Colorado Springs Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Experience the majesty of the American Rockies where stunning red rock formations meet alpine peaks, offering world-class hiking, Olympic history, and a vibrant culinary scene.
Colorado Springs is where the Great Plains dramatically collide with the Rocky Mountains, creating a landscape of geological extremes and breathtaking vistas. Known as “Olympic City USA,” this high-altitude destination offers more than just thin air; it provides a unique blend of rugged outdoor adventure, deep military heritage, and a burgeoning cosmopolitan culture. Whether you are scaling the steps of the Manitou Incline or sipping craft beer in a repurposed elementary school, the spirit of the West is palpable here.
Sitting at 6,035 feet above sea level, the city lies in the shadow of Pikes Peak, the inspiration for “America the Beautiful.” The geography invites exploration, from the alien-like red rocks of the foothills to the granite summits of the alpine zone. It is a place where you can start your day in a t-shirt hiking through red sandstone and end it in a parka throwing snowballs at 14,000 feet, all before enjoying a five-star meal in a historic mining-era hotel.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
A Legacy of Gold and Glory
Colorado Springs wasn’t just built on mining wealth; it was designed as a resort town from its inception in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer. Originally nicknamed “Little London” for the influx of British tourists, the city later became a hub for wellness seekers during the tuberculosis era, drawn by the dry air and abundant sunshine. Today, that legacy of health and prestige continues. The city is home to the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee and the stunning US Air Force Academy, weaving a narrative of discipline, athleticism, and patriotism into the local culture.
Beyond the institutions, the region is a geological wonderland. The area sits on the Rampart Range fault line, which is responsible for the dramatic upturned rock layers seen at the Garden of the Gods. This unique geology has created a playground for climbers, hikers, and photographers, offering scenery that feels prehistoric and otherworldly right within the city limits.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Hiking at Garden of the Gods
Explore 300-foot towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak in this registered National Natural Landmark.
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Take the world's highest cog train up to the 14,115-foot summit of America's Mountain for views that inspired the song 'America the Beautiful.'
US Olympic & Paralympic Museum
An interactive, accessible museum dedicated to the history of Team USA, featuring artifacts and sport simulations in a futuristic building.
Dining at The Rabbit Hole
Descend into a subway-style entrance for 'Alice in Wonderland' themed New American cuisine and cocktails in an underground setting.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
Garden of the Gods - This National Natural Landmark features 300-foot sandstone rock formations. Entry is free, and the park offers 15 miles of trails. It is located just 6 miles from downtown.
Pikes Peak - America’s Mountain - Drive the 19-mile winding highway ($15/adult) or take the Cog Railway ($58.50/adult) to reach the 14,115-foot summit. The visitor center at the top offers famous high-altitude donuts.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo - Located at 6,800 feet, this is America’s highest zoo. Admission varies by season ($20-$30), and it is famous for allowing guests to hand-feed a massive herd of giraffes.
The Broadmoor Seven Falls - A series of seven cascading waterfalls situated in a 1,250-foot-wall box canyon. Tickets are roughly $18 for adults, and visitors must park at The Broadmoor and take a shuttle.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park - Offering cave tours ranging from family-friendly walks to muddy spelunking adventures. Basic tours start around $27, located just outside Manitou Springs.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Colorado Springs is straightforward, with the Colorado Springs Airport (COS) offering a convenient, low-stress alternative to the massive Denver International Airport (DEN). However, DEN is only an hour and a half drive away and often offers more direct flight options. Once you arrive, renting a car is highly recommended. While there is a bus system, the sprawling nature of the attractions, from the Air Force Academy in the north to the Zoo in the south, makes a vehicle essential for maximizing your time.
Altitude is a real factor here. You will be sleeping at over 6,000 feet and potentially playing at over 14,000 feet. It is crucial to drink twice as much water as you think you need and limit alcohol consumption during your first few days. The weather is also notoriously layered; even in summer, carry a light jacket or fleece, as temperatures drop rapidly when the sun goes down or when you ascend into the mountains.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (June - August)
Pros
- All scenic highways and high-altitude trails are open
- Warm weather perfect for rafting and camping
- Full calendar of festivals and outdoor concerts
Cons
- Highest hotel rates and flight prices
- Crowds at major attractions like Garden of the Gods
- Frequent afternoon lightning storms limit hiking times
Shoulder Season: Fall (September - October)
Pros
- Stunning fall foliage (golden aspens)
- Stable, dry weather with comfortable temperatures
- Fewer crowds than summer
Cons
- Early snows can close Pikes Peak Highway temporarily
- Some seasonal attractions begin reducing hours
- Nights can get freezing cold rapidly
Off-Peak: Winter (November - March)
Pros
- Lowest accommodation rates of the year
- Quiet trails and solitude in nature
- Cozy atmosphere at local lodges and breweries
Cons
- Many high-altitude hiking trails are inaccessible
- Cog Railway has limited departures
- Icy conditions on trails like the Manitou Incline
Whether you are chasing the golden aspens of autumn, seeking the summer adrenaline of white-water rafting, or looking for a quiet winter retreat in the Rockies, Colorado Springs offers a distinct experience in every season. It is a destination that rewards the early riser and the adventurous spirit, promising views that will linger in your memory long after you’ve descended back to sea level.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Colorado Springs Weekend
A hit-list of the most famous landmarks, combining accessible nature with downtown dining.
Day 1: Red Rocks and Mountain Towns
- Morning: Start your trip at 7:00 AM at Garden of the Gods to beat the crowds, spending roughly 2 hours hiking the Central Garden Trail which is free of charge. Stop at the Trading Post for a coffee and a souvenir before driving 15 minutes to Manitou Springs.
- Afternoon: Explore the quirky town of Manitou Springs, tasting the mineral water from the public fonts and grabbing a casual lunch at the Manitou Brewing Company for around $40. Spend the late afternoon playing vintage games at the Penny Arcade, budgeting about $10 in quarters for nostalgic fun.
- Evening: Drive back to downtown Colorado Springs for a nice dinner at The Rabbit Hole, where you should expect to spend about $100 for two people including drinks. Be sure to make a reservation weeks in advance as this underground spot fills up quickly.
Day 2: Summiting America’s Mountain
- Morning: Board the Pikes Peak Cog Railway at 9:00 AM for a 3-hour round trip journey to the summit, with tickets costing approximately $58 per adult. Bring a jacket even in summer, as the temperature at the top is often 30 degrees colder than at the base.
- Afternoon: After descending, head to the Ivywild School for lunch at the Bristol Brewing Company, spending about $45 for burgers and local ales in this converted elementary school. Afterward, take a 10-minute drive to visit the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum, with entry tickets costing around $25 per person.
- Evening: Conclude your trip with a sunset stroll through America the Beautiful Park to see the Fantasy of Flight sculpture. Enjoy a final farewell dinner at Four by Brother Luck, budgeting $120 for a high-end Southwestern fusion meal.
Adventure & Heritage Explorer
A deeper dive into the region's military history, intense hiking, and hidden geological gems.
Day 1: The Challenge and The Zoo
- Morning: Tackle the Manitou Incline at 6:30 AM, a grueling 2,744-step hike that gains 2,000 feet of elevation in under a mile, which requires a free reservation made in advance. After descending via the Barr Trail, refuel with a hearty breakfast at Adam’s Mountain Cafe for about $35.
- Afternoon: Drive to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, paying roughly $25-$30 per ticket to feed the giraffes and ride the chairlift for panoramic city views. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the mountainside exhibits and the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun located further up the zoo road.
- Evening: Relax your sore muscles with a casual dinner at Phantom Canyon Brewing Co in downtown, spending about $60 for pub fare and flights of beer. Walk around Tejon Street afterward to see the historic buildings and street art.
Day 2: Military History and Canyons
- Morning: Head north to the United States Air Force Academy, entering through the North Gate to visit the Visitor Center and view the iconic Cadet Chapel (check closure status for renovations), which is free to the public. Drive 15 minutes south to walk the stunning trails of North Cheyenne Cañon Park.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch at Helen Hunt Falls within the park, or grab sandwiches from a local deli for about $25. Hike the Seven Bridges Trail, a moderate 3.5-mile round trip that follows a mountain stream and crosses picturesque wooden bridges.
- Evening: Treat yourself to an upscale dinner at The Penrose Room or Summit at The Broadmoor hotel, budgeting $200+ for a world-class culinary experience. Walk around the lake at the resort afterward to admire the historic architecture and mountain backdrop.
Day 3: The Badlands of the Plains
- Morning: Drive 45 minutes east to the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, a geological wonder of colorful clay hoodoos that feels like a different planet. Spend 2 hours exploring the formations before the midday sun gets too hot, as there is no shade.
- Afternoon: Return to the city for a late lunch at Streetcar 520, offering diverse global comfort food for around $50. Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum downtown (free admission) to learn about the city’s gold rush and tuberculosis sanatorium history.
- Evening: End your adventure with drinks at The Principal’s Office inside Ivywild School or a cocktail at Brooklyn’s on Boulder St. Enjoy a final light dinner from a food truck or local eatery for roughly $40.
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