The Garden of the Gods is a public park known for its towering red rock formations, hiking trails, and stunning views of Pikes Peak. Spend the day walking the trails, visiting the Visitor's Center, and taking in the beauty of the park.
The Seven Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in a box canyon. After hiking the 224 steps to the top, you can enjoy superb views of the waterfall and the surrounding scenery. There are also zipline courses to explore and relax.
The highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak, is a must-visit destination in Colorado Springs. Drive up to the summit to get panoramic views of the mountains and the city. There are also hiking trails, a gift shop, and a restaurant to enjoy.
The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is a unique attraction features the world's highest suspension bridge, a gondola, aerial tram and zip line. You will have the opportunity to experience fantastic views of the Arkansas River and canyon walls from various angles.
Whitewater rafting in the rapids of Arkansas River is an experience to remember. Choose from half-day, full-day and multi-day trips depending on your preference. The Arkansas River is flowing through scenic canyons and thrilling rapids.
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings is an off-the-beaten-path attraction near Colorado Springs. The dwellings were Native American homes built into a rock cliff more than 1,000 years ago. Take a self-guided tour and learn about the lifestyle and traditions of the Anasazi tribe.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the top destinations in Colorado Springs because of its stunning mountain location and an abundance of wildlife. This zoo is known to have some of the best wildlife exhibits in the country, where you can see distinctive animals, such as the white tiger, and interact with them.
For the entire trip, renting a car is strongly recommended as it offers flexibility with transportation, saves time and will allow you to navigate around the places easily. The total cost of renting a car is estimated to be around $400. Car travel times are included in the itinerary above.
If you have more time, you should consider visiting the nearby towns like Buena Vista or staying a night in Salida to enjoy the hot springs. If you have less time, skipping Seven Falls or Manitou Cliff Dwellings is suggested. Don't forget to always carry a water bottle, sunscreen, and comfortable walking, hiking shoes.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is the main airport serving Colorado Springs. It is located six miles southeast of the downtown area. Denver International Airport (DEN) is another option as it offers more flights and destinations, but it is two hours away from Colorado Springs.