What We Love About Colorado Springs
From its iconic landmarks to the abundance of outdoor activities, the City of Colorado Springs is a destination unlike anywhere in the world.
Most notably recognized for Pikes Peak (Americas Mountain), Garden of the Gods, and the US Air Force Academy, the City of Colorado Springs offers more notable attractions than nearly any other destination in the United States.
Combined with exclusive five-star hotel accommodations, old-Victorian shopping districts, endless dining options, museums, breweries, and more… Colorado Springs should be at the top of your Colorado Bucket List!
Popular activities near Colorado Springs include –The COG Railway
Catch a thrilling train ride up the side of Pikes Peak to the New Summit House and see the State of Colorado from over 14,115 feet.
Olympic Museum
Tour the new US Olympic Museum and learn about the history of Team USA and Legendary Pro Athletes.
Manitou Incline
Test your physical limits and hike over 2,744 steps ascending almost 2,000 feet in elevation.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Visit the exotic animals at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, recognized as one of the Top Five Zoos in the United States.
Seven Falls
Hike up the 224 step staircases and marvel at over 180+ feet of stacking waterfalls descending from the Rocky Mountains.
Royal Gorge
Take a short drive down to Canyon City and walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge, almost 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River.
Pikes Peak Summit House
Take a scenic drive up the side of Pikes Peak to the New Summit House and visit the Peak Resivours along the way.
Wander through the vertical Lyons Sandstone Formations of the Garden of the Gods and discover how they were formed at the Visitor and Nature Center.
About Colorado Springs and Old Colorado City History
Much like the City of Denver, Old Colorado City began as a trading post for miners heading to the goldfields near Leadville and Fairplay around 1859. A few years later in 1871, the City of Colorado Springs was incorporated by General William Palmer as a resort destination. Because of its natural mineral springs and dry climate, many came to present-day Colorado Springs for its health benefits via the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. In the mid-1890s, the city grew dramatically after gold was discovered in Cripple Creek, only 40 miles away.
In addition to being a popular tourism destination, the City of Colorado Springs also has a very strong military influence and history. At the beginning of WWII, Colorado Springs became home to multiple Army and Air Force bases including Fort Carson, Schriever Air Force Base, and Peterson Air Force Base. During the Cold War, NORAD and the United States Air Force Academy also became an influential part of the military presence in Colorado Springs.
Fun Things To Do Near Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs Events and Festivals
Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off: This festival is held over Labor Day weekend and features hot air balloons taking off at sunrise, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Colorado Springs Wine Festival: This festival is held in August and features over 500 wines from around the world, food vendors, and live music.
Colorado Springs Oktoberfest: This festival is held in late September and features German food, beer, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Colorado Springs Festival of Lights Parade: This parade is held in early December and features floats, marching bands, and of course, plenty of holiday lights.
Colorado Springs Art and Music Festival: This festival is held in June and features local artists, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Colorado Springs Comic Con: This convention is held in August and features comic book artists and writers, cosplayers, and other pop culture celebrities.
Territory Days: This festival is held on Memorial Day weekend and celebrates the history of Colorado Springs with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
These are just a few of the many festivals and events that take place in Colorado Springs throughout the year.
Best Hiking Trails Near Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods: This park offers over 15 miles of trails that wind through towering sandstone formations, with stunning views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding area.
Pikes Peak Summit Trail: This 13.8-mile trail is a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Seven Bridges Trail: This 3.7-mile trail in North Cheyenne Cañon Park features waterfalls, bridges, and stunning mountain views.
The Incline: This 1-mile trail features over 2,000 steps that climb over 2,000 feet in elevation, offering a challenging and rewarding hike with stunning views.
Barr Trail: This 12.6-mile trail is a popular hike that takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space: This park offers over 10 miles of hiking trails that wind through red rock formations, with stunning views of Garden of the Gods and the surrounding area.
Palmer Park: This park offers over 25 miles of trails that wind through sandstone formations and pine forests, with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Directions To Colorado Springs Co
Denver to Colorado Springs ( 1 Hr 25 Min / 71 Miles )
Boulder to Colorado Springs ( 1 Hr 57 Min / 97 Miles)
Aspen to Colorado Springs ( 4 Hr 40 Min / 265 Miles )
Telluride to Colorado Springs ( 5 Hr 56 Min / 301 Miles )
Amarillo to Colorado Springs ( 5 Hr 25 Min /363 Miles)
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