Located in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is the ultimate destination for nature-lovers. It’s a picturesque city with an idyllic landscape and a lot to do outside!
If you’re driven by adventure, you’ve hit the spot: from scenic trails to some epic ziplining, you’ll never be short of options outdoors. But the city also packs a whole lot of culture and a thriving beer scene.
You’ve got so many things to do in Colorado Springs that it might be hard to know where to start…
We’ve created this guide to help you sort through it all. From the popular sites to the hidden gems, you’ll discover everything the city has to offer!
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The Top Things to Do in Colorado Springs
We thought we’d start this guide by showing you our absolute favorite things to do in Colorado Springs. We’ll get to the rest right after!
Admire the Breathtaking Garden of the Gods
The perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Enjoy some of the most scenic drives in all of Colorado!
Soar High Above Colorado’s Rugged Landscape
If you’re looking for adventurous things to do, Colorado Springs offers some of the best ziplining in Colorado.
Channel Your Inner Lumberjack
Immerse yourself in the Colorado spirit and enjoy some ax throwing! Plaid shirt and hipster beard, you know the drill.
Take a Romantic Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
An incredible opportunity to see this rare combination of landscapes from a unique vantage point. Memorable experience!
Discover the City’s Past
Learn about Colorado Springs’ founding and mining industry at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
1. Admire the Breathtaking Garden of the Gods
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The Garden of the Gods offers 1,300 acres of sandstone formations. It’s the perfect spot in Colorado Springs for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. You’ve got paved walking trails at the main parking area and plenty of hiking trails throughout the park.
Make sure you stop by the visitor center to pick up a map before heading out! And enjoy some of the most scenic drives in Colorado as you traverse the landscape around the park.
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 9:00-15:00 (Monday-Thursday), 9:00-17:00 (Friday-Sunday)
- Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States
2. See the Majestic Broadmoor Seven Falls
The Broadmoor Seven Falls is a series of seven waterfalls in South Cheyenne Cañon Park. It’s a well-maintained park with a few shops, restaurants and other places to relax and enjoy the scenery.
To reach the base of the falls you’ll only have to hike about .8 of a mile from the entrance. For guests that are not physically able to hike, there is a tram that will take you to the base of the falls for $2. A bargain.
- Entrance: $10-16
- Hours: Temporarily closed
- Address: 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80905, United States
3. Soar High Above Colorado’s Rugged Landscape
If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Colorado Springs, be sure to try some of the best ziplining in Colorado. The city’s landscape is perfectly suited for this scenic ride!
You’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and be able to take in the landscapes from a unique perspective. And it’s not as hard as it might look…
Ziplining is a low-impact activity that doesn’t put much strain on your body, so virtually almost anybody can enjoy it. Safety gear and professional instruction are always provided.
- Entrance: $121.15
- Hours: 8:30-17:00
- Address: 1335 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, USA
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4. Retreat at a Paradise Cabin in the Woods
Enjoy incredible views of Pikes Peak — “America’s Mountain” — from your very own mountain retreat. A beautifully decorated cabin with all the amenities you could ask for and pristine views of Pikes Peak.
You’ll be an easy stroll away from the main street, where you’ll find plenty of food and entertainment.
If you’re longing for a peaceful nature escapade, this place will give you the best one you could ever ask for. An absolutely magical experience!
5. Visit the Neighboring Town of Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is located about 6 miles west of Colorado Springs and a visit here will treat you to some incredible views and inimitable charm. There really is nowhere else quite like it.
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest in North America and offers breathtaking scenic views. During the ride, the driver relays information about the scenery and points out different places you see along the route.
And the Manitou Springs Incline, also simply referred to as the Incline, is a popular hiking trail in the area. It runs for nearly one mile over the remains of an old funicular railway. Some of the best hiking you can do in the area!
6. Indulge in the Craft Beer Scene
The craft beer scene in Colorado is huge and there are plenty of local joints that brew top-notch quality beers. Hitting up one of them is definitely one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs!
There are countless bars around town that offer a low-key vibe and a casual atmosphere. Even if beer isn’t your usual drink of choice, you’ll find a wide selection that caters to all pallets and preferences.
Phantom Canyon Brewing Company, which first opened its doors in 1993, is the oldest brewery in town and a long-time staple for craft beer fans in Colorado Springs — not a bad place to start.
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Get Yours Here Read Our Review7. Discover the Fascinating Manitou Cliff Dwellings
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a group of relocated Pueblo Indians’ homes. The dwellings were built elsewhere and brought to their current site, piece by piece, in the early 1900s.
It’s amazing to see how well-preserved the structures have been kept and to imagine what it would have been like living in that time. There are signs explaining each room and its use which only add to the wonderment — plus, you get some sick views of the surroundings.
Take a self-guided tour through this historic site and don’t forget to stop by the museum and gift shop before you leave. Lots of interesting items in there!
- Entrance: $7.50-12 + Tax
- Hours: 10:00-16:00 (Monday, Friday-Sunday) winter schedule
- Address: 10 Cliff Dwellings Rd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, United States
8. Visit the Glen Eyrie Castle
Glen Eyrie is an English Tudor-style castle built by the founder of Colorado Springs, General William Jackson Palmer. In 1871, it was built as a dream home for him and his wife; today, it’s open to the public for tours and events.
Learn about the local history of Colorado Springs and about the family who lived here. The castle grounds are very well maintained and the rooms are authentically decorated — a guaranteed trip back in time.
The castle also has a cafe on-site that offers late-morning/afternoon tea, but you have to book a table in advance. It also runs as a hotel, so you can book a room and spend the night in a castle!
- Entrance: $9 per person
- Hours: 8:00-21:00
- Address: 3820 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States
9. Learn About the City’s Gold Mining Days
Delve into Colorado’s wild west heritage at the Wild West Ghost Museum. The museum paints a detailed picture of what life would have been like back in Colorado’s gold mining day.
The museum is filled with authentic artifacts and an array of antiques from the old west. It even contains a model town of historic structures you can explore!
Guests can turn their museum experience into a hands-on learning adventure as they pan for gold and enjoy other fun activities. The museum is geared towards all ages and is fun for the whole family.
- Entrance: $5.50-7.50
- Hours: 10:00-17:00
- Address: 400 S 21st St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States
10. Explore Old Colorado City
Photo: Jeffrey Beall (Flickr)
Old Colorado City is a historic neighborhood in Colorado Springs. There are over 100 shops, restaurants, and other attractions within just a few blocks — shop the local boutiques, check out some art galleries and have a meal in a local restaurant.
For food, you can try out Thunder and Buttons II. It’s an old-school saloon serving classic American fare and hosts regular karaoke and bingo nights.
If you’re in the mood for a show, head to Simpich Showcase. This local theater puts on one-man shows with marionette dolls. Rather unique!
11. Channel Your Inner Lumberjack
Immerse yourself in the rugged Colorado spirit and enjoy an entertaining session of ax throwing! It’s the latest craze sweeping urban cities.
This growing sports fad has a tradition that goes back all the way to the frontiers. It’s gaining popularity once again and has turned into the perfect social activity.
Bad Axe Throwing is located on North Academy Blvd, in Colorado Springs. It stays open late, but most ax-throwing venues require participants to be at least 18 years or older.
- Entrance: $26.98/hr per person
- Hours: 17:00-22:00 (Monday-Friday), 12:00-23:00 (Saturday), 12:00-21:00 (Sunday)
- Address: 3536 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80917, United States
12. Take a Romantic Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Colorado Springs, a hot air balloon ride is exactly what you need!
Colorado Springs’ lush landscape is a great setting to experience the thrill and beauty of a hot air balloon ride. Rise above the rivers and plains and take in the wonder of the city’s phenomenal scenery!
It’s a little on the expensive side, but nonetheless a once in a lifetime experience that is guaranteed to be memorable!
- Entrance: $345 per person
- Hours: 7:00-19:00
- Address: Lobby of Hotel Elegante,, 2886, S Circle Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, United States
13. Explore Colorado Springs’ Food Culture
Colorado Springs has a thriving food and drink scene. The city offers an eclectic range of eateries that will take your meal to a whole new level!
Visit local bars and restaurants and discover the city’s creative culinary cuisine: as far as options go, you’ll find the best selection in the downtown area.
From down-home American cooking to rustic Bavarian beer gardens, there’s a lot to choose from. You’ll find prices to suit all budgets, from casual to high-end dining.
14. Discover the City’s Past
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum contains more than 60,000 cultural and historic objects that document the Pikes Peak region.
Here, you can see artifacts related to Native American tribes that lived in Colorado, like the Cheyenne, Ute, and Arapaho, and learn about Colorado Springs’ founding and mining industry.
There is a children’s gallery exhibit where visitors aged 2-10 can enjoy an interactive hands-on experience as they explore a trading fort from the 1800s. The museum caters to all interests and age groups, and it’s free!
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Tuesday-Saturday)
- Address: 215 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, United States
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Hide Yo’ Money!15. Marvel at Downtown Colorado Springs’ Creative Art Scene
Art on the Streets is a program that started in 1998. Its aim was to fill the downtown area with artwork, thus creating an inspiring and creative space for the community. And, for the last 20 years, it has been doing just that.
Initially, the program accepted most of its entries from artists; now, the process is slightly more selective. Stroll the downtown area and see the obscure and creative pieces of art, from sculptures to murals.
Each year, new temporary additions are added and displayed for a certain amount of time, from which at least one piece is also added to the permanent collection.
16. Take the Kids to a Giant Playground
If you’re trying to decide on things to do in Colorado Springs with kids, you can’t go wrong with this place.
America the Beautiful Park Fantasy Playground is a large play space filled with plenty of fun and modern equipment. The interactive pieces of art around the park are also made for kids to climb around on.
During the summer months, they can even splash around in the water fountain sculpture! There is a lot of green space to run around and burn some energy, and the picnic pavilions are great to relax!
17. Enjoy the Spacious Surroundings at the Red Rock Canyon Open Space
How about a 240 million year slice of sedimentary geology for education? Red Rock Canyon is characterized by a series of beautiful canyons and ridges sculpted by time, offering beautiful views and sheltered enclaves.
The Red Rock Canyon Open Space is an expansive open space that covers a total area of 1,474-acres. You’ll find plenty of safe, well-marked walking and hiking trails here.
Explore a new trail, admire the spectacular red-rock formations, or enjoy a picnic! There are picnic pavilions where you can relax and enjoy a meal and toilets at both of the main parking lots.
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 5:00-21:00
- Address: 3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States
Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
Insider tip: before you start booking your accommodations, make sure you know where to stay in Colorado Springs. You don’t want to end up miles away from the hotspots you want to explore — do your research!
In case you haven’t yet decided where you’re gonna stay when you visit the delightful Colorado Springs, we have a few little recommendations for you!
Best Airbnb in Colorado Springs: Bright Modern Bungalow
Bright, modern, and cool. Just about the best value you can get from an Airbnb in Colorado Springs. Not only do you get a whole lot of space, but the interiors feel way plusher than the per-night price lets on. Cozy living room and fireplace included.
Best Hostel in Colorado Springs: Colorado Adventure Hostel
A great location, fantastic surroundings, and a clean environment are just a few of the reasons this is our pick for the best hostel in Colorado Springs. It has dorm-style rooms and private accommodations, self-catering facilities, and a comfortable common room. Enjoy free breakfast and hot showers! Now if you want affordable accommodation, you don’t need a motel in Colorado Springs!
Best Hotel in Colorado Springs: The Antlers A Wyndham Hotel
The Antlers A Wyndham Hotel is a fantastic four-star property conveniently located in Colorado Springs. It has around the clock room service, valet parking and express check out. Each room is elegantly decorated and has luxurious amenities and features. Enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops nearby.
There are also so many amazing VRBOs in Colorado Springs!
Some Additional Tips for Visiting Colorado Springs
Here are some extra travel tips for Colorado Springs!
- The state of Colorado is ripe for road trip adventures. Consider going on one if you have more than a few days to spare!
- Get a place for yourself if you’re looking for flexibility. There are tons of awesome Airbnbs all over Colorado Springs, in all shapes and sizes — more comfort and a chance to cook a few meals and save up.
- Invest in travel insurance! You never know what may happen on the road.
- If you’re a trail freak, be sure to look into hiking in Colorado! The state has long been known as a hiker’s paradise and holds some epic treasures.
- Bring a good water bottle with you and avoid buying single-use plastic ones!
- Find cheap flights. Every once in a while, a killer deal pops up.
FAQ on Things to Do in Colorado Springs
Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Colorado Springs.
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Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our list of the top things to do in Colorado Springs. As you can tell, there are plenty of unique spots and attractions that can cater to every type of traveler.
If you’re seeking outdoor adventure, you’ll find plenty of it around here. Colorado Springs is surrounded by gorgeous mountain ranges that are highly appealing to the active traveler.
The city also offers a quiet reprieve for more leisurely vacationers, who will enjoy the city’s local museums and beautiful vantage points. From the iconic red-sandstone formations to cascading waterfalls, every attraction is worthy of a picture!
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