Colorado Springs: Don’t Miss This

Colorado Springs is an hour and a half from Denver, making it the perfect day trip to get out of the big city and into nature. If this is your plan, here are our tips for your trip!

Colorado Springs: Know Before You Go

Colorado Springs, nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, is a vibrant city rich in history and adventure. Founded in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, it has always been viewed as a resort area.

With diverse activities ranging from hiking to exploring historic gold mining towns, Colorado Springs is perfect for those who love nature, history, and unique experiences. One thing you should be prepared for, though, is the variable weather and higher altitudes when visiting.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Colorado Springs is from May to September, during the late spring to early fall months. The daytime temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 80s, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring the many trails and parks the area offers.

The summer also brings vibrant wildflowers to life, and higher elevation areas like Pikes Peak are more accessible, providing stunning views and challenging adventures.

I think the best time to visit would be the fall, though, because the crowds are fewer, the mornings are exactly what fall mornings should be —crisp and cool, and the foliage could rival that of the Northeast.

How to get there

I was surprised to learn that Colorado Springs has an airport where you can fly using many major airlines, including Southwest (my favorite). 

The airport is eleven miles south of downtown and takes about 20 minutes via Milton E Proby Parkway and US-24 W.

We drove in from the south on I-25 N. If you are coming from Amarillo, I highly recommend stopping at Capulin Volcano National Monument. It’s a great place to get out, stretch, see beautiful scenery, and learn about the area.

What to Bring

Colorado Springs is one of those places you want to bring clothes for every season. We went to the area in June, and while it was warm during the day, it was more relaxed at night. We also went to Pikes Peak, where it was forty degrees outside and snow was on the ground.

We also visited the Garden of the Gods and can testify that if you plan to hike, you should bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, good hiking boots, and sun-protective clothing.

One last consideration is if you’re not used to high altitudes, you should pack altitude sickness medications, such as Dramamine.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs offers a range of accommodations for outdoor lovers seeking comfort and adventure.

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge is a family-friendly resort located on the north side of Colorado Springs. They were still building it when we went, but the girls and I love Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine and have always wanted to check this out. 

It’s perfect for those who want to combine outdoor exploration with fun indoor activities. The resort features an indoor water park, adventure activities like a ropes course, and themed suites for kids. 

After hiking or exploring nearby trails, you can relax comfortably with plenty of entertainment options on-site. There is everything from the racing slides to the game area—and don’t forget Magiquest!

Kinship Landing Hotel

For a more boutique experience, consider staying at Kinship Landing, located in downtown Colorado Springs. 

This trendy, adventure-inspired hotel offers a range of accommodations, from shared bunkrooms to luxurious suites. They are not kidding about the luxurious suites either- the bathtubs in the rooms with the garage door-style windows are breathtaking.

 Kinship Landing is known for its community-driven atmosphere and offers curated adventure experiences, including guided hikes and local tours. 

It’s a great base for exploring the city and surrounding nature, with easy access to popular spots like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak.

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Colorado Springs

The Hilton Garden Inn provides a blend of comfort and convenience in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. 

This hotel is ideal for travelers who want to be close to the action, with easy access to dining, shopping, and the city’s cultural attractions. 

I will always be a Hilton fan; this location offers amenities like a fitness center and an on-site restaurant. Knowing you are sleeping comfortably, it is a great spot to unwind after a day of adventure. 

Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

For the ultimate outdoor experience, consider dispersed camping along Mount Herman Road near Monument, just north of Colorado Springs. This free camping area is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. 

Due to the rough terrain, a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. It’s well worth the trip; camping here gives you direct access to hiking and biking trails.

Best Places to Eat in Colorado Springs

Coffee Shops

• Principal’s Office: I’m a big fan of the cereal milk latte craze, and the Principal’s Office has its Saturday Morning Cartoons Latte as a standard. It’s a nostalgic twist that perfectly complements the vibrant atmosphere of this unique coffee spot. Come a bit later if you’re looking for adult drinks; the Principal’s got you covered there, too.
  Address: 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
  
• Frankly Coffee: Don’t let the small space fool you. If you want a cozy, sunlit spot, head to Frankly Coffee. Their bright yellow espresso machine and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind. I recommend trying something off their seasonal menu—it’s where they truly shine.
  Address: 727 1/2 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
  
• Switchback Coffee Roasters: Did you know Switchback ranked 2nd in the nation at the 2018 U.S. Coffee Championships in Seattle? If that’s not a reason to try them out, I don’t know what is! Their honey lavender latte stands out with the perfect blend of sweetness and floral notes.
  Address: 330 N Institute St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
  
• Story Coffee: This coffee shop was featured in Architectural Design Magazine as one of America’s Most Beautiful Coffee Houses and has rightfully earned that spot. What makes their shop stand apart, though, is that they give back by donating 5% of profits to Marian House soup kitchen. The Coffee Old-Fashioned Cold Brew is a must-try if you prefer cold coffee. Its simple maple syrup, bitters, citrus, and cherry blend is like a cocktail in a cup!
  Address: 120 E Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Main Meals

• Burrowing Owl Lounge: Owners Tyler and Cody built the restaurant to “create a cool timeless space for people to gather,” this vegetarian-forward restaurant does just that. The rustic atmosphere does not disappoint, giving a true Colorado feel to it.
  Their menu is eclectic. I’m a big fan of Buddha bowls, and their Ethiopian Stew with red lentils, African spices, tzatziki, and jasmine rice hits the spot, leaving me satisfied without being overly full.
  Address: 1791 S 8th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
  
• Denver Biscuit at the Atomic Cowboy: If you’ve been on this site for any time, you know that my favorite breakfast place is a coffee shop. We will stop and pause for a moment when I say Denver Biscuit is a must-stop for breakfast or brunch.
  Part of it’s the atmosphere, with the bright red neon lights, but an even bigger part is the food. They’ve got you if you’re looking for that soul-satisfying “bad boy” breakfast.
            Address: 528 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
  
• Rabbit Hole: I wanted to avoid this place because it’s on every list, but I can’t help it. It’s on every list for a reason. The Rabbit Hole is an Alice in Wonderland-themed steakhouse. Can it get much better? Maybe.
  You enter what looks like a phone booth at street level to go underground, giving it a very speakeasy theme. Are you into the unknown? Then this is the restaurant for you. Lean in; the walls might talk as this restaurant was once the city morgue.
  It’s not just the atmosphere, though; the food is top-notch. I recommend the Bison Short Ribs with braised bison, cherry demi-glace, mashed potatoes, and roasted carrots. Skip dessert, though, and go straight for their cocktails. Their signature martini, The White Rabbit, is a good place to start, with vanilla vodka, coconut rum, a Dash of Cream, and a flaming marshmallow.
  Address: 101 N Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Sweet Treats

Josh and John’s Ice Cream: To wrap up your Colorado Springs adventure, don’t skip out on this beloved local spot, which is not only a treat for you but also for your furry friends. Dogs are welcome here, and they’ll even get their own little cup of vanilla ice cream topped with a dog bone.
Josh and John’s offers a delightful mix of traditional flavors and unique options. While you can never go wrong with classics like chocolate and vanilla, the Purple Mountain Majesty flavor is a must-try. With an ube base and raspberry truffles mixed throughout, it’s a perfect blend of creamy and fruity that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Address: 329 N Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Things To Do in Colorado Springs

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is an iconic natural landmark in Colorado Springs, known for its dramatic red rock formations that rise against the backdrop of the Pikes Peak. This free public park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the unique geology.
On our visit, the girls and I tried our hand at some small rock climbing, with Brandon guiding us along. We are not avid rock climbers, but it was fun.
I saw a woman and her significant other doing more professional rock climbing; it was neat to watch!

The Perkins Central Garden Trail is an excellent option for exploring without being too complicated. This 1.5-mile roundtrip path is paved and flat, making it accessible for all skill levels. It takes you right through the heart of the park, with stunning views of the highest rock formations.
We also tackled the Ridge Trail, a 1/2 mile loop that led us to the Sleeping Giant rock formation. The girls, ages 11 and 9, handled it with ease.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the iconic Balanced Rock and Kissing Camels formations—they’re must-sees.

If you need a break, the visitor and nature center offers a café with breathtaking views of the mountains. The park is open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the summer and 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the winter, with the visitor center hours varying seasonally.

Pikes Peak

Driving up Pikes Peak is a thrilling adventure, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The road is steep and winding, requiring good brakes—there are even brake check stops along the way where they’ll use an infrared thermometer to ensure your wheels aren’t overheating.

If driving isn’t your thing, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a historic and scenic alternative. It’s the highest cog railway in the world. Originally built in 1891, visitors can experience the summit without the challenging drive. Tickets for the Cog Railway start around $58 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.

The air at the top is much thinner than below, making it hard to breathe. For safety reasons, the gift shop sells bottled air. We visited in June, and there was still snow on the ground, but the air felt refreshingly cool rather than cold.

Beyond the summit, the North Slope Recreation Area on Pikes Peak offers hiking, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding opportunities, making it an excellent destination for more than just the view.

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge offers day passes to an indoor water park if you want to enjoy some water fun even in the colder months. It’s a fantastic option for families or anyone needing a break from outdoor adventures (especially if you’re like me and winter ones are not quite your jam).

Broadmoor Seven Falls

Seven Falls is a stunning natural wonder that has been on my list for years, especially for a nighttime visit when the falls are illuminated.

The waterfall reaches a total height of 180 feet and cascades down into seven distinct sections: Bridal Veil, Feather, Hill, Hull, Ramona, Shorty, and Weimer.

Seven Falls is the only waterfall in Colorado to make National Geographic’s list of international waterfalls, which speaks to its beauty. Plan for about two to three hours to enjoy the visitor center, hike to the falls, take in the scenery, and make your way back.

And if you need a sweet treat at the end, Falling Waffles Ice Cream offers bubble waffle cones and house-churned ice cream from The Broadmoor Creamery.

Royal Gorge Bridge

One of the highlights of our 2020 Epic Road Trip was cooking and eating dinner on the Royal Gorge Bridge. With Brandon manning the Coleman stove and a breathtaking sunset over the bridge, it was an unforgettable experience.

The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in America and has a rich history dating back to 1929.

Tickets include a gondola ride across the gorge and a walk across the bridge itself. The bridge is adorned with flags from all 50 states during the summer.

Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the lines for the gondola ride, which tends to get long as the day progresses.

Wrapping It Up: Final Thoughts on Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is more than just a destination; it’s an invitation to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures. Whether hiking rugged trails, climbing scenic rocks, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, Colorado Springs promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Pack your sense of adventure and hit the road to discover all the wonders that await in this vibrant and beautiful city. Colorado Springs is ready to welcome you with open arms and endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

And if you’re looking for other great ways to get out in nature, be sure to check out our post on Joshua Tree, California!