Sitting in the shadows of the foreboding Pikes Peak — the highest summit this side of the Rocky Mountains — Colorado Springs acts as the gateway to more adventure, adrenaline, and natural sightseeing than most run-of-the-mill tourists could ever imagine.
Whether it’s the exhilaration of a whitewater rafting trip or just walking through the Garden Of The Gods that gets you excited, Colorado Springs has something for everyone — truly selling itself as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
The city offers plenty to do during the summer months — including hiking and biking trails galore — but even winter months provide great opportunities to see the Springs in a whole new light, with plenty of skiing and snowboarding happening at nearby resorts.
Of course, we can’t overlook the restaurants and pubs, museums and historic walking tours on offer either.
No matter what your flair, as you’re about to discover, the list of things to do in Colorado Springs won’t disappoint.
1 – Explore the Garden of the Gods Park
Considered Trip Advisor’s #1 Park in the US, the 300-million-year-old Garden of the Gods in West Colorado Springs is a must-see for nature lovers and avid hikers alike.
Spanning 1,300 acres, teeming with vibrant sandstone formations, and surrounded by the snowcapped Rocky Mountains, the outdoor oasis boasts hiking trails fit for all levels, scenic overlooks for photo ops, and plenty of spots to enjoy picnics with jealousy-evoking views.
Whether you prefer to hop in the back of a jeep and go off the beaten track, take the paved road on a segway or bike tour, or fuel that thirst for adrenaline with a guided rock climbing excursion, the Garden of the Gods has it all.
2 – Mingle with meerkats at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
True to its name, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is perched high in the hilltops at an elevation of 6,714 feet (read: it can get chilly, so be sure to dress appropriately) and acts as the home to more than 750 animals from 170 species (including endangered species), hailing from all four corners of the globe: from wolves to lions, leopards, red pandas, elephants, and everything in between.
Ranked the 4th best zoo in the country (according to USA Today), this family-friend attraction has plenty of great activities on offer, including live feedings, animal encounters, a carousel, and educational workshops!
3 – Take a stroll through Monument Valley Park
A historic slice of inner-city nature (opened way back in 1907), Monument Valley Park is an easy yet essential walk to tick off the list — its popular, 1.5-mile walk loop passes by the Monument River and has become a staple for local walkers, runners, and bikers.
After rolling out the picnic blanket and admiring the view of Pikes Peak in the distance, make sure to check out the demonstration gardens.
4 – Soar through the air with a zip lining adventure
Looking for an adrenaline rush? The ultimate bucket-list activity, zipping from tree to tree on a series of cables at speeds reaching 25 mph is as close as you can get to flying.
With various locations throughout Colorado Springs and beyond (including Garden of the Gods, Seven Falls, and Manitou Springs), there’s no shortage of options!
Hot tip: if you’re pinching pennies and wanting the best bang for your buck, consider a tour that also includes white water rafting and/or a guided hike!
5 – Learn a thing or two at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
History buffs, this one is for you! Housed in the century-old former El Paso County Courthouse building, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a heartwarming journey through the city’s past — its fascinating exhibits showcasing the city’s original Native American inhabitants, the early pioneers who settled in the area (including some of Colorado Springs’ founding fathers), and the culture and landscapes of the region.
With hundreds of quilts, Van Briggle art pottery artifacts, and paintings to appreciate, the free museum is the ideal spot for a rainy afternoon.
6 – Walk the streets of Old Colorado City
No Colorado Springs itinerary is complete without a visit to this historic neighborhood on the southwest side of town.
Lined with 19th-century brick buildings along Colorado Avenue, the centuries-old quarter is a blissful slice of history; its charming shopping district and Victorian homes remaining nearly unchanged since the city’s early days.
With a handful of antique stores to explore (not to mention restaurants, coffee shops, candy stores, boutiques, galleries, and more), it’ll be time well spent!
7 – See the city like never before in a hot air balloon
One for the romantics, adventurers, and romantic adventures; grab a cup of coffee, relax, and enjoy your morning flight as you soar over Pikes Peak, downtown Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods, and plenty more.
If you thought that the Springs area was beautiful by day, just wait till you see it glow orange at dawn.
8 – Grab breakfast at the award-winning Urban Egg
After all that hiking, snowmobiling, and rafting, you’ve probably worked up quite an appetite.
That’s where Urban Egg comes in — a local favorite for refined, high-quality American breakfast classics.
Wielding the title of the Gazette’s “Best of the Springs 2021” award, whether you order the Huevos Rancheros, Eggs Benedict, or chocolate-doused crepes, you’re in for a treat.
9 – Spend the afternoon at Palmer Park
Rolling, wooded trails; lakes and ponds; wildlife aplenty; and playgrounds for the kids (and kiddos at heart). What’s not to love about Palmer Park?
Located a few miles northeast of downtown, this nearly 750-acre green space is a wonderful place to explore, with sports fields, picnic spots, over 25 miles of trails (some of which are dedicated to leash-free dogs), and splendid views overlooking the city proper.
10 – Howl with the wolves at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
Sitting a few miles outside of downtown Colorado Springs in the town of Divide, this charming wildlife rehabilitation center provides a unique opportunity to see wolves, wolf-hybrids, foxes and coyotes up close.
Led by friendly keepers, visitors can take an hour-long tour to meet all of the fluffy and friendly animals of Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, learn about their evolution and habitat, and learn how they can help preserve what is a largely threatened ecosystem.
Fancy a cuddle? For an additional fee, up-close and personal wolf experiences (including photos) are available too, so long as the wolves are welcoming to it.
11 – Hike the Broadmoor Seven Falls trail
A series of seven cascading waterfalls (named Bridal Veil, Feather, Hill, Hull, Ramona, Shorty, and Weimer), the Broadmoor Falls have acted as a magnet for tourists and locals for decades, and for good reason too.
The falls are located a stone’s throw from the heart of Colorado Springs, making them an easy half-day activity. Or, make a day of it and check off the hiking trails, zip-lines, and shops and restaurants (Restaurant 1858 is great) while you’re there!
Still, need convincing? They’ve been added to National Geographic’s list of International Waterfalls — and that’s no easy feat.
12 – Fill up the belly on a food tour
When you think Colorado Springs, what comes to mind? Nature and adventure, for the most part. However, with a host of restaurants and cafes scattered across the city, this holiday destination also dishes up a rather impressive foodie scene.
So what better way to discover all this culinary creativity than by taking one of the many local tours? Whether you’re looking for a bite-sized sample or want to do some serious feasting (with wine and beer aplenty), there are a handful of tours for you to choose from that sample as many as 20 different local staples, with cultural and historical stories told along the way.
13 – Saddle up at the ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy
Cowboys and cowgirls, this one is for you!
Tucked away in the foothills of Pikes Peak, the ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy is home to an eclectic collection of Western-themed memorabilia (including dozens of saddles), as well as rotating exhibits diving into specific themes or people — A Tribute to Chris LeDoux is on at the moment.
As for the permanent exhibits, take your pick of the Hall of Champions, Heritage Hall (focusing on the sport’s evolution), and the rodeo-inspired Sculpture Garden.
14 – Tackle a simple hike in the Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Another blissful section of parkland on the west side of the city (just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs), the Red Rock Canyon Open Space is an oft-overlooked gem that’s known for its gorgeous red rock formations and stunning views of the Rockies.
The nearly-800-acre space boasts 11 marked trails to explore, ranging from 1.7 to 5.4 miles in length, and perfect for hiking or running — so lace up those boots!
The best time to visit? Early morning on weekdays when it’s least busy and before the sun hits its peak.
15 – Keep an eye out for black bears in Mueller State Park
On the other side of Pikes Peak, about a 40 minute drive from Downtown, this incredible state park is widely spoken of as one of Colorado’s most beautiful areas.
Camping? Hiking over 50 miles of scenic trails? Fishing? Check, check, and check. Throw in snowshoeing, sledding and cross-country skiing in the winter months, and horseback riding on some of the best trails around, and it’s clear that Mueller State Park‘s 5,000 acres really does have something for everyone!
16 – Book tickets to a show at the Broadmoor World Arena
From sporting events like basketball to ice hockey to grand musical acts from country music to heavy metal, and other fun children’s events, make evening plans to head to Broadmoor World Arena for a great entertaining night.
Check out the calendar of events to find a myriad of different entertainment options, surely wide enough to accommodate the different tastes and interests of guests. Looking for a cultural show? Find tickets to the Shen Yun or Don Quixote performance.
Looking for a symphonic concert or a comedy stand-up show? All this and more are just a few of the shows that take place inside the famed arena, so don’t miss out!
17 – Don’t look down at the Royal Gorge
Scared of heights? Feel free to keep scrolling.
Almost a thousand feet above the Arkansas River, this remarkable suspension bridge is one of Colorado’s most iconic attractions. Standing in defiance against nature thanks to its solid steel construction, Royal Gorge soars high over an epic canyon rimmed by rocks and scrubland — not to mention elk!
Consider yourself a true blue adrenaline junkie? Then The Royal Rush Skycoaster and Cloudscraper Zip Line aught to quench the thirst for thrills.
After admiring the captivating views in every direction, the surrounding area is also perfect for hiking, fishing, or white water rafting.
18 – Go horse riding!
Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned veteran, the feeling of trotting through fields and meadows (or mountain trails, if you prefer that option) in the foothills of Pike Peak is an experience to behold.
Enjoy a one-hour horseback ride through the Garden of the Gods, saddle up in the Pike National Forest, or rent your own horse and explore at your own pace!
19 – Join Team USA at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Any sports fans out there? If so, then the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is one essential stop during your Colorado Springs vacation!
With a ton of event memorabilia on show, including medals won by local athletes over the years and items from past events, as well as interactive experiences and a Hall of Fame, this is a must-visit for any sports fanatics in town!
20 – Hit the waterslides at Lost Island Miniature Golf & Adventure Park
For those looking for something a little more traditional and low-key, but with just as much fun involved, Lost Island Miniature Golf & Adventure Park is the place to go.
Swing your way around two 18 holes courses of challenging mini golf where you’ll have plenty of obstacles and water hazards in your path; spend the day cooling off at the water park, lazing around in Tsunami Bay or racing head-first down the Tá Katipo; or drift around a few corners on the go-kart track!
21 – Stop into Magic Town
Dubbed “Part carnival, part dollhouse, part sculpture” by its late founder, Magic Town is a modern-day Oz in Old Colorado Springs complete with hidden treasures, secret passageways, and whimsical charm — a fun place for kids and adults of all ages.
Here’s the catch though: the town, per se, isn’t a town at all. It’s a collection of miniatures that make you feel like a giant!
The 1/6th scale miniaturized urban neighborhood is intricately detailed with handcrafted buildings and animated sidewalk scenes to boot, putting on quite the impressive show.
22 – Go rafting down the river!
With the sparkling Arkansas River flowing just outside of town, rafting is a surefire way to quench that thirst for adrenaline and soak in the spectacular surroundings of the Rockies.
With several companies offering up excursions on the river — including a host of multi-activity adventures that feature hiking and zip lining —there are plenty of options for everyone from families and novices to tried-and-tested thrill-seekers!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed two-hour trip in Browns Canyon or something more extreme in Royal Gorge or Bighorn Sheep Canyon, an unforgettable time awaits.
23 – Walk the halls of the Miramont Castle Museum
Tucked in the trees at the base of Cheyenne Mountain, the 19th-century mansion of Miramont Castle Museum, brings to life what it was like for an early (lavish) Colorado Springs family.
A true labor of love, the National Historic Landmark has been lovingly restored and furnished with antiques and art pieces from the Victorian era.
The garden is just as beautiful as the facade, but it’s typically the eight-sided and sixteen-sided rooms, as well as the grand staircase, that steals the show.
24 – Grab a bite to eat at the Marigold Cafe & Bakery
Another of the city’s best-kept secrets, the European-style cafe, Marigold Cafe & Bakery, is a huge hit with locals and tourists alike, often spoken of as the best French restaurant In Colorado Springs.
So whether you’re craving steaks, sandwiches, Escargots De Bourgogne (yes, snails, really), or some of the richest Double Chocolate Mousse Cake in the state, you won’t walk away disappointed.
25 – Explore the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is a staple for any visit to Colorado Springs. A family-owned and operated business, this scenic mountain park has been around for more than 100 years after its discovery in the late 1800s — the feeling and environment, however, is more reminiscent of a 500-million-year-old underground world.
Thrill-seekers are blessed with the heart-racing attractions including the Wind Walker Challenge Course, catapult ride (the Bat-a-Pult), and the TERROR-Dactyl aerial dive ride, while the restaurant, gift shops selling locally made goods, and numerous hiking trails are more suited for families.
26 – See old fighter jets at the National Museum of World War II Aviation
One of the essential things to do in Colorado Springs for both history buffs and aviation enthusiasts, even though it is relatively new, the National Museum of World War II Aviation brings the past to life in an incredibly vivid way.
Covering over 40,000 square feet in an old airport hangar, the building houses a whopping 28 fully restored flying aircraft from the war era, as well as 4,000 artifacts and historical documents in its educational exhibits, and a handful of ground-based military vehicles too.
Take note: the Museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
27 – Admire the historic Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Located just 10 minutes from the Springs, right next to the Garden Of The Gods, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings is your chance to step back in time and take a historical tour through some of the area’s oldest homes, dating as far back as 700 years ago!
Built into this stunning series of cliffs is a 40-room site (that was transferred from its original location in McElmo Canyon), as well as a nearby museum that unpacks that depicts the daily life, tools, and legacy of the Puebloan ancestry.
Plus, with a large gift shop, it’s not a bad spot to grab a unique souvenir or two.
28 – Head to the Norris-Penrose Event Center for a Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo show
Home to the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, the Norris-Penrose Event Center is a large events outdoor venue, where the majority of events that take place here are rodeos, equestrian shows, motorsports, and more.
If you fancy checking out the rodeo at this venue, keep in mind that the PPOBR takes place from July 11th-15th yearly. If you’re in town then, make sure to book your tickets and prepare for an evening of rodeo fun, evening performances, and other family-friendly fun.
After the show, why not head to the Coors Roadhouse Saloon for a little dancing? Wester-style of course!
29 – Practice your backflips at a trampoline park
Whether it’s at Springs Adventure Park in the city’s east or Sky Zone Trampoline Park in the north near the Chapel Hills Mall, Colorado Springs has a trampoline park for all ages and fitness levels.
With options like slam dunk zones, Ninja Warrior courses, large open jump areas, slacklines, and dodgeball arenas, there’s always something fun to try out!
Be warned, it’s a lot more tiring than it looks!
30 – Cool off at the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
On those sizzling summer days, what better way to cool down than at the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park?
An ever-popular indoor water park kept at an idyllic 84 degrees, Great Wolfe boasts an impressive selection of water attractions sure to satisfy thrill-seekers, shy youngsters, and everyone in between.
The Howlin’ Tornado thrill slide is a crowd favorite, but, of course, nothing beats the lazy river.
Water park aside, the resort also features themed suites for a special night’s sleep, family restaurants, and the kid-favorite MagiQuest.
31 – Get behind the wheel at WhirlyBall Colorado Springs
A strange yet exhilarating mix of lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and bumper cars, WhirlyBall is a frantic and fast-paced game guaranteed to get your heart racing.
Described by many as ‘basketball on steroids’, Whirlyball takes place on a limited-edition court (there is only a handful in North America) — so get in your “Whirlybugs” and drive around while trying to score goals with the ball. Confused yet? Just give it a go!
Bumper cars aside, the center also boasts a bowling alley and restaurant and serves up ice-cold craft beer.
32 – Join a beer-tasting tour
You’re on vacation, right? So why not get a little loose with a beer or five?
With a handful of breweries and microbreweries dotted around town, tasting tours take place at single or multiple venues, depending on which you pick.
Looking for a more festive party? Consider the beer and bowling bus tour, a great way to mingle with fellow thirsty travelers!
Check out the delicious bites and thirst-quenching brews at Colorado Mountain Brewery, or stop by Phantom Canyon Brewing for the varied beers like the FFFUDGE – Imperial Chocolate Stout.
Cerberus Brewing Company is another great brewery to check out with cozy vibes under the string lights on the patio.
Storybook Brewing is a proud Colorado Springs brewery, that enchants its guests with beers made with pure and real ingredients, while Bristol Brewing Company enchants with its lively beer garden and accompanying hearty BBQ dishes.
33 – Pop into the Penrose Heritage Museum
A uniquely wonderful mix of historic collections touching on cars, culture, and carriages, this free museum is the brainchild of the legendary Colorado Springs’ philanthropists, Spencer and Julie Penrose.
Throughout Penrose Heritage Museum‘s rooms, you’ll find close to 30 carriages, a range of western cultural artifacts, and 15 race cars that competed in the infamous Race to the Clouds — all of which relate exclusively to the Colorado region. In other words, you won’t find these exhibits anywhere else!
34 – Blow off some steam at the American Paintball Coliseum
From a thrilling game of paintball to a riveting laser tag match, or a stress-releasing axe throwing session, and many more activities, check out all the fun waiting to be had at the American Paintball Coliseum.
The perfect place to both have fun and release stress of any kind, this entertainment hub is action-packed with games for both children and adults, making it the perfect option for families to take part in, especially on a rainy day.
Open 7 days a week, make your booking ahead and be sure to check out their specials, which are constantly being updated!
35 – Ready, aim, fire at an archery course
A perfect family-friendly activity, Colorado Springs boasts a handful of dedicated archery ranges where visitors of all ages can take aim at targets and work on their hand-eye coordination.
The ranges, including Bill Pelligrino’s Archery Hut and the Archery School of the Rockies, are supervised by trained professionals who’ll help you get started with your bow and arrow and have you hitting the bullseye in no time.
36 – Take a hike through the aspen trees at Pikes Peak
An integral part of the city’s heritage, Pikes Peak is not only a world-famous landmark but also an inspiration for hikers around the globe. Towering above the area at over 14,000 feet, the mountain is one of Colorado Springs’ most popular attractions for adventure enthusiasts, with over 500k visitors per year descending upon its summit to take in spectacular views of turquoise lakes and snow-peaked mountains.
For solo hikers, the most trafficked route is the Barr Trail — a 13-mile (one-way) hike that gains 7,400 vertical feet from Manitou Springs and takes 6-10 hours. For those less experienced, a range of pre-organized guided walks is available too.
37 – Play detective in an escape room
Fancy yourself somewhat of a next-generation Sherlock Holmes? Then prove it! Escape rooms are the perfect way to test your mental mettle in a fun, nail-biting environment, solving clues, cracking codes, and thinking outside the box in order to defeat the game before time runs out!
Figuring your way around the different themed escape rooms at 21 Keys Escape Rooms, from speakeasies to the 1800s Gold Rush, and more. Or put your heads together to figure out how to escape the escape game at Enter the Room, situated uniquely inside an old elementary school.
Think twice as you figure out the riddles and puzzles at Locked in Escapes, from their creepy, and entertaining themed escape rooms you’ll have to browse yourself! Or outwin the Ripper and other criminal minds with your friends in the different escape rooms at Aha! Escape Rooms, perfect for all ages!
Think escape rooms are only for adults? Bring your kids to the fun, magical kid-friendly escape rooms at Escape the Place, while also considering escaping inside quarantine and other sci-fi-themed rooms yourself.
38 – Hang with the elves at the North Pole (Santa’s Workshop)
When the holiday season rolls around and the state (and the mountains, in particular) are doused with an enchanting layer of white snow, there are few better places to be.
But who says you need to wait till December for your holiday fix? With more than 20 North Pole-themed rides, elves on hand daily magic shows, live glassblowing presentations, and an old-school arcade, Santa’s Workshop delivers Christmas spirit year-round!
Plus, thanks to its location on the rolling mountainside at the base of Pikes Peak, the views are reason enough to stop by.
39 – Check out the Western Museum of Mining & Industry
Sitting about 15 miles north of Colorado Springs, it might not sound like the most exciting attraction to visit, but trust us when we say that this museum is a must-see for anyone with even just a passing interest in historical and industrial culture.
With a collection of historic steam engines and mining equipment spread across three rotating galleries; an impressive display of rare minerals on show; and a great range of interactive activities and educational programs — namely the model mining drift and gold panning stations — Western Museum of Mining & Industry is easily one of the most underrated things to do in Colorado Springs!
40 – Get spooked on a ghost tour
Under the guidance of a local historian (or secret ghost hunter!) turn the corners around the darker side of Colorado Springs on a ghost tour, where you’ll get a different perspective of the city, its history, and fascinating facts you won’t hear anywhere else.
From the turbulent times when the Spanish Flu dominated and wiped out a number of the population, to the historic trials and secret underground tunnels, walk into the past of the city on this 1.5-hour tour that takes place at night.
Revisit the place where blood-curdling murders took place, and hear stories of ghostly apparitions throughout the city!
41 – Jump on a snowmobile
With the state’s highest peak sitting at 14,115 feet above sea level and boasting 270 days of sunshine each year, it comes as no surprise that Colorado Springs is a haven for outdoor activities.
Often overlooked, however, is the snowmobile — a fantastic way to see the Rockies without having to battle for space on a crowded ski lift.
On pre-arranged adventures, expect to spend 2 to 3 hours drifting through the San Isabel National Forest with plenty of historic sites and scenic overlooks to stop at along the way.
42 – Cheer on the home team at Falcon Stadium
A $3.5 million stadium tucked away in the foothills at 6,621 feet above sea level, the football-centric Falcon Stadium sits on the campus of the U.S. Air Force Academy; and when it’s packed, the crowd’s roar can be deafening.
If your calendar lines up, the Army vs. Air Force game is a regular sell-out!
43 – Join the moshpit at The Black Sheep
Known all over the city as the premier live music venue — the multiple ‘Best Live Music Venue’ awards speak for themselves — this standing-room-only concert hall is regularly rowdy, and the tunes are always top-notch.
The roster of performers is always changing, combining both international, interstate, and local artists, so check The Black Sheep‘s website to see who’s taking center stage during your trip!
44 – Get hands-on at the Space Foundation Discovery Center
Don’t let the name fool you; this is so much more than just a learning center for space enthusiasts.
The Space Foundation Discovery Center offers an interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey through Earth’s history, all while offering up plenty of information about our solar system and beyond.
On top of that, there are deep dives into science and technology, with a selection of interactive exhibits that will keep kids and parents alike entertained for at least a couple of hours.
45 – Treat yourself to a spa day
If the head is throbbing from a few too many at Mansion or Blondie’s, a dose of R&R at one of the city’s spas is just what the doctor ordered.
Whether you’re after some red light therapy, cryotherapy, a massage, salt cave sauna session, facial, or floatation session (or a combination of them all), as far as rejuvenating things to do in Colorado Springs goes, you’ll never run out of options.
Give your body and mind a little TLC with some of the relaxing treatments at the best spas in Colorado Springs, starting with the glitzy Ritz-Carlton Denver Spa. This spa features a variety of hydrotherapy options, including Vichy showers and steam rooms, said to be helpful, especially with the dry air in Colorado.
The Broadmoor Spa is selected as one of the best hotels and spas in Colorado, and it’s possible that it may be the luxurious aromatherapy rooms, fireplace resting rooms, or perhaps the after-spa activities including a walk in nature.
Lastly, feel the energy of nature inside Spa Anjali at the Westin, with both its decor and nature-fueled treatments.
46 – Book a table at the Mountain Shadows Restaurant
Smack back in the middle of the Old Colorado City neighborhood, this no-frills brunch spot has been a local staple for over 30 years, famous for its attentive service, authentic atmosphere, and plain old delicious grub.
Housed in a cozy converted, well, house, Mountain Shadows serves up blueberry pancakes (made with real blueberries!), enormous cinnamon rolls, oozing huevos rancheros, delicious burgers, and a succulent sliced beef – to name merely a few of the talked-about highlights.
47 – Catch an ice hockey game at Ed Robson Arena
Whether you’re looking into attending an ice hockey game or you want to practice your spins on the ice, head over to the Ed Robson Arena, where you can do both!
Located on the campus of Colorado College, head to their website to check out all the fun activities, including the game day schedule for upcoming ice hockey matches.
If you want to be the star on the ice, and you want to book a session with a professional skater, make sure to register on their website. If you want to join a hockey game as an adult, you can also register online for only $10 USD.
48 – Attend a concert at Sunshine Studios Live
Considered to be one of the country’s best concert venues, a show experience at the Sunshine Studios Live is a must-do activity while you’re in Colorado Springs, especially if you’re a music fan.
From rap artists, pop, rock/indie musicians, country, and other theatrical shows, catch your favorite artist, or reach outside of your musical comfort zone, and attend a show you normally wouldn’t!
So step in, listen to the amazing sound system, and acoustics, and settle in for a great night of live music. But first, head over to the restaurant for some pre-music food and drinks!
49 – Step back in time at the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Nestled within the Garden of the Gods, this non-profit living history museum and farm depicts, through an array of dioramas and authentic buildings, the Indian and early settler life in the Pikes Peak Region.
Thanks to its spot on the National Register of Historic Places, the historic buildings of Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site remain largely unchanged since their early 20th-century construction. So after checking them out, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, stop into the blacksmith shop, and learn all about what life was like on a working farm in the late 19th century!
50 – Grab a drink at a rooftop bar
A modern take on the traditional sports bar, ViewHouse Colorado Springs opened in the heart of Old Town back in 2020 to much fanfare, following three other successful locations across the state.
As its name suggests, this rooftop bar offers an unparalleled view over not only the city but also Pikes Peak, with a variety of bar activities, plenty of screens, and a vibrant atmosphere sure to keep sports fans and thirsty travelers entertained for hours on end.
Admire the view at Vue Rooftop, located near a beautiful ski resort, and gifting sights of the mountains and playful skiers below. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you’ll truly love the plenty of drink and food options offered the moment you get to the 4th floor.
For more stunning nature views, try The Imogene Hotel & Rooftop Bar, which along with mountain views, also offers historic downtown views of 19th-century buildings.
For modern scenery, check out the stunning city vistas at The Catbird Hotel, where you can order a uniquely crafted cocktail as well as a few bar bites, as you take in a panoramic view of the city all around you.
51 – Catch a show at the Pikes Peak Center For The Performing Arts
With a host of entertainment on offer, from concerts to comedy shows and everything in between, the Pikes Peak Center For The Performing Arts is your one-stop-shop for all things “the arts.”
Whether it’s catching a world-class performance from the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, or seeing what local talent has up their sleeve with an open mic night, the ever-changing calendar of entertainment seldom disappoints.
Check the website to see who’s performing during your stay and make sure to book in advance.
52 – Pan for real gold at the Ghost Town Museum
Family-run for almost 70 years, the Ghost Town Museum — looking like a Western town straight out of a Hollywood set — is a classic family attraction, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into the history of mining in Colorado Springs.
Located on South St, nearly two dozen buildings have been painstakingly reassembled on site to reflect life as it was for those living and working above ground during the mid-19th century gold rush days.
Throw in the several antique games, big shooting gallery, and authentic stagecoaches and wagons, and it becomes a non-negotiable for history buffs!
53 – See who’s performing at the Stargazers Theater
A former cinema turned live music venue, the dome-roofed Stargazers Theater is a prime example of the city’s diverse and rich cultural history.
Opening its doors in 1969, this open-air amphitheater has hosted an array of underground artists over the years (and occasionally more famous acts too), including no shortage of tributes to the likes of The Beatles, Elton John, and The Eagles.
For a simple date night, it’s a popular choice.
54 – Hop around the city’s best bars
Whether you’re looking for a cozy tavern, an upscale cocktail bar, or some of the best blues in town, Colorado Springs boasts a rather impressive nightlife scene.
So follow up your day of exploring with a nightcap at one of these top places:
The Jack Quinn’s Pub does the unthinkable and mixes a lot of their beers together, but don’t knock it till you try it; The Rabbit Hole serves up $3 drafts hiring happy hours with over 20 beers on tap; and the Motif Jazz Bar, while a little off the beaten track, is famous for its live nightly jazz music.
Still thirsty? Upstairs Wine Bar in Old Colorado City resembles a European loft with 70 by-the-glass fine wines and absinthe to boot; The Archives, known for its late-night grub and quality cocktails, fits the definition of a secret speakeasy; and for all of you fantasy fans, Allusion Bar is themed to Game of Thrones (currently, changing its theme every few months)!
55 – Enjoy a murder mystery dinner show!
For a double dose of food and entertainment, check out the award-winning Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show at the Great Wolf Lodge.
You and your friends can join in on all of the glamorous mystery as real actors play different parts behind a set plot of crime and chaos — there’s plenty of laughs along the way, not to mention the scrumptious 4-course dinner!
56 – Spend a night in the Glen Eyrie Castle
If you’re looking for a night of luxury, head to the Glen Eyrie Castle in West Colorado Springs – a 10-minute drive from the Garden of the Gods.
Part hotel, part conference hall, entirely beautiful; this spectacular English Tudor-style castle — a historical gem that was originally built as an inn for travelers back in 1871 — has evolved to be one of the most photographed spots in Colorado Springs
Designed by General William Jackson Palmer (founder and first governor of Colorado), the castle portrays the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern amenities.
57 – Dance the night away at a nightclub
After the beer or wine tastings, rooftop bar, or party bus, who says the fun has to come to an end? While the range of nightclubs in the city might not compare with nearby never in size, it certainly holds its own in terms of quality.
Mansion, right in the heart of downtown, features the 70s through 90s hits guaranteed to have you yelling along. Right next door you’ll find Blondie’s, so why not try them both and see which you prefer?
On Thursday nights, look no further than the Copperhead Road Honky Tonk Saloon, a go-to for honky-tonk country music; while Latin Quarters, a short drive from Downtown (near Whirlyball), is the go-to for Latin music and reggaeton.
How to get to Colorado Springs?
There’s nothing worse than waiting in line to rent a car or hopping on the dirty airport bus. So, rather than be stressed about how you’re going to get to your hotel, why not book an airport transfer with one of the city’s many ground transportation companies?
You’ll be dropped off right in front of your hotel, and if you’ve got a larger group or family to accommodate then it’s usually the cheapest option too!
Where to stay in Colorado Springs?
When looking for a hotel, most travelers prefer to choose somewhere central, with a good range of amenities and activities nearby.
The majority of hotels in the city are clustered around Downtown, where you’ll also find plenty of restaurants, bars, breweries & more to keep you entertained even after check-out!
If you’re seeking a luxury VIP experience, consider the 5-star Broadmoor where no detail is overlooked. Just as opulent, the Garden of the Gods Resort & Club delivers postcard-worthy views in spades. For something with all of the basic amenities but a little more budget-friendly The Mining Exchange, Academy Hotel, or Cheyenne Mountain Resort are all worthy spots.
Where to go next?
After venturing through all the attractions left to see in Colorado Springs, make sure to head over to Denver, only a 1-hour drive north of Colorado Springs.
Make it a road trip, and enjoy the scenic beauty as you make it to the big city, where you can indulge in the long list of things to do in Denver, starting with a stroll through the historic and beautiful Larimer Square.
If you’re looking to get into the great outdoors, check out the Rocky Mountains Trails, where you’ll catch sight of the beautiful Emerald Lake and countless wildlife sightings.
Looking for something a bit more thrilling? Say less! Hop on board a raft as you maneuver your way down the Upper Clear Creek with stunning views of the Colorado Rockies, or see it all from above (that’s if you don’t close your eyes) as you speed down on the zip line!
Final thoughts
With its incredible list of activities taking you from the great outdoors of Palmer Park to the great indoors of the countless cowboy and western museums, for a peek into its early glory days – you’ll find so much to learn and experience in Colorado Springs!
We hope you enjoyed our list of fun things to do in Colorado Springs, will you be making it there soon?
Happy travels!