Are you planning a trip to Colorado? Colorado Springs delivers the full Rocky Mountain experience—red rock formations, wildlife encounters, mountain views, and outdoor adventures that work for every age and energy level. Whether you’re mapping out a family road trip or just looking for the best things to do in Colorado Springs, “the Springs” belongs on your list.
Chris and I loved this area so much we eventually stopped visiting and just moved here. Situated about an hour south of Denver International Airport with Pikes Peak as your backdrop, Colorado Springs is the kind of place that sticks in your memory long after you leave. From Garden of the Gods to world-class hiking trails, there’s something to love in every season.
20 Things to Do In Colorado Springs
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If you’re looking for a destination that checks every box—zoos, museums, family adventures, hiking, and jaw-dropping natural landscapes—look no further than Colorado Springs. It’s one of the best stops on a Colorado road trip, and you’ll create lasting memories here, the kind your family will still be talking about years from now: “Remember that cool place in Colorado?”
1. The Garden of the Gods Trails & Park
Colorado Springs is home to the stunning Garden of the Gods—supernatural red rock formations that create one of the most unique and picturesque parks in the world. The land was donated to the city in 1909 by the children of Charles Elliott Perkins with one condition: it must always remain free to the public. That’s still true today.
Garden of the Gods Hours
Park Hours
- Nov 1 – Apr 30: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm
- May 1 – Oct 31: 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Visitor & Nature Center
- Memorial Day – Labor Day: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Off Season: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Trading Post
- Winter: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Summer: 8:00 am – 8:30 pm
Things to do at Garden of the Gods:
- Complete the Junior Ranger guidebook
- Join a 45-minute nature walk with Park Naturalists
- Sign up for a rock climbing class (a permit is required—fines up to $500 without one)
- Visit the Trading Post for famous fudge and lunch
- Join a jeep, trolley, or segway tour
- Attend a photography workshop
- Run the weekly Gallop in the Garden 5k
Favorite Family Hikes:
- Perkins Central Garden Trail — 1.5-mile paved loop, family friendly
- Ridge Loop Trail — 0.4 miles
- Siamese Twins Garden of the Gods Loop Trail — 0.5 miles, great photo ops
Related Post: 25 Incredible Hikes in Colorado near Denver
2. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Your visit to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo will build memories that last a lifetime—and it tops the list of things to do in Colorado Springs with kids. USA Today 10 Best ranks it #3 among the best zoos in the United States, and honestly, that tracks.
CMZ is home to one of the largest giraffe herds in North America—17 strong at last count—and you can feed them up close. Beyond the giraffes, expect lions, tigers, grizzly bears, hippos, penguins, elephants, orangutans, lowland gorillas, lemurs, and enough animals to fill a small continent. (If you can see a lemur without hearing King Julian’s voice in your head, you’re stronger than I am.)
When our family visited the orangutans, I turned around to grab my camera and missed the whole thing. Our youngest had leaned up to the glass and an orangutan gave her a kiss. I heard it was adorable. Apparently I was the only one who missed it.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Hours
Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Advance tickets are required—grab them before you go.
3. Air Force Academy
The U.S. Air Force Academy is open to visitors and may be one of the most motivational stops on your Colorado Springs itinerary. Start at the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center, where you can learn about cadet life, the honor code, the academy’s history, and get up close with some impressive aircraft. From there, follow a paved nature trail to the iconic Cadet Chapel—note that it’s currently closed for repairs and projected to reopen in 2027.
If your visit lines up with a football game, don’t miss it. The energy on campus is electric, the fans are genuinely some of the nicest you’ll encounter, and the pre-game traditions are worth the trip alone. The skydiving team and the flyover? Absolutely unforgettable.
4. Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs
The Broadmoor was built in 1891 and began as a gambling casino, though the casino was later destroyed by fire in 1897. A hotel was added to the site and has since become a luxurious destination and resort in Colorado Springs.
The Broadmoor Hotel has quite the origin story—built in 1891 as a gambling casino, burned to the ground in 1897, and reinvented as one of the most legendary resorts in the country. Today it holds both a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond rating, which is a very short list to be on.
The distinctive pink stucco building sits against a backdrop of mountains and an outdoor lake with a walking path—it’s as photogenic as it is impressive. Beyond the elegant rooms, spa, golf course, pools, boutiques, and restaurants, the Broadmoor offers a surprisingly long list of adventures:
- Soaring Adventure with 10 zip lines on two courses
- Fly Fishing
- Falconry
- Rock Climbing
- Biking
- Wild West Adventures
- Broadmoor Scavenger Hunt
Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth a visit—stroll the lake path, grab a meal, and soak in the scenery.
5. Explore Pikes Peak
At 14,155 feet, Pikes Peak is America’s most famous mountain—and for good reason. Katherine Lee Bates penned the lyrics to “America the Beautiful” after viewing the Rocky Mountains from the summit. That’s a pretty solid claim to fame.
You have two options to reach the top: take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a 3.5-hour round trip experience from the Manitou Depot, or drive the highway yourself. Both require advance reservations and both deliver jaw-dropping views all the way to the summit. Either way, prepare yourself—the scenery is something else entirely.
>> Related Post: 30 Essential Tips for Driving Through Mountains
6. Seven Falls
Seven Falls has been called the “grandest mile of scenery in Colorado”—a bold claim in a state full of competition, but honestly, it is pretty awesome. Tucked into a box canyon between the towering Pillars of Hercules, the water plummets 181 feet to the canyon floor. It’s dramatic in the best possible way.
Lace up your hiking shoes—224 stairs stand between you and the top of the falls, where sweeping views of the valley, rock formations, and Colorado Springs hiking trails await. At the base, Restaurant 1858 offers a rustic patio with authentic Colorado fare, open seasonally. Chris and I grabbed lunch there on a beautiful fall afternoon with the sound of the falls as our background music. Highly recommend.
7. The Olympic Training Center
Colorado Springs is home to one of only three Olympic and Paralympic Training Centers in the United States—and it was the first one built, back in 1978. The high elevation of Colorado has long been considered a training advantage for athletes, which is why the best in the world come here to prepare.
The facility includes an Olympic-size swimming pool, velodrome, indoor shooting range, gymnasiums, weight rooms, and a sports science laboratory. Tours are open to the public—all tickets must be purchased in person at the facility. Also worth a visit nearby: the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum, a world-class interactive experience just a few miles away.
Olympic Training Center Tours
- Oct 1 – Mar 30: Mon – Fri 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | Sat 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Apr 1 – Sep 30: Mon – Sat 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
All tickets purchased in person at the facility. 📍 1 Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
US Olympic & Paralympic Museum 📍 200 S. Sierra Madre Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
8. Manitou Springs & The Manitou Incline
Manitou Springs sits just 6 miles west of Colorado Springs—half a mile from Garden of the Gods and 6 miles from the Pikes Peak Highway—making it an easy and worthwhile detour. This charming historic town is perfect for wandering: explore art galleries, sip mineral water from the natural mineral springs available to the public downtown, browse unique boutiques, catch street performers, and grab a meal along the creek. Kids will enjoy fishing at the stocked pond in Schryver Park.
If you’re feeling ambitious, the Manitou Incline is waiting. This is not a casual stroll—2,768 steps straight up, rated “Extreme,” and it will humble you fast. Advance reservations are required for this popular Colorado Springs hiking trail. The Incline is almost a mile (1.4 km) with 2,020 feet of elevation gain—and if you’re not used to the elevation, give yourself a day or two to acclimate before attempting it. Check the link above for parking information.
9. The Ghost Town Museum
Colorado is home to plenty of ghost towns, and this one brings that history to life right in the middle of Colorado Springs. The Ghost Town Museum is a perfectly preserved glimpse into frontier life—structures, artifacts, and memorabilia that paint a vivid picture of what a Colorado town looked like 100 years ago. Kids of all ages will love moseying through it.
The museum’s story is rooted in the 1858 gold rush that opened the Colorado territory. No spooky vibes here—just a genuinely fascinating slice of the Old West.
Ghost Town Museum
400 S 21st St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Plan your visit to the Ghost Town Museum and get your tickets.
10. Old Colorado City
Just west of downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City is a historic neighborhood that dates back to 1859—predating Colorado Springs itself. Today it’s a walkable stretch of galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and bars along Colorado Avenue with a distinctly local, artsy vibe. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, browse one-of-a-kind shops, and soak in a little Colorado history without a structured itinerary. Keep an eye out for the murals and public art scattered throughout the area.
11. Cave of The Winds
Perched at 7,030 feet above Manitou Springs, Cave of the Winds is one of Colorado’s most popular family attractions—and it delivers. Guided tours take you through stunning underground chambers filled with dramatic formations that took millions of years to form.
Not sure that I could do this, BUT if you want to kick things up a notch, the adventure tours add crawling, climbing, and tight passages for those who like their geology a little more extreme. Above ground, the Wind Walker Challenge Course and Terror in the Depths haunted attraction round out the experience nicely.
12. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park sits at the base of its namesake mountain and offers some of the best accessible hiking near Colorado Springs. With over 20 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs, it’s a great option for families who want to get outside without the crowds of Garden of the Gods.
Keep an eye out for mule deer, wild turkeys, and black bears—wildlife sightings are common here. The park also has excellent picnic areas and is a favorite among local mountain bikers.
13. North Cheyenne Cañon Park
North Cheyenne Cañon Park is one of Colorado Springs’ best-kept secrets and a must for anyone who loves hiking and waterfall photography. The canyon is dramatic—sheer granite walls, rushing streams, and dense forest—and the trails range from an easy stroll to a serious workout.
The crown jewel is Helen Hunt Falls, a gorgeous waterfall with a visitor center and picnic area right at the base. It’s incredibly photogenic and one of those spots that locals love and visitors somehow miss entirely.
Day Trips From Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs puts you within easy striking distance of some of the most spectacular scenery in the state. Whether you’re chasing sand dunes, ancient cliff dwellings, rushing rivers, or colorful rock formations, these day trips are worth every mile.
14. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
About 45 minutes west of Colorado Springs, Royal Gorge Bridge & Park sits 956 feet above the Arkansas River—and yes, it’s every bit as dramatic as it sounds. The suspension bridge stretches 1,260 feet across the canyon and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Colorado. The views from the rim are jaw-dropping in every direction.
Our family has rafted the Arkansas River through the gorge and tackled the zip line course, and both are absolutely worth it. Chris and I have the Royal Gorge train on our list for this summer—it winds through the canyon along the river and looks incredible. There’s genuinely something here for every age and adventure level.
Beyond the bridge, the park offers a aerial gondola, zip lines, a kids’ ride area, restaurants, and plenty of walking paths along the rim.
15. Buena Vista
Just under two hours from Colorado Springs, Buena Vista is a small mountain town with a big adventure reputation. The Arkansas River runs right through it, making it one of the best whitewater rafting destinations in the country—Class I & II for beginners all the way up to Class IV technical rapids for the more adventurous. It’s a family favorite for a reason.
Beyond the river, Buena Vista offers a charming farmers market, one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Colorado, excellent hiking, and stunning drives through the Collegiate Peaks. It’s an easy day trip that could very easily turn into a weekend.
16. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park is about 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs and worth every minute of the drive. The tallest sand dunes in North America rising out of the San Luis Valley floor is one of the most surreal landscapes you’ll find anywhere in the country. If you have an America the Beautiful annual pass, it works here.
Plan to picnic at one of the shaded areas near the parking lot before heading out—because once you’re on the dunes, there is zero shade. Bring water, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Important: Do yourself a favor—wear closed-toe shoes with socks. The sand can reach temperatures up to 150°! Flip flops are not your friend here.
17. Mesa Verde
Chris and I lived in Colorado for 19 years before we finally made it to Mesa Verde National Park—and we immediately wondered what took us so long. It’s a hidden treasure and one of the most unique things to do in Colorado, full stop.
Plan an early start to beat the crowds and the heat—the park sits atop a mesa and gets warm fast in summer. Note that the visitor center is outside the park, and once you enter there’s still a 20-minute drive to the top of the mesa, so build that into your timing.
Most cliff dwellings can only be visited on a ticketed ranger tour, offered May through October. Tickets go on sale 14 days in advance—grab them on Recreation.gov before they’re gone.
18. Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Paint Mines Interpretive Park is one of the most underrated hidden gems near Colorado Springs—and most people have never heard of it. Located about 45 minutes east near Calhan, this free park features otherworldly colorful rock formations in shades of pink, purple, white, and orange that look like they belong on another planet. It’s stunning, highly Instagram-worthy, and genuinely surprising.
The area also has archaeological significance—Native Americans used the colorful clay here for pottery and paint for thousands of years. The trail is about 4 miles round trip and relatively easy, making it a great option for families.
Go early or late in the day for the best light and photos.
19. Salida
Salida is a small Arkansas River town with a big personality—colorful Victorian buildings, a thriving arts scene, world-class whitewater, and easy access to some of the best hiking in Colorado. It’s about 2 hours from Colorado Springs and makes for a perfect day trip or an easy overnight. Wander the charming downtown, grab a meal along the river, and keep an eye out for the local art installations scattered throughout the streets. If hot springs are on your radar, Salida is your launching pad—more on that below.
20. Chimney Rock National Park
Off the beaten path in Southwestern Colorado, Chimney Rock National Monument is an archaeological wonder that lives up to its tagline: “Where Culture is the Adventure.” Walk in the footsteps of the Puebloans who built these structures and used these artifacts in everyday life 1,000 years ago—it’s one of the coolest and most humbling experiences in the state.
The Puebloans were sky watchers who relied on the sun, stars, and moon to guide their living, growing seasons, and festivals. That context makes exploring the site even more fascinating. Self-guided tours wind through six excavated and stabilized structures, with trained volunteer interpreters stationed along the trails ready to share the history and answer questions.
Colorado Springs Hot Springs Day Trips
Despite the name, Colorado Springs does NOT actually have hot springs. But when you live in a state with towns named Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Pagosa Springs, Manitou Springs, and Idaho Springs, you start to sense a theme. And yes—where there’s “Springs” in the name, there are usually hot springs worth soaking in.
The hot springs closest to Colorado Springs include SunWater Spa in Manitou Springs, Desert Reef Hot Springs, and Cottonwood Hot Springs. If you’re willing to drive a little further, Pagosa Springs and Ouray deliver some of the most stunning soaking experiences in the state.
Gear for Your Adventures in Colorado Springs
Many of My Favorite Travel Things will make your visit to the colorful “Centennial State” so much more enjoyable, especially if you plan to hike any of the Colorado Springs hiking trails or explore the Garden of the Gods trails. For more ideas, also check out my Amazon Storefront!
- Apple iPhone
- Canon 6d Mark II
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens
- UV Protection Lens Filter
- Visor
- Sunscreen
- Merrell Men’s Hiking Boots
- Oboz Women’s Hiking Boots
- Merino Wool Hiking Socks
- The North Face Recon Backpack Women
- The North Face Recon Backpack Men
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there things to do in Colorado Springs with kids?
Yes. With all of the amazing family adventures in Colorado Springs, your kids will go home asking when they can go back!
Can you drive through the Garden of the Gods?
Yes. Driving through the Garden of the Gods is free and only takes about 20 minutes. That is, if you don’t stop. Chances are, the stunning views will entice you to stop and your visit will be much longer. Plus, you’ll probably want to stop and visit the Garden of the Gods trading post. Mmmmm, the fudge is divine.
Is Colorado Springs a good place to live?
As noted above, yes, it ranked #2 in 2022 as one of the best places to live. There is an abundance of outdoor adventure, beautiful views, great local schools, and many family adventures in Colorado Springs.
Where are the Colorado Springs Hot Springs?
Despite the name, Colorado Springs doesn’t actually have hot springs. The closest options include SunWater Spa in Manitou Springs, Desert Reef Hot Springs, and Cottonwood Hot Springs. For a more classic hot springs experience, Pagosa Springs and Salida are worth the drive.
Is Colorado Springs worth visiting?
Absolutely. With world-class attractions like Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Pikes Peak, and easy access to incredible day trips, Colorado Springs delivers a full Rocky Mountain experience at every turn.
What is Colorado Springs known for?
Colorado Springs is best known for Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo—one of the top-rated zoos in the country.
How far is Colorado Springs from Denver?
Colorado Springs is about 70 miles south of Denver, roughly a 1–1.5 hour drive depending on traffic—making it an easy add-on to any Colorado itinerary.
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It’s Time to Plan Your Colorado Springs Adventure
Did you know that “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver was recorded in 1972 and later adopted as the second official state song for Colorado in 2007? A visit to Colorado Springs might just have you humming the tune. Better yet, add it to your road trip playlist and sing along!
There’s just something about these mountains that inspires greatness and a desire to create lasting memories—whether it’s tasting fudge at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post or exploring Colorado Springs hiking trails. With so many fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids, you’ll want to visit again and again. Before you head out, grab my Day Hike Packing List so you’re ready for every trail on your list.
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Wow, Seven Falls looks like an awesome place to visit. Will definitely go there when I make it to Colorado Springs. Thanks for sharing!
I can’t wait to make my next holiday trip plan! Thank you for the extra help.
I loved Garden Of The Gods, but missed most of these other amazing locations and ideas! Will definitely need to get myself back to Colorado Springs LOL!
This made me so happy to read! My husband and I had our honeymoon in CO and spent several days in Colorado Springs and loved it!! Brought back so many great memories! These ideas are great for any age!!
Wow. I think I need to make a trip!
Colorado Springs is on my bucket list. I took a very quick trip to Colorado and visited Denver but really think I would enjoy Colorado Springs even more, looks like there is so much to see and do there!
We missed Colorado Springs on our last trip. Glad to have reasons to return!
Forwarded this post to my brother who lives near Colorado Springs, I bet he doesn’t know half of these activities exist!
What a great list of activities for anyone to enjoy in Colorado Springs. I would definitely want to visit the amazing Garden of the Gods.
Your post has given me even more reasons to finally plan a visit to Colorado and spend some time in Colorado Springs. The lovely outdoor sites would keep us busy for days. And shows me that any time of year would be great for a visit.
Colorado is so beautiful and has so much to explore, but it’s good to know there is more to explore than just the landscape when I do finally visit! The Olympic training center sounds really cool. Thanks for sharing!
We have stopped in Colorado Springs a few times on our SW and 4 Corners road trips. I like that town! We visited 7 Falls but Garden of the Gods is definitely on my list for our next trip! Great post!
These photos are amazing! The Garden of the Gods has been on our bucket list for a long time.
Hahaha! That photo of yours with the Giraffe.
The timing on that one was PERFECT! My husband and the giraffe always makes me laugh.
Wow, there’s so much to do in Colorado. I’d love to go there one day!
I now understand why they call it the Garden of Gods — wow! 🙂 This is a very extensive and interesting itinerary, have saved it for future reference.
Colorado is such a beautiful state. Especially if you like to spend lots of time outdoors. I visited Colorado Springs a long time ago. But it was amazing.
I agree, there is some amazing things to do all over Colorado.
NIce list of things to do! Would love to visit the garden, wow wow wow
After reading your post, I can see why Colorado Springs often ranks among the top places in the nation to live according to US News. Outdoor activities like hiking and visiting a hot spring, would be at the top of my list of activities to do while in Colorado Springs.
Great round up of family friendly activities near Colorado Springs. I would bet kids love climbing and exploring the red rocks at Garden of the Gods.
Colorado is on my bucket list! It seems like such a beautiful place to explore nature. I also love that tidbit about John Denver!
Mesa Verde National Park has been on my list for 2 years! I need to finally visit along with the others on your list.
I’d love to visit Colorado Springs! A trip to The Garden of the Gods has been on my list for a while now, but Seven Falls looks stunning and the Ghost Town Museum sounds so interesting! You’ve just bumped a visit up my list! Thanks for the fabulous guide!
My sister just moved to Colorado Springs so I’ve been looking for some things to do when I go visit her. Thanks for the great list!
We spent a lot of time visiting Colorado Springs; I think we saw all of these sites except the ghost town museum. We’ll have to give that one a try. We also enjoyed visiting the cliff dwellings in Manitou while there.
Garden of the Gods has been on my family’s bucket list for years!! When we originally planned on driving to Alaska for our move from Georgia, we were supposed to make a stop there to see it. We ended up flying instead and so I’ve never been to this beautiful place, but I will someday! Thanks for sharing these epic places for outdoor adventure!
Never been to Colorado before but wow it looks like an amazing place to visit!
Love Colorado Springs and can’t wait to go back and try some new things that you have mentioned.
This looks like a nice place with a lot of activities especially for the little ones. Thanks for sharing!