A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Death Valley National Park vs. Breckenridge for Backpackers, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a dramatic, striking, and vast national park. You'll find world class beauty in Death Valley National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge are both popular with visitors, Breckenridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Death Valley National Park is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Death Valley National Park is popular for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also home to The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Death Valley National Park different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is renowned for snow skiing. However, Death Valley National Park is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Death Valley National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Death Valley National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Death Valley National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Breckenridge area. 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.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

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.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.


Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its resorts. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its luxury resorts.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. 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.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Death Valley National Park does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge offers a nice historic old town area. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Death Valley National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Death Valley National Park 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.

Death Valley National Park is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

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 Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Death Valley National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Death Valley National Park as well. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge.

Death Valley National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Breckenridge is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Both Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Death Valley National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

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

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Death Valley National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Death Valley National Park. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a moderate ski resort for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.


Is Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Death Valley National Park
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

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

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Death Valley National Park?

How long in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Both Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Death Valley National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Death Valley National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

Families should spend more time in Breckenridge than Death Valley National Park. 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 Death Valley National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Breckenridge that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Death Valley National Park 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 Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Death Valley National Park 2-4 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

In Death Valley National Park, many people enjoy the that this dramatic national park 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.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Death Valley National Park 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.

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

You'll find around the dramatic destination of Death Valley National Park. 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.

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This ski resort offers something for everyone.

A week in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Death Valley National Park 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.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Lots of people come for the skiing. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Death Valley National Park?

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

  • Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Death Valley National Park $101
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Death Valley National Park is $101, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $301. 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 Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Death Valley National Park $37
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Death Valley National Park $74
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge? 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 Death Valley National Park


Hotels in Breckenridge


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $41
    Breckenridge $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Death Valley National Park or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Death Valley National Park 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
    Death Valley National Park $35
    Breckenridge $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $36
    Breckenridge $82

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Death Valley National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Death Valley National Park $8.57
    Breckenridge $38

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Death Valley National Park and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Death Valley National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Death Valley National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Death Valley National Park 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 Death Valley National Park.

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