Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs

It’s hard to miss Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center — there’s almost always a long line of cars waiting to get in. The National Natural Landmark is worth it, though. The red sandstone spires are striking. There are oodles of ways to explore the park, including hiking, horseback rides, scenic drives and, if it’s your thing, by Segway. 

This hike is a humbler. However long you think it should take you to go a mile, multiply it by at least three (if not four, five or six). This former cable car track turned grueling hiking route gains about 2,000 feet in just under a mile. It has 2,768 steps, comparable to climbing the Eiffel Tower twice, the Washington Monument three times or the Statue of Liberty six times. 

This ride to the top of America’s Mountain is breathtaking — partially for the views of the surrounding peaks blanketed in aspens, partially because at 14,115 feet of elevation, the air is thinner. It’s a three-and-a-half-hour round-trip ride — 130-year-old trains aren’t exactly high speed. At the new visitor center (opened in 2021) atop Pikes Peak, you can read about the mountain’s storied history in a small museum and chow down on some stellar, sugary donuts. Just be sure to finish your treat before descending — the donuts lose their structural integrity when brought to lower altitudes. 

If you’re sore from your hikes around the area, you might consider seeking out the regenerative properties of the local mineral waters. This spa has nine private cedar hot tubs filled with mineral water. Guests purchase 90-minute time slots, where they can soak, sit in the sauna, use the plunge pools and more. It’s also possible to add a specialty massage or facial to your spa package. 

An ode to all things sports, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum walks guests through the history of the Games, from ancient Olympia to today. It boasts some genuinely cool exhibits, ranging from collections of every Olympic torch to more interactive ones where guests can (virtually) challenge gold medal winners to their sport. One popular piece of memorabilia? The scoreboard from the United States vs. Soviet Union hockey game during the 1980 Olympics, a match that would later be referred to as the Miracle on Ice. The board is set with three seconds remaining — the moment when announcer Al Michaels asked, “Do you believe in miracles?” 

Proof that Colorado Springs is indeed hip, this funky little pub focuses on elevated comfort food, like pork belly macaroni and cheese, braised beef gnocchi and banh mi egg rolls. The morning chili cheese fries (waffle fries drenched in pork green chili, cheddar cheese and two eggs) is the ultimate hangover cure on their brunch menu. 

Let’s get it out of the way. Yes, the restaurant is helmed by a man whose actual name is Brother Luck. And he’s something of a local celebrity, having appeared on “Chopped” and two seasons of “Top Chef.” He crafts a constantly changing Southwest-inspired menu that highlights the best of what can be hunted, fished, gathered or grown locally that season. Recent dishes have included rabbit pot pie, duck green chili and elk medallions. 

While this Hawaiian-inspired joint may not be slinging the most authentic Mexican food, it makes up for it with ultra-fresh ingredients and inventive tacos, burritos and bowls (we’re partial to the fried avocado taco with pickled carrot habanero slaw). Be sure to swing by during happy hour (Monday-Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.) for two-for-$6 beer and margaritas.  

If you have a hunger that only carbs and sauce can remedy, Stellina is an excellent choice. Beyond the pies their name suggests, the restaurant also offers homemade pasta dishes (the orecchiette and veggies is *chefs kiss*) and risottos. 

Built in 1897, The Carter Payne was the first Black church in town. When the congregation grew too large, they made a new church elsewhere. The little white chapel was converted into a multi-use community center of sorts, now housing a brewery, a wine bar, a cocktail bar and two dining concepts. The brewery, Local Relic, is particularly fun because they never brew the same beer twice. 

If you’re looking for a post-summit refreshment, Cerberus is a solid bet. The brewery has 24 taps (usually all their own, but they’ll occasionally have guest stars), as well as a bevy of homemade sodas. There’s a cozy bar inside and a huge deck and beer garden outdoors. 

It’s not just a cheeky name — this bar was actually a principal’s office in a former life. Found in the Ivywild School, a former elementary school built in 1916, the current-day Principal’s Office is known for slinging inventive craft cocktails and liquid-lightning coffee. In the other reimagined classrooms, you’ll find Axe and the Oak Whiskey House, Bristol Brewing Co., Lazo Empanadas, Decent Pizza Co., Salad or Bust and Ivywild Kitchen. 

There’s something ineffably funny about looking down a dark alley and seeing the words “Shame & Regret” blinking at you from a neon sign. This speakeasy-style bar’s decor is meant to give off a Catholic confessional vibe, with tinted windows, leather seats and dark-stained wood. However, you won’t find cheap communion wine here — they have arguably the most impressive craft cocktail program and whiskey menu in town. 

Why this isn’t a more common concept, we’re not sure. It combines life’s two greatest joys: dogs and craft beer. This bar has a massive, fenced-in, off-leash dog park for your four-legged friends to romp around and get their sniffs in while you can sip local brews. 

Kinship Landing, found in the heart of downtown, arguably has one of the most interesting room concepts in the area. In addition to suites and shared hostel-style bunk rooms, they have a camp deck. It’s basically a turf campground on the roof. Gear isn’t included, so guests are required to bring anything they might need to be comfy in the outdoors. But when nature calls, they at least have access to a heated bathroom. 

One of the top five-star properties in the country and one of the first destination resorts, The Broadmoor attracts some bougie clients. Nearly every president since FDR has made a point to stay there, as have myriad celebrities and pro athletes. The 784-room resort features a lake, multiple pools, a world-class golf course, several bars and restaurants, a bowling alley and a lush spa. There’s a program of activities going on at all times, ranging from movies in the private theater to art tours, but if you only have the time to do one thing, it should be the falconry class.