Where to Stay in Colorado Springs: A Neighborhood-by-Neighborhood Guide

Most travel guides for Colorado Springs start with a list of things to do. They tell you to see Garden of the Gods, drive up Pikes Peak, and visit the zoo. That’s all great advice, but it misses the most important first step: deciding on your home base. Where you stay in this city dramatically shapes your entire vacation experience.

Are you looking for a walkable, historic vibe with breweries and art galleries at your doorstep? Or would you prefer a quiet, scenic retreat where deer might wander through your yard at dawn?

Instead of just planning your activities, let’s plan your vibe. This guide breaks down the main neighborhoods in Colorado Springs, giving you the real scoop on what it’s like to stay in each one, who it’s for, and the hidden gems you’ll find there.

The Westside: Old Colorado City & Manitou Springs
The Broadmoor Area: Upscale & Unbelievably Scenic
Downtown: The Urban Heart of the Springs
Rockrimmon & The Northwest: Modern & Convenient
Frequently Asked Questions

The Westside: Old Colorado City & Manitou Springs

The Vibe: Historic, bohemian, and right at the foot of the mountains. This is the Colorado Springs you’ve probably seen on postcards. The Westside is a blend of Old Colorado City’s Wild West charm and Manitou Springs’ quirky, artsy personality. It’s incredibly walkable, packed with independent shops, and serves as the gateway to the region’s most famous natural wonders.

Perfect For: First-time visitors, avid hikers, art lovers, and families who want to be as close to the action as possible. If your itinerary is packed with Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Red Rock Canyon, this is your spot.

What to Do on the Westside

You could spend your entire trip here and not get bored. This area is dense with attractions.

Garden of the Gods: It’s famous for a reason. The towering red rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak are breathtaking. Local Tip: The main loop gets jammed with cars by 9 AM. Park at the Trading Post on the south side and walk in, or even better, go for a sunrise or sunset stroll when the crowds thin and the light is magical.
Old Colorado City (OCC): Stroll down Colorado Avenue and pop into the art galleries, boutique shops, and candy stores. It was the original capital of the Colorado Territory, and that history is palpable. Don’t miss the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for a treat.
Manitou Springs: This funky town is a world of its own. Taste the eight different natural mineral springs (they each have a unique flavor!), play vintage games at the Penny Arcade, and hike the infamous Manitou Incline if you’re feeling brave (reservations required!).
Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Often called the “local’s Garden of the Gods,” this park offers miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking with similar stunning rock formations but a fraction of the crowds. It’s also one of the best dog-friendly spots in the city.

Where to Eat & Drink

Paravicini’s Italian Bistro: A Westside institution serving loud, lively, and absolutely delicious Italian-American food. You can’t go wrong with their classic spaghetti and meatballs. Find it at 2802 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904.
Pizzeria Rustica: For authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, this is the place. Their back patio is a hidden gem on a warm summer evening. My go-to is the Salsiccia with fennel sausage and roasted peppers.
Cerberus Brewing Company: A fantastic brewery with an even better beer garden. They have a creative food menu that goes way beyond typical pub fare. The patio is dog-friendly, too.

Where to Stay on the Westside

Being close to OCC and the mountains is key here. For a group or family, having a comfortable base to return to after a long day of exploring is a must. A place like Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets is ideal. It’s located at 1112 Arch St, putting you minutes from the heart of Old Colorado City and a straight shot to Garden of the Gods. After a day of hiking, gathering around the fire pit with epic mountain views is the perfect way to unwind.

The Broadmoor Area: Upscale & Unbelievably Scenic

The Vibe: Elegant, established, and nestled against the lush foothills of Cheyenne Mountain. This neighborhood is defined by the world-famous Broadmoor Hotel, but the surrounding area is a destination in itself. It’s characterized by sprawling homes, manicured landscapes, and a quieter, more residential feel, all while being next door to some of the city’s most spectacular attractions.

Perfect For: Families looking for more space, groups celebrating a special occasion, nature lovers who appreciate a touch of luxury, and anyone who wants breathtaking scenery right outside their window.

What to Do in the Broadmoor Area

This part of town is all about grand-scale nature and iconic experiences.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Consistently ranked one of the best zoos in the country, this is an absolute must-do. The entire zoo is built on the side of a mountain, offering incredible views of the city below. The highlight is hand-feeding the giraffes—an experience you won’t forget. Local Tip: Buy your tickets online in advance, as they often sell out, and wear comfortable shoes for the hilly terrain.
Seven Falls: Hike up 224 steep steps alongside a series of seven cascading waterfalls. The view from the top is worth the climb. For those who prefer a more leisurely approach, an elevator is built inside the mountain to take you to the top viewing platform.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park: A stunning, city-owned park that feels like a national park. Drive up the scenic Gold Camp Road (in the summer) or hike the popular trails like Mount Cutler for rewarding views without a huge time commitment. It’s completely free to enter.
The Broadmoor: Even if you aren’t a guest, you can explore the beautiful grounds of this historic hotel. Walk around Cheyenne Lake, browse the high-end shops, or have a drink at the classic Hotel Bar.

Where to Eat & Drink

The Golden Bee: Located at The Broadmoor, this authentic 19th-century British pub was shipped over from the UK panel by panel. It’s famous for its lively sing-alongs around the piano at night and its massive yards of ale. A truly unique experience.
Sacred Ground Cafe: A cozy spot for coffee, breakfast, or a light lunch at the entrance to Cheyenne Cañon. Their patio is a perfect place to fuel up before or after a hike. Find it at 1801 W Cheyenne Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
Prime 25: If you’re looking for a top-tier steakhouse experience, this is it. It’s a short drive from the Broadmoor area but is the go-to spot for a celebratory dinner.

Where to Stay in the Broadmoor Area

This neighborhood is all about having a home that feels like a destination in itself. You’ll want a place with amenities that encourage you to stay in and relax after your adventures. The Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games is a perfect example. This Colorado Springs vacation rental, located at 19 Clover Circle, is designed for entertainment. Imagine a family tournament on the private mini-golf course, followed by a soak in the hot tub and a session in the sauna. It’s the kind of place that creates lasting memories and provides a luxurious home base for exploring the zoo and Seven Falls.

Downtown: The Urban Heart of the Springs

The Vibe: Energetic, central, and packed with culinary and cultural highlights. Downtown Colorado Springs is a vibrant, walkable grid of streets lined with local restaurants, craft breweries, unique shops, and museums. It has a more “city” feel than other parts of town, with historic brick buildings alongside modern developments.

Perfect For: Foodies, couples on a romantic getaway, and visitors who want to be in the center of the dining and nightlife scene. If your idea of a great vacation involves trying a new restaurant every night, this is your neighborhood.

What to Do Downtown

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: A state-of-the-art, interactive museum that is a must-see for sports fans and patriots alike. The architecture is stunning, and the exhibits are incredibly well done. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here.
Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts: Catch a show from the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, a touring Broadway production, or a famous comedian at this beautiful venue.
Acacia Park: A lovely urban park that often hosts farmers’ markets, festivals, and free concerts during the summer and has an outdoor ice rink in the winter.
Explore Tejon Street: This is the main artery of downtown. Spend an afternoon wandering north and south on Tejon, popping into local boutiques like The Local Honey Collective and Eclectic Co.

Where to Eat & Drink

Shuga’s: A quirky and beloved restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and globally-inspired menu. You absolutely have to try their famous spicy shrimp soup and a “Sassaparilla” cocktail. Located at 702 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.
The Rabbit Hole: For a truly unique dining experience, head to this “Alice in Wonderland” themed restaurant located underground. The entrance is a subtle subway staircase on the sidewalk. The food is inventive and the cocktails are magical. Reservations are highly recommended.
Oskar Blues Grill & Brew: A massive, lively space with a huge tap list of their famous craft beers and a menu of hearty, delicious Southern-inspired comfort food.

Rockrimmon & The Northwest: Modern & Convenient

The Vibe: Suburban, scenic, and family-friendly. The northwest part of Colorado Springs, particularly the Rockrimmon area, is characterized by its dramatic bluffs, canyons, and stunning views of the Front Range. It’s a more modern, residential area with easy access to I-25, making it a convenient base for exploring both the city and destinations to the north.

Perfect For: Families visiting the U.S. Air Force Academy, outdoor enthusiasts who love trail running and mountain biking, and anyone looking for a quieter, more modern stay with easy highway access.

What to Do in the Northwest

U.S. Air Force Academy: A must-visit. Drive through the stunning campus, stop at the Visitor Center, and marvel at the iconic Cadet Chapel (Note: The chapel is undergoing extensive restoration and is currently closed to the public, but the rest of the grounds are worth seeing). The Honor Court and Falcon Stadium are also impressive sights.
Ute Valley Park: A local favorite for hiking and mountain biking. The network of trails winds through a beautiful valley and up onto rocky ridges with fantastic views. It’s less crowded than the “big name” parks but just as beautiful.
ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy: Explore the history of rodeo and the heritage of the American West. It’s a fun and educational stop for all ages.
Garden of the Gods Overlook on Mesa Road: For one of the best panoramic views of Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak in the background (the classic photo op!), drive up Mesa Road to the scenic overlook.

Where to Eat & Drink

Marigold Cafe & Bakery: A long-standing local favorite for French-inspired cuisine and exquisite pastries. It’s a great spot for a celebratory lunch or a romantic dinner.
The Till: A beautiful, modern restaurant with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The open kitchen and spacious dining room create a welcoming atmosphere. Their brunch is particularly popular. Find them at 963 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905.
Serranos Coffee: A local coffee roaster with a drive-thru, perfect for grabbing a high-quality latte before heading out for a day of adventure.

Choosing the right neighborhood is the first step to an unforgettable Colorado Springs vacation. Each area offers a distinct flavor and a different kind of adventure. Once you’ve picked your vibe, the rest of your planning will fall perfectly into place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Colorado Springs for families?

For families, the Westside (near Old Colorado City) and the Broadmoor area are typically the top choices. The Westside offers unbeatable proximity to major attractions like Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon. The Broadmoor area provides access to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Seven Falls, often with larger properties that have great amenities for kids and adults alike.

Is it better to stay in Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs?

It depends on your preference. Manitou Springs is a small, quirky, and extremely walkable town with its own unique charm and direct access to the Incline and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. However, it can feel crowded. Staying in nearby Old Colorado City or the Westside of Colorado Springs gives you easy access to Manitou (it’s only a 5-10 minute drive) while providing a more central location to explore the entire Pikes Peak region.

What part of Colorado Springs is closest to Pikes Peak?

The western parts of the city, specifically Manitou Springs and the adjacent areas of Colorado Springs (like the Westside), are closest to the entrance of the Pikes Peak Highway and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Staying in these neighborhoods will significantly cut down your travel time to America’s Mountain.

Do I need a car to get around Colorado Springs?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have a car. While some neighborhoods like Old Colorado City and Downtown are walkable within their boundaries, Colorado Springs is a very spread-out city. To access the best hiking trails, parks, and attractions like the Air Force Academy and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, you will need your own vehicle.

Ready to find your perfect home base in the Pikes Peak region? From cozy, pet-friendly homes near historic districts to sprawling houses with epic family amenities, we have the ideal Colorado Springs vacation rental for your crew.

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The Broadmoor — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.