Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs was one of the earliest resort locations in the United States and continues to draw numerous visitors today. The city presents various attractions, from towering peaks and extensive hiking trails that cater to nature enthusiasts, to urban sights that, while not as prevalent as those in the larger city of Denver, still hold appeal.

As the site of four military installations, Colorado Springs plays a significant role in the United States, and guests can experience this aspect through visits to the bases and military museums. Nonetheless, the area’s natural scenery remains its primary draw and should be prominent on your itinerary for Colorado Springs.

Here is our list of the Best Things to do in Colorado Springs:

1. Reach the summit of Pikes Peak

While it may not be the tallest of the surrounding peaks, Pikes Peak is certainly the most renowned, standing at just over 14,100 feet. Each year, over half a million visitors reach the summit of this mountain.

The peak, once aptly known as the Mountain of the Sun, inspired the initial draft of “America the Beautiful.” There are three primary routes to access the summit: Pikes Peak Highway, the Cog Railway, or the Barr Trail for those who prefer hiking.

2. Visit the Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods is a distinguished public park and National Natural Landmark located in Colorado Springs. This park features a stunning array of over 300 sandstone formations set against breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

As the region’s most sought-after tourist destination, the park offers a variety of exhibits that educate visitors on the unique geology of the area and the factors that contribute to the various formations.

3. Visit a mountainside zoo

Perched on the mountainside, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the only zoo of its kind in the United States. It is situated at an altitude of 6,800 feet and is recognized as the largest private zoo in the country.

Emphasis on conservation is paramount at the zoo, particularly concerning their acclaimed giraffe breeding program. Educational exhibits abound, and children can engage with various play areas. Additionally, there is a skyride offering panoramic views of the entire zoo.

4. See some fine arts

The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, completely renovated in 2007, serves as the artistic hub of the city. It boasts an impressive collection of Latin American art, including Mexican clay and folk art, as well as abstract prints from local artists.

Adjacent to the center is a sculpture garden and a large lawn that hosts outdoor concerts and provides a perfect setting for picnics.

5. Experience some Colorado Springs luxury

Situated on the man-made Cheyenne Lake, The Broadmoor is a prestigious AAA Five Diamond resort located in one of the most picturesque areas of Colorado Springs. Constructed at a cost of $25,000 in the late 19th century, the lake remains a centerpiece.

In addition to the iconic main building, guests can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the region at Cloud Camp, which sits at an elevation of 9,200 feet on Cheyenne Mountain. Cloud Camp harmoniously combines luxury with outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding.

6. Visit the Red Rock Canyon Park

Once a quarry, Red Rock Canyon Park represents a portion of the sandstone formation that extends through the Garden of the Gods. Covering approximately 787 acres, the park narrowly escaped development as an apartment complex and golf course.

Thanks to the dedication of local residents, the park is now available for exploration, offering excellent opportunities for climbing, cycling, and hiking. With over 80 bolted climbs present, both the park and Garden of the Gods await those eager to venture, though climbers should register with the visitor center beforehand.

7. See Seven Falls

As the name implies, Seven Falls consists of a series of seven picturesque waterfalls located within Broadmoor. The approach to the falls is referred to as the “Grandest Mile of Scenery” in Colorado Springs, featuring rugged rocks, clear streams, and rare flowers.

The waterfalls reach a spectacular height of 181 feet, with each waterfall boasting its own distinct name. The shortest is aptly called Shorty.

8. Train with Olympians

For enthusiasts of the Olympics, the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs is a crucial destination. The center provides access to one of the three training facilities in the United States designed for Olympic athletes. Athletes specializing in gymnastics, judo, volleyball, and swimming train here.

Tours of the center conclude with a walk around the 37-acre campus, culminating in the Hall of Fame, which recently welcomed new inductees, including Michael Johnson and Lones Wigger.

9. Visit the Shrine of the Sun

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is located just behind the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and is enclosed by imposing stone gates. The tower is named in honor of the close friend of Spencer Penrose, who passed away during its construction.

Here, you can find busts of both Penrose and Rogers, as well as some of the finest views of Colorado Springs. Informational plaques direct visitors’ attention towards notable landmarks such as the Garden of the Gods and Cheyenne Lake.

10. Learn about cliff dwellers

The ancient Anasazi people inhabited the red cliffs in Colorado Springs, and the Cliff Dwelling provides a unique opportunity to observe their architectural practices and gain insight into their lives.

This Native American group resided in the area between 800 and 1000 years ago. The dwellings were originally located in Mesa Verde before being relocated and opened to the public in 1907.

11. Take a trip to space

The Peterson Air and Space Museum is located within Peterson Air Force Base and is free of charge for visitors. The museum complex is constructed around three of the original runways built on the base from 1928 to 1941.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum attracts approximately 20,000 visitors each year, both civilian and military. Highlights include fighter jets from various eras and numerous air-to-surface missiles on display throughout the complex.

12. Visit an English Castle

Glen Eyrie is a residence in Colorado Springs constructed in the Tudor style, featuring turrets and architectural elements reminiscent of an English castle. Located on an 800-acre estate, the house offers daily guided tours of 90 minutes that delve into its history and that of its former residents. Visitors also have the option to enjoy high tea at the castle or stay overnight in one of its luxurious accommodations.

13. Enjoy some performing arts

The Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts is an auditorium located in Colorado Springs. This purpose-built venue, established in 1982, has become the city’s premier destination for concerts, theater productions, and comedy performances. The schedule is frequently changing, providing new shows for visitors.

Enhance your evening by dining at the venue prior to your performance. The restaurant offers special set menus related to various shows.

14. Climb the Manitou Incline

The Manitou Incline presents a challenging former railroad transformed into a 2,744-step climb that reaches an elevation of approximately 8,900 feet. This incline is favored by tourists and athletes alike, offering more steps than the Empire State Building.

With a steepness of 68%, it presents a substantial challenge, but the views from the summit are undoubtedly rewarding. The incline is too steep to descend directly, so visitors can use the Barr Trail for the descent.

15. Visit the memorial park

By spending time at Memorial Park, a versatile recreational area, visitors can take advantage of facilities for swimming, tennis, cycling, and even ice skating. The park also features a bicycle velodrome, basketball courts, and numerous sports fields, along with the second-largest skatepark in Colorado, covering a remarkable 40,000 square feet.

For those seeking relaxation, the park offers various picnic areas, some of which overlook Prospect Lake. This lake is surrounded by a 1.25-mile fitness trail.

16. Hike in Bear Creek

Located in the foothills of Pikes Peak, Bear Creek Regional Park is a short drive from the city, providing a perfect environment to escape into nature.

The park spans 545 acres and includes facilities for archery, tennis, hiking, basketball, and even a horseshoe pit. The well-marked hiking trails in the park cover approximately ten miles and do not permit motor vehicles.

17. Visit the US Air Force Academy

The United States Air Force Academy, located in Colorado Springs, is among the most prominent military academies in the country. Despite its significance and vital role, the academy allows visitors to explore the campus and gain insight into the lives of these elite military personnel.

The visitor center offers historical context and background information, and from there guests can visit the chapel or opt for a guided tour of the facility.

18. Tour the Cave of the Winds

Discovered in 1881, the Cave of the Winds has remained a popular attraction ever since. Located at an altitude of over 7,000 feet, it is one of the highest caves in the United States, featuring some of the most impressive stalactites and stalagmites you are likely to encounter.

Tour options vary, with the Discovery Tour being the most popular for its 45-minute introduction to the cave’s history and formation. The Lantern Tour, which offers a longer and darker experience, is worth the additional cost if time allows.

19. Visit the other art center in Colorado Springs

Directly across from the Fine Arts Center, the Cornerstone Arts Center is distinguished by its striking modern architecture, certified by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Inside, visitors will find a free art gallery that regularly features numerous guest lecturers with diverse backgrounds, such as video game designers, Buddhist monks, and women’s rights advocates. The surrounding lawns are adorned with various sculptures.

20. Shop at a farmer’s market

Acacia Park hosts a popular farmer’s market every Monday. It is also home to the well-known Uncle Wilbur’s Fountain, a whimsical feature that delights children and includes a lifeguard to supervise the area, even though the fountains involve pop-up jets with no standing water.

The 200 jets within the fountain create a playful environment where children can dodge and interact with the water while attempting to control the flow.

21. Visit Cripple Creek

The historical town of Cripple Creek offers visitors breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural legacy. Guests can engage in gambling at various casinos, lodge in one of the rustic inns, dine at local eateries, or explore various attractions within the town.

Notable sites include the Butte Theater, a cornerstone of the community since its mining days, and the Cripple Creek District Museum, which consists of five historical buildings.

22. See how people used to travel

Located near the Broadmoor Resort, the Penrose Heritage Museum houses an extensive collection of historical vehicles and transportation methods from yesteryear.

While contemporary travel may seem convenient, a visit to this well-curated museum will remind you of the challenges and discomforts of travel in earlier times. The museum is free and typically not crowded.

23. Pay homage to the state’s pioneers

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum showcases exhibits and artifacts that celebrate the pioneers of Colorado. These early settlers included fur traders, trappers, and ranchers, and the museum provides insights into their lives and trades.

With over 60,000 artifacts housed within the museum, it is a rich resource for those interested in the history of the region. The museum is located in the former El Paso courthouse, constructed in 1903.

24. Leave the city

Manitou Springs, located just outside Colorado Springs, is often emphasized by locals as distinct from the city itself. Nevertheless, the Historic District of Manitou Springs merits a visit.

This town has opted against modernization, instead embracing a bohemian aesthetic with its boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Visitors can enjoy a few hours exploring the area, and those seeking more than a casual stroll should plan to spend additional time there.

25. Visit Old Colorado City

Old Colorado City is situated just west of downtown Colorado Springs. This area was the original capital of Colorado upon its establishment in 1859, serving as a bustling hub for ranchers, miners, and farmers.

Old Colorado City maintains a charming yet gritty Wild West ambiance that transports visitors back to the 19th century. The most effective way to explore the district is by downloading a tour application on your smartphone, enabling a self-guided tour with all necessary information at your fingertips.