4 days in Colorado Springs & Cañon City Itinerary

Stunning Garden of the Gods Park scenery, blue skies and the glory of Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain have attracted visitors to Colorado Springs for more than a century.

Kick off your visit on the 9th (Fri): head outdoors with Outdoor Activities, sample some tasty brews at Rocky Mountain Food Tours, and then walk around Garden of the Gods. Keep things going the next day: admire nature's wide array of creatures at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, see the interesting displays at Penrose Heritage Museum, then learn about all things military at National Museum of World War II Aviation, then stop by Christmas in Manitou, and finally deepen your understanding at United States Air Force Academy.

To see more things to do, other places to visit, maps, and tourist information, you can read our Colorado Springs online trip itinerary builder.

Durham to Colorado Springs is an approximately 5-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. Due to the time zone difference, you'll gain 2 hours traveling from Durham to Colorado Springs. Plan for slightly colder temperatures traveling from Durham in December, with highs in Colorado Springs at 45°F and lows at 18°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 11th (Sun) early enough to drive to Cañon City.

Part of Colorado's Royal Gorge Region, Cañon City straddles the Arkansas River.

Start off your visit on the 11th (Sun): let the river carry you with a rafting and tubing tour, take in the views from Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and then take a memorable drive along Skyline Drive.

For photos, other places to visit, traveler tips, and more tourist information, read our Cañon City trip itinerary planner.

Drive from Colorado Springs to Cañon City in an hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 49°F in December, and nighttime lows around 23°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 12th (Mon) to allow time for the flight back home.