Figuring out where to stay in Colorado Springs isn’t just about finding a place to sleep—it’s about choosing the right basecamp for your adventure. The neighborhood you pick sets the tone for your entire trip. Do you want to wake up and walk to a historic main street for coffee, or have trailheads practically in your backyard? Do you need urban energy or quiet, star-filled nights?
Instead of just dropping a pin on a map, let’s break down the city’s distinct personalities. Think of this as your inside guide to finding the perfect neighborhood that matches your travel style, so you can spend less time driving and more time exploring.
Table of Contents
- Old Colorado City: The Historic Heartbeat
- The Westside: Authentic Vibe & Unbeatable Trail Access
- Downtown: Urban Energy Meets Mountain Views
- The Broadmoor Area: Upscale, Scenic & Family-Focused
- Manitou Springs: The Quirky & Eclectic Neighbor
- Choosing Your Perfect Colorado Springs Home Base
- Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
Old Colorado City: The Historic Heartbeat
If your ideal vacation involves strolling down a street lined with 19th-century brick buildings, popping into art galleries, and grabbing a bite at a locally-owned cafe, Old Colorado City (OCC) is your spot. This was the original capital of the Colorado Territory, and it still feels like a town unto itself with a proud, independent spirit.
The Vibe
Charming, historic, and very walkable. Colorado Avenue is the main artery, buzzing with tourists and locals alike. It’s lively without being overwhelming, offering a perfect blend of history, boutique shopping, and dining. It’s less about nightlife and more about daytime exploration and relaxed evenings.
Best For
History buffs, couples on a romantic getaway, and anyone who loves to shop in unique, independent boutiques.
What to Do in Old Colorado City
- Gallery & Boutique Hop: Spend an afternoon wandering through the dozens of art galleries and shops. Don’t miss the Michael Garman Museum & Gallery for its fascinating miniature city sculptures.
- Simpich Showcase Theatre: Catch a magical marionette performance at this family-owned theater, a local institution for over 50 years.
- Old Colorado City Farmers Market: If you’re here on a Saturday from mid-June to mid-October, this market in Bancroft Park is a must-visit for local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
- Dine Out: OCC is packed with fantastic restaurants. For a classic Italian meal, Paravicini’s is a local legend. For something more casual, grab a slice at Pizzeria Rustica’s charming patio.
Local Tip: The secret to a perfect OCC morning is grabbing a coffee and a fresh-baked almond croissant from La Baguette, then finding a bench in Bancroft Park to people-watch before the street gets too busy.
Where to Stay in Old Colorado City
Being close to the action is key here. You want a place where you can easily walk to the main strip but retreat to a quiet spot at the end of the day. For a group of up to eight, a home like Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets is an ideal basecamp. Located at 1112 Arch St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, it puts you a stone’s throw from the historic district while giving you a private fire pit to gather around after a day of exploring.
The Westside: Authentic Vibe & Unbeatable Trail Access
Just west of I-25 and nudging up against the foothills, the Westside is where you’ll find the real Colorado Springs. It’s a bit grittier, more residential, and less polished than OCC, but it’s overflowing with character—and it’s the undisputed champion for outdoor access. If your vacation plans are built around hiking, biking, or climbing, this is your neighborhood.
The Vibe
Authentic, outdoorsy, and laid-back. This is a neighborhood of well-loved Craftsman homes, neighborhood parks, and Subaru Outbacks with bike racks. It’s where the city’s adventurous soul truly lives.
Best For
Outdoor adventurers, hikers, climbers, and travelers who want to feel less like a tourist and more like a local.
What to Do on the Westside
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Forget the crowds at Garden of the Gods for a morning. Red Rock Canyon offers miles of incredible trails for hiking and mountain biking with the same stunning red rock formations, but with a fraction of the people. The Quarry Pass Trail is a great moderate loop with fantastic views.
- Garden of the Gods Park: Of course, you can’t miss this National Natural Landmark. The Westside provides the closest access. A pro tip is to use the entrance off 30th Street to get to the heart of the park quickly. Drive the loop, but be sure to get out and walk the Perkins Central Garden Trail.
- Fuel Up Like a Local: Before a big hike, grab a massive, delicious, and cheap breakfast burrito from Monica’s Taco Shop at 30 E Moreno Ave. It’s a no-frills institution for a reason.
Local Tip: The best sunset spot on the Westside isn’t in a park. Drive up Mesa Road for a pull-off spot that gives you an unparalleled panoramic view of Garden of the Gods backdropped by Pikes Peak.
Where to Stay on the Westside
The Westside is all about homes with a view and easy access to nature. You’ll want a place with a great deck or hot tub to soak in the mountain scenery after a long day on the trails. The Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room property is a perfect example. Situated at 26 Westmark Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, this home accommodates up to 11 guests and offers exactly what its name promises: incredible views and a hot tub to relax your tired muscles. It’s the kind of place that makes your Colorado Springs vacation rental feel like a true mountain retreat.
Downtown: Urban Energy Meets Mountain Views
If you crave the energy of a city center, Downtown Colorado Springs delivers with a uniquely scenic twist. Here, you’ll find the city’s best restaurants, breweries, and museums, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Pikes Peak, which seems to loom over the end of every westward-facing street.
The Vibe
Vibrant, walkable, and cultured. Tejon Street is the main north-south corridor, lined with restaurants, bars, and local shops. The area is clean, safe, and has a growing buzz, especially on evenings and weekends.
Best For
Foodies, craft beer lovers, museum-goers, and anyone who wants to be in the center of the action with plenty of dining and nightlife options.
What to Do Downtown
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: This state-of-the-art museum is an absolute must-see. It’s an inspiring and interactive journey through the history of Team USA. Plan for at least 2-3 hours here.
- Explore Tejon Street: From the upscale steaks at The Famous to the creative cocktails at a speakeasy like Shame & Regret, Tejon is the culinary heart of the city.
- First Friday Art Walk: If your trip lines up with the first Friday of the month, you’re in for a treat. Galleries and creative businesses open their doors for a city-wide art party.
- Catch a Show: Check the schedules at the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts or the Bluebird Music Hall for concerts, comedy, and theater.
Local Tip: For the best coffee in town, head to Loyal Coffee on S. Nevada. My go-to is their seasonal latte, but you can’t go wrong with a simple, perfectly made pour-over.
The Broadmoor Area: Upscale, Scenic & Family-Focused
Nestled in the southwest corner of the city at the base of Cheyenne Mountain, the Broadmoor area is defined by the grand, historic hotel of the same name. This neighborhood is manicured, luxurious, and surrounded by some of the city’s most stunning natural and man-made attractions.
The Vibe
Elegant, pristine, and quiet. The roads are wide and winding, the homes are grand, and the views of the mountains and the city are spectacular. It feels a world away from the hustle of downtown, yet it’s only a 10-15 minute drive.
Best For
Families, luxury travelers, and those looking for a quiet, scenic retreat close to top attractions.
What to Do in the Broadmoor Area
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Consistently ranked one of the best zoos in the country, this is America’s only mountain zoo. The highlight is hand-feeding the massive giraffe herd with the city sprawling out beneath you. Get there early to avoid the crowds and see the animals when they are most active.
- Seven Falls: Hike up the 224 steps alongside a series of seven cascading waterfalls tumbling 181 feet down a granite box canyon. It’s a breathtaking sight.
- North Cheyenne Cañon Park: This city-owned park is a local treasure and offers a free alternative to some of the paid attractions. Drive up the scenic road to Helen Hunt Falls or tackle one of the many hiking trails, like the popular Seven Bridges Trail.
Where to Stay in the Broadmoor Area
This neighborhood is ideal for larger groups and families who want a vacation rental that’s an attraction in itself. You’ll find homes with incredible amenities that make for a perfect home base. Case in point: the Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games. Located at 19 Clover Cir, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, this home is a family paradise, featuring its own mini-golf course, a sauna, hot tub, and a full game room. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day at the nearby zoo, providing entertainment for everyone in your group of up to 11 guests.
Manitou Springs: The Quirky & Eclectic Neighbor
Okay, technically it’s its own town, but Manitou Springs is so close and integral to the Colorado Springs experience that it deserves its own spot on this list. Tucked in a canyon at the foot of Pikes Peak, Manitou is funky, artsy, and proudly weird in the best way possible.
The Vibe
Bohemian, eclectic, and tourist-heavy. The main street is a colorful collection of new-age shops, art galleries, and old-school arcades. The whole town is walkable, but be prepared for hills and narrow streets.
Best For
Travelers looking for a unique, spirited base with a ton of personality. It’s great if you want to be able to park your car and explore on foot.
What to Do in Manitou Springs
- Drink the Springs: Take a self-guided walking tour and taste the water from the eight naturally carbonated mineral springs that gave the town its name. Each has a unique taste—some more “healthy” tasting than others!
- Play at the Penny Arcade: A paradise for all ages, this collection of arcades has everything from classic 1920s skeeball to modern video games. Bring a roll of quarters (and pennies!) and lose track of time.
- Hike the Manitou Incline: This is not for the faint of heart. The Incline is a bucket-list challenge for fitness fanatics, gaining nearly 2,000 feet of elevation in just under a mile. Reservations are required. If that’s too intense, the adjacent Barr Trail offers a more traditional (but still challenging) hike.
Choosing Your Perfect Colorado Springs Home Base
Every neighborhood in Colorado Springs offers a different lens through which to see this incredible city. * Choose Old Colorado City for historic charm and walkability. * Choose The Westside for trail-side living and a local feel. * Choose Downtown for food, culture, and urban energy. * Choose The Broadmoor for scenic luxury and family fun. * Choose Manitou Springs for a quirky, unforgettable experience.
By picking the right neighborhood, you set yourself up for a more seamless and authentic trip. And by choosing a vacation rental, you get the space, amenities, and comfort to feel right at home. When you’re ready to plan your trip, consider the benefits of booking directly. When you book direct in Colorado Springs, you avoid the extra fees charged by third-party sites, saving you money for more adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
What is the best area to stay in Colorado Springs for families?
The Broadmoor area is fantastic for families due to its proximity to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and North Cheyenne Cañon Park. The neighborhoods on the Westside are also great, offering more space and easy access to parks like Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon for outdoor activities.
Is it better to stay in Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs?
It depends on your style. Stay in Colorado Springs for more variety, easier city-wide access, and a broader range of dining and lodging. Stay in Manitou Springs if you want a quirky, highly walkable, and unique tourist-town experience at the base of Pikes Peak.
What part of Colorado Springs is closest to Pikes Peak?
The Westside and Manitou Springs are the closest areas to the Pikes Peak Highway entrance and the Cog Railway depot in Manitou. Staying in these areas will significantly cut down your travel time for a Pikes Peak adventure.
Do I need a car in Colorado Springs?
Yes, it is highly recommended. While some neighborhoods like Downtown, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs are walkable within their own boundaries, the top attractions are spread out across the region. A car is essential for visiting Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the zoo, and various trailheads.
Where should I stay in Colorado Springs without a car?
If you are visiting without a car, Downtown is your best option. It is the most walkable area and serves as the central hub for the city’s public transportation system. You’ll have the most restaurants, museums, and shops accessible on foot.
Ready to find your perfect basecamp for adventure? Browse our handpicked collection of Colorado Springs vacation rentals and book your stay directly with Springline Stays for the best rates and local service.
Manitou Springs — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
Royal Gorge Bridge — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games — Book your stay →
Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room — Book your stay →