Direction To Colorado Springs Travel Guide
Top Attractions
Colorado Springs is home to many popular attractions such as Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the United States Air Force Academy.
Garden of the Gods is a natural wonder with towering sandstone formations that attract hikers, rock climbers, and photographers. Pikes Peak is a must-visit destination for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The United States Air Force Academy offers free tours that showcase the cadet life and impressive architecture.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for lesser-known spots to explore, check out Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Palmer Park, or Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space features hiking trails that wind through red rock formations and offer stunning views of the city. Palmer Park is a local favorite with a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings offer a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Anasazi people.
Food Scene
Colorado Springs boasts a diverse food scene with something for every palate.
For a taste of the local cuisine, try a Colorado-style pizza at Old Chicago or a Bison burger at The Rabbit Hole. For a more upscale dining experience, head to The Famous Steak House or The Broadmoor’s Penrose Room.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Colorado Springs can be an affordable destination if you know where to look.
Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum or the Western Museum of Mining and Industry for free. Take advantage of the city’s extensive network of hiking trails and parks. For an affordable meal, head to Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q or King’s Chef Diner.
Outdoor Adventures
Colorado Springs is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with endless opportunities for adventure.
Hike to the summit of Pikes Peak, go white-water rafting on the Arkansas River, or explore the Garden of the Gods on horseback. For a more laid-back experience, take a scenic drive through the mountains or go fishing in one of the area’s many lakes.
Historical Landmarks
Colorado Springs is steeped in history with many landmarks to explore.
Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum to learn about the city’s past, or tour the historic Glen Eyrie Castle. The Old Colorado City Historic District offers a glimpse into the city’s Wild West days, while the Manitou Cliff Dwellings showcase ancient Native American culture.
Family-Friendly Activities
Colorado Springs is a great destination for families with kids of all ages.
Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, which is home to over 750 animals, or take a ride on the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The Colorado Springs Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities, while the North Pole – Santa’s Workshop is a Christmas-themed amusement park that’s open year-round.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences, check out some of Colorado Springs’ off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Visit the May Natural History Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of insects and butterflies. The Ghost Town Museum offers a glimpse into the Wild West, while the ProRodeo Hall of Fame honors the sport of rodeo.
Natural Wonders
Colorado Springs is surrounded by natural wonders that are sure to impress.
Take a scenic drive through the Garden of the Gods, or hike to the summit of Pikes Peak for breathtaking views. The Royal Gorge Bridge offers stunning views of the Arkansas River from 956 feet above.
Vibrant Nightlife
Colorado Springs has a lively nightlife with something for everyone.
Visit The Zodiac Venue and Bar for live music or head to the Axe and the Oak Whiskey House for craft cocktails. The Principal’s Office is a speakeasy-style bar located in a historic school building, while The Gold Room is a popular nightclub that hosts live DJs.
Local Markets
Colorado Springs is home to several farmers’ markets that offer fresh produce, crafts, and local goods.
Visit the Colorado Farm and Art Market, which features locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. The Old Colorado City Farmers’ Market is open year-round and offers a variety of foods and crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Colorado Springs is located near both beaches and mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit the nearby town of Manitou Springs for a relaxing day by the creek, or head to the nearby ski resorts for a day of skiing or snowboarding. The nearby town of Buena Vista is home to several hot springs that are perfect for a relaxing soak.
Cultural Immersion
Colorado Springs is home to a diverse range of cultures, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in them.
Visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center to see works by local and international artists, or head to the Colorado Springs Philharmonic for a night of classical music. The Colorado Springs Chinese Cultural Institute offers classes and events that showcase Chinese culture, while the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center showcases the art and culture of the Southwest.
Art and Music Scene
Colorado Springs has a thriving arts and music scene with many galleries, venues, and festivals to explore.
Visit the Cottonwood Center for the Arts to see works by local artists, or head to the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts for a night of live music or theater. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center offers a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, while the MeadowGrass Music Festival is a popular outdoor music festival that takes place every year.
Walking Tours
Colorado Springs is a great city for walking, with many historic and scenic areas to explore.
Take a guided tour of the city’s historic downtown district, or explore the area’s many parks and hiking trails. The Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center offers guided hikes and walks, while the Manitou Springs Heritage Center offers tours that showcase the town’s history.
Architectural Marvels
Colorado Springs is home to many impressive architectural landmarks that are worth visiting.
The Broadmoor Hotel is a historic landmark that has been hosting guests since 1918. The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is housed in a former courthouse that was built in 1903. The El Pomar Carriage Museum is home to a collection of historic carriages and automobiles.
Historical Sites
Colorado Springs is rich in history, and there are many sites that offer a glimpse into the past.
Visit the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, which features historic buildings and exhibits that showcase life in the 1800s. The Cripple Creek District Museum offers a fascinating look into the area’s gold rush history. The Manitou Springs Heritage Center offers tours and exhibits that showcase the town’s history.
Biking Routes
Colorado Springs is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts, with many scenic routes to explore.
The Pikes Peak Greenway Trail is a 17-mile paved trail that runs through the city and offers stunning views of the mountains. The New Santa Fe Regional Trail is a 15-mile scenic trail that runs from Palmer Lake to Colorado Springs. The Gold Camp Road Trail is a challenging mountain bike trail that offers stunning views of the city.
Wellness Retreats
Colorado Springs is a great destination for wellness enthusiasts, with many spas, retreats, and wellness centers to choose from.
The SunWater Spa offers a variety of healing treatments, including hot springs soaks and yoga classes. The Alluvia Spa and Wellness Retreat offers a variety of massages, facials, and body treatments. The Garden of the Gods Resort and Club is a luxurious wellness retreat that offers a variety of fitness classes and activities.
Adventure Sports
Colorado Springs is an adventure sports paradise, with opportunities for rock climbing, white-water rafting, and more.
The Garden of the Gods is a popular destination for rock climbers, with over 1,300 climbing routes available. The Arkansas River offers world-class white-water rafting, with a variety of rapids to choose from. The nearby town of Buena Vista is a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
With so many things to see and do in Colorado Springs, it’s no wonder that it’s a popular destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, you’re sure to find it in Colorado Springs.