If you plan to visit Colorado Springs, here’s a list of some fun things to do in Colorado Springs, the best attractions you can find there, and some essential tips that will help make your travel experience the best. Everything you need to know is here!
Photo by Joetography
Discover the Top Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs Year-Round
Pikes Peak Summit and Scenic Drive
You may have heard of Pikes Peak, known as “America’s Mountain,” one of Colorado’s most iconic mountains, at 4,302 meters high. Pikes Peak Highway is the road that leads to its summit with spectacular views and various outdoor activities.
For example, scenic photo stops, at the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center to enjoy interpretive exhibits on the mountain’s history and geology, and view animals such as Rocky Mountain rams and yellow marmots.
The road is open year-round, but we recommend checking weather conditions before traveling. Because of the altitude, it is important to stay hydrated. Make sure you have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the scenery without rushing.
Photo by Joshua Woroniecki on Unsplash
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Exploring the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is one of the fun things to do in Colorado Springs. This is a historic tourist attraction that offers a unique experience in and out of the caves. It was discovered in 1881 and has been a popular destination for families and adventurers for over a century.
Cave of the Winds offers several types of tours, for example, the Discovery Tour, a 45-60-minute family tour that showcases impressive formations and the cave’s geological history. In addition, the park offers several outdoor attractions such as the TERROR-dactyl, the Wind Walker Challenge Course, and the Zip Lines and Via Ferrata.
The temperature inside the caves is constantly around 12 °C, so it is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and a light jacket. The outdoor attractions are suitable for all ages. Some activities are not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart or respiratory conditions.
Visit the US Air Force Academy
Just north of Colorado Springs is the United States Air Force Academy. It is one of five military service academies in the United States and a popular tourist destination that receives approximately one million visitors annually. Tours are free and are open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Inside are several outstanding facilities, including the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center with information about the academy’s history and the daily lives of cadets, Falcon Stadium, home of the Falcons soccer team, and the Planetarium. In addition, visitors can enjoy more than 37 km of trails within the campus, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Photo by Dave Baraloto on Pexels
Olympic Training Center Tours
If you are passionate about sports, visiting the Olympic and Paralympic Center is one of the fun things to do in Colorado Springs. This venue has been home to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee since 1978 and offers a variety of facilities and programs to support athletes in their preparation for competitions.
Among its facilities are a 50-meter Olympic-sized swimming pool, a 333.3-meter velodrome, a wrestling gym, a boxing gym, fitness areas, and the Sports Science Laboratory that supports research and development to optimize athletic performance.
The center offers guided tours to explore the facility and provide information on the history of Olympic training in the U.S. Tours run every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The center also has a store where you can purchase Team USA-related merchandise.
David Shankbone, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Did you know Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the highest zoo in the United States at 2,046 meters above sea level? Located in Colorado Springs, it is known as “America’s Mountain Zoo” and stands out for its commitment to conservation.
Inside are more than 750 animals of nearly 170 species, including more than 30 endangered species. Among the most popular activities is giraffe feeding, where you can interact directly with one of the largest giraffe herds in the world.
Some famous exhibits include the Asian Highlands, home to tigers and leopards, the Rocky Mountain Wild with grizzly bears and Mexican wolves, and the Water’s Edge: Africa with hippos and African penguins.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Near Cañon City is an iconic tourist attraction, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. This 150-acre park is home to the famous Royal Gorge Bridge, the tallest suspension bridge in the United States that soars 291 meters over the Arkansas River.
Take a walk over the bridge on its wooden planks and enjoy the spectacular views of the canyon and the river, take advantage to take the best pictures. If you are more adventurous enjoy the Cloudscraper ZipRider, the highest zip line in North America that will allow you to fly 365 meters over the river, or the Royal Rush Skycoaster, an exciting free fall over the canyon.
If you’re traveling with kids, head to Tommy Knocker Playland, an area designed for the little ones with slides, nets, and a water play area. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is open daily; hours vary by season.
Hustvedt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Manitou Springs Penny Arcade
For video game lovers like you, visiting Manitou Springs Penny Arcade is one of the fun things to do in Colorado Springs. This is a popular destination that offers fun for the whole family through an extensive collection of arcade games, from vintage pinball machines to modern video games. This venue has been an entertainment center since the 1930s and has become an interactive museum of gaming culture.
The Penny Arcade has about 400 games, including pinball machines, skeeball, air tables, and racing and shooting games. The Arcade has outdoor attractions such as small carousels and mechanical rides for children. Is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is an important cultural and educational center in the historic Paso County Courthouse, built in 1903. It offers a large collection of works that summarize the history of the Pikes Peak region.
The museum includes topics such as the influence of Native American cultures, and the history of agricultural and mining development in the region. It highlights a significant collection of regional art, including Van Briggle pottery and a large collection of quilts. There’s a store offering souvenirs and items related to the exhibits.
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is ideal for families and groups. Reservations are recommended for guided tours, especially for large groups. In addition, the museum has interactive activities for children and adults. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free.
Photo by David, CC BY 2.0, on Flickr
Shop at Old Colorado City
You’ll probably need to do some shopping during your stay in Colorado Springs. In that case head to Old Colorado City, a charming historic district that combines boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores.
It has more than 100 businesses, including stores like Eclectic OCC with a diverse selection of clothing and accessories, souvenir stores like Buffalo Ridge Trading Post, and Heartshake Studios which combines art and home goods. In addition, there are many restaurants and cafes such as Story Coffee Company, popular for its excellent coffee and cozy atmosphere.
Go White Water Rafting at Royal Gorge
Rafting at Royal Gorge is one of the fun things to do in Colorado Springs. This canyon, which rises 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River, offers a unique rafting experience. There are several types of trips available depending on the length of the trip: whitewater rafting, half-day, and full-day trips.
Rafting operators provide all necessary equipment, including helmets and life jackets. Before starting the adventure, the guides offer a talk on safety and paddling techniques. It is recommended that participants be at least 14 years old and in good physical condition to follow the guide’s instructions during the trip.
Photo by David Hadley
Expert Tips for Visitors in Colorado Springs
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The altitude in Colorado Springs can cause dehydration. Always carry a water bottle and be sure to drink frequently, especially during outdoor activities. Avoid excessive alcohol as it can aggravate the effects of altitude.
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If you are not used to the altitude, start your activities gradually. When ascending to high places such as Pikes Peak take time to acclimatize before intense activities.
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With increased sun exposure due to the altitude, it is essential to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days.
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Temperatures can vary significantly during the day and night. Wear layered clothing to adapt to weather changes, especially if you plan to hike or do outdoor activities.
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