Things To Do
Garden of the gods
Free and open to the public year-round, Garden of the Gods beautifully blends natural wonder, cultural heritage, and adventure, making it one of Colorado’s most iconic destinations. You can drive through this park, or pull off on a designated spot and walk around and see the sights! The Visitor and Nature Center offers interactive exhibits about the area’s geology, ecology, and cultural history, including its significance to Indigenous peoples who considered it a sacred place.
The Broadmoor Seven Falls
Seven Falls combines adventure, beauty, and tranquility, making it one of Colorado Springs’ most memorable natural attractions. At night, the waterfalls are beautifully illuminated, adding a magical glow to the experience. There’s also a restaurant and gift shop nearby, making it a great spot for sightseeing and relaxation. Visitors can climb 224 steps to the top of the falls for an incredible view, or take an elevator inside the mountain for an easier route to the scenic Eagle’s Nest overlook. The area also offers walking trails, including one that leads to the serene Midnight Falls and another that provides sweeping views of the canyon and surrounding mountains.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the highest zoos in the U.S., perched 6,800 feet above sea level on the side of Cheyenne Mountain. It’s known for its stunning mountain views and unique, interactive animal experiences. Visitors can hand-feed giraffes, meet elephants up close, and see over 170 species from around the world, including endangered animals.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway Peak Station
The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes you on a scenic climb from Manitou Springs up to the summit of Pikes Peak (14,115 ft). The ride is historic, comfortable and panoramic — you’ll ascend through forests and alpine terrain, reach the summit visitor center, and come back down. Book online for a cheaper price and to ensure a spot on the train :)
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are preserved Ancestral Puebloan homes built into red sandstone cliffs. Originally constructed between 800 and 1000 years ago in the Four Corners region, these dwellings were carefully relocated and reassembled in the early 1900s to protect and share their history with visitors. The site allows guests to explore the ancient structures up close—walking through rooms, climbing ladders, and seeing how Indigenous peoples once lived. The accompanying museum features Native American artifacts, pottery, tools, and exhibits about the Ancestral Puebloan culture and daily life. Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a hands-on and educational experience that connects visitors to Colorado’s deep Indigenous history. It’s a family-friendly destination that blends archaeology, culture, and natural beauty all in one place.
Manitou Springs
Downtown Manitou Springs is a charming, walkable mountain town nestled at the base of Pikes Peak. Its main street winds along Fountain Creek and is lined with colorful historic buildings, unique boutiques, art galleries, local cafés, and restaurants offering everything from homemade fudge to gourmet meals. The town is known for its natural mineral springs, which bubble up throughout the area—visitors can taste the naturally carbonated water from beautifully designed public fountains scattered along the sidewalks. Street performers, local artists, and small-town festivals often add to the lively, welcoming atmosphere. Blending old-time charm with a creative, bohemian spirit, downtown Manitou Springs is the perfect place to stroll, shop, and relax while taking in the mountain views. It captures the heart of Colorado’s quirky, artistic culture in a setting that feels both historic and refreshingly vibrant.