Things to do in Colorado Springs

There's a lot to do here year-round and we have mild weather with many warm winter days, so there's never a bad time to visit. Our busiest time of year is the summer, and there are some attractions only open May - October.  However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the off-season (September - May).

Here's your packing playbook: sunscreen is non-negotiable (that high-altitude sun means business), plus sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection. Pack both long sleeves and shorts – trust us on this one.

Colorado weather loves to keep things interesting. You might start your morning in shorts and end up grateful for that jacket when afternoon thunderstorms roll in or evening temperatures drop. Even summer nights can surprise you with a chill, so layers are your best friend. Pack like you're ready for anything, because honestly, you might experience it all in a single day – and that's part of the Colorado magic.

All of our attractions are independently owned and operated, so the price varies quite a bit. Most of our attractions fall between $15- $40, though some are free and most of our guided tours are $100+ per person. 

You can see everyone's prices and hours on our Prices page here.

Some attractions in Colorado Springs allow pets, but it's always best to check with the specific attraction beforehand. Some pet-friendly options include:

• Pikes Peak Highway
• Garden of the Gods Trading Post (and of course Garden of the Gods Park too!)
• Broadmoor Seven Falls
• Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

For the complete list, visit our Pet-Friendly Attractions page.

Let's talk altitude – because at 6,800 feet, Colorado Springs sits pretty high up there. Some visitors experience altitude sickness (the fancy name is acute mountain sickness), which can show up as headaches, nausea, or that "why am I so tired?" feeling.

The good news? It's totally manageable. Drink more water than you think you need, take it easy on the intense hiking for your first couple days, and listen to your body. Most people adjust quickly and feel great. But if you're feeling genuinely awful or symptoms get worse, don't tough it out – get some medical help. Your Colorado adventure should feel amazing, not miserable.

Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is a traveler's dream – small, simple, and refreshingly stress-free. Just 6 miles from downtown, this compact airport features one terminal with two concourses, which means no marathon sprints between gates or getting hopelessly lost.

You can fly direct from major cities like Denver, Chicago, and Las Vegas, then grab a rental car or hop on public transit to get into the city. Hungry or need to pick up last-minute souvenirs? The airport's got dining and shopping covered too. It's the kind of airport experience that actually makes you smile – imagine that! You'll be exploring Pikes Peak country before you know it.

Colorado Springs sits about 70 miles south of Denver – a scenic hour-and-a-half drive down I-25 that's honestly part of the fun. Not feeling the drive? No problem. Shuttle services will get you there, though they take a bit longer (1-3 hours) with stops and traffic considerations.

Here's the insider scoop: while Denver's got its own charm, Colorado Springs puts you right at the doorstep of iconic attractions like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. It's the perfect home base for outdoor adventures without the big-city hustle.

But why choose sides? Colorado's front range is begging to be explored from both angles. Start in one city, road trip to the other, and soak up everything this amazing state has to offer. Trust us – you'll want to experience it all.