There is no doubt that Colorado Springs is a beautiful city. With its Rocky Mountain backdrop and an array of outdoor activities, there’s much to see and do in. Most things to do are outdoors-oriented because of the city’s great location. So if you’re looking for things to do in Colorado Springs, here are 35 of the best options.
Things To Do In Colorado Springs
1. Explore the Pike National Forest
Anybody who’s into hiking knows that Colorado is one of the best states in the country for it. And Pike National Forest is one of the best places to hike in Colorado.
The Pike National Forest is a beautiful wilderness expanse covering more than 1.1 million acres in Colorado. It is filled with pine trees, hiking trails, mountain biking trails, campgrounds, picnicking areas, reservoirs, lakes, and much more.
Different attractions within the forest attract different kinds of visitors. Some come to fish in the many lakes and streams, while others come to hike or mountain bike through the forests and meadows. Others come to camp under the stars or to explore the area’s rich history.
However, highlights of the forest include the Pikes Peak Mountain Trail, Manitou Park, Devil’s Head Lookout, and Rampart Range Road.
The Pikes Peak Mountain Trail is the most popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Pikes Peak. While the Manitou park area is home to a variety of hiking trails, as well as the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, which are a set of ancient cliff dwellings that were built by the Ancestral Puebloans people.
Whatever you choose to do, the Pike National Forest is a great place to explore and one of the best places to visit in Colorado Springs for outdoor lovers.
Address: Colorado, United States.
2. Stand at the Top of Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak has long been an iconic symbol of Colorado and is also the state’s most-visited mountain. At 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak is far from being the tallest mountain in Colorado (that honor goes to Mount Elbert, which stands at 14,440 feet), but it is the highest peak in the southern part of the state.
The mountain is named after Zebulon Pike, an American explorer sent to the area in 1806 to map the southern Colorado Territory. Pike never actually made it to the summit of the mountain (a deep snowbank stopped him), but he gave it the name it has today.
Pikes Peak is most commonly accessed via the Pikes Peak Highway, which winds its way up to the summit through a series of switchbacks. The drive to the top takes about 2-3 hours, and once you’re there, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you’re not up for the drive, you can also take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which has been in operation since 1891. The train ride takes about 3 hours round-trip, and there are a few stops along the way where you can get out and explore.
Once you reach the summit, you can walk around and take in the views, have a picnic, and even visit the Summit House, which is the highest restaurant in Colorado.
All these things considered, taking a trip to the top of Pikes Peak is definitely one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs. So whether you drive, take the train, or hike to the top, make sure to add it to your list.
Address: Colorado 80809, United States.
3. Visit the Garden of the Gods
I know you’re probably thinking, “Garden of the Gods? Did God seriously plant a garden in Colorado Springs?” Well, no. But the geological formations in this city park do look like something that might have been created by a higher power.
Garden of the Gods is a must-visit Colorado Springs attraction, and it’s one of the most popular things to do in the city. The park is home to a variety of unique rock formations, including Balanced Rock, Chimney Rock, Siamese twins, Northway Gate Rock, and The Three Graces.
There are also numerous hiking and biking trails that wind their way through the park, and you can even go horseback riding if you’re feeling adventurous.
If you want to learn more about the area, there are a number of ranger-led programs available, or you can take a guided Segway tour.
Garden of the Gods is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and it’s free to enter. So there’s no excuse not to go and check it out yourself.
Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States.
4. Visit Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of only two mountain zoos in the United States (the other one is located in Asheville, North Carolina). The zoo sits at an elevation of 6,700 feet and offers stunning views of the city of Colorado Springs.
Today, the zoo is home to over 750 animals, including giraffes, lions, tigers, bears, and even a rhinoceros. And one of the coolest things about this zoo is that it allows you to feed some of the animals. For example, you can buy a cup of lettuce to feed the giraffes.
However, the highlight, for me, was the Mountaineer Sky Ride, which takes visitors on a cable car ride up Cheyenne Mountain. The ride lasts about 10 minutes and offers some incredible views of the city and the zoo below.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a great place to spend a day if you’re looking for exciting things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.
Address: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
5. Visit the Unites States Air Force Academy
Thinking about joining the Air Force? Or maybe you’re just interested in learning about what it’s like to be a cadet. Either way, a visit to the United States Air Force Academy is a must-do while you’re in Colorado Springs.
The academy is a four-year institution that trains young men and women to become officers in the United States Air Force. And while the academy is technically a military installation, it is open to the public. And there is a lot to see and do here, especially if you’re interested in learning about the Air Force or military life in general.
There are a few different ways to tour the academy. The most popular option is the Cadet Chapel Tour, which includes a visit to the world-famous Cadet Chapel, as well as the Falcon Athletic Center. The tours are led by current cadets, and they provide an inside look at what life is like at the academy.
What makes USAF Academy one of the top places to visit in Colorado Springs is the fact that it’s the only service academy in the US. So you can’t miss out on the experience of touring this one-of-a-kind institution.
Address: 4102 Pinion Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80840.
6. Go See the Seven Falls
There’s no need of coming to Colorado Springs and not marvel at the seven beautiful waterfalls that make up the Seven Falls. After all, it’s one of the most famous attractions in Colorado, attracting nature lovers from all over the world.
The Seven Falls is located in South Cheyenne Canon, about 10 minutes drive from downtown Colorado Springs. The journey to the falls begins with a short hike which is easy and can be completed by anyone in good health.
The waterfall is the highest in Colorado, with a height of 181 feet and an average width of 25 feet. And as earlier said, it’s made up of seven different waterfalls that flow into one another. A staircase connects all seven levels of the waterfall, making it possible to view it from different perspectives. But I have to say; the staircase can be quite tiring and challenging if you’re not fit.
The best part about these falls is that it is wheelchair and stroller accessible. This means that everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature regardless of their physical abilities. There’s an elevator that takes such people to the top of the falls, making it possible for everyone to see the Seven Falls.
Besides the main attraction, which is the waterfall, there are also other things to do in the park, such as picnicking, hiking, and rock climbing. The park is open all year round, making it one of the exciting places to visit in Colorado Springs.
Address: 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, CO.
7. Explore the Red Rock Canyon Open Space
You might not think of Colorado when you think of red rocks, but the state actually has a pretty diverse landscape. So one of the best places to see Colorado’s red rocks is at the Red Rock Canyon Open Space, located just west of Colorado Springs.
The Open Space is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing, and it’s also a great place to simply take a walk and enjoy the views. So far, there are 11 marked trails in the Open Space, ranging from easy to difficult. So whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or a challenging hike, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
I recommend starting your visit at the Red Rock Visitor Center, where you can pick up a map and get some helpful information about the area. Then, head out on the trails and explore all this attraction offers. And trust me, it’s one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs for nature lovers.
8. Sign Up for Rocky Mountain Food Tours
You haven’t truly experienced Colorado Springs until you’ve indulged in some of the local cuisines. And what better way to do that than by signing up for a Rocky Mountain Food Tour?
These tours take you to some of the best restaurants in town, where you’ll get to sample a variety of dishes and learn about the chefs and their culinary creations. The company offers three different tours: Food Tour, Cocktail Tour, and the Craft Beer Tour.
I took the Food Tour, which lasted about 3.5 hours and included stops at seven different restaurants. Some of the highlights for me included the wood-fired pizza, the roasted chicken, and the chocolate truffle.
But no matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to have a delicious time. So if you’re not sure of what to do in Colorado Springs, this is a great option.
9. Take a Tour of The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living history museum that gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like in the Colorado Territory during historical periods.
The ranch is located on 230 acres of land, and it features a variety of buildings and structures that have been preserved from the late 18th and early 20th centuries.
Some of the things you’ll see on your tour include an 1860s log cabin for European settlers, a Native American tepee from the 1700s, and a mansion house from the early 1900s. You can also explore the ranch’s extensive gardens, which include a wide variety of native plants, flowers, and trees.
In addition to the tours, there are costumed interpreters who provide demonstrations and hands-on activities related to the ranch’s history.
The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is one of the top attractions in Colorado Springs for history buffs and anyone who’s interested in learning more about the state’s past.
10. Have Fun at Springs Adventure Park
Want to add a little adventure to your trip? Or maybe you’re just looking for fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids. Either way, one of the best places to visit is Springs Adventure Park.
This indoor trampoline park is perfect for kids of all ages (and adults too). They have a wide variety of activities to choose from, including dodgeball, foam pits, and wipe-out courses. Adults can also join in on the fun by taking part in old-school vintage arcade games.
Springs Adventure Park is a great place to spend a few hours, and it’s also one of the most affordable places to visit in Colorado Springs. Therefore, let your kids run wild and have a blast at this indoor playground.
11. Explore Cheyenne Mountain Nuclear Bunker
Have you seen the movie WarGames? If so, then you’ve already got a pretty good idea of what the Cheyenne Mountain Nuclear Bunker is all about.
For those who haven’t seen the movie (or don’t remember it), the Cheyenne Mountain Nuclear Bunker was a top-secret Cold War-era facility designed to withstand a nuclear attack.
The bunker was constructed inside of a mountain and housed several government agencies, including NORAD (the North American Aerospace Defense Command). Today, the bunker is no longer in use but is maintained for backup purposes.
Unfortunately, the bunker is not open to the public. But you can still get a glimpse of it from the outside and even take a picture of the iconic tunnel.
Although many tourists come to this bunker for its history, I think it isn’t one of the most exciting things to see in Colorado Springs. But it’s worth visiting if you just want to see what the bunker looks like from the outside.
Address: Cheyenne Mountain AFS, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, United States.
12. Tour the Olympic Training Center
The United States Olympic Training Center (USOTC) is a world-class training facility for aspiring and current Olympians. This massive complex was opened in 1978 with the goal of providing a place for athletes to train and live while they prepare for the Olympic Games.
Today, you can take a tour of the USOTC and see what goes on behind the scenes at this world-renowned facility. The tours are divided into three parts: Silver, Bronze, and Gold.
The Silver Tour is the most basic option with very little interaction, while the Gold Tour is the most comprehensive and includes a behind-the-scenes look at the training facilities and living quarters.
The Bronze Tour, which is what I took, falls somewhere in the middle. It includes a one-hour guided tour of the major points of interest and access to the museum.
All tours must be booked in advance since the USOTC is a working facility with athletes in training. And if you’re wondering, yes, you will see some Olympians during your tour. I even got to see a couple of them working out in the weight room!
Overall, touring the USOTC is a great way to learn more about the Olympic Games and the athletes who compete in them. It’s also a fascinating look at how world-class athletes train and live. So if you’re looking for interesting things to do in Colorado Springs, add the USOTC tour to your list.
Address: 1 Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO 80909.
13. Visit Glen Eyrie Castle
Many people don’t know this, but Colorado Springs is actually home to a real-life castle. Glen Eyrie Castle was built in the late 19th century by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs.
Today, Glen Eyrie is owned by The Navigators, an international Christian organization, and it is open to the public for tours, events, and overnight stays.
One of the highlights of visiting Glen Eyrie is taking a guided tour of the castle. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will share stories and anecdotes about the Palmers and their time spent at Glen Eyrie. You’ll also get to see some of the original furnishings and decorations used by the family and learn about the castle’s role in Colorado history.
After your tour, explore the castle grounds, including beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and a tea room.
There’s a lot to see and do at Glen Eyrie, making it one of the most famous attractions in Colorado Springs, especially if you’re a history buff. So plan to spend a few hours here on your next visit.
Address: 3820 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904.
14. Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Colorado is known for its stunning mountain scenery, and there’s no better way to take it all in than from the basket of a hot air balloon. Hot air ballooning is available year-round in Colorado Springs, and there are a few different companies that offer rides.
During your balloon ride, you’ll float peacefully over the city and surrounding areas, taking in views of Pikes Peak, the Rocky Mountains, and more. Most balloon rides last about an hour, mostly in the early morning or evening when the air is calm.
Hot air ballooning is a truly unique experience, and it’s definitely one of the most memorable things to do in Colorado Springs.
15. Get Your Thrill on at Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Manitou Cliff Dwellings is a unique attraction in Colorado Springs that allows you to step back in time and experience what life was like for the Ancestral Puebloans people.
Built in 1904, the cliff dwellings are a collection of reconstructed homes that were once inhabited by the Ancestral Puebloans. Today, they serve as a museum and offer visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of these ancient people.
When you visit Manitou Cliff Dwellings, you’ll have the opportunity to tour the dwellings and learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans people. You’ll also get some great views of Manitou Springs and the surrounding area.
Address: 10 Cliff Rd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829.
16. Do a Cave Tour at the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Colorado Springs, the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park offers a chance to explore some truly unique geological formations. The park is home to a series of caves and tunnels that were formed million years ago by centuries of erosion from wind and water.
Today, the caves are open to the public for tours, and there are a variety of different tour options to choose from. The most popular is the Discovery Tour, which takes you through some of the main caves and tunnels and lasts for about an hour.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you can also sign up for the Lantern Tour, which takes place after dark and involves exploring the caves by lantern light. This tour is not for the faint of heart, as it involves scary ghost stories along the way and is not recommended for young children.
But regardless of which tour you choose, exploring the Cave of the Winds is definitely one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs.
Address: 100 Cave of the Winds Rd, Manitou Springs, CO.
17. Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
It’s always interesting to learn about the history of the place you are visiting, and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a great place to do just that. The museum is housed in a beautiful granite building with a domed clock tower built in 1973.
The museum started as a collection point for historical artifacts in the late 1800s. Today, it has grown to become a comprehensive museum that tells the story of the local area. There are over 70,000 artifacts in the museum’s collection, and the exhibits cover a wide range of topics such as the city’s founding, archival material, paleontological specimens, and many more.
The best way to experience this museum is to take a guided tour. The tours are offered daily and last about 1-1.5 hours. During the tour, you’ll learn all about the history of Colorado Springs and see some of the most interesting artifacts in the museum’s collection.
I joined one of the guided tours during my visit, led by a lady named Nancy. She was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Colorado Springs and told us some really interesting stories about the city’s early days. This was a great way to learn about the city and see some artifacts up close.
All in all, if you’re looking for Colorado Springs attractions that are both educational and interesting, then a visit to this museum should be on your list. Remember to arrive early, as the tours do fill up quickly.
Address: 215 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs, CO.
18. Visit Colorado Farm and Art Market
Wondering what to do in Colorado Springs on a Wednesday or Saturday? Then head to the Colorado Farm and Art Market, which is open from 3 pm to 7 pm on those days.
The market features fresh produce from local farmers, as well as handmade goods from a variety of artisans. You’ll find everything from jewelry and pottery to soaps and woodworking. There is also live music, food trucks, and a kids’ activity area, making the market a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
I had the chance to visit the market last year, and I was really impressed by the quality of the products. The farmers were all very friendly and knowledgeable, and the artisans were clearly passionate about their work. And since the market is located in downtown Colorado Springs, it’s easy to walk to other attractions after you’re done shopping.
Address: Colorado Springs, CO 80903, United States.
19. Memorial Park
You can’t go to Colorado Springs without paying a visit to Memorial Park. This large city park covers over 190 acres and is home to numerous monuments, sculptures, and fountains.
The park is also a popular spot for picnics, as there are plenty of trees and grassy areas to relax in. And if you’re looking for fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids, this park also has a playground that is perfect for little ones.
There are also several special events that are held throughout the year within the park. They include the annual hot air balloon festival and the Memorial Day remembrance ceremony.
Most of the things at this park are free, making it one of the best places to visit in Colorado Springs on a budget. However, there is a small fee to enjoy some of the things/activities, such as paddle-boarding, canoeing, and the splash pad.
Address: 1605 E Pikes Peak Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80910.
20. Check Out the National Museum of World War II Aviation
Colorado Springs boasts a number of excellent museums, but one that should definitely be on your list is the National Museum of World War II Aviation.
This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of World War II aviation, and it features a number of restored aircraft from the war. Some of the fighter planes on display include the Grumman F3F Flying Barrel, Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, Chance Voight F4U Corsair, Brewster F3A Corsair, and Douglas AD-5 Skyraider.
In addition to the planes, the museum also has a number of artifacts and vehicles used during the war. There are also several interactive exhibits, making the museum perfect for adults and children.
If you plan on visiting this aviation museum, I recommend purchasing a ticket in advance since they sell out. In fact, most people book their tickets at least a year in advance. So if you’re interested in checking out this one-of-a-kind museum, make sure to plan ahead.
Address: 775 Aviation Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80916, United States.
21. Visit the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy
Although Colorado Springs is not necessarily known for its cowboy culture, you’ll be surprised to learn that it has a pretty rich rodeo history. In fact, this city was once part of the Wild West, and it was even home to a few famous cowboys and outlaws.
These days, you can learn all about Colorado Springs’ rodeo roots at the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the American cowboy, and it houses a collection of artifacts. This includes everything from saddles and spurs to chaps and ropes.
The museum also has a hall of fame where you can learn about some of the most famous cowboys and cowgirls in history. And throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of events and programs, including rodeos, concerts, and festivals.
I didn’t find much going on during my visit, but I still thought the museum was pretty cool. If you’re interested in learning about the cowboy way of life, this is one of the attractions in Colorado Springs that you won’t want to miss.
Address: 103 Pro Rodeo Drive, Colorado Springs, CO.
22. Visit Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
Art has always been an important part of Colorado Springs, and the Fine Arts Center is a reflection of that. The center was founded in 1936 by Gen. William Jackson Palmer, the city’s founder, and it is located in downtown Colorado Springs.
Today, the museum houses a permanent collection of over 20,000 works of art and a number of rotating exhibitions. You’ll find everything from watercolor paintings to metallic art deco and glass chandeliers. In short, you’re sure to find something that interests you.
In addition to the art, the Fine Arts Center also has a performing arts theater, which hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year. Plus, the center offers a number of educational programs, classes, and workshops for both children and adults.
So whether you’re an art lover or not, a visit to this arts center is one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs.
Address: 30 W Dale St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, United States.
23. Pamper Yourself at the Broadmoor Hotel
The Broadmoor is a luxurious 5-star resort located in Colorado Springs. The resort sits on 3,000 acres of land at the base of Cheyenne Mountain, and it offers visitors a wide range of amenities, including several restaurants, bars, pools, a spa, and a golf course.
The Broadmoor also offers a variety of activities and excursions, such as horseback riding, hiking, biking, and even falconry. But the best part about The Broadmoor? The views.
The resort is located in such a beautiful spot that it’s impossible to take a bad picture. And whether you’re relaxing by the pool, enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants, or taking a walk around the grounds, you’re sure to be impressed by the stunning scenery.
So if you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, The Broadmoor should be at the top of your list of places to visit in Colorado Springs.
Address: 1 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
24. Go Whitewater Rafting Down the Arkansas River
Who said you need to head to the mountains for a good dose of adventure? Colorado Springs is located just minutes from some of the best whitewater rafting spots in the state. And the Arkansas River is one of the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in Colorado you’ll find.
With a length of 1,460 miles, the Arkansas River is the sixth longest river in the United States. It originates in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and runs through Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas before eventually emptying into the Mississippi River.
In Colorado, the Arkansas River is renowned for its whitewater rafting and kayaking. The river’s whitewater rapids range from Class I (the easiest) to Class V (the most difficult), making it a great destination for rafters of all levels of experience.
There are a number of outfitters in Colorado Springs that offer whitewater rafting trips down the Arkansas River, and most of them offer half-day and full-day options.
So if you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities to do in Colorado Springs, whitewater rafting is a great choice.
25. Take a Class at the Pikes Peak Alpine School
Many people come to Colorado Springs for the outdoors. But again, not everybody knows how to hike, climb, or ski. So if you want to learn more about the outdoors and get some hands-on experience, sign up for a class at the Pikes Peak Alpine School.
The school offers a variety of classes, ranging from beginner to advanced, in a variety of outdoor activities. Some of the most popular classes include Introduction to Rock Climbing, Intro to Backcountry Skiing, and Wilderness First Aid.
The classes take around four days to complete. And at the end of the course, you’ll go on a guided trip with your instructors, put your new skills to the test, and get a chance to explore the beautiful outdoors around Colorado Springs.
And since I’ve always been interested in rock climbing, I took the Introduction to Rock Climbing class. It was a great experience; I learned a lot about safety, belaying, and proper climbing techniques. I also got to go on a few guided climbs, including one to the top of North Cheyenne Canon.
So if you want to learn more about the outdoors and get some hands-on experience, sign up for a class at the Pikes Peak Alpine School. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs.
Address: 1819 N. Corona Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.
26. Stroll Around the Penrose Heritage Museum
Another great place to learn the history of the Pike Peak Region is the Penrose Heritage Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of the area, with a focus on the life and work of Spencer Penrose.
Spencer Penrose was a businessman and philanthropist who played a major role in the development of Colorado Springs. He built the Broadmoor Hotel, which is still one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. He also helped establish the Pikes Peak Highway and the cog railway, two things essential to any visit to Pikes Peak.
Today, this heritage museum houses a collection of artifacts that belonged to Spencer Penrose. There are 30 carriages and 15 racecars on display, as well as a variety of other items, including historical photographs, documents, film footage of the couple, and many personal items.
Take your time and explore the museum at your own pace. Guided tours are available, but it’s not necessary to join one in order to enjoy the experience.
Address: 11 Lake Circle, Colorado Springs, CO.
27. Hike around Bear Creek Regional Park
One thing that Colorado Springs is definitely not lacking in is parks and trails. In fact, there are more than 200 miles of trails in the city, so it’s no wonder that hiking is one of the most popular things to do here.
So if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore some of the area’s beautiful scenery, head to Bear Creek Regional Park. The park is located within the city and covers 545 acres of land. In total, it has around 10 miles of trails, which are perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
If hiking is not really your thing, the park also has tennis and basketball courts, a playground, a picnic area, an archery range, and many more. All these activities within the park make it one of the best places to visit in Colorado Springs, especially if you’re looking for something to do with the whole family.
Address: 21st Street & West Rio Grande Ave., Colorado Springs, CO.
28. Have a Drink at the Phantom Canyon Brewing Company
Do you like beer? Do you like history? Then you’ll love the Phantom Canyon Brewing Company.
This Colorado Springs brewery is located in a historic building that was once home to the city’s first power plant. The building, which was constructed in 1893, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it now houses a restaurant, bar, and brewery.
The brewery has a sprawling selection of select ales, malted barley, quality hops, as well as wines and cocktails. They also offer a selection of seasonal and small-batch beers. I
In addition to the beer, the Phantom Canyon Brewing Company is also known for its food. The menu features a variety of pub-style dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.
Come with an empty stomach because you’re going to want to try everything. And being one of the best places in Colorado Springs to grab a beer, you definitely won’t be disappointed.
Address: 2 East Pikes Peak Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO.
29. Explore the National Historic District of Old Colorado City
Founded in 1859, Old Colorado City was the first capital of the Colorado Territory. The area is now a National Historic District, and its Victorian-style buildings, cobblestone streets, gaming parlors, and quaint shops make it one of the most charming places to visit in Colorado Springs.
The best way to explore Old Colorado City is on foot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Start by strolling down the main street and pop into the many unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more active, take a walking tour of the historic district.
There’s much to see and do in Old Colorado City, so it’s definitely worth spending a few hours (or even a whole day) exploring. And if you’re visiting any time from April through December, don’t miss the Old Colorado City Art Walk, which takes place every first Friday of the month.
30. Explore the Western Museum of Mining and Industry
Want to learn more about Colorado’s mining history? Then you need to visit the Western Museum of Mining and Industry. The museum is located north of Colorado Springs, and it showcases the advancement of mining technology throughout the years.
The museum ground is filled with a number of heavy equipment that was used in mining operations, as well as a restored mine shaft and mill. Visitors can also pan for gold, participate in guided tours, and attend special events throughout the year. You can learn about the people who worked in the mines, see how ore was processed, and get an up-close look at some of the equipment that was used.
What impressed me most about the museum was the variety of exhibits and displays. You could easily spend a few hours walking around and learning about Colorado’s mining history. And if you’re a history buff, then this is definitely one of the cool places to visit near Colorado Springs.
Address: 225 North Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921, United States.
31. Watch a One Man Puppet Show at Simpich Showcase
Let’s take a break from all the outdoor-focused things to do in Colorado Springs and talk about something unique you can find here.
Simpich Showcase is a small puppet theater that puts on a variety of shows, all of which are performed by David Simpich himself. The shows are a mix of original works and classic stories, and they’re all done with marionettes, which are puppets that are controlled by strings.
I had the opportunity to see a Christmas Carol there last year, and it was a really fun and unique experience. Simpich does all of the voices and characters himself and does a great job of keeping the audience engaged. After the show, you can also go backstage and meet the puppets, which is a fun added bonus.
If you’re in town, make sure to check out Simpich Showcase. It’s a great place for both kids and adults, and it’s one of the things that makes Colorado Springs such a unique and interesting city.
Address: 2413 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, United States.
32. Tour the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
So far, I’ve covered points on where to spot wildlife, hike, and learn about the area’s history. But I know that some of you are probably wondering what to do in Colorado Springs if you’ve got a sweet tooth. Well, have no worries because I’ve got you covered.
The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is a Colorado Springs institution and a must-visit for anyone with a taste for sweets. The factory has a shop in Colorado Springs where you can buy and sample all kinds of delicious chocolate-covered treats. You’ll find everything from chocolate-covered pretzels and marshmallows to fudge and caramels.
I sampled a few cakes during my visit, and they were all amazing. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would definitely be the chocolate-covered strawberries.
Please note that it’s only the shop of the factory that is located in Colorado Springs. The actual factory is located in Durango, Colorado. So if you’re interested in seeing how the chocolate is made, you’ll have to take a day trip from Colorado Springs.
All in all, this is a great place to satisfy your sweet tooth, and I would definitely recommend adding it to your list of Colorado Springs attractions.
Address: 2431 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO.
33. Take a Day Trip to the Ghost Town of St. Elmo
There’s much more to Colorado than just the big city of Colorado Springs. If you’re looking for a change of pace, head to the small town of St. Elmo, which is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the state.
St. Elmo was founded in 1880 as a mining town, and at its peak, it had a population of about 2,000 people. However, when the mines ran dry in the early 1900s, the town was abandoned and has remained largely untouched since then.
Today, there’s not much left of the town, but a few buildings are still standing, including the St. Elmo Hotel and the general store. The town is also home to a number of ghost stories, which is fitting given its name.
One of the most popular things to do in St. Elmo is taking a guided tour that takes you through the town and tells you about its history and some of its more famous buildings. The tour lasts about an hour, and it’s a great way to learn about the town and get a little bit of exercise.
Overall, this is one of the top attractions near Colorado Springs, and it’s worth a visit if you’re looking for something different to do. It’s a beautiful and historic place and the perfect spot for a day trip.
34. Enjoy Colorado Spring Nightlife
Colorado Springs may not be as big or well-known as Denver, but that doesn’t mean that the city doesn’t know how to have a good time. In fact, there are plenty of great bars and clubs to check out if you’re looking for a fun night on the town.
Therefore, after a day of sightseeing and exploring, head to one of the great bars or clubs to keep the party going. Most action takes place on or around Tejon Street in the center of downtown. This is where you’ll find a concentration of bars, restaurants, and clubs, as well as a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
So whatever you do, don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the town’s nightlife. It’s one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs, and you’re sure to have a great time.
35. Visit the Shrine of the Sun
The Shrine of the Sun is located behind the Cheyenne Mountain zoo, so it’s a great place to visit if you’re already planning on seeing the animals.
The shrine is named after Will Rogers, who was an American cowboy, comedian, and social commentator. Rogers died in a plane crash in 1935 during a trip to Alaska when the shrine was being built.
Today, the shrine is a popular spot for tourists as it is a great place to enjoy the views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. But it’s also a popular spot for those looking for a little bit of history.
Charles E. Thomas designed the shrine, and it was completed in 1937 using stone from a local quarry. The shrine is built in the Romanesque style and is considered one of the finest examples of this type of architecture in Colorado.
The stairway of the shrine is covered with photos of Will Rogers showcasing his life and career. However, the highlight of the shrine is the 340-square-foot mural which depicts the history of Colorado from the time of the Native Americans through the early 20th century. This mural was drawn by the renowned Santa Fe artist Randall.
The shrine is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk, and it is a great place to learn about the history of Colorado Springs while enjoying the views.
Address: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
In Summary
You now have 35 great things to do in Colorado Springs. So get out there and start exploring. And if you have any other suggestions, feel free to share them with me. I will be sure to add them to my list. Thanks for reading!