Eight Things that Make Colorado Springs Worth Visiting
Whether you’re looking for a nature getaway or want to explore the unique wonders of the area, you’ll find plenty of attractions in and around Colorado Springs. Here are just some of the most enticing ones.
Colorado Springs and its surrounding area are famous for the breathtaking natural environment and the wonders of mountains and canyons. However, there’s even more than the gorgeous nature to see here.
From amazing sights for those in love with the mountains to airborne spectacles for ‘Top Gun’ fans, here are the eight things you should check out on your next visit to Colorado Springs.
1. Garden of the Gods
Deserving of its name, the natural wonder that is the Garden of the Gods presents a staggering view of red rocks carved into colossal pillars. The rock formations came into being due to different forces of nature like geological activity and thousands of years of rainfall.
You can get detailed information about the history of this landmark at the Visitor Center, either through displays or daily presentations. And if you want a guided tour or a vehicle to help you traverse the Garden, you can get those at the same spot. There are bikes, Segways, jeeps, and trolleys available. Academy Riding Stables even offers horse riding tours.
The Garden of the Gods is free to visit and there are no time limitations, which means you can plan the hike in the way that suits you the most. The rocks leave a different impression depending on the time of the day, so the park is worth revisiting multiple times.
2. Stargazers Theater
While the dome-shaped theater looks like a planetarium, it serves an altogether different purpose today. This intriguing building was built in 1969 and started out as a movie theater before becoming an event venue in 2008.
Nowadays, you’ll find an event being held here throughout most of the week as various artists come here often to display their talent. The seats arranged in tiers and the domed ceiling ensure you can perfectly see and hear every show. However, if you get carried away by the music, there’s nothing stopping you from getting on the dance floor.
After a satisfying concert, you can get a reasonably priced meal and some drinks at the venue to bring a great night to a perfect end.
3. Pikes Peak
Ever since the 1800s, people have been coming to this area for gold and staying for the stunning beauty. The Gold Rush may have died out but Pikes Peak remains enticing for visitors and attracts thousands of tourists today.
The scenic Pikes Peak Highway might not be for everyone, as it leads you up 8,000 feet of America’s Mountain. While the scare might eventually pay off once you experience the amazing view from the top, those afraid of heights might consider admiring the mountain from a distance.
You won’t find a gas station on the way up, that’s why essential considerations when starting the journey to Pikes Peak are fuel and general caution. And if you start feeling lightheaded along the way, be ready to make a stop to adjust to the altitude.
4. U.S. Air Force Academy
There’s plenty to explore and see at the United States Air Force Academy. Of course, the main attraction here is catching the planes passing overhead.
But you don’t have to rely on sheer luck to marvel at the pilot’s skills. If you reserve tickets and visit the graduation ceremony that’s held in May, you’ll most likely witness a real spectacle.
To start exploring the academy, go to the Visitor Center for some introductory information and area maps. After that, you can proceed to the chapel, stadium, or the Honor Court. You can take the tour on foot or by car, although driving might distract you from seeing a passing plane.
5. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Situated on the mountainside, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo perfectly fits in with the surrounding landscape. Naturally, it’s a must for families with kids as it presents an opportunity to hang out with various animals, including the visitors’ favorite giraffes, which you can feed.
Best of all, the zoo’s easily accessible for everyone.
Spending time here is all but guaranteed to be among anyone’s list of most enjoyable experiences. No visit to Colorado Springs should go without checking out the zoo, as it’s a less intensive way to get some incredible views of the area.
6. Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is a small town separated from Colorado Springs, although it’s less than six miles away. The place has successfully resisted becoming more urbanized, remaining an authentic town and even earning the title of a National Historic District.
You’ll have a great time exploring Manitou Springs and walking down its nostalgia-filled streets. There are charming outdoor cafes where you can take a rest and soak up the atmosphere. And the various galleries and shops will keep you busy once you get back to touring the town.
7. Red Rock Canyon
The Red Rock Canyon sits right next to Colorado Springs, offering easy access to its trails where hikers and bikers alike can enjoy the crimson landscape. It served as a gold ore refining location in the 19th century before becoming exclusively-owned by a family in the 1900s.
A century after, in 2003, the city purchased this land and adorned it with plentiful trails where visitors can take in the fresh air and marvel at the fascinating vistas.
8. Pioneers Museum
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum houses photographs and exhibits that document the history and evolution of the city. While the museum isn’t vast by any stretch of the imagination, it offers a captivating journey through the ages – from the early days of Colorado Springs as a mining town to the now-famous tourist attractions.
Enjoy Your Visit to Colorado Springs
The charming, beautiful Colorado Springs area is more than worth the visit. For nature lovers, this comes as a given. But those interested in authentic local culture and history will also find plenty of things to see and learn.
Always fresh and enticing, Colorado Springs will leave a lasting impression, inviting you to come back for more.
