If you aren’t standing at the entrance of Garden of the Gods by 6:30 AM, you’re doing it wrong. While the tour buses are still warming up, the early morning light hitting the “Kissing Camels” formation is the kind of view that actually justifies your alarm clock. Colorado Springs is hitting its stride right now, and if you want to experience it without the “tourist trap” filter, you need a plan that balances the icons with the local secrets.
Table of Contents
- Beat the Crowds at Garden of the Gods
- Conquer the Manitou Incline
- The High-Altitude Views at Pikes Peak
- Wildlife at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
- Local Grub in Old Colorado City
- The Hidden Beauty of Red Rock Canyon Open Space
- Adrenaline at Cave of the Winds
- History and Hops in Manitou Springs
- The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
- A Sunset Walk at Palmer Park
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Beat the Crowds at Garden of the Gods
Most people drive the loop, snap a photo of the Balanced Rock, and leave. To see the park like we do, park at Lot 2 and take the Perkins Central Garden Trail. It’s paved and easy, but it puts you right at the base of the massive fins. If you want to escape the crowds entirely, head to the Ridge Trail. It’s a short, half-mile loop that offers an elevated view of the formations that most visitors never see.
2. Conquer the Manitou Incline
This isn’t a “stroll.” It’s 2,768 steps of pure vertical gain. The secret to surviving the Incline is to reserve your spot online (it’s mandatory) and go as early as possible to avoid the midday sun reflecting off the rocks. Once you hit the top, don’t go back down the stairs—your knees will thank you if you take the Barr Trail back down. It’s a scenic 4-mile descent that winds through the forest.
3. The High-Altitude Views at Pikes Peak
You can drive the Pikes Peak Highway, but if you want the real experience, book a seat on the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. It’s been recently renovated and the views from the car are unparalleled. Pro Tip: When you get to the new Summit Visitor Center, get the donuts. They are the only donuts in the world made at 14,115 feet, and because of the altitude, they’ll deflate the second you head back down the mountain. Eat them immediately.
4. Wildlife at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This isn’t your standard city zoo. It’s built into the side of a mountain. The giraffe feeding station is the main draw, but my absolute favorite thing is taking the Mountaineer Sky Ride to the top of the hill. It’s a chairlift that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the zoo and the entire city of Colorado Springs stretching out toward the plains.
5. Local Grub in Old Colorado City
When you’re hungry after a morning of hiking, skip the chains and head to Old Colorado City. This historic district was the original capital of the Colorado Territory. For a local-favorite lunch, grab a table at Front Range BBQ. Order the “Front Range Sampler” and make sure to try the cornbread. If you’re here on a weekend, the street performers and art galleries give the whole area a vibe you won’t find downtown.
6. The Hidden Beauty of Red Rock Canyon Open Space
If Garden of the Gods feels too crowded, this is where the locals go. Red Rock Canyon Open Space has similar red sandstone formations but allows for off-leash dog hiking in certain areas and has miles of mountain biking trails. The Sand Canyon Trail is my go-to for a quick hike that offers great views of the peaks without the traffic.
7. Adrenaline at Cave of the Winds
While the cave tours are great (the Lantern Tour is the spookiest and best), the real thrill is the Terror-Dactyl. It sits on the edge of a 200-foot cliff in Williams Canyon and launches you over 150 feet into the canyon at nearly 100 miles per hour. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s the best adrenaline rush in the city.
8. History and Hops in Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is quirky, colorful, and home to the famous mineral springs. Bring a reusable water bottle and do a self-guided “tasting tour” of the various springs around town—each one has a different mineral content and taste. Afterward, reward yourself with a pint at Manitou Brewing Co. Their “High-Altitude Amber” is a staple.
9. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Colorado Springs is “Olympic City USA,” and this museum is arguably one of the most high-tech in the country. Even if you aren’t a sports fanatic, the interactive exhibits are incredible. When you register, your “credential” tracks your interests and adjusts the exhibits as you walk through. It’s fully accessible and worth at least two hours of your time.
10. A Sunset Walk at Palmer Park
To wrap up your day, head to Palmer Park. It was voted one of the best urban parks in the country. Drive up to the Grandview Overlook at sunset. You’ll get a 360-degree view of the city lights starting to twinkle below and the silhouette of Pikes Peak against a purple and orange sky. It’s the quietest, most peaceful way to end a day in the Springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Colorado Springs? Late May to early June and September through October are ideal. You avoid the peak summer humidity and the heavy winter snows, and the hiking trails are usually in perfect condition.
Do I need a car to get around Colorado Springs? Yes. While downtown and Old Colorado City are walkable, the best attractions (Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the Zoo) are spread out. A rental car or rideshare is a must.
How do I avoid altitude sickness in Colorado Springs? The city sits at 6,035 feet. Drink twice as much water as you think you need, limit alcohol for the first 24 hours, and if you’re heading up Pikes Peak, give yourself a day or two to acclimate in the city first.
Is Garden of the Gods free? Yes, Garden of the Gods is a public park and entrance is completely free. This includes the Visitor & Nature Center and all the hiking trails.
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