Forget those whirlwind weekend trips where you barely scratch the surface. To truly experience the magic of Colorado Springs—from its iconic peaks to its quirky neighborhoods—you need a full week. This isn’t just a checklist; it’s a strategic plan to help you see the highlights, discover local favorites, and still have time to breathe in that crisp mountain air.
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to spend an unforgettable seven days in the Pikes Peak region.
Table of Contents
- Day 1: Arrival & Old Colorado City Charm
- Day 2: The Main Event: Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak
- Day 3: Quirky Adventures in Manitou Springs
- Day 4: Canyons, Waterfalls, and Gilded Age Grandeur
- Day 5: A Day Trip to America’s Highest Bridge
- Day 6: Giraffes with a View & Local Flavors
- Day 7: One Last Hike & A Proper Send-Off
- Colorado Springs Vacation FAQ
Day 1: Arrival & Old Colorado City Charm
Your first day is all about easing into the altitude and getting your bearings. Fly into Colorado Springs Airport (COS), grab your rental car, and head to your home base. Instead of staying in a generic hotel downtown, find a spot with local character.
The west side of town, particularly near Old Colorado City (OCC), is the perfect launchpad. You’re minutes from the mountains but still have fantastic walkability to shops and restaurants.
Afternoon: Settle In & Explore OCC
Once you’ve dropped your bags, stretch your legs with a stroll down Colorado Avenue in Old Colorado City. This National Historic District was the original capital of the Colorado Territory, and its 19th-century buildings now house art galleries, unique boutiques, and great little eateries.
- Must-Visit Shops:
- The Holly Leaf: A year-round Christmas shop that’s pure magic.
- Eve’s Revolution: A beautifully curated boutique with unique clothing and gifts.
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory: You can’t walk by without grabbing a free sample. The caramel apples are legendary.
Dinner: A Taste of the West
For dinner, skip the chains and head to Paravicini’s Italian Bistro. It’s a local institution with classic, hearty Italian food. The secret here? If you can’t decide, the Veal Saltimbocca is always a winner. It gets busy, so calling ahead is a smart move.
If you’re craving something more casual, Front Range Barbeque serves up killer smoked meats with a fantastic patio and frequent live music.
Evening: Plan by the Fire
Head back to your rental to relax. This is the perfect time to review the plan for tomorrow’s big adventures. For groups of up to eight, a spot like the Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets home is ideal. It’s just a stone’s throw from OCC, and gathering around the fire pit with Pikes Peak glowing in the distance is the perfect way to end your first day in Colorado.
Day 2: The Main Event: Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak
Today is the day you tackle the two titans of Colorado Springs. It’s a full day, so get an early start, pack plenty of water and snacks, and make sure your camera is fully charged.
Morning: Garden of the Gods
This National Natural Landmark is free to the public, which is incredible but also means it gets crowded.
- Pro Tip: Arrive before 8:30 AM. Don’t even try to park in the main lot off the Gateway entrance. Instead, drive the full Juniper Way Loop and look for parking near the north end. From here, you can easily access the Perkins Central Garden Trail—the paved, 1.5-mile loop that takes you past the most famous formations like Kissing Camels and Sentinel Rock.
For a slightly less crowded experience, take the Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail, a 3-mile loop that circles the entire park and offers stunning, wider-angle views of the red rocks against the backdrop of Pikes Peak.
Lunch: Picnic or Refuel
Pack a lunch to enjoy at the High Point Overlook picnic area in the park, or head back towards town for a quick and delicious bite. 3.14 Pi Bar is a local favorite for its inventive pizzas and, you guessed it, amazing pies for dessert.
Afternoon: Ascend Pikes Peak
You have three ways to reach the 14,115-foot summit of “America’s Mountain”:
- Drive the Pikes Peak Highway: The most flexible option. It’s a 19-mile paved road with plenty of switchbacks and pull-offs for photos. Important: You MUST make a reservation online for a timed entry slot between late May and September. Don’t just show up.
- Ride the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway: The classic, scenic choice. This 3.5-hour round trip is relaxing and offers incredible views without the stress of mountain driving. Book tickets weeks or even months in advance, especially for summer travel.
- Hike It: This is for serious, acclimatized hikers only. The 13-mile, 7,400-foot gain Barr Trail is a beast and typically requires a full day or an overnight stay at Barr Camp.
At the summit, grab one of the world-famous high-altitude donuts (the recipe only works up there!) at the Summit Visitor Center and soak in the panoramic views that inspired the song “America the Beautiful.”
Day 3: Quirky Adventures in Manitou Springs
Just west of Colorado Springs lies the wonderfully eccentric town of Manitou Springs. It’s a completely different vibe—artsy, a little bit hippie, and full of unique attractions.
Morning: The Manitou Incline & Mineral Springs
For the fitness fanatics, the day starts at the Manitou Incline. This isn’t a hike; it’s a challenge. You’ll gain nearly 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile up the remnants of a former cog railway. It’s grueling but offers epic bragging rights. Reservations are required, so book your free spot online.
If that sounds like torture, opt for a more leisurely morning exploring the town’s eight natural mineral springs. Each has a unique taste and mineral composition. You can pick up a map and a tasting cup at the Manitou Springs Visitor Center.
Lunch in Manitou
Walk along Manitou Avenue and take your pick. The Manitou Brewing Company has a great patio and solid pub fare. For something quicker, the Nepalese momos (dumplings) at Mo’s and Griff’s are a local secret.
Afternoon: Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Just up the road from Manitou is the Cave of the Winds. The Discovery Tour is a great 45-minute introduction to the stunning underground formations. For the more adventurous, the Lantern Tour provides a spooky, historical perspective.
Outside the cave, the park has thrill rides like the Terror-dactyl (a canyon swing that launches you at nearly 100 mph) and a climbing wall, making it a great stop for families with older kids.
Evening: Dinner & Arcades
Head back to Manitou for dinner. If you didn’t try it for lunch, give it a go, or try a different spot. Afterwards, spend an hour feeding quarters into the vintage machines at the Penny Arcade, a massive complex of classic arcade games, pinball, and skeeball that has been a fixture for generations.
Day 4: Canyons, Waterfalls, and Gilded Age Grandeur
Today, you’ll explore the southern side of the city, an area defined by stunning canyons and the historic elegance of The Broadmoor hotel.
Morning: North Cheyenne Cañon Park
This city-owned park is a local treasure and often less crowded than Garden of the Gods. Drive up North Cheyenne Canyon Road, stopping at the pullouts to admire the scenery. The road ends at Helen Hunt Falls. From there, you can take a short but steep hike up to Silver Cascade Falls for an even better view.
For a more substantial hike, the Mount Cutler Trail is a fantastic 2-mile round trip that offers incredible views of the canyon and the city below without being overly strenuous.
Mid-day: The Broadmoor Hotel
You don’t have to be a guest to appreciate the opulence of The Broadmoor. This legendary, five-star resort is an attraction in itself. Park in the visitor garage (there’s a fee) and spend an hour walking the grounds. Stroll around Cheyenne Lake, admire the art and architecture, and maybe grab a pricey but delicious coffee at Espresso News. It’s a glimpse into the city’s glamorous, Gilded Age past.
Afternoon: Seven Falls
Located just a mile from The Broadmoor (and owned by it), Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls in a box canyon. You’ll take a shuttle from the hotel to the entrance. Once there, you can climb the 224 steep steps alongside the falls for incredible views. If you’re not up for the climb, an in-mountain elevator will take you to the “Eagle’s Nest” viewing platform.
Dinner: A Culinary Splurge or a Local Gem
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, make a reservation at one of The Broadmoor’s restaurants like the classic Penrose Room.
For a more down-to-earth (and affordable) option, head to Edelweiss German Restaurant. It’s a charming spot with authentic German food, a beautiful outdoor beer garden, and strolling accordion players. It’s pure gemütlichkeit.
Day 5: A Day Trip to America’s Highest Bridge
Time for a full-day adventure. The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is about a 60-90 minute drive from Colorado Springs, but it’s well worth the trip for its jaw-dropping views and high-adrenaline activities.
Morning: Drive & The Bridge
Get on the road by 9 AM to make the most of your day. The drive south on CO-115 is scenic. The main attraction at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is, of course, the bridge itself. Suspended 956 feet above the Arkansas River, it was the highest bridge in the world for over 70 years. Walking across it is a thrilling experience.
Your general admission ticket also includes the Aerial Gondola, which provides a stunning, panoramic ride across the gorge.
Afternoon: Thrills or Chills
For the adrenaline junkies, the park offers the Cloudscraper Zip Line (which sends you soaring over the gorge) and the Royal Rush Skycoaster (a giant swing that launches you out over the canyon).
If that’s not your speed, take a more relaxed approach. The visitor center has a fantastic documentary about the bridge’s construction, and the views from the deck are reason enough to visit.
Lunch: At the Gorge
The park has several eateries. Café 1230 offers burgers and sandwiches with a side of spectacular views from its patio. It’s convenient and lets you get right back to the fun.
Evening: A Well-Deserved Recovery
After a long day of driving and high-altitude thrills, you’ll want a comfortable place to relax and recharge. For larger families or groups, having a home base with top-tier amenities is a game-changer. The Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games is an incredible retreat. You can soothe sore muscles in the private sauna or hot tub, challenge the family to a round of mini-golf, and not have to go anywhere for evening entertainment.
Day 6: Giraffes with a View & Local Flavors
After a big day trip, today is about staying closer to town and enjoying some of the city’s most beloved attractions at a more relaxed pace.
Morning: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This is not your average zoo. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is built on the side of a mountain, offering incredible views of the city below from nearly every exhibit. The must-do activity is feeding the giraffes. The herd is one of the largest in North America, and you can get right up close on the elevated boardwalk to hand-feed them lettuce ($3 for a bundle). It’s a magical experience for all ages.
Pro Tip: The zoo is a workout! The paths are steep. Wear comfortable shoes, and if you have mobility challenges, consider their shuttle service.
Lunch: Ivywild School
For a truly unique lunch experience, head to the Ivywild School. This former elementary school has been converted into a community marketplace featuring Bristol Brewing Company, The Principal’s Office (a fantastic coffee and cocktail bar), and a couple of great food counters. Grab a Detroit-style pizza from Loid’s and a craft beer from Bristol for a perfect local meal.
Afternoon: U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Downtown Colorado Springs is home to the stunning, state-of-the-art U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, this museum is incredibly well-done. The interactive exhibits are engaging, and the stories of the athletes are profoundly inspiring. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to do it justice.
Dinner: Downtown Dining
Wrap up your day with dinner downtown. For a lively atmosphere, try CO.A.T.I Uprise, a trendy food hall with a huge variety of options from Korean street food to tacos. For something more refined, The Rabbit Hole offers imaginative New American cuisine in a whimsical, “Alice in Wonderland”-themed basement setting.
Day 7: One Last Hike & A Proper Send-Off
On your final day, squeeze in one last dose of Colorado’s natural beauty before heading home.
Morning: Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Just a few minutes from Old Colorado City is Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Think of it as Garden of the Gods’ more rugged, less-crowded cousin. The network of trails here is extensive and popular with local hikers, trail runners, and rock climbers. The Contemplative Trail to the Quarry is a great option, offering beautiful views and a bit of history. It’s the perfect way to spend your last morning.
Brunch: The Final Meal
No trip is complete without a memorable final meal. Head to Mountain Shadows Restaurant in Old Colorado City. This place is a classic diner that’s been around forever. It’s famous for its giant cinnamon rolls and perfectly crispy hashbrowns. It’s not fancy, but it’s delicious and the perfect, hearty end to your Colorado adventure.
From there, it’s an easy drive back to the airport, your bags packed with souvenirs and your mind full of mountain memories.
Colorado Springs Vacation FAQ
How many days are enough for Colorado Springs? A 5 to 7-day trip is ideal to see the main attractions like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods without feeling rushed. A full week allows you to explore nearby towns like Manitou Springs and take a day trip to places like the Royal Gorge, giving you a much more complete experience of the region.
What is the best month to visit Colorado Springs? September is arguably the best month. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is still warm and pleasant, and the autumn colors begin to appear at higher elevations. June through August are also popular for great weather, but be prepared for larger crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.
Can you do Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak in the same day? Yes, it is possible but makes for a very long and tiring day. To do it successfully, start at Garden of the Gods as early as possible (by 8 AM) to beat the crowds. Then, allocate the entire afternoon for Pikes Peak, ensuring you have a reservation for the highway or Cog Railway well in advance.
Is it hard to breathe in Colorado Springs? Colorado Springs sits at an elevation of over 6,000 feet. Most healthy individuals will only notice slight breathlessness during physical activity for the first day or two. The key is to stay very well hydrated (drink more water than you think you need), avoid alcohol for the first 24 hours, and take it easy on your first day.
Ready to build your own Colorado Springs adventure? The first step is securing the perfect home base. Booking a vacation rental gives you the space, amenities, and local feel that a hotel just can’t match.
Explore our Colorado Springs properties and book direct with Springline Stays to save on fees and get the best rate, guaranteed. Your perfect mountain getaway is just a few clicks away.
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