Much of the appeal of Colorado Springs lies in its scenic surroundings, which include the towering Rocky range and the unique red rock formations of the Garden of the Gods park.
A great place to start a visit to Colorado Springs is at Pikes Peak, one of the area’s most popular attractions. The famous mountain is closely linked to the nation’s early history and was a famous symbol of the 1859 gold rush to Colorado.
Hike up the popular Barr Trail to Pikes Peak’s 14,115-foot (4,302-meter) summit. Or, from March through December, catch the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a leisurely ride to the top. After you descend the mountain, stop into the Garden of the Gods city park. This park sits at the foot of Pikes Peak and is known for its jagged red rock cliffs.
Other outdoor leisure activities include golf and white-water rafting on the nearby Arkansas River. This part of the Rockies is also home to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, a favorite destination for families.
Delve into the frontier heritage of the area at the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum or at the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, both located in the city.
Finding your way around Colorado Springs is relatively simple. The city is built on a grid system, and buses and taxis are plentiful. Many visitors choose to drive, as parking and roads are good and many of the top sites, such as the Garden of the Gods, are only accessible by car.
Colorado Springs is generally mild and sunny, as the mountain range protects the city from harsh weather. However, there is still plenty to do if you need to stay indoors. Stop by the United States Air Force Academy, where you can see the striking modernist Cadet Chapel, or enjoy art at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center.
Colorado Springs
Where to stay in Colorado Springs
Central Colorado Springs
While visiting Central Colorado Springs, you might make a stop by sights like United States Olympic Complex and Monument Valley Park.
Downtown Colorado Springs
Travelers come to Downtown Colorado Springs for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Pikes Peak Center and Monument Valley Park while you're in town.
West Colorado Springs
While visiting West Colorado Springs, you might make a stop by sights like Garden of the Gods and Glen Eyrie Castle.
Southwest Colorado Springs
While visiting Southwest Colorado Springs, you might make a stop by sights like Broadmoor Golf Club and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Broadmoor
While visiting Broadmoor, you might make a stop by sights like Broadmoor Golf Club and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Northeast Colorado Springs
If you're spending some time in Northeast Colorado Springs, Ent Center for the Arts and Colorado Springs House of Bounce are top sights worth seeing.
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Popular places to visit
Pikes Peak
Admire the dramatic views from this peak in the Rocky Mountains, the inspiration behind the famous lyrics of “America the Beautiful”.
Garden of the Gods
Get a taste for the Colorado landscape as you explore this huge city park on your own or during a guided bus or Segway tour.
US Air Force Academy
Enjoy a free tour of the military campus where young men and women are trained to be officers in the United States Air Force.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Tour the mountainside zoo to see hundreds of animals in replicas of their natural habitats. Feed giraffes and look down on the animals from a chairlift.
Glen Eyrie Castle
Visit the English castle-like home and extensive grounds that once belonged to the founder of Colorado Springs and his family.
Seven Falls
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Seven Falls, a lovely green space in Colorado Springs. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area, or seek out the hiking trails.
