tour of Queenston: $11
  • Niagara Adventure Theater Experience with Popcorn included: $11
  • Niagara Legends of Adventure Admission Ticket with Popcorn: $12
  • Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Niagara Falls, Canada: Niagara SkyWheel Ticket: $12
  • Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Admission and Guided Tour: $13
  • Tower Hotel Observation Deck Ticket: $13
  • Niagara Falls Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket: $13
  • Niagara Falls Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour from Toronto: $14
  • Niagara Falls, Canada: Canadiana - The Musical Ticket: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $38
    Niagara Falls $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85

Sample the Local Flavors in Niagara Falls

Also in Niagara Falls, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Summer Sips - Private Outdoor Wine Tasting Experience: $22
  • Black Glass Wine Tasting: $23
  • Niagara's Decadent Sparkling and Icewine Tasting: $23
  • Niagara Wine Tour and Tastings with Included Transportation : $59
  • Public Niagara Wine Tour with Transportation: $61
  • Half-Day Niagara Micro Brewery Tour: $111
  • Half Day Wine & Cheese Tour - Niagara On The Lake Wine Tour: $118
  • Beer and Wine Tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake: $119
  • Niagara Craft Brewery Tour Niagara Falls: $122
  • Vine and Dine Bicycle Wine Tour with Lunch : $125
  • Vintage Wine Tour In Niagara County USA: $139
  • Relaxing three courses Lunch & Wine Tour through Niagara's Wine Country: $147


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Breckenridge and Niagara Falls, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Niagara Falls much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Niagara Falls would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Niagara Falls and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Breckenridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Breckenridge than you might in Niagara Falls.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Breckenridge Expensive? and Is Niagara Falls Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge and Niagara Falls, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.