Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Garden of the Gods is famous for its jaw-dropping rock formations—massive pink, red, and white sandstone spires that seem to shoot straight out of the ground. It's one of the most popular outdoor spots in Colorado Springs, and for good reason.

Highlights:

• 1,364-acre park with dramatic sandstone and limestone formations
• 15 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
• Popular rock climbing and photography destination
• Visitor and Nature Center with educational exhibits and programs
• Designated National Natural Landmark and most-visited park in the city

Pro Tip:

Arrive early in the morning or just before sunset to beat the crowds—and catch the rocks glowing in the golden light.

1805 North 30th Street, Colorado Springs, CO
Phone: 719-634-6666

Perched high above the city, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the coolest—and most unique—zoo experiences in the country. Located on the side of Cheyenne Mountain at 6,800 feet, it’s the only mountainside zoo in the U.S. and easily one of the top attractions in Colorado Springs, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

Highlights:

• Only mountainside zoo in the U.S., sitting at 6,800 feet elevation
• Home to 950+ animals and 180 species, including endangered ones
• Hand-feed the largest giraffe herd in the country
• Family-friendly exhibits like Australia Walkabout and Bear Grottos
• Focus on conservation, education, and fun interactive experiences

Pro Tip:

Bring quarters for giraffe snacks and wear comfy shoes—this is a hilly zoo with epic views (and a great leg workout).

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, Colorado Springs, CO
Phone: 719-633-9925

Eat your way through the heart of Colorado Springs with the Delicious Downtown Food Tour from Rocky Mountain Food Tours. This tasty experience combines incredible local eats with a side of fascinating history, making it a great way to explore the city like a true insider.

Highlights:

• Guided food tour through downtown Colorado Springs
• Sample dishes from top local restaurants and eateries
• Small group experience (max 14 guests)
• Learn local history—from Native cultures to gold miners
• Great mix of storytelling, scenery, and delicious bites

Pro Tip:

Come hungry and wear comfy shoes—this tour includes multiple tastings and just enough walking to work up an appetite between stops.

Phone: 800-656-0713

Recommended Activities for Families

Tucked into a stunning canyon on North 30th Street, Glen Eyrie is a real-life castle built in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer—the founder of Colorado Springs. Set on 800 acres of gorgeous landscape, this English Tudor-style estate features more than 20 rooms and has earned its place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Highlights:

• Historic 1871 castle built by Colorado Springs’ founder
• English Tudor-style architecture with 20+ rooms
• Guided tours, afternoon tea, and themed banquets
• Scenic 800-acre setting with wildlife sightings
• Conference and retreat center with a peaceful atmosphere

Pro Tip:

Book your tour or tea time in advance—spots fill up fast, especially during the holidays or when the gardens are in full bloom.

3820 North 30th Street, Colorado Springs, CO
Phone: 719-634-0808

Standing tall at 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak is one of the most iconic—and accessible—mountains in the Rockies. Just 12 miles from downtown Colorado Springs in Pike National Forest, this famous “fourteener” is named after early explorer Zebulon Pike, though fun fact—he never actually made it to the summit!

There are a few awesome ways to reach the top. You can drive up the scenic Pikes Peak Highway, hop aboard the historic Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway from Manitou Springs, or, if you’re up for a challenge, hike the 13-mile Barr Trail. However you go, the views from the summit are absolutely worth it—think panoramic sights of Garden of the Gods, the Continental Divide, and miles of stunning wilderness.

Highlights:

• 14,115-foot peak just outside Colorado Springs
• Accessible by car, train, or hiking trail
• The Broadmoor Cog Railway dates back to 1892
• Barr Trail offers a 13-mile hike to the summit
• Epic views of Garden of the Gods and beyond

Pro Tip:

Dress in layers—even in summer, it can be chilly (or snowy!) at the summit. And don’t skip the world-famous high-altitude donuts at the top!

Blending history, art, and live performance under one beautifully designed roof, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is the city’s premier hub for creativity. Now part of Colorado College, the center reopened in its current form in 2017 but originally opened way back in 1936. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, thanks to its stunning Santa Fe-style architecture crafted by renowned New Mexico architect John Gaw Meem.

Highlights:

• Striking Santa Fe-style architecture by John Gaw Meem
• Southwestern art exhibits at the Taylor Museum
• Live theater, music, and film events at SaGaJi Theatre
• Hands-on classes and workshops at Bemis School of Art
• Free community programs like Family Adventure Days

Pro Tip:

Check the events calendar ahead of your visit—between art exhibits and live performances, there’s almost always something going on.

30 W Dale St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Step into Colorado Springs’ elegant past at the Penrose Heritage Museum, a hidden gem located near The Broadmoor. Originally opened in 1941 by philanthropist Julie Penrose, the museum was created to showcase the carriage collection she and her husband, Spencer Penrose—the visionary behind The Broadmoor—collected over the years.

Highlights:

• 31 horse-drawn carriages and 13 classic motor vehicles
• Includes 1920s Pikes Peak race cars and a 1906 Renault
• Two rare presidential carriages from the 1800s
• Originally founded by Julie Penrose in 1941
• Free admission and located near The Broadmoor

Pro Tip:

Pair your museum visit with a stroll around The Broadmoor grounds—it’s just steps away and offers gorgeous mountain views and dining options.

11 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Phone: 719-577-7065 h2 class="sectionMain">Attractions for Couples

Let your adventurous side roam free at the stunning Red Rock Canyon Open Space, a 1,474-acre playground for outdoor lovers just south of Route 24 in Colorado Springs. Known for its striking red sandstone formations, eroded canyons, and parallel ridgelines known as “hogbacks,” this city park is a local favorite for everything from casual strolls to high-energy climbs.

Highlights:

• 1,474-acre park with red sandstone formations and scenic ridges
• Dozens of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails
• Off-leash dog loops and shaded picnic areas
• Free-ride bike park for all levels of riders
• Nearly 80 technical climbing routes for rock climbers

Pro Tip:

Head out early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch some golden-hour views—the red rocks really glow at sunset.

3550 W High Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Phone: 719-385-5940

North of Colorado Springs, the United States Air Force Academy is not only a prestigious military institution—it’s also one of Colorado’s most visited attractions. This world-renowned academy trains and educates future officers for the U.S. Air Force and offers visitors a unique look at military life, service, and tradition.

Highlights:

• One of Colorado’s top attractions and a premier military academy
• Barry Goldwater Visitor Center with exhibits and film screenings
• Tour landmarks like the Cadet Chapel, Arnold Hall, and Field House
• Explore the scenic Falcon Hiking Trail on foot
• Learn about the history and mission of the U.S. Air Force

Pro Tip:

Bring a valid photo ID—it's required for entry, and some areas may be closed during official events or training exercises, so check ahead before you go.

North Gate, United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO
Phone: 719-333-2025

For great brews, hearty eats, and a slice of local history, head to Phantom Canyon Brewing Co in downtown Colorado Springs. Housed in the historic Cheyenne Building—a century-old landmark listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places—this three-story brewery has been serving up local flavor since 1993.

Highlights:

• Historic 3-story brewery in the 100-year-old Cheyenne Building
• 10–12 house-brewed beers and a full American-style menu
• Second-floor game room with billiards, bar, and city views
• Third-floor event space with kitchen and private bar
• Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places

Pro Tip:

Try a beer flight to sample several brews, then head upstairs for a round of pool and sunset views over Colorado Springs.

2 East Pikes Peak Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO
Phone: 719-635-2800