Insider’s Guide to a Colorado Summer Vacation in 2024

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From Your Local Guides: 2024 Colorado Springs Trip Planner

Colorado is a great family destination in winter, summer, spring or fall. Some of the most visited parks, attractions and hiking trails in Colorado are right in Colorado Springs, just an hour south of Denver.

If you can’t decide what things to do in Colorado Springs, as locals we’re here to take the guesswork out of your Colorado summer vacation planning.

Summit Pikes Peak Mountain, a 14,115 foot peak looming over the city. Hike Garden of the Gods, rated the #1 U.S. Park by TripAdvisor.

Spend a day at the award winning Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, hike up the Manitou Incline or run with Olympians at the Olympic and Paralympic Museum.

Check out 56 free or almost free Colorado Springs things to do with kids.

Selfies in front of downtown murals in Colorado Springs

This 5 DAY COLORADO SUMMER VACATION GUIDE includes full days of activities: hiking options, Colorado Springs things to do with kids, places to eat and local secret spots to explore.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE 5 DAY COLORADO SPRINGS PLANNER BELOW (PDF)

Hiking the Palmer Reservoirs is a great Colorado Springs summer activity.

Welcome to a Colorful Colorado Vacation in the Summer!

We want you to have the best time enjoying Colorado! We take the guesswork out of planning fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs with this COLORADO SUMMER VACATION GUIDE. If you’re wondering what is the best of month to visit Colorado Springs, don’t. This city has things to do year round.

Navigate the challenges of altitude with short easy hikes Colorado Springs has throughout the city. Use these beginner hiking tips to keep headaches at bay and get exploring ASAP. We give you a day by day planner to explore the best of Colorado Springs.

Whether paddle boarding in Colorado lakes, attending outdoor concerts at Pro Soccer Weidner’s beautiful stadium, watching cowboys dance at historic Flying W Ranch or planning a sunset picnic at Painted Mines pink and coral hoodoos, this Olympic City USA has something for everyone.

On cold or rainy days, don’t fret. Colorado Springs museums are open for hands on learning and some good ‘ole gold panning. Revisit childhood with Whirlyball or channel your Indy 500 champion at Overdrive Raceway. Go on a brewery tour, enjoying a Colorado craft beer. Gather around large covered fire pits, drinking cocktails at The Garden.

Hiking in North Cheyenne Canyon Park is great fun! photo cred: co14K

We want you to have the best Colorado summer vacation. This Colorado Springs trip planner tells you where to stay, what to eat and the insider lowdown of local places to visit.

Stay in a gorgeous mountain vacation rentals or grab your tent for great camping near Colorado Springs. No matter where you stake your claim for the week, vacation in this sprawling western city will be unforgettable.

RELATED LINK: COLORADO SPRINGS THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS *ADULTS TOO

5 Day Colorado Summer Vacation *or anytime for that matter

The 5 DAY COLORADO SUMMER VACATION PLANNER starts at Day 1. *See Table of Contents above.

When planning a visit to Colorado Springs, you might wonder how do you spend a week in Colorado summer or winter?

Before we get into each day’s activities, let’s answer a few questions about visiting this city, including links to trails and a Colorado Springs map of the city.

When we plan vacation trips with our families, we want to know when we should visit, what to pack, where the best shopping is and where we should stay.

Palmer Lake Reservoir Summer hiking beauty

What’s the best month to visit Colorado Springs?

WE SAY ANY MONTH!

SUmmer in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs boasts fantastic summer weather with warm days (70s/80s), and cool evenings typically averaging 50s/60s.

You might ask, is Colorado Springs a good place to visit in summer? As locals, our favorite season in Colorado is summer!

The hiking trails are free of snow (mostly), the evenings cool and the days hot. Mostly bugfree, the sun sets around 9 pm, giving you generous hours to hike, explore, sip that cold brew or take a bike ride.

Aspens are at their best in fall in Colorado

FALL In the Springs

Fall is the shortest but most brilliant season in Colorado. Aspens and scrub oak show off their rich blend of red, orange, and deep hues from mid-September to mid-October.

Book a weekend to enjoy Colorado fall hikes and drives. Tap into our time tested secret tips for some of the best Colorado fall hiking!

WINTER in Colorado Springs

Winter in Colorado Springs is a fantastic time to visit if you prefer less crowds. Colorado trails and hiking is open year round. Add a few extra layers to your daypack, rent a pair of snowshoes and head on the magical Colorado hiking trails, lit with fresh snow, beautiful sun and pine trees.

In recent years, we’ve found some of the best snowshoe hikes near Colorado Springs. Explore local winter trails in Colorado with a simple pair of spikes and a warm jacket! If this is your first time winter hiking at high altitudes, brush up on these Colorado winter hiking tips to stay warm and safe.

SPRINGTIme Beauty

Spring season is often nicknamed “mud season” and for good reason. Melting snow makes many of the Colorado springs hiking trails muddy and challenging to traverse. However, vacation and hotel prices are less expensive in this season, here and at the ski resorts.

Talk to a local and they’ll be quick to tell you that no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll probably experience all four seasons in one day.

Colorado Springs has so many amazing hikes to enjoy. We’ve included a few of our favorites below for all seasons. City of Colorado Springs provides free trail maps as well.

RELATED LINKS:

No matter the season, layer up!

What should I wear on vacation in Colorado Springs?

We’re a casual lot around here! Coloradans like their comfy layers. Those internet memes are pretty spot on showcasing the Colorado native in their Chaco sandals, Kuhl hiking pants and Patagonia layers. We’re not much of a dressy bunch of folks around here.

Head to a restaurant and you’ll see everything from cut off shorts to a sport coat and jeans.

Leave behind the cute dresses and toss in jeans, pants, long sleeves and tanks along with the winter coat. Yep, even in the summer months it can get downright chilly at night.

For your day at Pikes Peak Summit, you’ll want that Patagonia puffer!

LOCAL TIP! Winter in Colorado Springs typically means a bit more snow, some colder temps and perhaps a blizzard or two. Bring your base layers and add that heavy coat, warm gloves and winter hat. However, with our amazing sunshine most days feel downright balmy.

After living in Colorado Springs for almost 25 years, we put together the Colorado Hiker’s Capsule Wardrobe. Even if you don’t plan on hiking in Colorado, this handy checklist is perfect for Colorado Springs vacation clothing attire.

Pack your casual clothes for a Colorado vacation in summer.

Colorado Vacation in Summer Clothing Must Haves

PRO TIP: Don’t own a good daypack? We love Osprey’s Packfinder tool. Osprey makes some of the world’s best daypacks and overnight backpacks, in our combined 50+ years of experience hiking and backpacking. And they have great customer service.

Best Shopping in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a big town with plenty of shopping options. For new clothing, shop at the Promenade Shops of Briargate located off 1-25 and Briargate Blvd. REI and Scheels carry everything you might need for an outdoor adventure on a Colorado hike. For local Colorado stores carrying souvenirs, head to Tejon in downtown Colorado Springs or Colorado Ave in Old Colorado City.

If you’re wondering where to go in Colorado Springs for those last minute gear needs without breaking the vacation budget, head to one of the Colorado Springs used hiking gear stores. These stores carry new and used hiking shoes, boots, clothing and outdoor gear. They’re especially great for picking up kids outdoor gear items.

Garden of the Gods at night

Is it better to stay in Colorado Springs or Denver?

While Denver is a super fun place to visit and we highly recommend at least one day to explore its downtown, when you are visiting Colorado Springs, stay here!

Downtown Colorado Springs has recently taken on a new urban vibe with outdoor art installations and murals, new restaurants, Weidner Field, home of the Colorado Springs Switchback soccer team and the new Olympic and Paralympic Museum.

If you’re traveling as a family, kids activities in Colorado Springs range throughout the city. The northend is home to the Air Force Academy, In and Out Burger, Great Wolf Lodge and outdoor shopping at the Briargate Promenade Shops.

Further south takes you to the Broadmoor and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo area.

I-25 and Powers Blvd run north and south, allowing access to areas of Colorado Springs with relative ease. However, as with any major city, congestion and traffic is heavy for morning and evening commutes along with weekend travel.

Main lobby at Kinship Landing - Colorado Springs hotels

Where to stay in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Hotels

As with any big city, there are many Colorado Springs hotels to stay in. As a visitor, consider new boutique hotel, Kinship Landing.

Located in downtown Colorado Springs within walking distance of many restaurants and attractions, their custom suites are perfect for families and couples.

The most famous of Colorado Springs hotels, the Broadmoor, is truly a one of kind experience. Stay at this high end luxury resort for a special event.

Nearby Cheyenne Mountain Resort’s golf course and beach area draws families during summer months.

Vacation rentals, in our opinion, are the best places to stay in when exploring Colorado Springs, especially if they have a washer and dryer.

VACATION RENTALS

If you are looking for self-contained accommodation, here are our top picks for affordable, highly rated, and well-located options in Colorado Springs:

LOCAL TIP! When you plan a trip in Colorado, where you stay matters if early morning hikes are your thing. Colorado Springs hiking trailhead parking tends to fill before 7 am most summer mornings.

A Colorado vacation in summer is made extra special when camping. Rent an RV for the perfect mix of outdoor life with indoor modern perks. (A nearby toilet is definitely a plus!)

We love Outdoorsy’s varied RV and sprinter vans options. Arrange ahead of time for the owner to drive and set up the camper for you. It’s a fun way to glamp and still be in nature.

Save $50 OFF your next Colorado Springs RV Rental using exclusive promo code “COHH50” with Outdoorsy

Already Own an RV? Wanna make up to $50,000 this next year?

Best side hustle yet! Rent your RV when you’re not using it. Folks are always looking for all kinds of RVs to rent, but especially Class B and Class C RVs.

RELATED LINK: Treat Yourself to these Top RV Rentals in Colorado

Colorado campground near Terrell Creek

What is the best camping near Colorado Springs?

Camping within city limits is challenging for the tent camper. Territory Supply has a few places to park an RV and spend a few days. If you are renting an RV, these campgrounds are worth checking out.

However, a 30 minute drive south takes you to beautiful Woodland Park, the city above the clouds.

You have the perks of camping near Colorado Springs, close to the attractions but the calm of outdoor life. As you head south, you’ll find stunning campgrounds near reservoirs, winding rivers and gorgeous trails. Here’s a few of our favorites.

  • Blue Mountain Campground: Sitting at 8,300 feet between Eleven Mile Canyon with the South Platte River to the north and the peak of Blue Mountain. Reserve one of the 20 campsites for a star studded Colorado tenting experience.

  • Spillway Campground is at the base of the Eleven Mile Reservoir. The South Platte River runs along this campground, giving access to the sound of rushing water and fishing opportunities.

RELATED LINK: 12 SCENIC CAMPGROUNDS IN COLORADO WE ABSOLUTLEY LOVE

DOWNLOAD THE FULL GUIDE TO CAMPING IN COLORADO (PDF)

Together, we have over 50 years combined camping experience all over the world.

We know camping can be intimidating, especially when it comes to the right gear, finding campsites, cooking over a fire, and making sure everyone's having a blast.

Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, fear not! This detailed ebook is your ultimate guide to Colorado camping. We’re spilling the beans and sharing all our best tips and tricks to make your Colorado camping trip unforgettable. 

Our 65 full-page Exploring and Enjoying Camping in Colorado eBook (PDF) covers:

  • Types of Campgrounds

  • How to Practice Leave No Trace Principles While Camping (lnt.org/)

  • How to Book a Campground Online

  • Tips for Getting Last-Minute Campsites in Colorado

  • Our Favorite Campgrounds in Colorado

  • How to Set Up Your Entire Campsite

  • How to Set Up Your Camp Kitchen

  • 11 Camping Recipes Everyone Loves

  • Cooking Over a Campfire

  • Camping Bin Checklists

  • Personal Camping Pack List

  • Things to Consider While Off the Grid / In Case of Emergency

  • And more!

Downtown Colorado Springs

What is the best way to travel around Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs is the second largest city in Colorado. More like a sprawling suburb versus a true big city, there are a few main roads running north and south, east and west.

Remember, the mountains are always west! This is a super helpful tip when you see three streets all labeled the same but in different parts of the city.

Interstate 25 is the largest thoroughfare in the city, running north and south with exit points to many of the main tourist and visitor attractions. Powers Blvd runs north and south as well, along the east side of the city. Austin Bluffs heads east and west, connecting Powers and I-25.

For planning a Colorado vacation, click on this interactive Colorado Springs map.

Make time for a stop at Garden of the Gods.

Do you need to rent a car to vacation in Colorado Springs?

Most of the things to do in Colorado Springs are spread out across the city. The easiest way to get around in Colorado Springs is to rent a car. Uber and Lyft are accessible for shorter trips within city limits.

Getting from the Colorado Springs Airport to downtown is easy. Southwest Airlines recently begun flights to and from the COS airport. Airport expansion plans are in process, adding additional terminals. The Colorado Springs airport is an easy family friendly airport to navigate.

LOCAL TIP! Renting a car is a snap at the Colorado Springs Airport. Grab your bags, head outside and walk a few yards to the rental lot.

Does Colorado Springs have good public transportation? The public bus system has very few north end stops, mostly routing downtown Colorado Springs. Renting a car is your best bet!

If you do fly into Colorado via Denver airport, plan on an hour and 15 minute drive to Colorado Springs. How far from Denver to Colorado Springs depends on where you start your journey. South Denver (Park Meadows mall area) to north Colorado Springs (Air Force Academy) is around 70 miles.

Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods from Trailhead in Palmer Park

Day 1 - Coffee, a Short Hike and some Super Cool Museums

Welcome to Olympic City Colorado Springs!

Located about an hour south of Denver, Colorado Springs is the second largest city in this state. Home of the Air Force Academy (Go Falcons!), NORAD, Peterson and Schriever Air Force Bases and nearby Fort Carson, a bustling army base, there’s a lot of red, white and blue pride.

Sitting at 6,035 feet above sea level, athletes from all over the world come to here to train at the Olympic Training Center in downtown Colorado Springs. Head out on the Colorado hiking trails and you just might run into a famous Olympian out for a run making your Colorado vacation in summer truly memorable.

If you’re coming from sea level, today is all about acclimation to the altitude. There’s a lot of advice out there. Some simple preventative actions, such as regular hydration, throwing in a few electrolytes in your water and taking a short hike on the Colorado trails will help keep the headaches, rumbling tummy and heavy legs at bay.

RELATED LINK: Electrolytes for Colorado Hikes

Morning

Building Three Coffee

While a Starbucks can be found on practically every corner, we have a few local coffee shop favorites we have to tell you about.

Near downtown Colorado Springs, renovated school turned cool hipster kid Lincoln Center houses coffee shop, Building Three Coffee, a great stop for the perfect latte. This charming coffee shop is part of several locally owned restaurants. A local favorite and best place in Colorado for homemade bread, Nightingale Bakery, is next door. Get there early as the baked goods sell out by 11 am most days. Yep, it’s that good!

Armed with caffeine and baked goods, time for a short and easy hike on the Colorado trails.

Just down the road, in the middle of Colorado Springs lies Palmer Park. Easy to access with 26 trails to choose, grab your water and layers.

LOCAL TIP! Is Colorado Springs nice for vacation? Yes, particularly in the summer. Plan on fickle weather though. One minute it’s warm and the next, a rainstorm has descended with plummeting temps. A long sleeve base layer or rain jacket should be part of your daypack essentials.

If you’re unsure what to bring on a Colorado vacation in summer, invest in chapstick and lotion. Load your backpack with a few other essentials to enjoy the week!

No Colorado vacation is complete without a hike!

Hike: Sentinel Point via Grandview and Cheyenne Trail Loop

3 mile Loop Trail 269’ Elevation Gain

Trailhead Information: Located off N Academy and Maizeland Road, google maps is the best way to find the park. (Enter “Palmer Park”) Once at the park, head up the main road for almost a mile, arriving at Grandview Trail. The AllTrails app gets you there as well.

Trail Description: A well marked trail, you’ll walk along the top of this large plateau. This hike is part of the Colorado trails system, giving you opportunities to add more mileage and views of Pikes Peak along splinter trails.

Palmer Park Trail

Some parts of the trail are in beautiful woods while others allow you full sun soaking. Summer in Colorado Springs blooms with wildflowers, including the Columbine, Colorado’s state flower.

Lunchtime - Favorite Sandwich Shops

Sandwich shops are great for when the kids are starving and you need something quick.

  • Which Wich University Village 5102 N. Nevada St 130 80918 719-599-9424

Make sure to hydrate and rest. Adjusting to altitude takes between 24-48 hour. Planning a relatively easy day of activity at the beginning of your vacation will set you up for a great week! Hydrate, eat and avoid drinking too much alcohol and caffeine.

Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum

Afternoon

After that well deserved nap, load up the car and head to downtown Colorado Springs. Metered parking is scattered throughout downtown and nearby parking garages have great all day rates.

Pioneer Museum

215 South Tejon 80903

With so many free things to do in Colorado Springs, the Pioneer Museum’s exhibits and large courtyard is a family friendly place to visit. As moms, we are always on the lookout for spots to let our kids burn off a little steam.

The Pioneer Museum has two stories with a variety of exhibits highlighting the founding of Colorado Springs. Walk through a timeline walkthrough of this diverse western town.

Many of the smaller rooms offer life size displays, sharing the story of the African American community and Hispanic settlements along with the history of the Penrose family. Plan about 90 minutes to go through the exhibits and take a few pictures.

LOCAL TIP! Wednesdays from 3-7 pm June to October is the local Farm and Market. Food trucks, local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and other vendors sell their wares in Pioneer Square.

NEARBY COLORADO SPRINGS MUSEUMS

With so many things to do, here’s a few more downtown museums to add to your Colorado Springs trip planner.

  • The Fine Arts Center, located on Colorado College’s beautiful campus has rotating art installations, providing an hour or more of worthwhile visiting. Throughout the year, the Center’s Bemis Art School offers art classes for all ages, children to adult. Check out their site for a rainy day kid friendly activity.

  • Colorado Springs Broadmoor Hotel’s original owner, Spencer Penrose has his very own Penrose Heritage Museum. Located near the hotel, check out the 80th anniversary exhibits including some pretty sweet carriages and race cars owned by the Penrose family.

    LOCAL TIP! Pop into the Broadmoor Hotel for a walk around the lake. Ask at the front desk for a free tour of the art throughout the building. Restaurants are open to all.

  • The Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS hosts small theater shows along with indoor and outdoor art exhibits. Located on the UCCS campus, minutes from Palmer Park and Pulpit Rock combine art and perhaps another very short (under 1 mile) hike for awesome views of Pikes Peak.

  • United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum is an architectural delight. A sky bridge takes you to America the Beautiful Park, home of playgrounds, a gigantic splash park and plenty of grass to sit and ponder life. The museum itself has several hands on exhibits, allowing the visitor to see firsthand the hard work and determination it takes to win gold!

  • Head to the Ghost Town Museum for an hour of gold panning, ghost story telling and a wander through some pretty cool historical western artifacts.

    LOCAL TIP! Trader Joes and Costco are within a mile of the campus at University Village. Grab some groceries for the week.

Check out 56 Colorado Springs things to do with kids and adults.

Poke Bowls at Chiba Bar

Dinner in Downtown Colorado Springs

Stay in the area walking downtown Colorado Springs. Title Nine Women’s apparel is a great stop for those “I forgot” hiking clothes.

Nearby Terra Verde has an assortment of trinkets, clothes and western gifts, a varied price range for all budgets. If you’re looking for the best place in Colorado Springs to grab a burger, look no further than Skirted Heifer.

District Elleven’s secret alley door creates the perfect vibe for a night out on the town.

Or sit a spell at Chiba Bar and eat some of the best deconstructed sushi bowls in town.

  • Skirted Heifer

  • 204 N Tejon Street

    Featured on Guy’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, make a stop here for a great burger. Vegetarian options along with buffalo make this a great local treat.

  • District Elleven

  • 220 North Tejon Street

    Hidden in the back of Mood Tapas, this speakeasy serves unique cocktails, rare bourbons and light snacks. A favorite date place.

  • Chiba Bar

  • 19 E Kiowa Street

    Japanese inspired dishes served in an eclectic atmosphere makes this a fun dinner stop. Make sure to add a side order of pickled cucumbers.

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the highlights of Colorado Springs things to do with kids.

Day 2 - Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Painted Mines

Of all fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the city’s star performer. Every Colorado summer vacation should include a trip here.

Before you head to this innovative zoo built into a mountain, breakfast is calling.

  • Coffee Stop: For a lighter breakfast, stop at Frankly Coffee on Colorado Ave. Just minutes off 125, it’s a great place to get one heck of a caffeinated drink. The building, small in size, is big in character.

  • Omelette Parlor, a family owned and operated local’s favorite breakfast restaurant is a must do while in Colorado Springs. Regularly voted best breakfast in Colorado Springs, draw up a chair and sit a spell. There are many options to choose but as their name states, the omelettes are best.

Feeding birds at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Full Day Adventure

One of the top ranked zoos by Tripadvisor and USA Today, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a whole day adventure. When visiting Colorado Springs with kids, grab your shoes, layers and get ready to see herds of giraffes and elephants. Sniff out those warthogs and dance like a penguin.

Located at 6,714 feet above sea level, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo gets the highest zoo in the USA award (and no, while marijuana is legal in Colorado, you cannot smoke or chew on the zoo’s premises.)

Several interactive exhibits allow you to experience the delight of animals in more natural habits. Go Down Under and walk among the wallabees. Watch your hat as you wander in the bird treehouse. Avoid the long tongues of giraffes begging for just one more piece of lettuce.

There is a lot of hills in this zoo. Water misters are on most of the summer, providing welcome relief to the heat.

LOCAL TIP! In My Backyard, there are water features near the petting area (goats, chickens and turkeys). Pack a towel for your littles. They’ll love running through the snakes of water shooting from the ground.

Food Options: There are restaurants on property. You are also allowed to bring in outside food and drinks. Strollers for rent and a trolley for a small fee when your feet have had enough walking.

Parents beware. As you leave the zoo, you’ll march right past the souvenir shop. We’ve all experienced the end of day “I just wanna look” tantrum.

Knowledge is power. You’re welcome.

Painted Mines Colorado

Late Afternoon - Quick Hike at the Painted Mines

Take a quick nap after all that animal adventure. Then hop in your car and head 30 miles west, towards the small town of Calhoun. You’ll wonder if Google led you astray as you drive along miles of fields and meadows.

All of a sudden, out of nowhere appears the magical Painted Mines park. The perfect place to end your day, grab a blanket and sit, watching the red, pink and coral hues of hoodoo rocks take on the brilliance of Colorado’s sunset.

With just under 4 miles of well marked trails, you’ll love the unique beauty of these rocks while slowly meandering through them.

This short and easy hike is perfect for a lowkey hike. Plan an hour at the Painted Mines. You’ll want to take at least 500 photos, promise!

Dinnertime near the Painted Mines in south Colorado Springs

After all that walking and sightseeing, food sounds pretty good. We think these nearby local restaurants are pretty nifty.

  • End your day on a high note and step into the Airplane Restaurant. Sit in a Boeing K7-97 full intact plane for a one of a kind meal. Air tower nachos anyone?

  • Or grab a cocktail at the Purple Toad Social Tap and Grill. They serve everything from chicken nuggets to a great mad greens salad.

Visiting Garden of the Gods is the thing to do in Colorado Springs.

Day 3 - Garden of the Gods

Breakfast near Manitou Springs

Red Dog Coffee in Manitou Springs opens at 7am. Grab a cup of joe, a few pastries and get to the Garden of the Gods for sunrise. Make sure to bring a blanket for those brisk Colorado summer mornings. As you’ve finding out, Colorado vacation in summer keeps you guessing, at least with the weather.

Colorado Springs summer sunrise

With the altitude adjustment clicking on all four cylinders, head to Garden of the Gods, America’s most visited park according to Tripadvisor. Because it’s free, the visitor headcount is hard to verify but estimates come in around 4 million a year.

Every Colorado vacation in summer must include a visit to the Garden of the Gods. As one of Colorado Springs top attractions, we devoted an entire blog post to it.

See these famous behemoth rocks your way: rock climbing (permit required), segway tours (book at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center) or on horseback.

If you want to know where to go in Colorado Springs, start at Garden of the Gods. You can’t miss the red rocks, some as tall as a football field!

If you’re looking for a great long hike, tackle Grand Tour’s 11 miles, taking you on most of the park’s outer hiking trails. After yesterday’s adventures, the Inner Garden’s 1 mile loop might be one of the best Colorado hiking trails for you today.

LOCAL TIP! In the summer, parking fills fast. Get there early to secure a parking spot. Summer in Colorado Springs at Garden of the Gods is very busy. This free park is open year round, making it a great destination in winter if you prefer less crowds.

Make sure to stop at Balanced Rock for that quintessential tourist photo holding the rock in your hand.

When you are visiting Garden of the Gods, give yourself plenty of time to climb, hike, sightsee, picture take and of course visit the souvenir shop!

Afternoon Option-Lunch and a Beer Tour

After a full morning of solid Colorado Springs hiking, grab a bite at the Trading Post at Garden of the Gods. Or get a hot dog to go at the legendary Margo’s Vienna Station.

Springs Beer Tour, disabled veteran owned and operated provides a one of a kind walking tour. In 90 minutes you get to sample tours, hear fascinating history of the streets you’re walking and learn how handcrafted ales are made.

Local Tip! With over 400 established breweries, Colorado has the third most breweries per capita in the US. Colorado Springs best microbreweries are easy to find and tasty to try.

Evening Entertainment and Locally Owned Resteraunts

There are many kids activities in Colorado Springs and tonight, take them to Aircity 360 for hours of trampoline fun. Nearby Overdrive Raceway gives them a chance to flex those “I can drive” muscles while offering a place for you to sit and kick up your feet.

Nearby local restaurants include Dog Haus, Beasts and Brews (over 100 beers, ciders and hard liquor on tap) and Atmosphere Gastropub with indoor/outdoor seating, a CoHH favorite.

LOCAL TIP! The Interquest/Northgate area of Colorado Springs is exploding with entertainment. Great Wolf Lodge, the Summit at Interquest (bowling and laser tag), movie theaters as well as In-N-Out and Whataburger are just a few favorite places to check out.

Make sure to stop over at SCHEELS Colorado Springs and take a $1 ride on their gigantic ferris wheel. A massive fish tank welcomes you inside the 220,000’ store! With speciality shops like hunting and archery to women’s fashion and shoes, make a stop at Fuzziwig’s Candy Store or Ginna’s cafe.

Day 4 - Pikes Peak Mountain and the Manitou Incline

Cog Railroad at Summit of Pikes Peak

When you plan a trip in Colorado, tackling a 14er or hitting the Manitou Incline will give you mad props with the people at home.

Colorado has 53 mountain peaks 14,000 feet and higher. If you’re wondering what to do in Colorado Springs, we say go up, 14,115 feet up actually. Pikes Peak just happens to be part of few 14ers you can bike, hike, drive or take a train to the summit.

Bagging a 14er technically means hiking from the bottom to the top. However, for the folks at home, you can let that little detail slide if you decide to take the easy way up.

Visiting Pikes Peak Summit

Option 1: Drive up Pikes Peak Highway

Pikes Peak Highway takes you to the mountain’s summit. There is a fee to access the road. Starting in 2022, reservations are required to drive Pikes Peak Highway. For prices, reservations and all the nitty gritty details, head here.

Option 2: Take the Cog Railroad

In 2021, the Cog Railroad reopened. Recognized as the world’s highest cog railway, this 3 1/2 hour adventure shows you stunning views of PIkes Peak within the comfort of a heated (in winter) train car.

You’ll spend around 45 minutes at the new Summit House. Buy a donut. While not necessarily the best donut you’ve had, it will probably the only one made and eaten at 14,000 feet.

Reservations for the Cog Railroad are required and they do fill fast in the summer months.

Local Tip! When reserving seats, pick the left side of the train. You’ll have the best views for picture taking.

Melody’s son at Pikes Peak Summit - age 9

Option 3: Hike Barr Trail

This 13ish mile (one way) hike requires proper gear, layers, adequate hydration and training. A well marked hike, you gain over 7,000 feet of elevation gain from the base of Pikes Peak to the Summit House. Hiking Pikes Peak is easy with a little bit of training and preparation.

Barr Camp, 8 miles from the Summit is open year round. Campsites or bunk beds to rent along with a pancake breakfast allow the hiker to do the climb over two days. Reservations required to stay at Barr Camp. No fee to pass through.

Local Tip! When each of Melody’s children reached 6th grade, they did this hike with her, staying at Barr Camp. Book the bunk beds and enjoy the evening conversation of fellow hikers. Great stories are often told, giving your kids inspiration for years to come.

Every year thousands of runners show up for the two day Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon event. This half marathon/marathon event is beloved by the running community. Typically held in August, the PIkes Peak Marathon and Ascent Race changed dates to September starting in 2022. Confirm dates of the annual race when planning your own Pikes Peak hike, taking care to avoid these days or you’ll likely get trampled by determined endurance runners.

Option 4: Cog Up and Bike Down

Broadmoor Outfitters provides an exciting twist on tackling this mountain. Plan this unique day activity, taking the Cog Railway up the mountain and biking down Pikes Peak Highway.

Side Hike - the Manitou Incline

Hiking the Manitou Incline

If you’re inspired to tackle one of nature’s hardest stair climbers, reserve a spot on the Manitou Incline, an iconic trail in the Colorado Springs hiking community. Tourists and pro athletes come from all over the world to walk up the almost 1 vertical mile, traversing railroad ties and gravel.

When training for the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim hike, the Incline was part of our weekly training. We have lots of tips and tricks for how to park, where to start, how to come down and where to rest.

LOCAL TIP! Altitude can be a real stinker! Consider taking electrolytes with you and watch for that fast approaching headache.

When you plan a trip in Colorado, hiking is often a big part of your adventures. However, the altitude can take that well thought out trip and turn it upside down. To keep things running smoothly, pack plenty of fluids, sunscreen, and layers in your daypack. Lightheaded or short of breath? Slow down and rest. It’s not a race, it’s your Colorado summer vacation.

If you are hiking with kids, make sure to add extra snacks to your pack and encourage them to drink up!

RELATED LINKS: The Manitou Incline, Beginners Hiking Tips, Day Hike Backpack Essentials

Dinner in Old Colorado City

Downtown Colorado Springs and Old Colorado City offer cuisines from many regions of the world.

  • Head to El Salvador and fill up on Monse’s Pupusaria. Think arepa meets quesadilla with a spicy mix! Started as a food truck, this locally owned indoor/outdoor restaurant has some of the best homemade juice in Colorado.

  • If little bites of Spanish inspired food is your jam, make TAPAteria your destination. In Old Colorado City, this quaint and beautiful little eatery offers wine flights alongside homemade tapas.

  • Bar Thirty Three is just down the street, one of Colorado Springs’ newest hipster bars with custom cocktails and food from Ambli Global.

Day 5 - Cave of the Winds and North Cheyenne Canyon Park

Simple and Quick Breakfast Options

Colorado Springs Coffee Shops

  • Hold Fast serves coffee and wine, so head back at the end of the day for round two. The acai bowls and homemade blueberry bars (gf) satisfy that sweet but healthy craving.

  • Mission Coffee near Interquest is a locally owned roaster. With a rotating menu, they offer some great tea lattes alongside coffee.

  • Downtown’s Switchback Coffee has two locations, both in charming buildings with outdoor seating.

  • If driveby is your thing, check out Humble Coffee, near Sasquatch Cookies which rivel big brand Crumbl Cookies.

  • We’d be remiss to leave out Loyal Coffee. Their avocado toast is stellar as is their famous drip coffee. Check out two locations on the north and south sides of town.

Come for one of the coolest hikes in Colorado Springs - Seven Bridges!

Morning Hike - 7 Bridges Trailhead

Colorado Springs hiking is simply the best. End your Colorado summer vacation with a favorite CoHH hike - 7 Bridges. A popular trail waterfall trail, head to this hike before 7 am in summer! *If the crowds are too much for you, plan a detour hike on one of our favorite trails in North Cheyenne Canyon Park.

Get to the trailhead early as 7 Bridges is a very popular hike, especially in the summer. While this is a highly recommended hike by many, we believe it deserves your time and energy. With 5 hiking options from one trailhead, you can spend the whole day exploring this area.

Shorter in length, you’ll hike along a beautiful flowing river, passing over 7 bridges. This hike is a fun thing to do with kids in Colorado Springs. They can splash in the water to their heart’s content, build cairns with river rocks, and have that gummy bear picnic you promised (bribed?) them.

If you want to soak in all of Colorado’s summer hiking trails, 7 Bridges is your golden ticket. Tack on the trail to Kineo Mountain for stunning Colorado Springs city views. Loud’s Cabin is steeped in history and well shaded, making it one of the best places in Colorado to check out.

If you’re as indecisive as we are about which hike is the best, try them all!

Red Rocks Open Space

The Colorado Springs hiking in this area of town gives you dozens of options for outdoor adventure. Our favorite hikes include Section 16 and Mount Muscoco. Nearby Red Rocks Open Space trails take you up etched in stone steps to a beautiful lake, perfect for that final Colorado vacation family photo.

Lunch Nearby

  • Refuel at Rudy’s BBQ. Order from the front and find a spot on one of their long picnic tables. Don’t forget to get the peach cobbler! If you get there in the morning, they have amazing burritos to go.

  • Trails End Taproom has over 100 beers on tap, allowing you one final taste of those Colorado only brews you’ve grown to love this week. Food trucks are always outside, ready to help fill your hiking hunger.

One of our favorite Colorado Springs things to do with kids is the North Pole.

Afternoon - Cave of the Winds and the North Pole

One of our favorite summer activities in Colorado Springs with kids, especially when they were little, was visiting the North Pole.

Christmas all year round isn’t just for little kids! At the North Pole, you experience Santa’s magic in the heat of summer with potato sack slides, whirly merry go rounds, riding a gigantic ferris wheel, a tiny roller coaster and all the cotton candy you’d ever want.

Consider taking the afternoon to relive your childhood.

North Pole Slide Fun

Just down the road from the North Pole is Cave of the Winds. Family friendly with some rides geared towards older kids with its daredevil Geronimo’s Leap and zip lines, this is the perfect place to end your Colorado vacation in the summer. Reserve the Lantern Package as a family or custom choose, taking Haunted Lantern tour through the dark caves.

Evening - Flying W Ranch

No trip in Colorado is complete without the authentic cowboy experience. The 2012 Waldo Canyon Fire completely destroyed this local favorite.

Flying W Ranch rebuilt, creating an even better space for a western stage show performed by the world-renowned Flying W Wranglers, the second longest-running western performance band in the world.

Open for special events on the off season, make sure to reserve your seat at the Summer Chuckwagon. Running from May through September, you’ll have some good ‘ole cowboy grub alongside fiddling and dancing.

A Colorado vacation in summer is truly magical. When you plan a trip in Colorado, you’ll experience the awe of nature alongside the wonder that comes from exploring new places.

Enjoy this Colorado Springs Trip Planner and maybe drop us a note of your favorite place to visit.

Start planning your trip to Colorado Springs.

Is Colorado Springs worth visiting? We invited you to come and see, exploring the many things to do in Colorado Springs.

If you’re a family ready for a week long adventure or a honeymooning couple enjoying Colorado Springs romantic side, make Colorado Springs your next vacation destination.

Melodie Monberg