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Colorado Springs

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26 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

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Tips

10 places on the map

Top 10

  1. 1

    Towering red sandstone fins framed by Pikes Peak, free to explore.

    • Tip: Go early
    2 tips
    • Walk the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail
    • Sunrise light is spectacular
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  2. 2

    America's Mountain, a 14,115 ft summit reached by road or cog railway.

    • Tip: Book ahead
    2 tips
    • Bring warm layers even in summer
    • Altitude can cause headaches
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  3. 3

    Historic cog railway climbing from Manitou Springs to the summit.

    3 tips
    • Round trip takes about 3 hours
    • Sit on the right going up
    • Tickets sell out in summer
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  4. 4

    Quirky mountain town with mineral springs and art galleries.

    3 tips
    • Bring a cup to taste the springs
    • Penny arcade is fun for kids
    • Park once and walk
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  5. 5

    Mountainside zoo famous for hand-feeding giraffes.

    • Tip: Book ahead
    2 tips
    • Buy giraffe lettuce on arrival
    • Steep paths, wear good shoes
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  6. 6

    Brutal 2,700-step climb with huge views at the top.

    • Must know: Book ahead
    • Tip: Go early
    1 tip
    • Descend via Barr Trail
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  7. 7

    Seven-step waterfall in a granite canyon with stairs alongside.

    • Tip: At night
    3 tips
    • Shuttle from the parking area
    • 224 steps to the top
    • Lit up at night in winter
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  8. 8

    Striking modern museum about Team USA's athletes.

    3 tips
    • Allow two hours
    • Interactive sports challenges
    • Free parking is limited
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  9. 9

    Cave tours plus thrill rides on a canyon cliff edge.

    3 tips
    • Cave stays cool all year
    • Tours run every half hour
    • Good rainy day option
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  10. 10

    Historic district with Victorian shopfronts and galleries.

    3 tips
    • Saturday farmers market in summer
    • Good stop on the way to Manitou
    • Free street parking nearby
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Before you go: Colorado Springs tips

Transportation

  • Rent a car: Colorado Springs is spread out, and most sights, from Garden of the Gods to Pikes Peak, are best reached by car. Parking is usually easy.
  • Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway: The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway climbs to the summit from Manitou Springs. Book tickets ahead in summer.
  • Use Mountain Metro Transit: City buses connect downtown, Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs. Check routes and times in the transit app before you go.

Security

  • Respect the altitude: The city sits at over 6,000 feet, and Pikes Peak is far higher. Drink plenty of water, go easy on alcohol and watch for headaches.
  • Watch for lightning: Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially on Pikes Peak and the Manitou Incline. Start hikes early and descend by midday.
  • Be wildlife aware: Bears and rattlesnakes live in the foothills. Stay on trails, never leave food in cars and give wildlife plenty of space.

Saving

  • Explore free parks: Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon Open Space are free to visit. Their red rock formations rival many paid attractions.
  • Taste the mineral springs: Manitou Springs has several free public mineral springs. Bring a cup and sample the different flavours on a self-guided walk.
  • Drive Pikes Peak yourself: The Pikes Peak Highway is an alternative to the cog railway. Check timed-entry rules in peak months and pace your brakes on the way down.

Weather/Clothing

  • Pack layers year round: Temperatures can swing widely in one day. A warm layer and windbreaker are essential, especially at the summit of Pikes Peak.
  • Bring sun protection: The thin air means strong UV. Use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat even on cool or cloudy days.
  • Expect variable winters: Winters bring snow and cold snaps, often followed by sunny, milder days. Pack a warm coat and traction for icy trails.

Cultural

  • Tip as expected: In the US, tipping is a key part of wages. Plan to tip restaurant servers and bartenders, plus guides and drivers.
  • Learn about the Olympic spirit: The city is home to the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum and training centre. It is a highlight for sports fans.
  • Try green chile: Southern Colorado loves green chile, served on burritos, burgers and in stews. Order it smothered for a true local experience.

Local Hacks

  • Climb the Manitou Incline: This steep former railway track is a tough workout with great views. Reserve a free time slot in advance and pace yourself.
  • Visit Garden of the Gods early: Arrive at sunrise for golden light on the rocks, cooler temps and easy parking before tour buses arrive.
  • Stroll Old Colorado City: This historic district has local shops, galleries and cafes. It is a relaxed spot for an afternoon walk and dinner.

1-day itineraries in Colorado Springs

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 2

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum and around

🕘 9:30–18:00📍 5 stops

  1. 1U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
  2. 2Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
  3. 3Acacia Park
  4. 4Fine Arts Center at Colorado College
  5. 5Old Colorado City
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Day 2 of 2

Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway and around

🕘 9:30–15:30📍 4 stops

  1. 1Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
  2. 2Manitou Incline
  3. 3Manitou Springs
  4. 4Cave of the Winds
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