TOP 20 best things to do
in Colorado Springs

What is it?
A public park and National Natural Landmark, famous for its stunning rock formations created millions of years ago.

Why should you go?
There are many fantastic places to visit in Colorado Springs, but Garden of the Gods Park is one that you absolutely cannot miss because its epic name is not an exaggeration. The park covers an area of over 1,300 acres with miles of hiking trails weaving around towering dusty-red sandstone rocks, set dramatically against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. If you are not in the mood for lacing up your hiking boots, you can explore this area on a Segway or take an open-air jeep tour.

Specialization
Nature & Recreation

Perfect for
Hikers, photographers, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts

What is it?
The world's highest cog railway, reaching an altitude of 14,115 feet at the summit of Pikes Peak

Why should you go?
As the highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak is among the main attractions in Colorado Springs. There are several ways to climb its top, but the most hands-off, family-friendly, and also extraordinary is a scenic train ride. The Cog will take you from the base station in Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak and back in about 3.5 hours, and you will always remember this exciting and inspiring experience.

Specialization
Sightseeing

Perfect for
Everyone

What is it?
The highest zoo in the USA that sits at 6,714 feet above sea level and is known for its large and prolific giraffe herd.

Why should you go?
Perched high on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain, this zoo is a fantastic destination for kids and adults who love animals and want to interact with them up close. During your visit, you will have a chance to enjoy hand-feeding giraffes, elephants, and even a rhino, which is one of the unique things to do in Colorado Springs. The zoo is also home to hundreds of other animals, including the world's rarest big cat species, the critically endangered Amur leopard.

Specialization
Animals

Perfect for
Families, animal lovers

What is it?
A popular activity that allows you to ride in a hot air balloon and experience the area's beauty from a bird's eye view.

Why should you go?
If you have never experienced a hot air balloon flight before, do not miss the opportunity to take a ride over Colorado Springs and the Rocky Mountains and admire the stunning scenery from the sky. There are several companies providing such tours in the area, so you can easily choose the most suitable option. For instance, start the day by going on the sunrise balloon ride and toast the morning's adventure with a delicious Champagne breakfast.

Specialization
Entertainment

Perfect for
Couples, groups of friends

What is it?
A historic district that is home to over 100 unique businesses, from quirky boutiques to award-winning restaurants.

Why should you go?
Once a town and even the first capital of the Colorado Territory, Old Colorado City now resides as a historic district that boasts charming Victorian buildings taking you back to the 19th century. However, this neighborhood just west of downtown Colorado Springs offers you more than a blissful slice of history. Stroll down its brick, tree-lined sidewalks and check out the numerous eclectic boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Specialization
History, Shopping & Dining

Perfect for
Shopping enthusiasts, history buffs, foodies

What is it?
A living history museum and farm that depicts Indian and early settler life in the Pikes Peak Region.

Why should you go?
Nestled in a scenic location in the valley of the Garden of the Gods, Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is the place where the spirited history of the West comes to life. Exploring a teepee of the Native Americans of the 1770s, watching the blacksmith working, and helping farmers of the 1880s with scattering feed for the chickens or collecting hay for the barn are some of the most fun things to do in Colorado Springs, especially if you are traveling with kids.

Specialization
History

Perfect for
Families, history buffs

What is it?
A multipurpose center that comprises an art museum, a theater, and an art school under one roof.

Why should you go?
The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is an entire arts district offering a wide range of artistic experiences for visitors of all interests. Explore its museum to admire chandeliers by famous glass artist Dale Chihuly, works by John Singer Sargent and Georgia O'Keeffe, and a wealth of Native American and Latin American art. Catch a musical, comedy, dance performance, or other show at its theater. And check out its calendar for various special events.

Specialization
Fine Art & Performing Arts

Perfect for
Art lovers, theatergoers

What is it?
A 40-room replica of ancient cliff dwellings based on the remaining ruins that date about 800 years back.

Why should you go?
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings is one of the most unusual tourist attractions in Colorado Springs and the surroundings. It immerses you into the life of indigenous people who carved out houses into giant cliffs. The reconstruction is based on remains of dwellings that were originally discovered in the southwest region of Colorado, moved to this place in the early 20th century, and now offers a walk through history that is both fascinating and educational.

Specialization
History & Culture

Perfect for
History buffs, families, culture and archeology enthusiasts

What is it?
The flagship training center for the United States Olympic Committee, which can be visited with a guided tour.

Why should you go?
Since Colorado Springs is known as Olympic City, why not see where it got its nickname? The Olympic Training Center, housing state-of-the-art training facilities for swimming, volleyball, gymnastics, and other sports, gives you a chance to explore the exact location where Team USA prepares for the iconic global challenge. Take a behind-the-scenes look at gyms, courts, and weight rooms and see the actual swimming pool used by Michael Phelps.

Specialization
Sports

Perfect for
Sports lovers, fans of the Olympics

What is it?
A natural cave system in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains that was formed millions of years ago.

Why should you go?
Located at an altitude of over 7,000 feet, the Cave of the Winds is one of the highest — and also one of the most popular — caves in the USA. Discovered in 1881, it has been a local favorite ever since, and winding through its underground caverns is undoubtedly one of the most unusual activities in Colorado Springs. Take a tour to explore its geological wonders and then check out thrilling attractions like a zip line and aerial obstacle course at the surrounding scenic mounting park.

Specialization
Nature, Geology & Entertainment

Perfect for
Outdoor enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring natural wonders

What is it?
A historic observation tower that is situated on the side of Cheyenne Mountain and provides impressive panoramic views.

Why should you go?
This arcane-fantasy-like 100-foot-tall stone tower, looming over Colorado Springs, is both a historic monument and an observation deck. The shrine is partly named for the views of the rising and setting sun and partly after the famous American humorist Will Rogers, who died in a plane crash in 1935 during the construction of the tower. Get there to enjoy some of the best views of the city and admire painted murals depicting the area's historical people and events.

Specialization
History & Architecture

Perfect for
Architecture lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for scenic views

What is it?
A series of seven cascading waterfalls with a total height of 181 feet situated within a narrow box canyon.

Why should you go?
A half-day trip to these gorgeous waterfalls has been one of the top things to do in Colorado Springs for decades, and it is easy to see why. The Seven Falls look stunning even from the base, but be sure to climb up 224 steps or take an in-mountain elevator to marvel at the stream in all its glory, along with the great views of the box canyon. If you feel like having an adventure, take a zip line tour or check out beautiful hiking trails.

Specialization
Nature

Perfect for
Nature lovers, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts

What is it?
A museum located in a beautifully restored courthouse and dedicated to the history and culture of the Pikes Peak region.

Why should you go?
If you are looking for cool things to do in Colorado Springs on a rainy day, why not check out the museum that offers a heartwarming journey through the city's past? The impressive historic building with a domed clock tower is filled with relics from Native American tribes, artifacts related to the early pioneers who settled in the area, and beautiful paintings depicting the diversity of regional landscapes. Best of all, the museum is completely free to visit.

Specialization
Local History & Cultural Heritage

Perfect for
History buffs

What is it?
A 1,474-acre city park between Colorado Springs and Manitou Spring.

Why should you go?
The Red Rock Canyon Open Space is an often overlooked gem that boasts gorgeous red rock formations, provides stunning views, and offers plenty of fun activities in Colorado Springs. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing, choosing from 11 trails and 85 climbing roots. If you prefer more relaxing leisure activities, you can simply have a picnic in a picturesque setting and spot local wildlife, from various birds to mule deer.

Specialization
Nature & Recreation

Perfect for
Hikers, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts

What is it?
A United States service academy that trains future elite aviators and is open to visitors.

Why should you go?
ILocated just to the northwest of Colorado Springs, the USAFA is not only the premier academy for those interested in joining the Space Force, but it is one of the city's main tourist attractions. You can explore various parts of the academy's campus, such as the Honor Court and Falcon Stadium, watch IMAX films at the state-of-the-art Planetarium, marvel at the famous Space-Age-looking Cadet Chapel, and take over 23 miles of trails around the Academy grounds.

Specialization
Aviation

Perfect for
Anyone interested in aviation and military history

What is it?
The remains of a former funicular railway turned into a popular hiking trail with 2,744 steps from the bottom to the summit.

Why should you go?
If you want a real physical challenge, look no further than the Manitou Incline. It is not a traditional hiking trail but a mile-long set of stairs made of old railroad ties. With a 41-percent incline, it features more steps than the Empire State Building and gains 2,000 feet in elevation. It is a tough climb, but the views from the top are well worth it. The router is too steep to come back down, but you can take a 3-mile scenic trail as an alternative.

Specialization
Hiking

Perfect for
Experienced hikers, adventurous athletes, and well-prepared outdoor enthusiasts

What is it?
A 150-year-old English Tudor-style castle built by the founder of Colorado Springs, General William Jackson Palmer.

Why should you go?
A visit to Glen Eyrie is your chance to see an English castle and even spend a night within its walls without traveling to the UK. This gigantic mansion, which was built in 1871 and then expanded and remodeled, has 67 rooms and 24 fireplaces and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take one of the daily tours of the castle, enjoy your afternoon tea at the magnificent Castle Music Room, or book one of its luxurious guest rooms.

Specialization
Architecture

Perfect for
Architecture lovers, history buffs, and couples looking for a romantic accommodation

What is it?
A family-friendly museum dedicated to the region's mining history and industrial technology.

Why should you go?
Covering an area of 27 acres, including an ore mill, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry is way cooler than it may sound. It houses thousands of artifacts, such as restored steam engines and mining equipment from the 19th century, fun and engaging hands-on exhibits, and even a theater to tell you about the history and evolution of mining. You can dress up like a miner, walk through a replica mine shaft, experiment with gold panning — and take home whatever you find.

Specialization
History, Geology & Technology

Perfect for
Families, history buffs, geology fans

What is it?
An aviation museum featuring 28 fully restored flying aircraft and 4,000 artifacts and historical documents.

Why should you go?
Covering over 40,000 square feet in an old airport hangar, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with even a slight interest in aviation. You will see numerous fully restored flying aircraft, including fighters, bombers, trainers, and transports, that were used by US forces and their allies during World War II. There are also a wealth of other exhibits showcasing technological leaps in aviation and human stories behind the aircraft.

Specialization
Aviation

Perfect for
History buffs, aviation enthusiasts

What is it?
America's highest suspension bridge, soaring over an epic canyon almost a thousand feet above the Arkansas River.

Why should you go?
Located about one hour south of Colorado Springs, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park offers not only breathtaking views of Colorado's natural wonders but also plenty of thrilling adventures for adrenaline-seekers. Instead of simply crossing the famous suspension bridge on foot, you can take the Cloudscraper Zip Line, running parallel to it, and enjoy other attractions, such as the Royal Rush Skycoaster that allows you to sweep through the air at 50 mph and dangle 1,200 feet above the river.

Specialization
Entertainment & Sightseeing

Perfect for
Anyone looking for an exciting outdoor adventure