Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, nestled at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and array of outdoor activities. Here's a travel guide to help you explore the best of Colorado Springs:

Basic Information

• Location: Colorado, USA

• Elevation: 6,035 feet

• Population: Approximately 478,000

Best Time to Visit:

• Summer (June to August): The weather is warm, and most attractions are open. It’s the best time for outdoor activities.

• Fall (September to October): The temperatures are cooler, and the changing foliage is beautiful. The crowds are also smaller.

• Winter (November to February): It’s a good time for winter sports enthusiasts, though some attractions may be closed.

Attractions and Activities:

Colorado Springs boasts a plethora of attractions ranging from the stunning natural beauty of places like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, to the historic charm of Old Colorado City, offering visitors a diverse array of experiences including hiking, dining, learning, and exploring.

• Garden of the Gods: A natural landmark with stunning red rock formations, offering hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. The Visitor & Nature Center provides information and exhibits about the park.

• Pikes Peak: One of Colorado's 14ers, offering breathtaking views. Visitors can drive, hike, or take the Cog Railway to the summit. It is also home to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb auto race.

• U.S. Air Force Academy: Provides tours of the iconic Cadet Chapel and the visitor center, displaying exhibits about the Air Force and the Academy’s history.

• Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: America’s only mountain zoo, located at over 6,000 feet above sea level, is home to over 750 animals and 170 species.

• Old Colorado City: A historic district featuring boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants, and offering a range of events, including a farmers market and art walks.

• Manitou Springs: A quaint nearby town known for its mineral springs, offering unique shopping, dining, and the famous Manitou Incline.

• Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Offers a range of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding and features stunning red rock formations and scenic views.

• Palmer Park: A large urban park offering hiking, biking, and stunning vistas of Pikes Peak and the city.

• Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Offers cave tours showcasing breathtaking formations and adventure activities like the Terror-Dactyl ride and the Wind Walker Challenge Course above ground.

• The Broadmoor Seven Falls: A series of seven cascading waterfalls, with a total height of 181 feet, offering hiking trails, including one leading to the top of the falls for panoramic views.

• Western Museum of Mining & Industry: Provides insights into the history of mining and industrial technologies of the past and features live demonstrations of operating machinery.

• Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: Displays exhibits related to the history of the region.

• North Cheyenne Cañon Park: Offers numerous trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, with the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center providing information on local flora and fauna.

• The National Museum of World War II Aviation: Provides insights into the aviation technology and history of World War II, featuring fully restored aircraft and informative exhibits.

• Miramont Castle Museum: A Victorian-era castle offering a glimpse into the lives of the people living in the region during the late 1800s, featuring 30 rooms, each decorated in the style of a different time period or country.

• Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College: Houses an impressive collection of Native American, Hispanic, modern American, and European art and offers theatre productions, art classes, and other cultural events.

Outdoor Activities:

• Hiking: There are numerous trails available, including the Barr Trail and the Seven Bridges Trail.

• Mountain Biking: North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers challenging rides.

• Rock Climbing: Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon are popular spots.

• Rafting: Arkansas River offers thrilling whitewater rafting experiences.

Where to Stay:

When visiting Colorado Springs, selecting the right area to stay is crucial, depending on the type of experience you seek. Here are some recommended areas

Downtown Colorado Springs:

• Best for: First-time visitors, business travelers, and food lovers.

• Benefits: It is a bustling area close to restaurants, shops, museums, and galleries. It offers easy access to public transportation and is near to major attractions.

  
  

Old Colorado City:

• Best for: History buffs and shoppers.

• Benefits: This historic area offers charming boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and is close to attractions like Garden of the Gods.

  
  

Manitou Springs:

• Best for: Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Benefits: This quaint area is known for its natural mineral springs and is close to hiking trails and outdoor activities.

  
  

North Colorado Springs:

• Best for: Business travelers and families.

• Benefits: It’s quieter with less traffic, close to the Air Force Academy, and offers easy access to attractions located to the north of the city.

  
  

Broadmoor Area:

• Best for: Luxury travelers and couples.

• Benefits: Home to the luxurious Broadmoor Hotel, this area offers high-end dining and is close to attractions like Seven Falls and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

  
  

East Colorado Springs:

• Best for: Budget travelers and families.

• Benefits: Offers affordable accommodation options and is close to shopping centers and restaurants.

  
  

Getting to Colorado Springs:

By Air:

Colorado Springs Airport (COS):

• This is the most convenient option as it is located just 11 miles southeast of Colorado Springs. It’s served by several major airlines and offers rental car services, taxis, and ride-share options to get you to your final destination in the city.

Denver International Airport (DEN):

• Denver Airport is about 80 miles north of Colorado Springs. It's one of the busiest airports in the country, served by numerous international and domestic flights. From Denver, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service like Groome Transportation to get to Colorado Springs.

By Road:

From Denver:

• If you are coming from Denver, you can take I-25 S directly to Colorado Springs. The drive typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Getting Around:

• Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT): Provides local bus service in Colorado Springs, which can be an economical option for getting around the city.

• Biking: Colorado Springs is a bike-friendly city with numerous trails, and bike rentals are widely available.

Packing Tips:

• Layers: Weather can be unpredictable; packing layers is essential.

• Sunscreen: High elevation means stronger UV rays.

• Hiking Gear: Comfortable hiking boots and gear if you plan on exploring the trails.

Local Tips:

• High Altitude: Stay hydrated and allow time to acclimate to the altitude.

• State Park Pass: Consider purchasing a pass if you plan on visiting multiple state parks.

• Book Early: Accommodations and popular attractions can fill up quickly in the peak seasons.

Safety:

• Wildlife: Be cautious and respectful of wildlife; do not approach or feed animals.

• Weather: Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in the mountains.

• Hiking Safety: Let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time.

Colorado Springs is a versatile destination, catering to a variety of interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural explorations. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, history buff, or someone just looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, Colorado Springs has something for everyone.

Day Trip:

If you have a passion for history, there’s a day trip that you might find particularly enriching and rewarding.

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site:

• Location: Located near La Junta, Colorado.

• Distance: Approximately 180 miles southeast of Colorado Springs, around a 3-hour drive one way.

• Attractions: This reconstructed 1840s adobe fur trading post provides a glimpse into the cultural exchange between settlers and Plains Indians. The fort was a significant center of commerce at a crossroads of cultures.

• Activities: Guided tours, living history demonstrations, exploring the fort, wildlife viewing, and attending special events.

• Visitor Information: The site often hosts special events and activities, so it’s wise to check the schedule and any seasonal changes in opening hours before planning your visit.