Exploring Colorado Springs offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Here’s a day-wise itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Colorado Springs:
Day 1: Arrival in Colorado Springs
- Morning: Arrive in Colorado Springs and check into your accommodation.
- Mid-morning: Start your day with breakfast at a local café or diner.
- Afternoon: Visit the Garden of the Gods, a stunning natural park with towering sandstone rock formations. Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, or simply take a scenic drive through the park.
- Evening: Head to Old Colorado City for dinner at one of its charming restaurants and explore the shops and galleries in the area.
Day 2: Pikes Peak
- Morning: Drive to Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s famous fourteeners, located just west of Colorado Springs.
- Mid-morning: Take the Pikes Peak Highway or ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and plains.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the Summit House, the highest restaurant in the state.
- Afternoon: Explore the interpretive center at the summit and take in the panoramic views before descending back to Colorado Springs.
- Evening: Relax and unwind at your accommodation or explore downtown Colorado Springs for dinner options.
Day 3: Manitou Springs
- Morning: Drive to Manitou Springs, a quirky town known for its mineral springs and eclectic shops, located just west of Colorado Springs.
- Mid-morning: Take a guided tour of the Manitou Cliff Dwellings to learn about the area’s Native American history and explore the ancient dwellings.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at one of the unique restaurants or cafes in Manitou Springs.
- Afternoon: Visit the Manitou Incline for a challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding area, or take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets of Manitou Springs.
- Evening: Head back to Colorado Springs and have dinner at one of its many restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
Day 4: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Broadmoor Seven Falls
- Morning: Spend the morning at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, one of the highest zoos in the country, located southwest of downtown Colorado Springs. Explore its diverse animal exhibits and enjoy feeding giraffes or riding the Mountaineer Sky Ride.
- Lunch: Have lunch at one of the eateries inside the zoo.
- Afternoon: Drive to Broadmoor Seven Falls, a series of stunning waterfalls nestled in a scenic canyon. Take the short hike to the falls and explore the surrounding trails.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants at The Broadmoor, a luxury resort located near Seven Falls, or head back to downtown Colorado Springs for dinner.
Day 5: Air Force Academy and US Olympic & Paralympic Museum
- Morning: Visit the United States Air Force Academy, located just north of Colorado Springs. Explore the visitor center, chapel, and outdoor grounds.
- Lunch: Have lunch at Falcon’s Nest, the cafeteria-style restaurant at the Air Force Academy.
- Afternoon: Visit the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum in downtown Colorado Springs to learn about the history and achievements of Team USA athletes.
- Evening: Spend your evening exploring downtown Colorado Springs, maybe catching a performance at the Pikes Peak Center or enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6: Outdoor Adventure Day
- Morning: Embark on an outdoor adventure in the Colorado Springs area, such as horseback riding in the Garden of the Gods, zip-lining over scenic canyons, or rock climbing in nearby climbing areas.
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot in the outdoors.
- Afternoon: Continue your outdoor adventure or opt for a more leisurely activity, like a scenic drive through nearby canyons or a visit to a local brewery for a tasting.
- Evening: Relax and unwind at your accommodation or have dinner at a cozy restaurant in Colorado Springs.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your departure time, you could squeeze in one last activity, like visiting a local museum or taking a leisurely stroll through a nearby park.
- Mid-morning: Check out of your accommodation and head to the airport for your departure flight.
This itinerary offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, allowing you to make the most of your time in Colorado Springs.