Top 10 things to do in Colorado Springs

From scenic hikes to fine dining and zipline adventures, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Colorado Springs. Below you’ll find the top 10 can’t-miss experiences in the Pikes Peak region.

10. Experience Craft Brewing Excellence at Colorado's Local Breweries

 In a state renowned for its craft brewing scene, Colorado Springs stands as no exception. Unwind with a pint at one of the various local establishments, such as Great Storm Brewing, Colorado Mountain Brewery, and Pikes Peak Brewing Company. At these venues, you can savour beers named after iconic local landmarks. For instance, the Summit House Oatmeal Stout pays homage to the peak of Pikes Peak, offering views that stretch all the way to Kansas.

9. Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of The Broadmoor's Seven Falls

 A haven of natural splendour and adventure awaits in this park. The captivating waterfalls are a sight to behold, while a climb up the adjacent 224 steps leads to the stream nourishing them and nearby hiking trails. For added exploration, the Broadmoor Soaring Adventure course suspends you above the landscape with thrilling zipline courses and a rope bridge over the falls. When hunger strikes, relish a meal at the newly established Restaurant 1858, boasting prime patio seating overlooking the base of the falls.

8. Embrace Outdoor Fitness on Colorado Springs' Hiking and Biking Trails

Beyond the well-known trails around Pikes Peak, Manitou Incline, and Garden of the Gods, outdoor enthusiasts can choose from an abundance of parks and trail systems. Options include Paint Mines Interpretive Park and Cheyenne Mountain State Park.

7. Delight in Memorable Dining Experiences

Colorado Springs presents an array of distinctive culinary destinations. From the sophisticated Penrose Room at The Broadmoor, the only five-star, five-diamond restaurant in Colorado, to the innovative Ivywild School, a community marketplace and craft brewery. A local gem is King’s Chef Diner, featured on the Food Network. If you seek both gastronomy and history, consider the offerings of Colorado Springs Food Tours. Meanwhile, the Mountain View Restaurant at Cheyenne Mountain Resort, Sunbird Mountain Grill, and Pepper Tree Restaurant all offer panoramic city views.

6. Go on a guided walking Tour

5. Challenge Yourself on the Manitou Incline

Ascending the Manitou Incline may seem like a manageable feat until you realise it ascends 2,000 vertical feet across 2,800 steps in just under a mile. Tracing the path of former tracks built for a pipeline material cable car, the Manitou Incline now draws a diverse crowd, from Olympic athletes to adventure-seekers captivated by its stunning views.

4. Seek Adventure in the Royal Gorge

Following its grand reopening in May 2015, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park shines brighter than ever. With a new visitor centre and enhanced activities, visitors can traverse the highest suspension bridge in North America, suspended 956 feet above the Arkansas River, on foot or via Segway. The park also offers attractions like an aerial gondola ride, miniature train, water clock, historical expo, and shows in the Plaza Theatre. Thrill-seekers can experience the Royal Rush Skycoaster, glide along the Cloudscraper ZipRider zipline, or navigate rapids with Royal Gorge Rafting. Aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, relish a 24-mile train journey winding through the gorge while enjoying local wine and a gourmet meal.

3. Immerse Yourself in Multidisciplinary Culture at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Centre

A rare gem, the Fine Arts Centre combines a nationally accredited art museum, Broadway-worthy theatre, gourmet dining, retail shop, and an art school, all housed under a single roof. The attraction boasts travelling exhibitions, events, musicals, plays, and concerts, offering numerous reasons to plan a visit.

2. Uncover Geological Wonders and Natural Beauty at Garden of the Gods Park

Designated as a National Natural Landmark, this convergence of grasslands, woodlands, and mountain forests is a highly rated park. The Visitor & Nature Centre now features interactive exhibits and the new GeoTrekker movie experience. In addition to its educational offerings, enjoy 15 miles of accessible-to-moderate hiking trails, take a Jeep or Segway tour, and capture iconic photos near formations like the Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, and Siamese Twins.

1. Absorb the Inspiration of "America the Beautiful" at Pikes Peak

Whether you opt to traverse the scenic 19-mile Pikes Peak Highway, hike the Barr Trail, or ride The Broadmoor’s Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway, you'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Rocky Mountains and the sprawling "fruited plains" upon reaching the summit towering at 14,115 feet.