Figuring out where to stay in Colorado Springs is just as important as deciding what to do. This isn’t a small town you can cross on foot; it’s a sprawling city tucked against the mountains, and your home base will completely define the vibe of your trip. Do you want to wake up and walk to a coffee shop, or do you want to see Pikes Peak from your back deck? Do you crave historic charm or modern amenities?
Choosing the right neighborhood means less time in the car and more time soaking in what makes this place so special. Let’s break down the city’s key areas so you can find the perfect spot for your crew.
Table of Contents
- Old Colorado City & The Westside: Historic Charm Meets Outdoor Access
- The Broadmoor Area: Luxe & Legendary Views
- Downtown Colorado Springs: Urban Vibe & Walkability
- Rockrimmon & Peregrine: Unbeatable Views and Family Space
- Choosing Your Perfect Colorado Springs Home Base
- Frequently Asked Questions about Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
Old Colorado City & The Westside: Historic Charm Meets Outdoor Access
If you want to feel the soul of Colorado Springs, stay on the Westside. This is the original capital of the Colorado Territory, and it still buzzes with an independent, slightly rustic spirit. It’s the absolute sweet spot between world-class outdoor recreation and authentic local culture.
The Vibe
Think historic brick buildings, creaky wooden floors in art galleries, and tree-lined streets with Victorian homes. Old Colorado City (OCC) is the heart of the Westside, a highly walkable main street (Colorado Avenue) packed with local boutiques, pubs, and restaurants. It feels less like a tourist trap and more like a living, breathing community that just happens to be incredibly charming. Best of all, you’re literally at the doorstep of the region’s most famous parks.
Perfect For
Hikers, history buffs, couples, and families who want a vacation rental with character. If your itinerary is packed with Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon, and Manitou Springs, this is your strategic command center.
Can’t-Miss Spots
- Garden of the Gods: You’re just a 5-minute drive away. The local’s secret to avoiding the crowds is to go at sunrise or about an hour before sunset. The light on the rocks is magical, and the Perkins Central Garden Trail is much more serene.
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space: This is the local’s alternative to Garden of the Gods. It has similar stunning red rock fins but a fraction of the crowds and is super dog-friendly. The Quarry Pass Trail offers fantastic views for a moderate effort.
- Old Colorado City’s Main Street: Spend an afternoon popping into shops. Grab a latte at Jives Coffee Lounge (16 Colbrunn Ct) and browse the impressive art at the Michael Garman Museum & Gallery.
- Manitou Springs: The quirky, bohemian sister town is a scenic 10-minute drive away. It’s a must-do for the Penny Arcade and unique shops.
Where to Eat
The Westside is a food-lover’s paradise. For a casual but mind-blowing meal, head to Pizzeria Rustica (2527 W Colorado Ave) for authentic Neapolitan pizza. For a classic date night or family dinner, you can’t beat Paravicini’s Italian Bistro (2802 W Colorado Ave)—their Sunday Gravy is legendary.
Our Westside Pick
For groups of up to 8 who want to be immersed in the Westside experience, our Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets home is unbeatable. It perfectly captures the neighborhood’s appeal: amazing views, cozy character, and a location that’s second to none. Being pet-friendly is a huge plus, especially with all the nearby trails. After a long hike, gathering around the fire pit with Pikes Peak in the distance is the perfect Colorado evening. This home at 1112 Arch St gives you that perfect local feel, just minutes from the action.
The Broadmoor Area: Luxe & Legendary Views
Nestled in the southwest corner of the city, the Broadmoor area is defined by its namesake: the iconic, five-star Broadmoor Hotel. This neighborhood is synonymous with luxury, stunning scenery, and a more tranquil, established atmosphere.
The Vibe
Elegant and grand. The roads wind through hillsides dotted with beautiful homes, offering peekaboo views of the city below and the mountains above. It feels manicured, safe, and removed from the hustle and bustle, yet it’s surprisingly close to some of the area’s best attractions.
Perfect For
Travelers celebrating a special occasion, families seeking a quieter retreat with more space, and anyone who appreciates breathtaking scenery right outside their window.
Can’t-Miss Spots
- The Broadmoor Hotel: Even if you aren’t a guest, you can (and should) walk the stunning grounds and Cheyenne Lake. The architecture is incredible. Pop into one of their restaurants or cafes for a taste of the luxury.
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Consistently ranked one of the best zoos in the country, this is an absolute must-do. The highlight is hand-feeding the giraffes on a mountainside with the city sprawling below you. Book your tickets and your giraffe feeding time slot online in advance—they sell out!
- Seven Falls: A series of seven cascading waterfalls in a magnificent box canyon. You’ll climb 224 steps to the top, but the views are worth it. It’s owned by The Broadmoor, so expect a pristine (and ticketed) experience.
- North Cheyenne Cañon Park: A city park that feels like a national park. Drive up the scenic byway (check for seasonal closures) or hike along the creek on the Columbine Trail. It’s a gorgeous and free alternative to Seven Falls.
Where to Eat
While The Broadmoor itself offers world-class dining (like the classic steakhouse La Taverne), you can also find local gems nearby. For a cozy and eclectic vibe, check out The Burrowing Owl (1791 S 8th St), a vegan restaurant and bar so good that carnivores won’t even notice. For a great brunch, Lake Avenue Cafe (14 Lake Ave) is a beloved neighborhood spot.
Downtown Colorado Springs: Urban Vibe & Walkability
If your ideal vacation involves parking the car after a day of adventure and walking to dinner, drinks, and entertainment, Downtown Colorado Springs is for you. It’s the city’s commercial and cultural hub, blending historic architecture with modern energy.
The Vibe
Energetic, convenient, and surprisingly scenic for a downtown core, with the mountains always visible at the end of the westward streets. You’ll find a dense concentration of restaurants, bars, museums, and independent shops, all centered around a few key thoroughfares like Tejon Street and Cascade Avenue.
Perfect For
Young couples, foodies, business travelers, and anyone who wants to be in the center of the action. It’s a great base if you’re mixing urban exploration with outdoor excursions.
Can’t-Miss Spots
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: A stunningly modern and interactive museum that is a must-see for sports fans and families alike. Plan for at least 2-3 hours here.
- Acacia Park: Downtown’s central green space. In the summer, there are concerts and a splash pad for kids; in the winter, it hosts a charming outdoor ice rink.
- Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts: Check their schedule for everything from the Colorado Springs Philharmonic to touring Broadway shows and comedians.
- America the Beautiful Park: A large park on the west edge of downtown, home to the impressive Julie Penrose Fountain and a great place for a walk with views of Pikes Peak.
Where to Eat
Downtown is packed with options. My personal go-to for a unique meal is Shuga’s (702 S Cascade Ave), famous for its spicy shrimp soup and creative cocktails in a quirky, cozy setting. For a top-tier brewery experience with great food, Oskar Blues Grill & Brew (118 N Tejon St) never disappoints. And for a fantastic rooftop patio scene, check out The Public House at The Alexander.
Rockrimmon & Peregrine: Unbeatable Views and Family Space
Tucked into the bluffs on the northwest side of the city, these residential neighborhoods offer some of the most dramatic and panoramic views in all of Colorado Springs. This is where you come for that “wow” factor when you open the curtains in the morning.
The Vibe
Quiet, suburban, and elevated. The streets curve and climb, offering incredible vistas of Pikes Peak, the Front Range, and the United States Air Force Academy. It feels like a private mountain retreat but is only a 10-15 minute drive from the attractions of the Westside and Downtown.
Perfect For
Large families or groups traveling together who need a spacious Colorado Springs vacation rental with premium amenities. If a hot tub with a view, a game room for the kids, and plenty of space to relax are on your must-have list, this is the area to search.
Where to Eat
While these are primarily residential areas, you’re a short drive from excellent food. The University Village Colorado shopping center has tons of reliable options. For something special, make the short drive to Marigold Cafe & Bakery (4605 Centennial Blvd), a local institution for French-inspired dining and incredible pastries.
Our Top Picks for Groups
If your group needs room to spread out and craves those postcard-perfect vistas, you have incredible options here. For a home that balances incredible scenery with top-tier fun, the Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games is a destination in itself. With a private mini-golf course, a sauna, and a loaded game room, it’s perfect for keeping everyone entertained after a day of sightseeing.
Alternatively, our Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room property delivers exactly what its name promises. The deck’s hot tub is the ultimate spot to watch the alpenglow light up the mountains at sunset. Booking the Epic Family Home at 19 Clover or the Stunning Mountain Views home at 26 Westmark gives your family a private resort-like experience you’ll never forget.
Choosing Your Perfect Colorado Springs Home Base
Still undecided? Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you choose the best neighborhood for your Colorado Springs travel guide:
- For Historic Charm & Trail Access: Choose the Westside / Old Colorado City. You’re close to the action with a ton of character.
- For Luxury & Manicured Scenery: The Broadmoor area is your best bet for a quiet, upscale retreat.
- For Walkability & Nightlife: Stay Downtown to be in the heart of the city’s dining and cultural scene.
- For Epic Group Stays & Jaw-Dropping Views: Look in Rockrimmon/Peregrine for spacious homes with five-star amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
What is the best area to stay in Colorado Springs for first-time visitors?
The Westside/Old Colorado City area is fantastic for first-timers. It puts you just minutes from iconic attractions like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak while offering its own historic charm, great restaurants, and a walkable main street. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and character.
Is it better to stay in Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs?
It depends on the vibe you want. Manitou Springs is a quirky, very walkable mountain town with a unique, bohemian character. Colorado Springs is more spread out but serves as a better central base for exploring the entire Pikes Peak region, from the Air Force Academy in the north down to Cheyenne Mountain in the south. You can easily visit Manitou for a day while staying in COS.
Do I need a car in Colorado Springs?
Yes, a car is highly recommended. While some neighborhoods like Downtown and Old Colorado City are walkable within their boundaries, the top attractions are spread far apart. To efficiently get to places like Pikes Peak, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and various trailheads, you will need a vehicle.
Where can I find a Colorado Springs vacation rental with mountain views?
Neighborhoods on the west side of I-25 offer the most dramatic and consistent mountain views. Areas built into the foothills and bluffs, like Rockrimmon, Peregrine, and the Broadmoor area, are prime locations for finding a rental with a private deck or large windows perfectly framing Pikes Peak and the Front Range.
Ready to find your perfect Colorado Springs home away from home? We’ve hand-picked our properties to give you the best locations, incredible amenities, and a truly local experience.
Skip the extra platform fees and get the best available rates by booking your Colorado Springs vacation rental directly with Springline Stays. We can’t wait to host you!
Pikes Peak — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
The Broadmoor — 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 →