Thanks to its strong ties with the Olympics, Colorado Springs is dubbed America’s “Olympic City.” The US Olympic & Paralympic Committee and the US Olympic & Paralympic Training Center call it home. Additionally, it houses the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum, one of Colorado’s most iconic attractions. Beyond its Olympic ties, this city boasts a wealth of outdoor recreational, cultural, and art experiences. Read on to discover why this Colorado’s underrated gem is worth your time.
Visit the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum
The US Olympic and Paralympic Museum is a world-class historic gem that’s a must-visit for Olympics enthusiasts. The museum takes you through the history of the Olympic Games, from ancient times to modern times. You learn about some of America’s most outstanding Olympic and Paralympic athletes through immersive exhibits.
Discover the Area’s Rich History at Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum takes you through the rich history of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region, from Native roots to a Colorado Gold Rush hotspot to a top tourist destination. There are multiple unique collections, including photography, pottery, and quilts. The museum is historic, and it opened in 1896 as a collecting institution.
Spend Time in the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
If you are an art and culture fanatic, don’t miss the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center (FAC). It’s one of the places you’ll enjoy exploring with your family, thanks to its world-class art exhibitions, edutaining programs, and an art school that suits everyone. It’s also home to a Broadway-worthy theater, where you can catch various shows, including musicals and comedies.
Explore the Red Rock Formations in Garden of the Gods
Brimming with dramatic red rock formations, the Garden of the Gods is a top outdoor destination. A National Natural Landmark, the park is stunning and full of recreational opportunities, from hiking to scenic driving to mountain biking. Start your adventure at the Visitor and Nature Center for an understanding of the park through exhibits, educational programs, and more.
Hike Pikes Peak
Riding the Pikes Peak Highway is fun, but hiking to the summit offers a more intimate experience of the mountain and its surroundings. Barr Trail is among the best hikes for accessing the southern Front Range’s highest peak. The trail is strenuous and starts with a steep elevation. If you like, you can summit the peak on a hike and arrange a shuttle ride on your way back!
Pikes Peak Offers Exceptional Stargazing Opportunities
Pikes Peak’s high elevation and lack of light pollution mean unparalleled stargazing opportunities. The striking scenery of the snow-capped peak against the starry sky is a sight to behold. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Milky Way and other celestial objects, like stars, constellations, and galaxies. Barr Camp, America’s highest lodge about halfway to the summit, is the perfect place to base yourself on a Pikes Peak stargazing adventure.
Go Hiking in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Known for its breathtaking red rock formations, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is like Garden of the Gods, but on a smaller scale. It has diverse outdoor experiences, from hiking and biking trails to unique geological features and incredible wildlife. Being a less popular area, it makes an excellent alternative for a quieter experience.
The Broadmoor is a Destination Resort Worth Your Time
Located at the foot of the iconic Rocky Mountains, Cheyenne Mountain Resort is a premier year-round destination with plenty of fun experiences. It stands out for its luxurious accommodations, with amenities ideally suited for an extraordinary escape. The resort offers unique experiences, from exceptional spa services to a women-only fly-fishing adventure.
Explore Glen Eyrie Castle
Visit Glen Eyrie Castle for its perfect blend of history, natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a relaxing atmosphere. As a former residence of General William Jackson Palmer, Colorado Springs’ founding father, this is a great place to enjoy a glimpse of the city’s history. It enjoys a scenic location in Queen’s Canyon, with beautiful nature trails and stunning mountain vistas. The quietness of the place and the fact that it’s in the hands of the Navigators, an international Christian ministry, make a perfect spot to unwind and hold events, like family reunions.
Ride a Hot Air Balloon
Riding a hot air balloon is among the most beautiful experiences in Colorado Springs. It offers a chance to enjoy the city’s scenery from a unique perspective, with Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods being the major highlights. These rides are typically available in the summer, and you can choose from various service providers, including Rainbow Ryders and Adventures Out West.
Spend a Family Outdoor Outing at Palmer Park
Palmer Park is another family-friendly destination you don’t want to miss in America’s “Olympic City.” Known for its many scenic trails, the park is a haven for outdoor recreation. You can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and biking on the designated trails. The 730-acre park also features a playground, picnic facilities, baseball fields, and a soccer field. So, your family will have a beautiful outing there.
Explore Broadmoor Seven Falls
The Broadmoor Seven Falls is Colorado’s only waterfall on National Geographic’s International Waterfall list. It’s among the most picturesque natural attractions in the state, and offers much more than scenery. Beyond the beauty of the Box Canyon and the waterfall, this place is rich in cultural heritage. It’s been attracting visitors since 1883. It’s also been a sacred place for the Native Americans for centuries.
Take a Day Trip to Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is one of the best day trips from Colorado Springs. The Southern-Colorado gem offers the perfect blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty and adventure. Apart from enjoying unparalleled views from America’s highest suspension bridge, you’ll enjoy some of the most thrilling rides in Colorado. Get your adrenaline pumping by riding the Royal Rush Skycoaster or soaring over 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River with Cloudscraper Zip Line.
Interact with Wildlife at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo isn’t your typical zoo. The facility’s interactive wildlife experiences are unmatched. You’ll enjoy feeding animals like giraffes and Australian budgies, meeting the hippos, and caring for the primates. Beyond the up-close wildlife encounters, you can enjoy spectacular views of the zoo, Cheyenne Mountain, and Colorado Springs from a tram ride.
Tour the Colorado College
Nestled only three blocks from downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado College is worth touring for many reasons. The campus has a vibrant atmosphere, which you’ll love, especially if you seek youthful energy. You’ll learn about the college’s rich history, explore the architectural wonders, and enjoy unforgettable cultural adventures. The campus hosts plenty of attractions, including museums and a theater.
