The small but mighty counterpoint to Denver, Colorado Springs is a quick, scenic drive away and one of visitors’ favorite destinations. Making it even more accessible, many major airlines offer direct flights to the Colorado Springs Airport, situated just minutes from downtown.
From scenic hikes to Olympic experiences and zipline adventures, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Colorado Springs. Below you’ll find 10 of the top can’t-miss experiences in the Pikes Peak region.
And if you’re looking for a place to stay, lodging options cover all travel styles, including luxury hotels, historic properties, vacation homes, campgrounds, RV parks and cabins.
1. Learn About the Olympic Games
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum showcases the history of Team USA at the Olympic and Paralympic Games with artifacts, interactive storytelling, media and impressive technology that embody the Olympic and Paralympic movements.
2. Get Your Heart Pumping on the Manitou Incline
The hike up the Manitou Incline doesn’t sound like a tough endeavor until you realize it climbs 2,000 vertical feet along 2,800 steps in just under 1 mile. You’ll follow the path of old tracks that were originally built for a cable car to transport pipeline materials. With the rails since removed, the Manitou Incline now draws hundreds of thousands of people, from Olympic athletes to those seeking a challenging trek with stunning views.
3. Discover Beauty & Geological History at Garden of the Gods Park
The biological melting pot that is the Garden of the Gods — a meeting of grasslands, woodlands and mountain forest — has been deemed a National Natural Landmark, and is also rated the No. 1 park in the U.S. in 2014 by TripAdvisor®. The towering red sandstone rock formations such as Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock and Siamese Twins, create an other-worldly setting for a low-key hike or high-intensity training. Start your adventure at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, the most visited attraction in the region with all-new interactive exhibits.
4. Soak in the Inspiration for “America the Beautiful” at Pikes Peak
Experience America’s Mountain in a variety of ways. Whether you choose to drive the scenic 19-mile Pikes Peak Highway or hike up Barr Trail, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the majestic Rocky Mountains and far across the “fruited plains” once you reach the 14,115-foot summit. (Note: Visitors who want to drive to the summit park in the top lot from will be required to make an online reservation during peak times of year. Plan ahead.)
5. Explore the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College’s Multidisciplinary Culture
There aren’t many places where you’ll find a nationally accredited art museum, Broadway-worthy theater, gourmet dining, retail shop and an art school all under one roof, but the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College encompasses just that. Traveling exhibitions, events, musicals, dramatic plays and concerts are a few of the reasons to plan a visit.
6. Find Thrills in the Royal Gorge Region
The Royal Gorge Region is full of exciting activities. The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is better than ever, showcasing a new visitor center and updated activities. Cross the highest suspension bridge in North America — suspended 956 feet above the Arkansas River — either on foot or Segway, plus enjoy a host of attractions like an aerial gondola ride, the iconic Water Clock and a historical expo and shows in the Plaza Theater. Adrenaline junkies can fly through the air on the Royal Rush Skycoaster, traverse the gorge via the Cloudscraper ZipRider zipline or navigate rapids below with Royal Gorge Rafting. Hop aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a 24-mile train ride winding through the gorge while enjoying local wine and a gourmet meal.
7. Go Wild at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Experience the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, America’s only alpine zoo, home to more than 900 animals and 200 species. Hand-feed the giraffes or elephants, visit zebra and warthogs in the Encounter Africa exhibit, and check out the new Australia Walkabout – home to alligators, wallabies and even a tree kangaroo. Ride the antique carousel and soar over the zoo on the ski-lift-style Mountaineer Sky Ride.
8. Bask in the Scenery of The Broadmoor’s Seven Falls
This park exhibits natural beauty and activities. Broadmoor's Seven Falls are a sight to behold, and you can climb the 224 steps nearby to reach the stream that feeds them as well as hiking trails. For more exploration, the park’s Broadmoor Soaring Adventure course lifts you above the scenery on two thrilling zipline courses and a rope bridge above the falls. When hunger strikes, have lunch or dinner at Restaurant 1858, where prime patio seating looks out to the base of the falls.
9. Sample a Pint From One of Colorado’s Craft Breweries
In a state known for craft brewing, Colorado Springs is no exception. Enjoy a beer at one of the many local spots, including Colorado Mountain Brewery and Pikes Peak Brewing Company, where you can taste brews named for area landmarks — like the Summit House Oatmeal Stout, which gives a nod to the spot atop Pikes Peak from which you can see all the way to Kansas. Look through more breweries
10. Find Your Fitness On the Area’s Hiking & Biking Trails
In addition to the well-known hiking and biking trails around Pikes Peak, the Manitou Incline and Garden of the Gods, outdoor enthusiasts have their pick from a bounty of parks and trail systems, including Paint Mines Interpretive Park and Cheyenne Mountain State Park. So whether you want to be an Olympian or just train like one, find more parks and the top 25 trails in the area
Want More?
Finalizing your travel plans? Make things easier with handy resources like a free Colorado Springs vacation planner or trip planner, and check out deals and coupons for special offers on lodging, attractions and more. The Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau also provides travel tools and event listings.