Colorado Springs trips and vacations
If a destination could win a prize for best bowl-you-over natural beauty at its doorstep, Colorado Springs would be a front-runner. Colorado’s second-largest city is surrounded by natural wonders like the Garden of the Gods and the Royal Gorge, making a vacation in Colorado Springs a prime opportunity to hike, climb, raft and ski. But this is also a great city escape with national museums, indie bookstores and a growing culinary scene.
Colorado Springs vacation highlights
Natural wonders
It’s not a Colorado Springs vacation without a visit to the Garden of the Gods, a public park where jagged geological mounds burst from the red earth. Head here at sunset to see the landscape glow — High Point Overlook is a great vantage point. Other must-see sites include Red Rock Canyon, the Broadmoor Seven Falls and the Manitou Cliff Dwellings.
Worthwhile museums
Even for non–sporting fans, the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum is a good time. It starts with the impressive architecture and continues with interactive AI displays and stories of human triumph. The National Museum of World War II Aviation is a history enthusiast’s dream. The hangar full of aircraft is a testament to mechanical mastery, and the staff are always close by to answer any questions.
Where to stay
Downtown has a healthy selection of chains and even a few new independent hotels. You’ll find a nice mix of price points too, meaning a middle-of-the-road stay is relatively accessible. If a splashy resort experience is what you want, head for the upmarket options around Pleasant Valley and Manitou Springs.
Things to do in Colorado Springs
Shopping
Colorado Springs has the gourmand covered, with chocolate shops, specialty wine and artisan grocers. There are also long-standing independent bookshops, artist collectives and even a letterpress. If you’re chasing a piece of Colorado to take home with you, pick up an ethically sourced taxidermy insect at Novis Mortem Collective or Cronk Art and Curiosities.
Family-friendly things to do
For the adventurous family, there are tours of the Manitou Grand Caverns and zip line rides at Cave of the Winds. To wind back the clock, walk through Old Colorado City, which dates back to 1859. If a picnic is more your family’s pace, pick up some baked goods and head to North Cheyenne Canon Park.
Places to eat
The food in Colorado Springs ranges from pitch-perfect American classics to modern fine dining. Breakfast is huge here, with headliners including fluffy pancakes, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy. Avenue 19 and Ivywild School are popular food halls for dinner, while downtown has a host of refined drinking and dining options.
