Colorado Springs, CO
A magnet for nature enthusiasts, the Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark, features magnificent red rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, making it ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. For history buffs, the city is home to the impressive United States Air Force Academy and the intriguing rock formations at the ancient Manitou Cliff Dwellings.
In addition to its natural and historical attractions, the city offers a range of cultural and entertainment experiences, from the lively downtown scene with its diverse dining and shopping options to the fascinating Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. With its diverse appeal, Colorado Springs continues to enthrall and inspire travelers from around the world.
What to do in Colorado Springs, CO
Garden of the Gods
Situated at the foot of Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods is a stunning natural park known for its magnificent red rock formations and fascinating geological features. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive network of trails, which cater to hikers of all skill levels. Additionally, rock climbing and horseback riding are popular activities within this breathtaking environment. The Visitor and Nature Center offers educational exhibits and interactive displays that delve into the park’s unique geology, flora, and fauna. Be sure to capture the unforgettable views and photo opportunities of the towering sandstone formations against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak stands as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The mountain offers an iconic cog railway that ascends to the summit, providing awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Adventurous visitors can also opt for a scenic drive up the Pikes Peak Highway or challenge themselves with a hike up the mountain’s trails. Whether it’s experiencing the changing alpine vegetation or enjoying a warm donut at the Summit House, a trip to Pikes Peak promises an unforgettable adventure.
The Broadmoor Seven Falls
The Broadmoor Seven Falls presents a spectacular natural wonder, featuring seven cascading waterfalls nestled within a pristine canyon. Visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting ambiance of the falls by embarking on a guided hike, traversing the 224 steps to the top, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery from the nearby viewing platforms. In addition, the surrounding area offers various activities, such as zip-lining, dining at the Restaurant 1858, or simply absorbing the serene beauty of this natural attraction.
Manitou Incline
Favored by fitness enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the Manitou Incline stands as a challenging yet rewarding trail experience. The former tramway track now serves as a steep and strenuous ascent, drawing hikers and athletes alike to test their stamina and determination. As one conquers the nearly 2,000 steps, the trail rewards participants with breathtaking panoramic views of the region, thereby providing an exhilarating and physically demanding outdoor adventure.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Nestled on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers an exceptional wildlife experience renowned for its diverse animal exhibits and engaging educational opportunities. Visitors can engage in up-close encounters with a variety of animals, including giraffes, elephants, and grizzly bears. The zoo’s unique layout, featuring naturalistic enclosures and scenic overlooks, enhances the immersive experience. Families and animal lovers can also partake in feeding sessions, educational shows, and special events, making the zoo an ideal destination for all ages.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Garden of the Gods, a mesmerizing public park with towering sandstone formations. Take a leisurely stroll along the paved pathways or opt for a more challenging hike to explore the unique rock formations.
Midday
Head to the historic Manitou Springs for a ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. This scenic train ride takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Afternoon
Explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, an intriguing archaeological site showcasing Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. Walk through the well-preserved structures and gain insight into the lives of the ancient inhabitants.
Day 2:
Morning
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals from around the world. Enjoy interactive exhibits and feedings while marveling at the zoo’s breathtaking mountain views.
Midday
Make your way to the United States Air Force Academy, where you can visit the iconic Cadet Chapel and explore the stunning architecture complemented by the breathtaking surroundings.
Afternoon
Conclude your trip with a visit to the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. Learn about the rich history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits and displays that showcase the city’s heritage.
Rock Climbing
Experience world-class rock climbing opportunities in Colorado Springs, with famous spots like Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon offering challenging routes for climbers of all levels.
Private Rock Climbing at Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs
Private 4 hour, half-day climb for groups of 1, 2, 3 or 4. Have a larger group? Call Front Range Climbing to discuss pricing! This is great for beginner or intermediate climbers and you will learn the basics of climbing and have your own guide to teach you the ropes of this amazing sport and unique location to climb. The Garden of the Gods, one of Colorado Springs' city parks, is a marvel to the eye and the soul. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971, the history of climbing is deeply rooted in the rock walls that soar toward the sky. Offering climbing for all skill levels, the Garden of the Gods is an exceptional location to climb, and there is no better way to experience the wonder of this amazing park than from its towering rock!
Book directly at www.frontrangeclimbing.com
Book Today on Viator From $221.00
Scenic Drives
Embark on picturesque drives along routes like Pikes Peak Highway, Gold Camp Road, and Phantom Canyon Road to witness breathtaking views and landscapes.
Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, Old Stage Road Jeep Tour
Highlights
-A tour through the iconic Garden of the Gods
-Stops along the way at popular picture points
-Views of foothills and Pikes Peak
-Explore the eclectic mountain town of Manitou Springs
-Short drive up a scenic old stage coach road in dense forest
-Discover interesting stories, history, and folklore
Capacity
-8 Max, 4 people per Jeep (two Jeeps)
-Jeeps can fill up and can be cramped for some people. We do
offer private tours (call or check our website for details)
The Duration
-3 Hours
The Ages
-1 yrs and older
The Tour
-Garden of the Gods is Colorado Spring's main attraction. A beautiful city park like no other.
-We tour Manitou Springs, talk about the interesting history of the area, stop off at a few springs to take a drink of the natural mineral waters and show some points of interest.
-Quick tour of Old Stage Road. This is an old stage coach road. It's a dirt/gravel road that climbs 1300 ft in elevation. Beautiful views of Colorado Springs from above.
Book Today on Viator From $95.00
Pikes Peak Jeep Tour
Highlights
-All entry fees included
-Incredible journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, America's Mountain
-Stunning views of distant mountain ranges
-Discover interesting stories, history, and folklore
-Convertible tops in summer, warm hard tops in winter
-Passionate and entertaining guides
-Safe, comfortable, modern Jeeps
-Much more personal (and warm) experience than the big open Jeeps
Capacity
-8 Max, 4 people per Jeep (two Jeeps)
-Jeeps can fill up and can be cramped for some people. We do
offer private tours (call or check our website for details)
Duration
-3-3.5 Hours
Ages
-1 yrs and older
The Tour
-Scenic drive up Pikes Peak Highway. We make several stops for pictures. Our guides share history and folklore of the mountain and also get to know our guests. Once at the summit, we walk with you showing you the interesting sites. We leave you to explore the summit before returning the Jeep.
Not recommended for people with heart conditions or serious medical issues.
Book Today on Viator From $100.00
Jeep Tour - Foothills & Garden of the Gods
Our most popular Jeep tour, this historic sight-seeing adventure is a great way to enjoy the Pikes Peak region!!! Our entertaining and informative cowboy guides take you through time along the foothills of Pikes Peak, highlighting scenery and some of Colorado Springs’ most famous historical sights. Attractions include North Cheyenne Canyon, Helen Hunt Falls, the Shortline Railroad and its 100-year-old tunnels, Old Colorado City, Manitou Springs, and the spectacular red rock park Garden of the Gods. In our open-air Jeeps, your photo opportunities are unobstructed!!! This tour is approximately 70% paved roads and 30% dirt, and is a fantastic overview of the area!!!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $145.00
Sightseeing Jeep Tour in Garden of the Gods
***Winter operations will be in an Enclosed Heated Jeep (weather permitting for Open Air).***
The Garden Of The Gods tour will take you to Rainbow Falls, local castles, and then through Garden Of The Gods and downtown Manitou Springs. This tour has amazing scenery and beautiful views you’ll get to see a gorgeous rock formations and the driver will tell you about the fascinating history and stop to let you get out to take pictures and see all the majestic beauty of the land. We will also stop throughout Manitou Springs to taste the natural mineral Springs and explore this charming historic town. This tour requires a 2 person minimum. 4-8 passengers. For private tours give us a call or check our website!
Book Today on Viator From $90.00
Historic Sites
Explore historic sites in Colorado Springs such as the United States Air Force Academy, Old Colorado City, and the Manitou Springs Historic District.
Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour
Colorado Springs has historically been a city of tourists and travelers. From horses, to coaches, to trains, to trolleys and automobiles, the very first settlers of the town were excited to boast the amazements of the area. They welcomed travelers from far and wide to come and see all of the treasures Colorado Springs had to offer.
Welcome Friends! There is much to see and do! It is my pleasure to host you as we stroll through the streets of Colorado Springs and explore the past, present and future of this great city.
Book Today on Viator From $54.00
Hiking
Explore the numerous hiking trails in and around Colorado Springs, including Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon, and Palmer Park.
Ancient Landscapes Private Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods
Embark on a journey through time with Trail Gems Geology Tours! From minerals and rocks to faults and fossils, we will uncover the secrets of Colorado’s geologic past as we explore the best trails in the Garden of the Gods Park.
During the tour, you will experience:
• Fun and informative hike that highlights the best that the Garden of the Gods has to offer
• Learning to identify our local minerals and other features in the rocks
• Discovery of fossils that highlight Colorado's amazing geologic past
• A deeper appreciation of how today's majestic landscape formed
• Officially permitted guide
This tour includes bottled water and the use of a daypack and hiking poles, if needed. In addition, each child will receive a geology sample bag that includes a fossil and a trail gem! Other details: Total hiking distance will be approximately 2 miles on maintained dirt trails. Guests should be physically fit and enjoy a moderate challenge.
Book Today on Viator From $99.00
Outdoor Recreation
Engage in various outdoor activities like ziplining, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning against the stunning backdrop of Colorado Springs.
Pikes Peak Summit Downhill Bike Tour
Our Pikes Peak group tour is one of the top things to do in Colorado! This tour begins at the Pikes Peak Adventure Center (Colorado Springs) with some coffee and a light breakfast. Once we finish breakfast, we will head out to the top of the mountain in our 15-passenger vans!
Your bike ride begins at the summit of Pikes Peak (14,115 feet) where you can take photos and enjoy the breath-taking 360 degree view of Colorado for as far as the eye can see!
As we work our way down this majestic mountain, you will be in awe watching the scenery change as you bike through five separate climactic life zones! Don’t worry though, they won’t pass by without plenty of stops for pictures along the way!
This unforgettable journey is designed for most abilities – some biking experience is required. If you have health concerns, please consult a physician for high altitude compatibility prior to participating.
Book Today on Viator From $252.15
E-bike Mountain Adventure in Colorado Springs
Our offerings have been labeled as the highlight of many of our riders visit here in The Springs. It is exceptional to ride a bicycle with assist to reach places you ordinarily would not attain. We also pride ourselves in offering our riders a more local experience. You will get off of the beaten path and go to places that are not inundated by many people. You also will travel on historic train grades and learn much about our beautiful area.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $129.00
Mountain Bike Tour: Gold Camp Road
Have you ever wondered what the city of Colorado Springs looks like from a thousand feet above? The Pikes Peak Bike Tours team will take your breath away by first transporting you up the historic and scenic Old Stage Road. From there, a gorgeous scenic bike ride will take you down Gold Camp Road. Locomotives once transported raw gold from Cripple Creek gold mine to a Colorado Springs gold refinery on this historic path. This experience offers vast panoramic views of the front range at a ride at your own pace speed. The tour is approximately 13 miles long with minimal exertion. Gold Camp Road is a leisurely descent at a 2% grade on gravel terrain with minimal obstacles and incredible tunnels blown by dynamite dating back to the late 1800s. Experience the beauty of Colorado in its entirety as you peer into the distance breathing in the crisp mountain air. Duration is expected to last 3 to 3 1/2 hours depending on the riders.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $244.77