Look, you can find a million lists of things to do in Colorado Springs, but they all say the same thing. You’re here for the real deal—the tips that turn a good vacation into an unforgettable one. So let’s skip the fluff and get right to the good stuff. Here’s what you should actually be doing in the Springs.
Table of Contents
- Conquer Garden of the Gods (The Smart Way)
- Reach the Top of Pikes Peak Without the Hassle
- Earn Your Views at the Manitou Incline
- Explore Old Colorado City Like a Local
- Feed the Giraffes at America’s Mountain Zoo
- Hike the Trails Above The Broadmoor Seven Falls
- Get Inspired at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
- Ditch the Crowds at Red Rock Canyon Open Space
- Grab a Legendary Burger and a Beer at Bristol Brewing
- Find the Best Free Views at North Cheyenne Cañon Park
1. Conquer Garden of the Gods (The Smart Way)
Yes, Garden of the Gods is on every list, but most people do it wrong. They drive the loop, get stuck in traffic behind 20 other cars at the Kissing Camels viewpoint, and call it a day. Don’t be that person.
The park is a masterpiece, and it’s completely free. The trick is to treat it like a hiking destination, not a drive-thru.
Pro Tips for Visiting
- Park at the Main Lot: Get there before 9 AM, especially on a weekend. Park at the main lot off of Gateway Road.
- Hike the Perkins Central Garden Trail: This is the paved, 1.5-mile loop that takes you right through the base of the most iconic formations. It’s accessible and offers jaw-dropping photo ops.
- The Real Hike: For a quieter experience with even better views, take the Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail. It’s a 3-mile loop with a bit of elevation that gives you a stunning panoramic view of the entire park with Pikes Peak in the background. It’s the shot you really want.
2. Reach the Top of Pikes Peak Without the Hassle
Seeing “America’s Mountain” is a must, but a little planning goes a long way. You have two main options to get to the 14,115-foot summit: drive the Pikes Peak Highway or take the Broadmoor’s Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
Driving vs. The Cog Railway
- Driving: This gives you flexibility, but you must make an online reservation for a timed entry slot during the busy season (late May to September). The drive has 156 turns and can be nerve-wracking if you’re not a fan of sheer drop-offs. Go early in the morning to avoid the classic Colorado afternoon thunderstorms that can roll in fast.
- The Cog Railway: This is my preferred way. It’s relaxing, the views are incredible, and you don’t have to worry about driving. Book your tickets weeks in advance, as they sell out fast.
Don’t Forget the Donuts
No matter how you get there, the one thing you have to do at the summit is get the world-famous high-altitude donuts. They have a unique, cake-like texture because of a special recipe that works at 14,000+ feet. They’re a rite of passage.
3. Earn Your Views at the Manitou Incline
Let’s be very clear: the Incline is not a casual hike. It’s a straight-up, quad-burning workout. You’ll gain nearly 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile over 2,744 steps. It’s intense, but the view from the top and the sense of accomplishment are unbeatable.
What You Need to Know
- Reservations are required: You have to book a time slot online, and they do check. This helps manage the crowds on the narrow steps.
- Go early: The trail has zero shade. An early morning start saves you from the brutal afternoon sun.
- Take Barr Trail down: Whatever you do, do not go back down the stairs. It’s dangerous and against the rules. The 4-mile trek down Barr Trail is a beautiful, gradual descent that your knees will thank you for.
4. Explore Old Colorado City Like a Local
Skip the tourist-trap souvenir shops downtown and head straight to Old Colorado City. This was the original capital of the Colorado Territory, and its historic main street is packed with unique art galleries, boutiques, and fantastic places to eat.
My Go-To Spots
- Coffee: Stop at Jives Coffee Lounge. The vibe is perfect, and their lattes are top-notch.
- Lunch: Paravicini’s Italian Bistro is a local institution. You can’t go wrong with their Veal Saltimbocca. For something quicker, Front Range Barbeque has a great patio and killer pulled pork.
- Shopping: Wander through the art galleries and check out Rocky Mountain Soap Market for locally made goods.
5. Feed the Giraffes at America’s Mountain Zoo
This isn’t your average zoo. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is built right into the side of a mountain, meaning you get a workout walking between exhibits while enjoying incredible views of the city below.
The absolute can’t-miss experience here is feeding the giraffes. Their herd is one of the largest and most prolific in the country. Standing on the elevated platform, eye-to-eye with these gentle giants as they take lettuce right from your hand, is a core memory in the making.
6. Hike the Trails Above The Broadmoor Seven Falls
Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls in a stunning 1,250-foot-wall box canyon. You’ll have to climb 224 steps to get to the top of the falls, but the journey doesn’t end there.
The Hidden Gem
Once at the top, most people turn around. Don’t. There are two fantastic hiking trails that start there: the short trail to Midnight Falls and the longer loop to Inspiration Point. The view from Inspiration Point looking down on the falls and out over the plains is worth the extra effort.
7. Get Inspired at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, this museum is a must-see. It’s one of the most accessible and interactive museums in the world, telling the powerful stories of America’s greatest athletes. You can race against a virtual Jesse Owens, try your hand at alpine skiing, and see a massive collection of Olympic torches. It’s an incredibly moving and well-designed experience.
8. Ditch the Crowds at Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Want the beauty of Garden of the Gods without the crowds? Head to Red Rock Canyon Open Space. It’s a 1,474-acre park with the same stunning red rock fins and ridges, but it’s where the locals go to hike, bike, and walk their dogs. The trail network is extensive, offering everything from easy, flat walks to challenging ridge climbs. The Quarry Pass trail gives you a fantastic view for minimal effort.
9. Grab a Legendary Burger and a Beer at Bristol Brewing
Colorado Springs has a booming craft beer scene, but my favorite spot will always be Bristol Brewing Company. It’s located inside a former elementary school called Ivywild School, which now houses multiple restaurants and shops.
The vibe is unbeatable. Grab a pint of their flagship Laughing Lab Scottish Ale—it’s won more awards than you can count. Then, order a burger from the adjoining Principal’s Office. My go-to is the Ivywild Burger. It’s the perfect way to end a day of hiking.
10. Find the Best Free Views at North Cheyenne Cañon Park
This city-owned park is one of the area’s biggest treasures, and it’s completely free. Drive up the scenic North Cheyenne Canyon Road, stopping to see Helen Hunt Falls along the way.
For a great hike, head to the Seven Bridges Trail. It’s a moderate, 3.5-mile out-and-back trail that crosses North Cheyenne Creek seven times over charming wooden bridges. It’s shaded, follows the water, and feels like a true mountain escape just minutes from the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Colorado Springs?
September is the golden month. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is still warm and sunny, and the aspen trees in the mountains begin to turn a brilliant gold. However, summer (June-August) is also fantastic for hiking and outdoor activities.
How many days do you need in Colorado Springs?
To comfortably see the main highlights like Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and do a few hikes, plan for at least 3 to 4 full days. This gives you enough time to explore without feeling rushed and allows for a more relaxed pace to acclimate to the altitude.
Do I need reservations for the Manitou Incline?
Yes, absolutely. You must make a free online reservation to hike the Manitou Incline. Parking also requires payment via a kiosk or app. They enforce both, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Is Garden of the Gods really free?
Yes! Thanks to the wishes of the family who donated the land to the city, public access to Garden of the Gods Park is completely free. The Visitor & Nature Center across the street also has free admission.
Your Colorado Springs Adventure Basecamp
Exploring all that Colorado Springs has to offer is exhilarating, and at the end of the day, you need a comfortable, central place to call home. Instead of a generic hotel room, imagine having a space of your own to relax and recharge for the next day’s adventure.
At Springline Stays, we offer beautiful, well-appointed homes that put you right in the heart of the action. Book your stay directly with us to get the best rates and start planning your perfect Colorado Springs getaway.