Colorado Springs
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Colorado Springs's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the heart of Colorado Springs. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, admiring the beautiful architecture and vibrant murals. Don’t forget to stop by the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
In the afternoon, enjoy lunch at one of the charming eateries downtown, savoring local flavors. Post-lunch, visit the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade, where you can play vintage games and explore quirky shops. Wrap up the day by taking a scenic walk around Crystal Park, relishing the stunning mountain views.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a taste of Colorado craft beers. Join a guided ghost tour to learn about the haunted history of the area, adding a thrilling twist to your evening. Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the spectacular Garden of the Gods Park. Spend the morning hiking along the well-maintained trails, where you can marvel at the towering red rock formations. Be sure to capture stunning photos of the breathtaking views of Pikes Peak in the background.
After your morning hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon rock climbing with a guided tour or rent a bike to explore more of the park's trails. For a unique experience, visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center to learn about the geology and ecology of the region.
As the day winds down, find a local restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy dinner while soaking in the sunset views of the rocks. Consider taking a scenic drive around the park to enjoy the evening light illuminating the formations. Finish the night with a stargazing session, taking advantage of the clear Colorado skies.
Kick off your day with a breakfast at a diner known for its hearty portions, fueling up for a day of adventure. Drive to the Pikes Peak Highway and enjoy the scenic views as you ascend towards the summit. Don’t forget to stop at various overlooks to take in the stunning vistas and snap some memorable photos.
Once you reach the summit, take some time to explore the visitor center and appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy a warm snack of the famous Pikes Peak donuts, a sweet treat that’s perfect for a chilly mountain top. After descending, spend the afternoon at Crystal Lake, where you can hike around the serene waters and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
End your day with a relaxed dinner at a local steakhouse, treating yourself to a hearty meal after your mountain adventure. Consider attending a live music event in the downtown area to soak in the local culture. If you're up for it, take a sunset drive back up the mountain for an unforgettable view.
Start your morning with a breakfast featuring local ingredients at a nearby café. Make your way to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits that celebrate the achievements of athletes. Spend time immersing yourself in the inspiring stories and history of the Olympic movement.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling some of Colorado's favorite dishes. In the afternoon, take a guided tour through the Olympic Training Center to see where elite athletes prepare for competition. You might even have a chance to meet some of the athletes and hear about their training regimens.
As evening approaches, dine at a restaurant that offers a true taste of Colorado, perhaps with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, stroll around the nearby parks, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and fresh air. If you're feeling adventurous, consider catching a local theater performance to wrap up your culturally rich day.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a café before heading to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Spend your morning exploring the zoo, which is home to over 750 animals and offers interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the opportunity to feed the giraffes, a highlight for many visitors.
Grab lunch at the zoo’s café, enjoying a meal with a view of the surrounding mountains. After lunch, explore the zoo’s unique exhibits and take a scenic ride on the Mountaineer Sky Ride, offering breathtaking views of the city below. Spend some time at the zoo’s education center, learning about wildlife conservation efforts.
As the sun sets, depart the zoo and head to a nearby restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and delicious cuisine. Consider winding down with a leisurely walk at the nearby Bear Creek Regional Park, where you can enjoy the evening air. Cap off your day with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on the wildlife experiences you had.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the heart of Colorado Springs. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, admiring the beautiful architecture and vibrant murals. Don’t forget to stop by the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
After enjoying the falls, take a leisurely hike back down and enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby park. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area, perhaps visiting the nearby Broadmoor Hotel for a glimpse of its historic charm. If you're up for it, consider taking a guided tour of the hotel to learn about its fascinating history.
As the day comes to a close, enjoy a fine dining experience at one of the Broadmoor's acclaimed restaurants, where you can indulge in gourmet cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxed stroll through the hotel grounds, soaking in the beautiful landscaping and lake views. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at one of the hotel’s bars, enjoying the luxurious atmosphere.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to the iconic Garden of the Gods. Spend the morning hiking through the park's stunning trails, surrounded by towering red rock formations and breathtaking views. Be sure to capture plenty of photos as you explore this natural wonder.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, taking in the beautiful scenery around you. In the afternoon, you can opt for rock climbing or take a guided jeep tour to learn more about the geology and history of the area. Conclude your time in the park by visiting the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center for interactive exhibits.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy dinner under the stars. Consider a leisurely stroll through downtown Colorado Springs, where you can explore charming shops and local art galleries. End your day with a relaxing drink at a nearby bar, chatting with locals and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day with breakfast at a popular local bakery, indulging in freshly baked pastries. Afterward, make your way to the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, where you can explore a variety of art exhibits and cultural events. Don’t miss the chance to admire the beautiful architecture of the building itself.
For lunch, find a nearby café that offers delicious sandwiches and salads made from local ingredients. Spend your afternoon attending a workshop or class at the Fine Arts Center, allowing your creative side to shine. If time allows, explore the surrounding area, including the nearby Colorado Springs City Auditorium.
As evening approaches, consider dining at a restaurant that features live music, providing a lively atmosphere as you enjoy your meal. After dinner, catch a performance at the Fine Arts Center or a nearby theater, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on the cultural experiences you've enjoyed.
Begin your day with a comforting breakfast at a nearby café before heading to Focus on the Family's campus. Spend the morning exploring the Visitor Center, where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and learn about the organization’s mission. Don't miss the chance to take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens on the grounds.
After a morning of inspiration, enjoy a light lunch at the café on campus, featuring wholesome options. In the afternoon, participate in one of the family-friendly activities offered at Focus on the Family, such as a guided tour or hands-on workshops. You can also visit the bookstore for unique gifts and resources.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, where you can share your experiences from the day. Consider taking a leisurely walk at nearby parks, reflecting on the meaningful insights you gained. Finish your evening with a cozy movie night back at your accommodation, perfect for unwinding after an eventful day.