Welcome to Colorado Springs! I’m sharing with you a complete travel guide to see and the best things to do in Colorado Springs. You can spend a few days in Colorado Springs and see all the popular sites. Before starting, to give you an idea of the surroundings, there are many attractions in Colorado Springs, mostly around Manitou Springs.
During winter, the city morphs into an ideal destination for those who enjoy the glistening snow, the outdoors, and breathtaking views. Dominating the skyline is Pikes Peak which rises steeply in the distance luring travelers to hike its snowy slopes and take in the panoramic views of the area. There are many fun activities for the entire family such as the red rock Garden of the Gods, or the cute Manitou Springs town with its lovely shops.
However, Colorado Springs is a top tourist destination with many places to visit any time of the year, for travelers. So, let’s take a look at your next destination, where the adventure awaits you.
Things to do in Colorado Springs
1. Garden of the Gods
#Best things to Do in Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods is absolutely gorgeous, with breathtaking views at every turn. The park is easily accessible and allows you to drive through and stop at scenic spots to take photos. This makes it ideal for families with young children or even elderly parents. The visitor center is well-designed and offers a nice selection of merchandise and interactive displays.
First, go to the visitor center, The Park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. There, you can book jeep tours, go to the balcony, and take a picture from there—it’s a picture you’ll want to have, as the view is just mind-blowing.
Then, grab a map and work your way toward the park itself, which is open until 10 p.m. I highly recommend it for a fun and easy day outdoor adventure!
2. Pikes Peak
#Top things to do in Colorado Springs
Pikes Peak is probably the number one experience and destination you want to have when visiting Colorado Springs. There are two ways to do it: you can drive in your car, which offers beautiful scenery, or you can decide to take the railway route. If you drive, I recommend spending around 4 hours, including driving up and down the mountains and taking time to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. It was an incredible experience. You will love it!
The staff at the entrance were friendly and gave us tips on how to drive safely when disembarking. There is plenty of parking and the visitor center is well maintained. The visitor center has a small museum like setup that shares the history of the hill. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, and the whole experience was incredible. I highly recommend doing this with friends or family.
3. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
#Kid-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo provides a different and refreshing experience than any other zoo. Located on a hill, you will have to do some walking while exploring the zoo but it is quite a breathtaking sight to behold! The zoo lets you interact with even the most ferocious of animals, which is quite a unique experience. From lemurs, hippos, zebras, giraffes, tigers, and grizzly bears; even funny-looking creatures are bound to be encountered.
In totality, it is bound to be amazing, and the zoo appears to have been properly maintained. There’s no doubt this place is worth a visit, especially for families! Get Tickets
4. Red Rock Canyon Open Space
#Cool things to do in Colorado Springs
No matter your hiking level, you will definitely not be disappointed. It’s a great, easily accessible hiking area for all ages. The rock formations are impressive, and there is a place for mountain biking. If you have the gear, there’s also a spot for rock climbing. There is also a fenced area where dogs can run around off-leash. I absolutely love it when cities have unique open park spaces that encourage people to get outside. Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a fantastic family-friendly place.
5. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
#Unique things to do in Colorado Springs
Winds Mountain Park cave tour is the best tour ever if you want a different adventure. The caves are very beautiful and with night mode on you can get amazing photos. You will definitely need a guide, no matter what you get there. Mud, narrow sections, and steep places will appear as advertised, but the tour will never feel claustrophobic or dangerous.
At the turnaround point, there is plenty of time to climb around and explore the tunnels in a large part of the cave. Costs $26 for an adult One tip is to go to the bathroom before going as there are only port-a-potties at the start, but nice bathrooms at the end. And definitely bring your jacket because it can get chilly. Book Your Fun
6. The Broadmoor Seven Falls
#Famous things to do in Colorado Springs
Broadmoor Seven Falls is a very beautiful and serene spot with amazing views. It’s a bit difficult to get there, but you definitely want to see it. You’ll really feel like you’re walking through the set of The Lord of the Rings because there are mountains to the left and right, and they’re so close!
When you finally reach the falls, you have two choices: you can climb the 224 steps directly to the top of the falls, or a few steps before that, you can use an in-mountain lift that takes you up to the Eagle’s Nest. From there, you’ll see the falls as the pictures don’t do it justice. Once you get to the top of the falls you won’t want to turn back because there are other hiking trails up there. Get Tickets
7. Manitou Cliff Dwellings
#Family friendly things to do in Colorado Springs
Manitou Cliff Dwellings is totally worth a visit, especially if you have kids. The cliff dwellings are real but this location has been moved and restored and has a very interesting history. It’s $12 per person, and here you can explore the fascinating 700-year-old architecture of the ancient cliff dwellers. You can climb, touch, feel, and walk in and out of holes and caves. It’s definitely something interesting and different, which gives you a glimpse of how it’s cool in summer and warm in winter. They also have a small museum and a gift shop. A popular destination for family-friendly travel.
8. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, situated in the heart of Colorado Springs, cherishes and presents the past lessons and practices of the Pikes Peak region. The structures that house the museum, which was opened in 1903, also museum art, Native American history, the origins of Colorado Springs, and the Gold Rush, among other things the area’s relevance to the western expansion of the United States. Varying ranges of collections, such as that of skills, objects, and even libraries are insightfully available for use in the area’s history. It has no entrance charge hence many educational activities are open to a wider population regardless of their age stressing.
9. Old Colorado City
Old Colorado City is a delightful and quaint downtown region that can be found in Colorado Springs. Once, it was the first capital of Coloradan Territory and acted as a hub for hungry gold seekers. Tourists can enjoy the intact Victorian structures, different stores, art studios, and restaurants within the area. Additionally, there is the Colorado City Historical Society which provides additional information about the history of the place. This is where the colorful mural ‘Greetings from Colorado Springs’ is placed.
10. Palmer Park
#Fun things to do in Colorado Springs
One of the most beautiful parks in The Springs. The play area is pleasant, however, the hiking paths are breathtaking. It’s an excellent destination for the entire family to enjoy the outdoors without traveling beyond the town’s confines. There are about 25 miles of trails available around the park. Relatively easy to moderate for hiking, biking and running.
The children had a lot of fun, and I highly recommend this place to their parents. For children who do not possess a lot of hiking skills. It was an excellent park for them to dip their toes into. It provides many wonderful sights, and the trail actually does give you the sense of being secluded in the countryside even when you are in the heart of the city.
11. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
#Things to do in Colorado Springs
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, located in Colorado Springs, is a great place for a secluded escape with a natural landscape. This state park is definitely one of nature lovers’ favorite parks in Colorado! The park has 28 miles of hiking and biking trails, camping facilities, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The trails are very well-kept, and the rangers are some of the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic we’ve encountered. They are really doing their best to protect and preserve the park! Popular destination as a paradise for hikers and backpackers.
12. Seven Bridges Trail
#Free things to do in Colorado Springs
What an amazing hiking trail in Colorado Springs. I needed this peaceful hike to cleanse my mind, body, and spirit from the fast-paced lives we live. The water is constantly running quietly throughout the hike while walking on the trail. There are places where you can safely get into the water and meditate on your hands and feet or add calmness and stillness to your inner peace.
Most of the uphill then downhill so may be a bit challenging for those with bad backs or knees but don’t worry you can make it through. The rushing water adds a beautiful natural and natural sound to the hike which helps to take your mind to a peaceful state. Every hiker should visit this trail at least once.
13. Ute Valley Park
#Things to do in Colorado Springs
Ute Valley Park, located in Colorado Springs, is a scenic natural area known for its rugged terrain and scenic views. In any season like winter, spring or summer, this park is a great place to climb, trek, bike and explore. There are so many different trails to roam and such a lovely cluster of landscapes. The wildflowers in the middle of the entire year are completely unimaginable. It is a great place for a short or long experience. It is also a popular destination for family-friendly attractions.
14. Helen Hunt Falls
#Things to do in Colorado Springs
Helen Hunt Falls is a beautiful waterfall, yes, but more than worth the drive there. It is completely different – full of rocks, hills, and red sand. The narrowness of the road made it difficult for two vehicles to pass each other. Free but small parking area at the falls. There is no cost to walk to the falls, it is a short walk to the base of the falls. It is about 15 steps to climb the bridge over the falls which is not too challenging.
The stone wall provides great handhold when needed. It’s worth the climb up close to the bridge for the views. Beyond the falls you can climb further up which consists of some stairs throughout the hike, although there is a handrail.
15. Nightlife in Colorado Springs
#Fun things to do in Colorado Springs
Nightlife in Colorado Springs is steeped in trends as one can find cool bars, music/restaurants, confusion clubs, and others. One can have a good liveliness on Tejan Street with so many options available. Beer lovers can visit the likes of Atrevida Beer Co. and Oscar Blues for exquisite craft beers or watch a live performance at The Black Sheep or The Tilted Victorian. For a more classy degree of fun, make your way to the Old Colorado City area which is famed for its historical sites and fancy drinking places.
Good luck on your trip to Colorado Springs. If you think I have missed any place I will be grateful if you let me know. Be sure to share your best Colorado Springs travel experience with “Tale of Journey“. I look forward to hearing about your Colorado Springs travel experience. Oh, and one more thing Subscribe to our free newsletter and get the latest destination information straight to your email.
Happy travels!!
