Top 12 Must-See Attractions and Ratings
As a local who’s hiked these trails countless times, I’ve rated these based on visitor feedback, personal visits, and unique experiences. Each offers something unforgettable, from free natural wonders to thrilling adventures.
Garden of the Gods: Majestic Red Rocks (Rating: 4.9/5)
This free 1,367-acre park features towering red sandstone formations against Pikes Peak’s backdrop, drawing six million visitors yearly. I once spent dawn here watching bighorn sheep graze; the Perkins Central Garden Trail, a 1.5-mile paved path, suits all levels with wheelchair access. Park hours run 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. in winter or 10 p.m. in summer; the visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m. Official site | Google Maps
Pikes Peak: America’s Mountain Summit (Rating: 4.8/5)
At 14,115 feet, this icon inspired “America the Beautiful.” Drive the 19-mile highway ($18/adult, $65/carload May-Sept with reservations), ride the cog railway from Manitou Springs (from $67/adult roundtrip, 3 hours total), or join a jeep tour. Summit donuts are legendary; I summited via railway at sunrise, avoiding crowds and altitude sickness by hydrating heavily. Open year-round, weather permitting; call 719-385-7325 for conditions. Official site
Pikes Peak Access Card
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Highest Zoo Views (Rating: 4.7/5)
America’s highest zoo at 6,714 feet houses 150+ species like giraffes and tigers across 140 acres. 2025 prices: adults $24.75-$34.75 timed entry (9 a.m.-5 p.m.), kids $14.75-$29.75; military discounts apply. Feed giraffes for $5; my favorite is the mountaintop views during golden hour. Official site | Phone: 719-633-9925
Cave of the Winds: Underground Thrills (Rating: 4.6/5)
Explore caverns via Discovery Tour ($28 adults, $18 kids, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept-May) or adrenaline zip line ($159). Lantern Tours delve deeper ($34+). I shivered through the wind-swept caves, emerging to Manitou views; above-ground rides like Terror-dactyl add excitement. Official site
US Air Force Academy: Cadet Chapel Marvel (Rating: 4.7/5)
Free entry 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; visitor center 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Chapel under renovation until 2027, but grounds inspire with falcon stadium views. Tour the honors court; as a local, I attended a ceremony here, feeling the precision firsthand.
Manitou Springs: Mineral Springs Charm (Rating: 4.5/5)
This historic town near Pikes Peak offers 20+ mineral springs for tasting, arcades, and cliff dwellings. Stroll for free; I filled bottles at Iron Springs for that fizzy kick.
Broadmoor Seven Falls: Waterfall Wonder (Rating: 4.6/5)
181 steps to seven cascades; shuttle from parking. Evening lights are magical; pair with the zoo for a full day.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Hidden Trails (Rating: 4.8/5)
Free trails rival Garden of the Gods; wildlife abounds. My sunset hike here beat crowded spots.
Royal Gorge Bridge: Suspension Thrill (Rating: 4.5/5)
1.5-hour drive; walk 955 feet above the Arkansas River. Gondola and zip line extra; windy but epic.
Old Colorado City: Historic Vibes (Rating: 4.4/5)
Boutiques and breweries in preserved buildings; weekend markets buzz.
Olympic & Paralympic Center: Athlete Glory (Rating: 4.6/5)
Guided tours show training; watch pros train live.
Pioneers Museum: Local Legacy (Rating: 4.3/5)
Free history exhibits; rotating displays keep it fresh.
Personal Insights and Pro Tips
“I’ve lived here five years, summiting Pikes Peak thrice; hydrate triple at altitude,” I advise. Pros: Stunning nature, 300 sunny days. Cons: Crowds in summer, altitude hits fast.
Pros and Cons Card
Stay Safe: Emergency Contacts
Police/Fire/EMS: 911. Colorado Springs PD non-emergency: 719-444-7000. Visitor hotline: 719-635-7506. Tip: Acclimatize on day one; symptoms like headache mean descend.
Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
Budget: $70/night 2-star downtown. Mid: $101 3-star near attractions. Luxury: $619 5-star Broadmoor. Book central for shuttles; I love Old Colorado City Airbnbs for the vibe.
Typical Costs, Budgets, Savings
Solo week: $1,286-$2,404 ($184-$343/day incl. food $51-$109, lodging $77-$125). Couples: $370-$608/day. Save: Free parks, shoulder season, pack lunches. Pro: CityPASS bundles attractions.
Budget Cards
How to Get Around and Arrive
Fly into COS Airport; shuttles/taxis are $20-40 to the city (no regular bus). Rent a car for flexibility; Mountain Metro buses are free downtown. Uber reliable.
Best Time to Visit
March-May/Sept-Oct: Mild, 50-70°F, fewer crowds. Summer peaks busy/hot; winter is snowy but cozy indoors.
Recommended Tours and Day Trips
- Pikes Peak Cog: Broadmoor Manitou, book via site
- Jeep to Royal Gorge
- Guided Garden hikes
Ideal Length of Stay
3-5 days: Day 1 Garden/Pikes, Day 2 Zoo/Caves, Day 3 Manitou/Royal Gorge. Extend for hiking.
Explore Around the Area
Denver is 1 hour north; Great Sand Dunes is 2.5 hours south.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions in Colorado Springs?
Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak top lists with 4.8+ ratings for nature and views.
How many days for Colorado Springs?
3-5 days covers essentials comfortably.
Is Garden of the Gods free?
Yes, the park and center are free year-round.
Best budget for a Colorado Springs trip?
$184-343/day solo, including all.
