Everyone asks about what to do in Colorado Springs, but the real secret to a perfect trip is figuring out where to stay. Your home base dramatically shapes your vacation, determining your daily views, your commute to the trails, and your evening vibes. Do you want to walk to dinner in a historic district, wake up to deer in your yard near a mountain, or have easy access to I-25 for epic day trips?
Choosing the right neighborhood can feel overwhelming, but it’s simpler than you think. Let’s break down the main areas so you can find the perfect launchpad for your Pikes Peak adventure.
Table of Contents
- The Westside & Old Colorado City: For the History Buffs and Walkers
- The Broadmoor & Cheyenne Cañon: For Luxury, Views, and Outdoor Access
- Northgate & Briargate: For Modern Comfort and Family Fun
- Bonus: Manitou Springs - For the Quirky and Artsy
- So, What’s the Verdict?
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Westside & Old Colorado City: For the History Buffs and Walkers
If your ideal vacation involves parking the car and exploring on foot, the Westside is your spot. Centered around Old Colorado City (OCC), this area was the original capital of the Colorado Territory. Today, its historic, brick-lined streets are packed with independent art galleries, unique boutiques, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
The Vibe: Historic, charming, and highly walkable. It’s buzzing with activity during the day but quiets down nicely in the evenings. You’re trading sprawling mountain views for character and convenience.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- Proximity to Parks: You are literally minutes from the two best free parks in the city: Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon Open Space. You can beat the crowds by heading over for a sunrise hike before anyone else has had their coffee. A pro tip for Red Rock Canyon: park at the lot off of 31st Street for direct access to the Quarry Pass Trail, which offers stunning, less-trafficked views back toward Garden of the Gods.
- Walkable Dining: After a day of exploring, you can stroll down Colorado Avenue for dinner. Forget the tourist traps; head to Tapateria for incredible Spanish tapas (the bacon-wrapped dates are a must) or Pizzeria Rustica for authentic wood-fired pizza in a cozy, historic building.
- Art and Shopping: OCC is a designated Creative District. Spend an afternoon wandering through places like the Hunter-Wolff Gallery or picking up unique Colorado-made souvenirs that aren’t just t-shirts.
Who It’s Best For
Couples, small groups, and families with older kids who appreciate the ability to walk to shops and restaurants. It’s for the traveler who wants a “home base” that feels like a destination in itself.
Where to Stay on the Westside
Being close to the action is key. For groups of up to 8 who want the best of both worlds—proximity and privacy—a home like Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets is a perfect fit. Located at 1112 Arch St, it puts you a quick two-minute drive from the heart of Old Colorado City, but you can end your day relaxing by your own private fire pit, planning the next day’s adventure.
This kind of setup allows you to easily pop into town for a morning coffee at Jives Coffee Lounge but still have a quiet neighborhood retreat to come back to. This specific property, “Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets Springline Stays,” is also pet-friendly, a huge bonus in a city this great for dogs.
The Broadmoor & Cheyenne Cañon: For Luxury, Views, and Outdoor Access
Head south of downtown and you’ll enter a different world. This neighborhood, anchored by the legendary Broadmoor Hotel, is defined by its elegance, stunning mountain scenery, and immediate access to some of the area’s most dramatic landscapes. The roads wind up into the foothills, and the homes are often nestled among pines with incredible views.
The Vibe: Upscale, scenic, and nature-focused. It’s quiet and residential, a true escape where the city feels distant even though it’s just a 10-minute drive away.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- World-Class Attractions: This is home to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation. The secret is to buy your tickets online for a specific time slot to avoid the entry line. You’re also at the base of Seven Falls, a series of magnificent waterfalls cascading down a 1,250-foot-wall box canyon.
- Hiking Right Outside Your Door: North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a local treasure and it’s completely free. Skip the more crowded trails and drive up to the Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center to hike the Silver Cascade Falls trail. It’s a short but steep climb up a set of stairs alongside the falls, offering incredible photo ops.
- Unbeatable Views: The defining feature of this area is the view. You’re tucked right against Cheyenne Mountain, and many spots offer panoramic vistas of the entire city spread out below. An evening spent watching the city lights come on is an attraction in itself.
Who It’s Best For
Families, multi-generational groups, and anyone looking for a more relaxed, nature-immersed vacation rental experience. If your goal is to maximize your time in the mountains and enjoy a bit of tranquility, this is your neighborhood.
Where to Stay Near the Broadmoor
To truly capitalize on the views this area offers, you’ll want a place with great outdoor space. For larger groups or families, the Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room property is a perfect basecamp. Located at 26 Westmark, this 4-bedroom home sleeps 11 and has everything you need for an unforgettable stay. After a long day of hiking or feeding giraffes at the zoo, you can soak in the private hot tub and watch the sunset paint the sky over the mountains.
Having a game room is a lifesaver for groups with mixed ages, providing built-in entertainment for evenings or a rare rainy afternoon. This “Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room Springline Stays” rental truly feels like a private mountain resort.
Northgate & Briargate: For Modern Comfort and Family Fun
Located in the northern part of Colorado Springs, the Northgate and Briargate neighborhoods are newer, master-planned communities known for their wide-open spaces, modern amenities, and family-centric atmosphere. While it’s more suburban, it offers incredibly easy access to I-25, making it an excellent base for exploring not just the Springs, but also destinations like Denver or the Royal Gorge Bridge.
The Vibe: Modern, spacious, and convenient. It’s less about historic charm and more about comfort, space, and easy living.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- Proximity to the Air Force Academy: This is the place to stay if you’re visiting a cadet, attending a game at Falcon Stadium, or just want to explore the stunning campus and its iconic chapel.
- Entertainment and Dining Hubs: This area is home to some of the best shopping and entertainment complexes in the city. The Promenade Shops at Briargate offer upscale outdoor shopping, while entertainment venues like Topgolf or The Summit Interquest (bowling, laser tag, arcade) provide hours of family fun. For a great local dinner, check out The Till, a “new American restaurant and market” with a fantastic seasonal menu.
- Space to Breathe: Unlike the tighter quarters of the Westside, properties in the north often come with more space, both inside and out. Big backyards, multi-car garages, and larger floor plans are common, making it ideal for big groups who don’t want to feel cramped.
Who It’s Best For
Large families, multi-family groups, and those planning to take several day trips from the city. If you’re traveling with a crew that needs lots of entertainment options (and lots of beds), the north end is a smart choice.
Where to Stay in Northgate
For a family reunion or a group that needs its own private entertainment complex, you can’t beat the Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games. Situated at 19 Clover, this incredible property takes the concept of a “family-friendly” rental to a new level. We’re talking a private mini-golf course in the backyard, a sauna, a hot tub, and a full-on game room.
This kind of “Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games Springline Stays” rental is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a core part of the vacation experience. The fun doesn’t have to stop when you leave the city’s attractions, which is a game-changer for keeping kids (and adults) happy.
Bonus: Manitou Springs - For the Quirky and Artsy
While technically its own city, Manitou Springs is nestled right at the base of Pikes Peak and is inextricably linked to the Colorado Springs experience. A 10-minute drive west of Old Colorado City, staying here feels like stepping into a different, more bohemian world.
The Vibe: Eccentric, artsy, and delightfully weird. The streets are lined with colorful, Victorian-era buildings housing art galleries, crystal shops, and funky boutiques. The famous Penny Arcade is a must-visit.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- The Incline and Barr Trail: This is the epicenter for serious hikers. The Manitou Incline is a legendary, quad-busting trek up the path of an old cog railway, gaining 2,000 feet of elevation in under a mile. The less-insane (but still very challenging) Barr Trail, the main route to the summit of Pikes Peak, also starts here. Crucial tip: You now need to make a free online reservation to hike the Incline. Don’t just show up.
- Mineral Springs: The town gets its name from the eight naturally carbonated mineral springs dotted throughout the downtown area. You can grab a cup and take a self-guided walking tour to taste each one—they all have a distinct flavor!
- Unique Character: There’s nowhere else quite like Manitou. It’s a place where you can get your tarot cards read, play vintage arcade games, and browse high-end art all on the same block.
Who It’s Best For
Active travelers who plan to tackle Pikes Peak or the Incline, and those who prefer a quirky, less conventional atmosphere over a polished, modern one.
So, What’s the Verdict?
The best place to stay in Colorado Springs truly depends on your travel style:
- Choose the Westside/OCC if… you love historic charm, walkability, and being close to Garden of the Gods.
- Choose the Broadmoor/Cheyenne Cañon if… you want stunning mountain views, quiet relaxation, and immediate access to top-tier hiking.
- Choose Northgate/Briargate if… you’re a large group or family that needs space, modern amenities, and easy highway access for exploring the wider region.
No matter which neighborhood you pick, you’re only a short drive from the city’s main attractions. By choosing the right home base, you set yourself up for a Colorado Springs vacation that’s not just great, but perfectly tailored to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Colorado Springs for families?
For families with young children, the Northgate/Briargate area is often a top choice due to its modern homes with lots of space and amenities like game rooms and large backyards. The Broadmoor/Cheyenne Cañon area is also fantastic for families who want to be close to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and outdoor hiking trails.
Is it better to stay in downtown Colorado Springs or Old Colorado City?
It depends on the vibe you’re looking for. Old Colorado City (on the Westside) offers a quaint, historic, and more relaxed atmosphere with walkable shops and restaurants. Downtown is more vibrant and urban, with a wider variety of bars, concert venues, and museums. For a charming, tourism-focused stay close to the main parks, Old Colorado City is generally preferred.
How many days do you need to see Colorado Springs?
To comfortably see the main highlights like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo without feeling rushed, a 3 to 4-day trip is ideal. If you want to add in more extensive hiking, a day trip to the Royal Gorge, or explore Manitou Springs thoroughly, extending your stay to 5-7 days is recommended.
Do I need a car to get around Colorado Springs?
Yes, a car is highly recommended. While some neighborhoods like Old Colorado City are walkable, the main attractions are spread out across the Pikes Peak region. Public transportation is limited, and relying on rideshare services can become expensive and inconvenient for reaching trailheads or attractions outside the city center.
When is the best time to visit Colorado Springs?
The most popular times are summer (June-August) for warm weather and full access to all attractions, and fall (September-October) for beautiful autumn colors, smaller crowds, and pleasant hiking temperatures. Winter offers snow sports and a cozier vibe, while spring can be unpredictable with a mix of warm days and late-season snow.
Ready to find your perfect home base? When you book your Colorado Springs vacation rental directly with Springline Stays, you skip the extra fees from third-party sites and get personalized service from a team that knows the area inside and out.
Explore all of our Colorado Springs properties and book your adventure today!
Pikes Peak — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games — Book your stay →
Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets — Book your stay →