Colorado Springs sits at 6,035 feet, but most visitors spend their entire trip looking up at Pikes Peak without ever seeing the best parts of the city. If you want to avoid the tourist traps and experience the “Springs” like someone who actually lives here, you need a plan that balances the iconic red rocks with the hidden neighborhood haunts.
Whether you’re here for the lung-busting incline or the craft beer scene, this guide covers the absolute essentials for a perfect Colorado itinerary.
Table of Contents
- Hike Garden of the Gods (The Right Way)
- Summit Pikes Peak via the Cog Railway
- Conquer the Manitou Incline
- Explore Old Colorado City
- Feed Giraffes at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
- Visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
- Dine and Drink at Ivywild School
- Walk Through Red Rock Canyon Open Space
- Chasing Waterfalls at Broadmoor Seven Falls
- Go Underground at Cave of the Winds
- Catch a Sunset at Palmer Park
- Tour Glen Eyrie Castle
- Eat Your Way Through Downtown
- Step Back in Time at the Pioneers Museum
- Hike North Cheyenne Cañon Park
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Hike Garden of the Gods (The Right Way)
Yes, it’s the most popular attraction in the city, but most people just drive the loop and leave. To actually experience it, park at the main lot and take the Perkins Central Garden Trail. It’s paved and easy, but it puts you right at the base of the “Tower of Babel.”
Local Tip: If you want to avoid the literal busloads of tourists, head to the Ridge Trail. It’s a short half-mile loop on the east side of the park that gives you a much better elevated view of the formations without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
2. Summit Pikes Peak via the Cog Railway
You can drive the 19-mile Pikes Peak Highway, but if you want to actually enjoy the views instead of white-knuckling the steering wheel on hair-pin turns, take the Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
Local Tip: Once you hit the 14,115-foot summit, head straight for the Visitor Center and buy the high-altitude donuts. They are the only donuts in the world made at this elevation, and because of the science of leavening at 14k feet, they’ll deflate the moment you drive back down—so eat them at the top!
3. Conquer the Manitou Incline
This isn’t a “stroll.” It’s 2,744 steps made of old railway ties that gain 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile. It is a Colorado Springs rite of passage.
Local Tip: You must make a reservation online beforehand. Also, do not be the person who tries to hike down the stairs—it’s hard on your knees and annoying to those climbing up. Take the Barr Trail on the way down; it’s a scenic 4-mile descent that’s much easier on the joints.
4. Explore Old Colorado City
Back in the 1890s, this was the wilder side of town compared to the more “proper” Colorado Springs. Today, it’s a historic district filled with galleries and local shops.
Local Tip: Skip the chains and go to Front Range BBQ. My absolute favorite thing to order is the “Southern Comfort” platter with a side of their fried okra. It’s got that gritty, authentic Westside vibe that you won’t find downtown.
5. Feed Giraffes at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This is consistently ranked as one of the best zoos in the country because it’s built into the side of a mountain. The altitude is no joke, but the views are incredible.
Local Tip: Buy the lettuce crackers at the entrance. The giraffe herd here is massive, and being able to hand-feed a giraffe at eye level is the highlight of the trip for kids and adults alike.
6. Visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Colorado Springs is “Olympic City USA,” and this museum is arguably the most high-tech one in the country. It’s fully accessible and uses RFID tech to customize the exhibits to your interests as you walk through.
7. Dine and Drink at Ivywild School
This is an old 1916 elementary school repurposed into a food hall. You can grab a pint of Laughing Lab at Bristol Brewing Company (located in the former gym) or a cocktail in the Principal’s Office.
Local Tip: It gets packed on Friday nights. If you want a quieter vibe, go for lunch and grab a pastry from the bakery to eat out on the patio.
8. Walk Through Red Rock Canyon Open Space
If Garden of the Gods feels too crowded, this is where the locals go. It has the same stunning red rock fins but with way more trail options and a more rugged feel. It’s also very dog-friendly if you’re traveling with a pup.
9. Chasing Waterfalls at Broadmoor Seven Falls
Located in a box canyon, this series of seven cascading falls is spectacular. You can climb the 224 steps to the top or take the in-mountain elevator if your legs are spent from the Incline.
10. Go Underground at Cave of the Winds
The Discovery Tour is great for families, but if you want something unique, try the Haunted Lantern Tour. You’ll explore the undeveloped sections of the cave by candlelight while hearing local folklore.
11. Catch a Sunset at Palmer Park
Located right in the middle of the city, Palmer Park sits on a high plateau. Drive up to the Grandview Overlook for the best sunset view of the entire Pikes Peak range.
Local Tip: Bring a few camp chairs and some takeout. It’s the best “dinner with a view” spot in the city, and it’s completely free.
12. Tour Glen Eyrie Castle
This was the home of General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs. It’s a stunning Tudor-style castle hidden in a private canyon.
Local Tip: Book their High Tea. It feels very “Downton Abbey” but with Rocky Mountain views. It’s a great way to spend a rainy afternoon.
13. Eat Your Way Through Downtown
Downtown COS has exploded recently. For a cool experience, check out The Rabbit Hole—it’s an upscale “Alice in Wonderland” themed restaurant located underground (the entrance looks like a subway station).
Local Tip: If you want the best coffee in town, head to Loyal Coffee. It’s barista-owned and their toast program (yes, toast) is legendary.
14. Step Back in Time at the Pioneers Museum
Located in the old El Paso County Courthouse, this museum is free and houses an incredible collection of regional history. The building itself, with its restored 1903 birdcage elevator, is worth the visit alone.
15. Hike North Cheyenne Cañon Park
This park is a local treasure. Drive up to Helen Hunt Falls (named after the activist, not the actress) for a quick photo op, then keep driving to the Upper Gold Camp parking lot to hike Seven Bridges Trail.
Local Tip: Seven Bridges follows a mountain stream and crosses—you guessed it—seven small bridges. It’s almost entirely shaded, making it the perfect hike for a hot July afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Colorado Springs? September is the “sweet spot.” The summer crowds have thinned, the aspens start turning gold, and the weather is usually a perfect 70 degrees during the day.
How do I avoid altitude sickness in Colorado Springs? The Springs is over 6,000 feet, and Pikes Peak is over 14,000. Drink twice as much water as you think you need, limit alcohol for the first 24 hours, and don’t push yourself too hard on day one.
Is Garden of the Gods free? Yes! Garden of the Gods is a city park and has remained free to the public since the land was donated with the requirement that it stay free forever.
Do I need a car in Colorado Springs? While downtown is walkable, the best attractions (Pikes Peak, the Zoo, the hiking trails) are spread out. You definitely need a car or a reliable rideshare plan to see the best of the city.
Stay Like a Local
The best way to experience the Springs is to have a home base that feels like home. Skip the generic hotels on the interstate and stay in a neighborhood where you can walk to the local coffee shop.
Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets — Book your stay →
Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games — Book your stay →