Last Updated on May 19, 2023
Traveling the globe for years, we’ve seen some incredible places. But at the base of America’s mountain, Pikes Peak, is a great little city called Colorado Springs. While most people think of Denver and Vail first when they think of Colorado, this sprawling city is vibrant and filled with fun things to do indoors and out. Fall is a great time to visit, too, especially with the colorful fall foliage and moderate temperatures. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends or family, here are some of the top things to see and do in Colorado Springs.
Olympic Training Center
Many Olympians train in Colorado Springs. The higher altitude helps prepare them for competitions all over the world. Swimmers, gymnasts, skiers, and more have all been through Colorado Springs at some point in their training. You can walk by the outside of their facility and, when they have open hours, there are also free tours available of some of the buildings.
Pikes Peak
This beauty towers over the city. In the winter, it’s topped with a snowy white cap, but the autumn season means it’s dotted with brilliant yellows because of the aspen trees changing colors. You can hike, drive, or take a train to the top of this majestic 14er. You’ll find very little oxygen, a small store, and the most incredible views when you get to the summit of Pikes Peak. No doubt, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world with the panoramic views of everything around you.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
For animal lovers, Colorado Springs has a unique zoo experience to offer. You can feed the giraffes and elephants, see the lions, check out the roaring tiger, and so much more. This location is so unique because of the terrain. It’s built into the side of a mountain, which means you’ll be hiking a lot. There are trolleys and sky rides to help you get to the top if climbing steep hills is not your thing. And most importantly, many of the habitats were designed to be more natural and also improve the quality of life for the animals in their care.
The Manitou Springs Incline
Hidden on the side of the mountain is a 0.88-mile hike, with a 2,000 foot gain in elevation. This means it feels almost straight up. This hike is built on top of an old railroad line and uses railroad ties as steps to help you get to the top. You can either hike back down the steep path or take a longer, but more level, and winding path back to your car. The altitude at the top is over 8,000 feet, so this hike isn’t for beginners or people who aren’t already used to the elevation.
Garden of the Gods
Take a walk through history at the Garden of the Gods. These red rock formations are famous because of their splendor. This free park has paved paths through the main portion of the rocks. There are other trails along the outskirts where you can hike up and get the perfect panoramic view. Bring your camera for this one, because you’ll definitely want to take pictures.
Great Wolf Lodge
For some fun, rest, and relaxation, check out Colorado Springs’s Great Wolf Lodge. There are activities for adults and kids and with the largest local indoor waterpark, you’re bound to have a ton of fun. In addition to the well-known kids’ activities, you’ll find tasty food, comfortable rooms with entertainment, and for the adults? Spa time, wine, and more.
Hike to the Paint Mines
Just outside of Colorado Springs, you’ll find this unique and interesting 3.4-mile hike – one of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado Springs! It’s a geological and archaeological marvel that locals love. Walk around these interesting rock formations with brilliant colors and you get a brief walk through history. Native Americans once used these grounds, and early settlers would extract clay from the mines for pottery. It’s a one-of-a-kind location and a relatively easy hike.
Other Things to Do in Colorado Springs
You’ll find many more interesting local sites like the Cave of the Winds, axe throwing, bumper cars, and countless hiking and biking trails. The beauty of the mountains, easy access to skiing locations, and more make this an appealing place to visit. The fall colors make it especially stunning, but with more than 300 days of sunlight a year, there is always something to do, both indoors and out.
