Best things to do in Colorado Springs

Admire one of the country’s most impressive archaeological wonders at Garden of the Gods. The 552 hectare (1,364 acre) public park is famous for the dozens of freestanding red rock formations created by a geological upheaval millions of years ago. Hike through the lush green forests while admiring the towering 91 m (300 ft) formations set against the dramatic backdrop of snowcapped Pike’s Peak. Head to the park’s visitor and nature center to learn the history of the formations or to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy panoramic views of the park from the cafe terrace.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to America’s only mountain zoo. Located at 6,800 feet above sea level, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers breathtaking views of the city and of its 750 animals. The unique design of the Zoo’s animal exhibits gets guests closer than ever before. Hand-feed one of the largest reticulated giraffe herds in the world, watch grizzlies swim with trout, hop next to red-necked wallabies and get hands on with some of the Zoo’s smaller residents in The Loft.

Have a wild adventure at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – see the animals, ride an antique carousel, eat a gourmet lunch at the Grizzly Grill and ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride to the Zoo’s summit.

An educational complex and World War II museum focused on conveying the significant industrial activities which took place in America to support the World War II effort. Motivating children and adults in science, technology, engineering and math is a key objective of this educational and historic experience. High technology computer displays are paired with flight ready World War II American fighters and bombers to convey the significance of that industrial effort and its legacy in today's world of space, aviation, and computer technology.

As you're driving toward this museum and military campus, the iconic accordion-shaped chapel will help you spot United States Air Force Academy. The campus, in a scenic area filled with Rocky Mountain fresh air, covers 7,500 hectares (18,500 acres) and is the place U.S. Air Force cadets start out. In addition to the museum and chapel, you can visit the athletic center, stadium, cadet field house, and more. All tours are self-guided.

Discover delicacies that will tantalize your taste buds and stimulate your senses on one of our gourmet tasting tours! Local food and history will come alive with the help of one of our entertaining and educated tour guides as you stroll from destination to destination at the base of America’s Favorite Mountain, Pikes Peak.

With many savory snacks and sips along the way, you no longer have to choose just one restaurant but instead, can visit up to five in just a couple of hours. We’ve selected star eateries that reflect the local flavor and are sure to leave you with a sweet taste in your mouth.

As a VIP foodie, each culinary destination will welcome you with the best and boldest munchies from their menu. For a more enlightened experience, add an alcohol pairing as a tailor-made compliment to your plates.

We invite you to indulge your cravings and let us lead the way – a culinary adventure awaits!

Navigate narrow tunnels, uneven stairs, and low passageways and discover the mysteries of Cave of the Winds Mountain Park. A great choice for family adventure, this historic natural landmark was discovered by two brothers in 1881 and has been thrilling travelers ever since. You can take a tour of the cave. The outdoor park boasts loads of adrenaline-packed adventures, such as climbing canyon walls or soaring across a canyon. At the end of your exciting journey, grab a snack at the cafe or browse the gift shop for crystals and geodes.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space provides striking scenery for hiking, jogging, climbing, and mountain biking. Set inside the city, the park's towering red rocks were formed from sandstone into a series of canyons. Trails provide ample paths for hiking and exploring, usually starting among shady bluffs and working up toward views of the park and town. If you enjoy rock climbing, try your hand at any of more than 80 established climbs mapped out through the canyon and park. Climbers must register with the Garden of the Gods visitor center. If you like, bring a meal to eat in the wheelchair-accessible picnic grounds.

On the front range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak - America's Mountain stands as one of Colorado's 53 '14ers'--mountains rising more than 14,000 ft (4,300 m). Visitor centers are located at 9.7 km (6 mi), 19.3 km (12 mi), and the peak's summit. These offer information, gift shops, and restaurants. To get to the summit, travel by car or train. The attraction's highway is notable for its dangerous twists and turns, as well as its unpaved, winding ascent on the last push up to the peak--but experienced drivers will enjoy the challenge. Or consider a ride on the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway, which takes you to the summit on a historical set of tracks.

Called “The Grandest Mile of Scenery” in Colorado, the approach to Seven Falls excites the senses and forshadows the dramatic landscape ahead. Crystal clear water from the Pikes Peak watershed has shaped a spectacular natural box canyon: the steep-walled, enclosed canyon that’s become symbolic of the American West.

Once inside Seven Falls, you’ll be enveloped by cliffs and delighted by the cascade of water. The falls tumble 181 feet down the head of this box canyon, dancing from granite face to granite face in seven distinct leaps.

For those who want to dive into nature and are seeking adventure, take the 224 steps by the side of the falls that lead to hiking trails and the banks of the glistening stream that feeds the falls, or try the optional Broadmoor Soaring Adventure zip-line tours —a thrilling exploration above Seven Falls, following rope bridges and culminating in a rappel. Others might prefer a more leisurely experience. For them, browsing our shops, dining at the exquisite new Restaurant 1858 or strolling the 2,500-foot-long, natural-surface walking trail is sure to delight.

Ticket Prices

Entrance fee for adults: Ages 13+ years – $14.00

Entrance fee for children: Ages 2 – 12 years – $8.00

Children under 2 years of age are FREE.

The first natural-style zoo in North America, Denver Zoo is home to 3,800 animals of more than 650 species. Look for features like bear mountain and the largest gorilla enclosure in the world (where you might find gorillas are napping in their hammocks). In the zoo's open aviaries, walk among exotic birds and even some two-toed sloths. To really get up close to the animals, head to the giraffe enclosure, where you can feed these gentle giants some lettuce. Check the daily schedule for wildlife presentations.

Penrose Heritage Museum showcases the history and heritage of the Pikes Peak region through the personal artifact collection of Colorado Springs’ philanthropists Spencer and Julie Penrose with a special tribute to the history of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, started by Spencer Penrose in 1916. Admission and parking are free.

Denver Union Station is the main railway station and central transportation hub in Denver, Colorado. It is located at 17th and Wynkoop Streets in the present-day LoDo district and includes the historic station house, a modern open-air train shed, a 22-gate underground bus station, and light rail station. A station was first opened on the site on June 1, 1881, but burned down in 1894. The current structure was erected in two stages, with an enlarged central portion completed in 1914.

In 2012, the station underwent a major renovation transforming it into the centerpiece of a new transit-oriented mixed-use development built on the site's former railyards. The historic station house reopened in the summer of 2014, hosting the 112-room Crawford Hotel, restaurants and retailers.

Old Colorado City Historic District offers over 100 shops, dining spots, and attractions hidden behind brick facades. Founded in 1859, the town was a major gold-processing hub during the Gold Rush era and hosted strikes that led to Colorado Labor Wars. Today it presents venues that serve gourmet meals--Greek, French, Ethiopian, and Mexican specialties--and treats like frozen yogurt and chocolate confectionaries. Spend some time at the local wine bars, art cafes, and live entertainment pubs, or shop for antiques, clothes, and jewelry. You can also browse through collections of fine art and pottery designed by local artists. Among the activities here, you can take up horseback riding, taste British treats and teas, and visit reportedly haunted places.