Colorado Springs is, after Denver, the second largest city in Colorado by population. Plan your trip to Colorado Springs by discovering in our practical guide the numerous attractions to see and visit.

Colorado Springs, a destination prized for its outdoor attractions

Beautifully sculpted by erosion and dotted with pink and scarlet red sandstone rocks, the Colorado Springs region attracts with its magnificent natural landscape. At the Garden of the Gods, breathe in the fresh mountain air and capture yourself at the foot of the Balanced Rock, a rock in equilibrium that defies the laws of gravity. Ascend Pikes Peak, one of the most emblematic mountains in the United States, aboard a cog railway. If you're not claustrophobic, a myriad of limestone concretions awaits you at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park.

The list of outdoor activities within protected areas is lengthy, ranging from free climbing and mountaineering, to fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, and bird-watching of endemic species. Are you wondering if Colorado Springs deserves a visit? The answer is a resounding yes, whether you're taking a family vacation, enjoying a romantic weekend getaway, or embarking on an adventurous solo trek.

Historical Notes

The old town of Colorado Springs was founded in 1859 as part of the quest for the legendary cities of gold. You can easily imagine what Colorado Springs looked like back then: there were cattle ranches, mining camps, and saloons. The cabins were abandoned at first light. In the evening, adventurers entertained themselves in the saloons, amid alcohol, raised voices, gunfire sounds, and prostitutes.

The face of the city changed profoundly from the 1870s onward. Businessman William Jackson Palmer purchased the land. He drafted an ordinance that banned the sale of spirits and prostitution. The arrival of the railroad, which opened Colorado Springs to the rest of America, also contributed to this progress. The city became a fashionable resort destination. Wealthy settlers spent their vacations there, especially since it was located near the Rocky Mountains.

In the twenty-first century, the economy relies more on aerospace research and cutting-edge technologies, but tourism continues to play an important role. Recording nearly 6 million tourist arrivals, the industry sustains thousands of hotel owners and restaurateurs and more than 16,000 workers.

Today

Nestled at the foot of Pikes Peak and on the edge of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is a charming green city of 412,000 inhabitants. Economically speaking, the city is quite well-positioned. A 2018 Thumbtack survey ranks it fourth nationally for business environment. The Olympic city is the U.S. city that offers the best quality of life to its residents, according to a 2018 ranking by US News & World Report magazine. Despite its technological ambitions, Colorado Springs has managed to preserve the charm of a destination where life is good.

What to See and Do in Colorado Springs?

1. Garden of the Gods

The first time scientist Rufus Cable arrived in this park in 1859, he exclaimed: "this is a place where the divinities would delight to hold council". Thus, the site, surrounded by spectacular sandstone formations, was named Garden of the Gods. Hiking trails crisscross the park, making exploration easy. You can take a bike ride, walk, or ride on horseback, or simply visit the visitor and nature center located at the park's entrance.

2. Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak lives up to its nickname of "America's Mountain". No need to tire yourself out—a cog railway will take you to the summit. Alternatively, climbing Pikes Peak serves as an excuse for an off-road driving or mountain biking adventure. The breathtaking view at the top will be your reward. On clear days, the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Kansas, and Colorado are visible from the observation point.

3. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

Along with the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, this cave complex is a popular tourist attraction in Colorado Springs. A world of dizzying and impressive verticality presents itself before you. To challenge it, try a via ferrata or board the Terror-Dactyle ride, which will swing you more than 60 meters above Williams Canyon. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is a gathering place for climbing enthusiasts, altitude sports fans, and thrill-seekers, but it also offers a gentler discovery circuit suitable for families.

4. The Broadmoor Seven Falls

Beyond its luxury hotels, Broadmoor is a resort destination in its own right. A series of seven waterfalls merits two to three hours of exploration. Between swimming at the foot of the waterfalls, browsing the souvenir shop, enjoying a meal at the restaurants, and hiking circuits through the forest, your itinerary will be well-filled.

5. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Feeding the reticulated giraffes in the Grand Rift Valley is an experience not to be missed at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. No fewer than 750 animals roam the park, including endangered species cared for by the zoo's team. A visit recommended for the young and adults who love wildlife.

6. Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon offers magnificent landscapes sculpted by erosion, with pink and scarlet red sandstone rocks. It's a favored spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing, surrounded by nature. This park allows you to enjoy adventure in a spectacular mountain setting.

7. Manitou Cliff Dwellings

In Manitou Springs, near Colorado Springs, an unusual attraction captures visitors' attention: the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, cliff-dwelling habitations dating back to the cave age. The Ancestral Puebloans carved these dwellings into soft red sandstone. They sheltered themselves within canyon walls. Seven hundred years later, these architectural remnants testify to their passage through the Wild West region.

8. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Opened to the public in 1979, this museum occupies the former courthouse premises. Its purpose is to make the history of the Pikes Peak region accessible to tourists from around the world.

9. The United Air Force Academy

The academy is one of the most visited sites in Colorado Springs. It's the training school for U.S. Air Force officers. Visit if only to see its magnificent chapel.

10. Ghost Town Wild West Museum

To return to the era of the old Wild West, add the ghost town museum to your list. Many original artifacts and educational activities, such as gold panning or butter churning, resurrect the atmosphere of wild western towns.

11. Old Colorado City

A former mining town founded in 1859, Old Colorado City captivates with its Wild West atmosphere. Its streets lined with historic buildings now welcome art galleries, artisan shops, and charming restaurants. An ideal stroll to immerse yourself in the past while enjoying today's energy.

Practical Information

When to Go?

Spring or fall is certainly the best time to visit Colorado Springs. There are fewer crowds, temperatures are more pleasant, and hotel rates are cheaper. The beauty of the landscapes is also a strong argument for traveling in autumn. The foliage takes on lovely shades of yellow, red, and orange.

Colorado Springs is located approximately 9 hours' drive from Kansas City and Salt Lake City and 5.5 hours' drive from Albuquerque. It's possible to arrive by air with a direct flight to Colorado Springs. Interstate 25 crosses the city from north to south and connects it to neighboring towns. Driving from Colorado Springs Airport, you'll reach downtown Colorado Springs in 20 minutes. Allow 30 minutes' drive from Pueblo Airport. The journey will take 1.5 hours if you drive from Denver Airport.