This Colorado small town was named one of the best in the US. Here's why you should visit
The hustle and bustle of big cities isn't for everyone. Whether you are on vacation or making a move, a different pace or vibe can be the right fit.
That's why USA TODAY 10BEST convened a panel of experts to name the best small towns in the US across several categories and regions. And they chose Breckenridge as the No. 8 small town in the western U.S., the only Colorado town to make the annual list. (Golden, Durango and Manitou Springs made the grade in previous years.)
The towns, all with fewer than 25,000 residents, were chosen for their diverse offerings, according to the site.
Here's what made Breckenridge stand out this year in the USA TODAY 10BEST Reader's Choice awards.
Breckenridge's standing as one of the top ski destinations in North America was the first reason cited for its place on the list, with 10BEST noting it was 'known for its exceptional slopes, energetic après-ski culture, and preserved historic charm.'
But even when the snow has melted, Breckenridge gives outdoors enthusiasts plenty to do, including hiking, mountain biking and exploring nearby alpine lakes.
And year round, Breckenridge has a plethora of craft breweries and a burgeoning restaurant scene.
USA TODAY 10BEST readers ranked these as the top small towns in the West:
Solvang, California
Astoria, Oregon
Healdsburg, California
Cody, Wyoming
Grants, New Mexico
Sedona, Arizona
Big Horn, Montana
Breckenridge, Colorado
Jackson, Wyoming
Moab, Utah
More: This Colorado hotel was named one of the greatest places to stay in the world in 2025
Readers honored several cities across different categories and regions. Here's who they chose:
Best Coastal Small Town: Pismo Beach, California
Best Historic Small Town: Granbury, Texas
Best Small College Town: Florence, Alabama
Best Small Town Cultural Scene: Ruidoso, New Mexico
Best Small Town Food Scene: Lewisburg, West Virginia
Best Small Town in the Midwest: Madison, Indiana
Best Small Town in the Northeast: Castine, Maine
Best Small Town in the South: Starkville, Mississippi
USA TODAY 10BEST says a panel of experts nominates towns in each award category, with the final nominees selected via editorial review by its editors. Once the nominees in an award category are announced, the public has four weeks to vote online for their favorites. People can vote for one nominee in each category each calendar day.
Nate Trela covers trending news in Colorado and Utah for the USA TODAY Network.
This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Breckenridge named a top small town by USATODAY 10BEST awards
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