Things to Do in Colorado Springs
The best activities, attractions, and experiences — curated by locals.
Outdoor
Garden of the Gods
Towering red rock formations against Pikes Peak. Free park with hiking, rock climbing, and a visitor center. Colorado's #1 attraction.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Ride the world's highest cog railway to 14,115 feet. New trains and a stunning summit visitor center opened in 2021.
Seven Falls Hike
A series of seven cascading waterfalls in a 1,250-foot canyon. Night illumination in summer makes for a magical evening hike.
Manitou Incline
2,768 steps gaining 2,000 feet in under a mile. One of the most popular (and grueling) hikes in Colorado. Arrive early.
Arts & Culture
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
Art museum, performing arts theater, and art school in one stunning Art Deco building. Rotating exhibitions and Broadway-quality shows.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Free museum in the historic El Paso County Courthouse. Exhibits on the city's founding, mining history, and Olympic legacy.
Food & Drink
Manitou Springs Food Walk
Eclectic downtown with locally owned restaurants, mineral spring water fountains, and quirky shops. Don't miss the penny arcade.
Brewery Tour — Ivywild & Beyond
Colorado Springs' craft beer scene is booming. Start at Ivywild School (a converted elementary school) and hit the local favorites.
Family Fun
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
America's only mountain zoo. Hand-feed giraffes, ride the Sky Ride chairlift, and see animals with mountain backdrop views.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center
Tour the flagship training facility where Team USA athletes prepare. Free guided tours daily.
North Pole — Santa's Workshop
Classic family amusement park at 7,500 feet. Rides, magic shows, and yes — Santa is there year-round.