Colorado Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak, where four distinct seasons create year-round opportunities for adventure, culture, and family fun. From snow-dusted red rocks in winter to wildflower-lined trails in spring, summer summit hikes, and golden aspen drives in fall, this Colorado city delivers something remarkable no matter when you visit.
After you book your Colorado Springs vacation rental, read on for some of the best things to do in Colorado Springs, with some seasonal tips to help you make the most of your trip during any time of year.
Garden of the Gods is a free, city-owned park featuring towering red sandstone formations that formed over 300 million years through tectonic uplift and erosion. With 21 miles of trails ranging from paved accessible paths to moderate natural-surface hikes, this park consistently ranks as one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs.
Must-see areas include Perkins Central Garden, Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, and the Visitor & Nature Center, which features interactive geology exhibits. Visitors can enjoy short hikes suitable for all fitness levels, take scenic drives with frequent pullouts, and participate in permitted rock climbing with guides.
Sunrise or sunset photography sessions are popular for capturing stunning landscapes. For a low-impact way to explore the formations, guided e-bike tours are also available.
Pro Tip: To avoid peak parking congestion, especially on summer weekends and holidays, it is best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Pikes Peak rises to 14,115 feet above sea level, making it the second-most-visited mountain in the world and the summit that inspired “America the Beautiful.” Located west of town, this iconic peak offers spectacular views across the plains to the east and toward the Continental Divide to the west.
Visitors can access Pikes Peak by driving the Pikes Peak Highway, which requires an entry fee and permits, riding the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, or hiking the challenging Barr Trail for experienced adventurers. At the summit, the Visitor Center offers panoramic views along with the famous high-altitude donuts.
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway provides combo packages that include the Garden of the Gods, and it is advisable to book weeks in advance during the busy summer months.
Pro Tip: Regardless of the season, pack warm layers, as temperatures at the summit are often 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit colder than in Colorado Springs.
The Royal Gorge is located about an hour to 90 minutes southwest of Colorado Springs near Cañon City, making it one of the region’s most popular day trips.
It features the country's highest zip line and offers stunning views of the Arkansas River. The canyon’s sheer 1,000-foot walls and the Arkansas River flowing below create spectacular scenery that is well worth the drive.
Visitors can walk across the world’s highest suspension bridge, which stands 950 feet above the river and has been supported by 1,292 cables since 1929. For thrill-seekers, the park offers a zipline that soars 1,200 feet across the gorge at speeds up to 50 mph, along with an aerial gondola and a Via Ferrata climbing route for adventurous exploration.
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a unique dining experience: a rolling restaurant train that travels through the canyon along the Arkansas River, perfect for enjoying lunch with a view.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo climbs the mountainside south of central Colorado Springs, offering tiered exhibits with sweeping city views that set it apart from flat-terrain zoos. As a recognized conservation leader celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, the zoo combines education with unforgettable animal encounters.
Visitors can enjoy signature experiences such as hand-feeding giraffes. The antique carousel provides nostalgic fun, and the Mountaineer Sky Ride chairlift offers aerial views of the zoo and the surrounding landscape.
Pro Tip: Due to the hillside layout, visitors should be prepared for steep walking and consider bringing strollers for little ones while planning rest breaks. To fully experience the zoo's major exhibits without rushing, plan for a three to four-hour visit.
Glen Eyrie is an English-style castle built by city founder General William Jackson Palmer, tucked into a canyon just north of Garden of the Gods. The historic property offers a quieter, more reflective experience compared to other more adventurous things to do in Colorado Springs.
Visitors can take guided tours to explore the main castle’s ornate interiors and learn about Palmer’s vision for Colorado Springs. Additionally, self-guided walks allow guests to stroll the landscaped grounds surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs.
This destination is best suited to visitors who appreciate architecture, history, and peaceful natural settings near the city center. It is recommended to check availability in advance, as access can be limited during conferences and retreats hosted on the property.
Pro Tip: The most ideal time to visit Glen Eyrie Castle is in spring and summer, when the landscaped grounds are in full bloom, and the weather is perfect for peaceful outdoor strolls.
Historic Manitou Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak, blending natural mineral springs with a funky, artsy atmosphere that both kids and adults love.
In the summer, the town comes alive with street performers and outdoor events, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the nostalgic charm of the Penny Arcade, which features classic games and pinball machines that transport players back decades. Throughout the town, public fountains offer naturally carbonated mineral springs, each with its own distinct flavor for tasting.
Seasonal events add to the town’s appeal, with summer art walks that bring galleries to life and winter holiday lights that make evening strolls magical. To fully experience the area, plan to spend at least half a day exploring the main street.
Colorado Springs offers several unique dining spots that transform dinner into an adventure! The Airplane Restaurant features a fully intact 1953 Boeing KC-97 converted into a dining space. Here, guests can enjoy their meals inside the actual aircraft, surrounded by aviation memorabilia—a definite hit with kids fascinated by flight.
Another memorable experience is the Flying W Ranch cowboy-style dinners, where Western food is served alongside live country music and entertainment.
About 45 minutes to an hour west of town, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument preserves ancient petrified redwood stumps and incredibly detailed insect fossils from a 34-million-year-old ecosystem.
Visitors can enjoy short interpretive trails that lead past massive petrified stumps, offering easy walking suitable for most ages. Ranger programs provide guided talks that bring the ancient world to life, making the experience especially engaging for kids interested in prehistoric life. For a complete outing, consider stopping in Woodland Park on the way back for lunch or coffee at local cafés.
Pro Tip: The best time to visit the monument is late spring through early fall, when the weather is mild, and the trails are most accessible for exploring this unique natural wonder.
Cripple Creek lies roughly an hour from Colorado Springs via Highway 67 or the more adventurous Shelf Road. Once a booming gold mining town, it now blends history with gaming and mountain scenery.
Beyond its casinos, Cripple Creek has small museums preserving the region's rich mining heritage. The area is also known for its stunning fall leaf-peeping drives through the surrounding hills, rivaling some of the best in Colorado.
A highlight for adventurous drivers is the dramatic Shelf Road route, renowned for its thrilling twists and breathtaking views—a truly unforgettable driving experience through rugged Colorado terrain.
You don’t need to drive far from downtown to find stunning views. Several short routes lead to memorable overlooks and trailheads, perfect for quick escapes into nature.
Gold Camp Road, a historic route above North Cheyenne Cañon, offers beautiful vistas without requiring serious hiking, making it an ideal spot for wildlife and landscape photographers. Another easy scenic drive is Highway 24 to Woodland Park, which winds west through the foothills and features convenient pullouts and picnic spots. When open, Rampart Range Road provides access to overlooks and high-country terrain just minutes from the city.
Pro Tip: The best time to drive these scenic byways is during late spring through early fall, when the roads are clear of snow, and the surrounding landscapes are vibrant with wildflowers and lush greenery.
Colorado Springs proudly holds the title of Olympic City USA, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum features 12 galleries and interactive exhibits that celebrate the achievements of U.S. Olympic and Paralympic competitors.
Opened in 2020, this modern facility features athlete stories, historic medals, Olympic torches, and hands-on exhibits where visitors can test their reflexes or try simulated sports. Designed with accessibility in mind, the building features ramped circulation and inclusive exhibits throughout, making it a fitting tribute to Paralympic athletes. Visitors should plan to spend two to three hours to fully experience the galleries.
Housed in the historic 1903 El Paso County Courthouse in downtown Colorado Springs, the free Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum traces the region’s history from Native American inhabitants through the city’s evolution from health resort to military hub.
Visitors can learn about the Ute people, General Palmer’s founding vision, and how the military shaped modern Colorado Springs. The museum is conveniently located within easy walking distance of other downtown attractions, allowing guests to combine their visit with a stroll through nearby Acacia Park or lunch along Tejon Street.
Located near the Colorado Springs Airport, the National Museum of World War II Aviation houses over 100 restored World War II aircraft in a 50,000-square-foot hangar. Many of these planes remain in flying condition, thanks to the dedicated efforts of volunteers who contribute thousands of hours annually. Docent-led guided tours provide valuable insights into the restoration processes and aviation history, offering an experience that self-guided visits cannot match.
This museum is especially well-suited for aviation enthusiasts, military history buffs, and families with older children interested in planes and engineering. The museum is a perfect indoor option for visitors when summer's heat or winter's chill push outdoor activities off the agenda.
The Fine Arts Center serves as a regional cultural hub combining galleries, a performing arts theater, and educational programs connected to Colorado College. Visitors can expect rotating exhibitions that showcase Southwestern art, modern pieces, and significant permanent works. The center also hosts live performances, including theater productions, concerts, and special events, which can be checked on the calendar. Additionally, hands-on creative workshops offer a unique way to experience Colorado Springs’ vibrant arts scene.
The Fine Arts Center is especially enjoyable to visit during the colder months when indoor cultural activities provide a cozy retreat from the winter chill.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, Colorado Springs' blend of natural wonders, family attractions, and cultural sites ensures you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Colorado Springs.
Pick your season, book your Vacation Rental Collective stay, pack for the weather, and start building an itinerary that matches your group’s energy level. From hiking the Pikes Peak region to walking quiet castle gardens, this mountain city delivers on every front.
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