History buff or not, Summit County, Colorado is a fascinating and fun trip back in time with hundreds of historic locations, museums, activities and more for the whole family. From the first prospectors to make it over the Continental Divide to becoming internationally known for its sunny ski hills, Summit County’s rich and unique history has something for everyone.
Located on Main Street, Frisco Historic Park & Museum preserves the town’s heritage and history. Connect the past to the present with hands-on exhibits, lectures, guided hikes and more educational experiences that bring the town’s rich history to life. Explore the eleven historic structures scattered throughout the park, including the old schoolhouse, jail and a traditional teepee from the Ute Tribe. Perfect for history buffs young and old alike. Admission is free and the museum is self-guided.
Travel back in time to the gold rush days in Breckenridge’s National Historic District. The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance works hard to preserve Breck’s 160-year history for locals and visitors alike. Learn the story of Breckenridge as it evolved from a gold mine frontier town to the international destination it is today. Choose from guided tours featuring the founding the town’s founding fathers, the gold that founded a town, or the historic hauntings offered year-round. Pan for gold at Lumox Gulch or enjoy tea service at the Briggle family home. Self-guided tours are available at all nine museums and are donation-based admission, including the Summit Ski Museum and the Edwin Carter Discovery Center – a, kid-friendly experience featuring interactive, hands-on exhibits, theater, and children’s room. When it’s time to take a break, head to the Gold Pan Saloon – a legendary locale with 140+ years of history, including gunfights, prohibition, and holding the longest continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi.
Just five minutes outside of Keystone off Loveland Pass is Montezuma, an abandoned mining town built in the 1880s by those that made it over the continental divide. Many old structures still stand in the town, including the schoolhouse, general store, and multiple cabins of miners and prospectors. Perfect for hiking in the summer and snowshoeing and backcountry skiing in the winter, this is one of the most scenic places in Colorado.
Experience, learn and celebrate the rich history of Summit County, Colorado. Book your River Ridge Rentals vacation today!
Photo credit to Frisco Historic Park & Museum and Summit this Week.