The single most important decision you’ll make when planning your trip to Colorado Springs isn’t which hike to do first or where to grab dinner—it’s where you’re going to drop your bags. Choosing the right neighborhood as your home base completely shapes your vacation. Do you want to walk to a coffee shop every morning, or do you want to wake up to serene mountain views with deer in your yard? Are you here for the artsy, historic vibe or the upscale, resort-style atmosphere?
This isn’t your average, sterile travel guide. This is the real-deal breakdown of the best neighborhoods in Colorado Springs, helping you figure out exactly where to stay to get the experience you’re dreaming of.
Table of Contents
- Old Colorado City (OCC): Historic Charm & Ultimate Walkability
- Manitou Springs: Quirky, Bohemian & at the Base of Pikes Peak
- The Broadmoor Area: Luxury, Scenery & Seclusion
- Downtown Colorado Springs: Urban Energy & a Thriving Food Scene
- Briargate & The North End: Modern, Family-Friendly & Convenient
- Frequently Asked Questions
Old Colorado City (OCC): Historic Charm & Ultimate Walkability
If your ideal vacation involves strolling down tree-lined streets, popping into independent art galleries, and having a dozen fantastic restaurants within a 10-minute walk, Old Colorado City is your spot. This isn’t a manufactured “old town”—it was the original capital of the Colorado Territory. The Victorian architecture and brick-paved sidewalks are authentic, and the vibe is a perfect blend of laid-back Western heritage and a thriving arts scene.
The Vibe
Expect a slower pace here. Mornings are for grabbing a latte and a pastry before browsing the unique boutiques that line West Colorado Avenue. Afternoons might involve a gallery crawl or enjoying a craft beer on a sunny patio. It’s incredibly walkable, and you could easily spend a full day exploring without ever getting in your car. It’s also centrally located, putting you just a 5-minute drive from both Garden of the Gods and Downtown.
Don’t-Miss Things to Do in OCC
- First Friday ArtWalk: If you’re lucky enough to be here on the first Friday of the month (April-December), the neighborhood comes alive. Galleries stay open late, serve wine and snacks, and artists are often on-hand to chat. It’s a fantastic, free local event.
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Just south of Hwy 24, this is OCC’s backyard. It offers a maze of easy-to-moderate hiking and biking trails with the same stunning red rock formations as Garden of the Gods but with a fraction of the crowds. The Quarry Pass trail gives you a killer view back towards the city.
- Bancroft Park: The heart of the neighborhood. In the summer, you’ll find a bustling Farmer’s Market here on Saturdays from 7 AM to 1 PM. Grab some local Palisade peaches or a jar of honey.
Best Eats & Drinks
- Coffee: Skip the big chains and head to Jives Coffee Lounge (16 Colbrunn Ct). It’s tucked away in a cool, multi-level space and the coffee is top-notch.
- Lunch: Bon Ton’s Cafe (2601 W Colorado Ave) is an institution. It’s a classic, no-frills diner that’s been serving up fantastic breakfast and lunch for decades. Their green chili is legendary.
- Dinner: For a special night out, you can’t beat Pizzeria Rustica (2527 W Colorado Ave). Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza served in a charming historic building with a beautiful back patio.
Where to Stay in Old Colorado City
To really soak up the OCC experience, you want a place that’s close enough to walk but just far enough away to offer some peace and quiet. For a group of up to 8, the Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets home is an ideal basecamp. You’re literally a two-minute drive from the heart of the district, but you get a private backyard with a fire pit and incredible city views—the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Manitou Springs: Quirky, Bohemian & at the Base of Pikes Peak
Cross the highway from Old Colorado City and you enter a different world. Manitou Springs is funky, eclectic, and unapologetically weird in the best way possible. Nestled in a tight canyon at the foot of Pikes Peak, this little town is famous for its natural mineral springs (you can taste-test all eight of them on a walking tour), its retro penny arcade, and its decidedly bohemian spirit.
The Vibe
Manitou is a tourist town, but it owns it. The main street is a vibrant, colorful collection of new-age shops, art co-ops, souvenir stores, and unique eateries. The energy is high, especially in the summer. It’s the kind of place where you can get your tarot cards read, play a game of Skee-Ball that costs an actual penny, and then hike a challenging mountain trail all in the same afternoon.
Don’t-Miss Things to Do in Manitou
- The Manitou Incline: For the truly ambitious, this is a bucket-list challenge. Gaining nearly 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile, it’s a quad-burning test of will. The real pro-tip: make a free reservation online well in advance, as walk-ups are not guaranteed.
- Pikes Peak Cog Railway: If you want the Pikes Peak summit views without the high-altitude driving, this is the way to go. The historic railway takes you right from Manitou to the 14,115-foot summit. Book tickets months ahead for peak season.
- The Penny Arcade: A must-do for all ages. It’s a massive collection of games, from antique horse-racing machines to classic 80s video games. Bring a roll of quarters (and yes, some still take pennies) and lose an hour or two.
Best Eats & Drinks
- Casual: The Loop Mexican Restaurant (965 Manitou Ave) is famous for its unique margarita list and prime people-watching patio right on the main drag.
- A Little Nicer: The Cliff House at Pikes Peak (306 Cañon Ave) offers a taste of Victorian luxury. Even if you just go for a cocktail at their Red Mountain Bar & Grill, it’s worth it to see the beautifully restored historic hotel.
The Broadmoor Area: Luxury, Scenery & Seclusion
On the southwest side of town lies the area anchored by the world-famous Broadmoor Hotel. This neighborhood is characterized by stunning, sprawling homes, impeccable landscaping, and a sense of quiet elegance. It feels a world away from the city bustle, yet it’s right next to some of the area’s most spectacular natural attractions.
The Vibe
Luxe, established, and nature-focused. This is where you stay when you want breathtaking scenery and easy access to premier outdoor recreation. The driving is scenic, the trails are world-class, and the wildlife (deer, bears, and bighorn sheep) are your neighbors. It’s the perfect choice for a multi-generational family trip or a group getaway where top-tier amenities and comfort are a priority.
Don’t-Miss Things to Do Near The Broadmoor
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Consistently ranked one of the best in the country, this is America’s only mountain zoo. The highlight is hand-feeding the massive giraffe herd with the entire city stretching out below you. It’s an unforgettable experience.
- Seven Falls: A series of seven cascading waterfalls in a stunning 1,250-foot-wall box canyon. You can climb the 224 steps alongside the falls for incredible views or take the in-mountain elevator to the “Eagle’s Nest” overlook.
- North Cheyenne Cañon Park: This city park is an absolute gem that many visitors miss. Drive up the scenic road to Helen Hunt Falls, or for a more serious adventure, hike the Columbine Trail from the bottom of the canyon. It’s free and absolutely spectacular.
Best Eats & Drinks
- Iconic Experience: The Golden Bee (1 Lake Ave) at The Broadmoor is a classic English-style pub that was literally disassembled and shipped from the UK. Go for the yards of ale and the nightly ragtime piano sing-alongs. It’s touristy but undeniably fun.
- Local Favorite: Prime 25 (1605 S Tejon St) is a short drive from the Broadmoor area and is one of the city’s premier steakhouses for a truly high-end dinner.
Where to Stay Near The Broadmoor
This neighborhood is all about the amenities, and your vacation rental should be no different. You want a place that feels like a private resort. For larger groups looking for non-stop entertainment, the Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games is an absolute showstopper. Located just minutes from the Zoo and Seven Falls, this 11-guest home has its own private mini-golf course, a sauna, a hot tub, and a game room. It’s the kind of place where you can have a full day of fun without ever leaving the property.
Downtown Colorado Springs: Urban Energy & a Thriving Food Scene
If you’re looking for a more urban vacation with a focus on food, nightlife, and culture, Downtown is your hub. In recent years, Downtown Colorado Springs has undergone a massive revitalization. It’s clean, safe, and buzzing with energy. You’ll find a fantastic mix of chef-driven restaurants, craft cocktail bars, museums, and beautiful city parks, all set against the backdrop of Pikes Peak.
The Vibe
Energetic, modern, and foodie-focused. This is the commercial and cultural heart of the city. During the day, it’s a mix of business and leisure, with people enjoying lunch on patios and exploring the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. At night, Tejon Street comes alive with a vibrant bar and restaurant scene. It’s a great choice for couples or groups of friends who want to be in the middle of the action.
Don’t-Miss Things to Do Downtown
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: This state-of-the-art, interactive museum is a must-see. It’s a deeply moving and inspiring tribute to Team USA’s athletes. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here.
- Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts: Check their calendar to see what’s on. From Broadway tours to concerts by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, it’s the city’s premier performance venue.
- Shopping on Tejon Street: Explore the unique local shops like Eclectic Co. (214 1/2 N Tejon St) for goods from local makers, or Poor Richard’s (320 N Tejon St), a beloved combination of a bookstore, toy store, restaurant, and wine bar.
Best Eats & Drinks
- Unique Vibe: Shuga’s (702 S Cascade Ave) is a local legend. Known for its quirky, colorful decor and its famous spicy shrimp and sausage soup (the “Cafe Tray”). It’s perfect for a creative lunch or a late-night cocktail.
- Elevated Dinner: The Rabbit Hole (101 N Tejon St) is a “wonderland-themed” subterranean restaurant serving inventive New American cuisine. It’s a unique dining experience from start to finish. You absolutely need reservations.
Briargate & The North End: Modern, Family-Friendly & Convenient
The northern part of Colorado Springs, including the Briargate area, is the city’s modern, suburban core. If convenience and family-friendly amenities are your top priorities, this is an excellent choice. You’ll find newer homes, wide streets, excellent parks, and every shopping and dining option you can imagine. It provides easy access to I-25 for day trips and is the closest part of town to the U.S. Air Force Academy.
The Vibe
Suburban, convenient, and family-centric. Life in the North End revolves around community parks, shopping centers, and school sports. It might not have the historic charm of OCC or the quirkiness of Manitou, but it offers unparalleled ease and comfort, which can be a huge plus when traveling with kids.
Don’t-Miss Things to Do on the North End
- U.S. Air Force Academy: The visitor center and the stunning Cadet Chapel (when not under renovation) are open to the public. It’s a beautiful campus to drive through, with several scenic overlooks and short hiking trails.
- John Venezia Community Park: This is arguably the best park in the city for kids. It has multiple playgrounds, a splash pad in the summer, tennis courts, and sports fields. It’s a perfect place for little ones to burn off energy.
- The Promenade Shops at Briargate: An upscale outdoor mall with great shopping (Apple, Pottery Barn, Lululemon) and several solid, family-friendly dining options.
Best Eats & Drinks
- Family Dinner: Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar (1765 N Gate Blvd) is a crowd-pleaser with fantastic craft burgers, giant salads, and boozy milkshakes for the adults.
- Date Night: Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse and Tavern (13021 Bass Pro Dr) offers surprisingly good BBQ and a massive whiskey list in a lively, modern setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Colorado Springs for families?
For families with young children, the Briargate/North End is fantastic for its convenience, modern amenities, and incredible parks. For families with older kids who want more adventure, the Broadmoor area is ideal due to its close proximity to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Seven Falls, and numerous hiking trails.
What is the most walkable neighborhood in Colorado Springs?
Old Colorado City (OCC) is by far the most walkable neighborhood for visitors. You can easily park your car and spend a full day exploring shops, galleries, and restaurants on foot. Downtown is also very walkable, but OCC has a more relaxed, historic vacation feel.
Is it better to stay in Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs?
It depends on your travel style. Stay in Manitou Springs if you want a quirky, bohemian experience where you can walk to unique shops and are at the doorstep of the Incline and Pikes Peak. Stay in Colorado Springs (like in OCC or Downtown) for a more central location with easier access to the entire Pikes Peak region and a wider variety of dining and lodging options.
What part of Colorado Springs is closest to Pikes Peak?
Manitou Springs is located directly at the base of Pikes Peak. It’s the starting point for both the Manitou Incline and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The town of Cascade, just west of Manitou, is where the Pikes Peak Highway begins.
How do I book a vacation rental directly in Colorado Springs?
Booking a Colorado Springs vacation rental directly with a manager like Springline Stays is the best way to save money and get local expertise. When you book direct, you avoid the extra service fees charged by large online travel agencies like Airbnb and Vrbo, often saving you hundreds of dollars on your trip.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, you’re in for an incredible trip. Each corner of Colorado Springs offers a unique way to experience the beauty and adventure of the Rockies. By picking the right home base for your crew, you’re setting yourself up for the perfect Pikes Peak adventure.
When you’re ready to find your perfect home away from home, browse our curated collection of Colorado Springs properties and book your stay directly with Springline Stays to get the best price, guaranteed.
Old Colorado City — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
Manitou Springs — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets — Book your stay →
Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room — Book your stay →