Things To Do
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a breathtaking nature walk. It is a registered National Natural Landmark featuring dramatic views. Come admire the 300′ sandstone rock formations against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies. This is a classic tourist must-do during a visit to Colorado Springs.
Glen Eyrie Castle
Glen Eyrie Castle is a 67-room English Tudor-style castle built in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs. This house was his dream home and is in the northwest foothills, north of the Garden of the Gods Park. With a stunning backdrop of the Garden of the Gods, exploring the beauty and history of Glen Eyrie Castle is the perfect way to spend a day in nature. The extensive 700-acre property includes walking paths, flower gardens, lush green lawns, and sitting benches.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a cog railway that climbs one of the most iconic mountains in the United States, Pikes Peak in Colorado. This is one of only three such cog railways remaining in the United States. The opening lines of what became the song “America the Beautiful” first struck Katharine Lee Bates atop Pikes Peak in the Rocky Mountains. Tip: For the best view, reserve a seat on the three-seat side of the Cog railway!
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is ranked #4 in the nation. At an elevation of 6,714 ft above sea level, it is the highest zoo in the country. The zoo covers 140 acres and houses more than 750 animals, representing nearly 150 different species, with more than 30 endangered species. This zoo is on the side of the mountain and requires lots of uphill walking, but remains Erin's favorite place to go in the summer. There is a beautiful little castle at the top of the zoo. You can drive to and it is included in your zoo ticket, allowing you to see the entire city of Colorado Springs.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
The name, Cave of the Winds, relates to a legend involving the Apache, who were said to believe the cave was the home of a Great Spirit of the Wind. You will navigate dark narrow tunnels, low passageways, uneven stairs, and rooms with muddy, original floors. Along the way you will hear scary ghost stories, folklore, and the spooky history of Cave of the Winds
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Colorado Springs is known as Olympic City. It hosts the Olympic Training Center at the fine altitude of 6,000 ft. Through interactive exhibits, innovative displays, and a comprehensive artifact collection, the 60,000-square-foot attraction instills the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect, as well as the Paralympic values of determination, inspiration, and courage in every visitor.
Annual Hot Air Balloon Lift Off
Experience roughly 70 hot air balloons floating effortlessly over the breathtaking Colorado Springs landscape at the Labor Day Lift Off. Arrive at Memorial Park by 6:30am to watch all the gentle giants come to life during the morning lift off from 7am to 9am. 730 pm Saturday As the sun sets at Memorial Park, watch as hot air balloons “glow” amid the night sky. Balloon glows are perhaps the most spectacular part of any balloon festival. The many balloons will inflate and ignite their burners, resulting in a magical dance. These spellbinding balloon glows are scheduled for 7:30pm on Saturday and Sunday.