Colorado Springs like a local
Sightseeing
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the "Highest zoo in America" & " top five best zoos in the U.S". This is an enjoyable experience for kids & adults. The zoo is open 365 days a year & features many after hour events. There is so much to see & do from feeding the largest giraffe heard of any zoo, to marveling at the spectacular views of Colorado Springs. The newest exhibit Waters Edge: Africa features; Nile Hippos, African penguins, Warthogs, & Ring-Tailed Lemurs. You are sure to find some favorite creatures among the more than 800 animals. The zoo is world known for its conservation efforts & educational programs. Take a walk on the wild side & lose yourself at The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
UPDATED COVID 19
As of Oct 20, 2020 the zoo is under restrictions & with limited capacity. Advanced E-Tickets are required & are currenty offered through Nov 9, 2020. Additional dates will be released o a weekly basis.
PRICES
ADULTS $24 AGES (12-64)
CHILD $19 AGES (3-11)
SENIOR $22. AGES (65+)
2 & UNDER FREE ( still requires an e-ticket)
569 locals recommend
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo RdCheyenne Mountain Zoo is the "Highest zoo in America" & " top five best zoos in the U.S". This is an enjoyable experience for kids & adults. The zoo is open 365 days a year & features many after hour events. There is so much to see & do from feeding the largest giraffe heard of any zoo, to marveling at the spectacular views of Colorado Springs. The newest exhibit Waters Edge: Africa features; Nile Hippos, African penguins, Warthogs, & Ring-Tailed Lemurs. You are sure to find some favorite creatures among the more than 800 animals. The zoo is world known for its conservation efforts & educational programs. Take a walk on the wild side & lose yourself at The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
UPDATED COVID 19
As of Oct 20, 2020 the zoo is under restrictions & with limited capacity. Advanced E-Tickets are required & are currenty offered through Nov 9, 2020. Additional dates will be released o a weekly basis.
PRICES
ADULTS $24 AGES (12-64)
CHILD $19 AGES (3-11)
SENIOR $22. AGES (65+)
2 & UNDER FREE ( still requires an e-ticket)
Garden of The Gods is a true geological wonder with 300 years of geological history, 1,300 acres of red towering sandstone formations with panoramic views of Pikes Peak. Garden of The Gods is FREE to the public. No matter your interest the park offers hiking, rock climbing ( with permit), guided horseback riding tours, bird watching & biking. Garden of The Gods has 21 miles of trails to explore. Hikes span from easy to moderate. Each hike ranges 1.2 miles to 2.5 miles. Garden of The Gods is inspiring wonder & you will discover something new upon each visit.
TIPS FOR GARDEN OF THE GODS
1.) FOR EASY PARKING GET TO THE PARK EARLY
2.) FOR BEST LIGHTING FOR PICTURES GO AT SUNSET!
3.) BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR DEER & BIG HORN SHEEP
4.) SIAMESE TWINS TRAIL HAS THE BEST VIEWS
5.) HYDRATE & PACK SNACKS
6.) THE CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL IT TAKES YOU RIGHT INTO THE HEART OF THE PARK. IT'S ALSO PAVED & WHEELCHAIR & STOLLER ACCESSIBLE.
1169 locals recommend
Garden of the Gods Club and Resort
3320 Mesa RdGarden of The Gods is a true geological wonder with 300 years of geological history, 1,300 acres of red towering sandstone formations with panoramic views of Pikes Peak. Garden of The Gods is FREE to the public. No matter your interest the park offers hiking, rock climbing ( with permit), guided horseback riding tours, bird watching & biking. Garden of The Gods has 21 miles of trails to explore. Hikes span from easy to moderate. Each hike ranges 1.2 miles to 2.5 miles. Garden of The Gods is inspiring wonder & you will discover something new upon each visit.
TIPS FOR GARDEN OF THE GODS
1.) FOR EASY PARKING GET TO THE PARK EARLY
2.) FOR BEST LIGHTING FOR PICTURES GO AT SUNSET!
3.) BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR DEER & BIG HORN SHEEP
4.) SIAMESE TWINS TRAIL HAS THE BEST VIEWS
5.) HYDRATE & PACK SNACKS
6.) THE CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL IT TAKES YOU RIGHT INTO THE HEART OF THE PARK. IT'S ALSO PAVED & WHEELCHAIR & STOLLER ACCESSIBLE.
Old fashioned arcade with a large collection ranging from vintage pinball to modern video games. This historical treasure is a fun attraction for people of all ages. Though you can still find a few games that still cost a penny, most cost 50 cents or more, but it is a great break from the worries of today as you travel back to a simpler time, This is a truly a one of kind can't miss attractions.
166 locals recommend
Manitou Springs Penny Arcade
930 Manitou AveOld fashioned arcade with a large collection ranging from vintage pinball to modern video games. This historical treasure is a fun attraction for people of all ages. Though you can still find a few games that still cost a penny, most cost 50 cents or more, but it is a great break from the worries of today as you travel back to a simpler time, This is a truly a one of kind can't miss attractions.
Pikes Peak is one of the most visited mountains on the planet. This majestic beauty standing 14,115 fee is accessible to visitors of all ages & abilities. Keep an eye out for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, yellow bellied marmots, & ever elusive Big Foot. The Summit House is open during construction. So you won't want to miss their famous hot & fresh donuts served daily with hot coffee & yummy fudge. One the clearest of days you might be lucky enough to see five states ( Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah & Kansas. Once you stand atop this magnificent mountain you will understand why it inspired the song " America the Beautiful".
681 locals recommend
Pikes Peak Summit House
Pikes Peak is one of the most visited mountains on the planet. This majestic beauty standing 14,115 fee is accessible to visitors of all ages & abilities. Keep an eye out for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, yellow bellied marmots, & ever elusive Big Foot. The Summit House is open during construction. So you won't want to miss their famous hot & fresh donuts served daily with hot coffee & yummy fudge. One the clearest of days you might be lucky enough to see five states ( Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah & Kansas. Once you stand atop this magnificent mountain you will understand why it inspired the song " America the Beautiful".
The US Olympic & Paralympic Museum offers a timeless experience by capturing the history of Team USA in The Olympic & Paralympic Games. This 60,000 sq. ft. shares The Olympians compelling stories & triumphs. The Museum is one of the most accessible & interactive museums in the world, designed so guests of all abilities experience all the museums has to offer. The 12 galleries feature cutting edge technology & historical artifacts that perfectly merges the past with the Present. This Museum is a must visit.
150 locals recommend
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
200 S Sierra Madre StThe US Olympic & Paralympic Museum offers a timeless experience by capturing the history of Team USA in The Olympic & Paralympic Games. This 60,000 sq. ft. shares The Olympians compelling stories & triumphs. The Museum is one of the most accessible & interactive museums in the world, designed so guests of all abilities experience all the museums has to offer. The 12 galleries feature cutting edge technology & historical artifacts that perfectly merges the past with the Present. This Museum is a must visit.
The Manitou Incline, is a popular hiking trail that is not for the faint at heart. It is one of the most unique & challenging trails in the US.
TRAIL DIFFICULTY: EXTREME/ ADVANCED HIKE
HIGHEST POINT: 8,550 FT.
LEGNTH APROX: .88 MILES
TRAILHEAD: BARR TRAIL
STEPS: 2,744 (BUT WHO'S COUNTING)
AVERAGE TIME: SEASONED CLIMBERS & OLYMPIANS MAY SUMMIT IN UNDER 30 MINS. MOST HIKERS EXPECT 1 HOUR OR LONGER
TIPS
1.) Only attempt if you really think you can do it
2.) Please use The Manitou Springs free shuttle to avoid parking congestion on Ruxton Avenue. Shuttle runs every 20 minutes
3.) Don't be fooled by the false summit about three quarters of the way up. The incline intersects with Bear Trail & if you can't make it to the top, then you can take that way back down.
4.) No pets allowed
5.) Bring plenty of water
6.) Wear proper footwear, flipflops won't cut it
228 locals recommend
The Incline
The InclineThe Manitou Incline, is a popular hiking trail that is not for the faint at heart. It is one of the most unique & challenging trails in the US.
TRAIL DIFFICULTY: EXTREME/ ADVANCED HIKE
HIGHEST POINT: 8,550 FT.
LEGNTH APROX: .88 MILES
TRAILHEAD: BARR TRAIL
STEPS: 2,744 (BUT WHO'S COUNTING)
AVERAGE TIME: SEASONED CLIMBERS & OLYMPIANS MAY SUMMIT IN UNDER 30 MINS. MOST HIKERS EXPECT 1 HOUR OR LONGER
TIPS
1.) Only attempt if you really think you can do it
2.) Please use The Manitou Springs free shuttle to avoid parking congestion on Ruxton Avenue. Shuttle runs every 20 minutes
3.) Don't be fooled by the false summit about three quarters of the way up. The incline intersects with Bear Trail & if you can't make it to the top, then you can take that way back down.
4.) No pets allowed
5.) Bring plenty of water
6.) Wear proper footwear, flipflops won't cut it
City/town information
Located just 1hour via I-25 N, Denver is a big city that is worth the hype. This sports crazy home of the Broncos, Nuggets, Rockies and the Avalanche is teaming with great restaurants, shopping, parks, arts and so much more. Denver has become a 21st century metropolis, all while maintaining its unique location close to the majestic natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains.
Here are just a few of the many, many things you can see and do in Colorado’s State capital. You can ride the free 16th Mall Shuttle, while hopping off to shop and dine on the blocks long, car free area. Be sure and visit the Denver Union Station, located in LoDo (lower downtown), this city landmark has ornate architecture , popular restaurants and shops. Next check out the Denver Art Museum , which has the distinction of having one of the most expansive Native American art collections in the country. It is equally famous for it’s Western American Art section. Also try to catch one its visiting exhibits, which have included the costumes of Star Wars and the Dior Collection.
As far as food goes, you can’t really go wrong with the variety of choices you will find. From sushi at Sushi Den, to Farm to Table/Vegetarian at Root Down, to Green Chili at El Taco Mexico, to a classic steaks at Shanahan’s , to a amazing creamy ice cream at Little Man’s (be prepared to stand in line), Denver’s food science is sue to hit the spot.
No trip to Denver is complete without visiting world famous Red Rock Amphitheater. There is no place in world like the acoustically impeccable, naturally stunning marvel of ochre sandstone that is red Rocks! Every major star has played this iconic state from U2, the Beatles, Phish, Jimmy Hendrix, Snoop Dog, Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Chance the Rapper and so many more. If you are lucky enough to see a concert here, we guarantee you won’t soon forget it, but even if you can’t make a concert take a tour and just sit and marvel at the venue.
A day in Denver really isn’t enough to see and experience all that the Mile High City has to offer, but that just makes anther visit necessary.
84 locals recommend
Denver
Located just 1hour via I-25 N, Denver is a big city that is worth the hype. This sports crazy home of the Broncos, Nuggets, Rockies and the Avalanche is teaming with great restaurants, shopping, parks, arts and so much more. Denver has become a 21st century metropolis, all while maintaining its unique location close to the majestic natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains.
Here are just a few of the many, many things you can see and do in Colorado’s State capital. You can ride the free 16th Mall Shuttle, while hopping off to shop and dine on the blocks long, car free area. Be sure and visit the Denver Union Station, located in LoDo (lower downtown), this city landmark has ornate architecture , popular restaurants and shops. Next check out the Denver Art Museum , which has the distinction of having one of the most expansive Native American art collections in the country. It is equally famous for it’s Western American Art section. Also try to catch one its visiting exhibits, which have included the costumes of Star Wars and the Dior Collection.
As far as food goes, you can’t really go wrong with the variety of choices you will find. From sushi at Sushi Den, to Farm to Table/Vegetarian at Root Down, to Green Chili at El Taco Mexico, to a classic steaks at Shanahan’s , to a amazing creamy ice cream at Little Man’s (be prepared to stand in line), Denver’s food science is sue to hit the spot.
No trip to Denver is complete without visiting world famous Red Rock Amphitheater. There is no place in world like the acoustically impeccable, naturally stunning marvel of ochre sandstone that is red Rocks! Every major star has played this iconic state from U2, the Beatles, Phish, Jimmy Hendrix, Snoop Dog, Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Chance the Rapper and so many more. If you are lucky enough to see a concert here, we guarantee you won’t soon forget it, but even if you can’t make a concert take a tour and just sit and marvel at the venue.
A day in Denver really isn’t enough to see and experience all that the Mile High City has to offer, but that just makes anther visit necessary.
Located 2 hours and 15minutes from Colorado Springs, the ride to Breckinridge explains why people love Colorado. Escape to Colorado’s playground, filled with world class skiing, great shopping and delicious restaurants and breweries. There is something for everyone from 0-100 in Break, you can sit and enjoys a coffee while people watching, hike and enjoy the natural beauty that draws visitors from all over the world or power down the mountain on your bike on the miles of trails. Breckenridge is not just a winter wonderland this is a city for every season. Winter, brings the skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers, while Fall brings the leaf watchers, Spring is quiet and welcomes a slower pace and Summer is a whole new world with outdoor concerts, the alpine slide and colorful wildflowers and is a great time for wildlife sights. Breckenridge is worth the visit.
596 locals recommend
Breckenridge
Located 2 hours and 15minutes from Colorado Springs, the ride to Breckinridge explains why people love Colorado. Escape to Colorado’s playground, filled with world class skiing, great shopping and delicious restaurants and breweries. There is something for everyone from 0-100 in Break, you can sit and enjoys a coffee while people watching, hike and enjoy the natural beauty that draws visitors from all over the world or power down the mountain on your bike on the miles of trails. Breckenridge is not just a winter wonderland this is a city for every season. Winter, brings the skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers, while Fall brings the leaf watchers, Spring is quiet and welcomes a slower pace and Summer is a whole new world with outdoor concerts, the alpine slide and colorful wildflowers and is a great time for wildlife sights. Breckenridge is worth the visit.
This world class college town, home to University of Colorado at Boulder is an easy day trip that’s worth the time. Discover world class shopping, cuisine & hiking opportunities. Enjoy gelato, bars, shops & more on famous pedestrian friendly Pearl Street Mall, where you will get lost in local shops, great food, street performers & great people watching. The Flatiron Mountains are only minutes away & offer stunning trails. Boulder holds a special place in my heart since it’s my alma mater & I would love to answer any questions about this special town.
414 locals recommend
Boulder
This world class college town, home to University of Colorado at Boulder is an easy day trip that’s worth the time. Discover world class shopping, cuisine & hiking opportunities. Enjoy gelato, bars, shops & more on famous pedestrian friendly Pearl Street Mall, where you will get lost in local shops, great food, street performers & great people watching. The Flatiron Mountains are only minutes away & offer stunning trails. Boulder holds a special place in my heart since it’s my alma mater & I would love to answer any questions about this special town.
Located 46 miles from Colorado Springs, the Fremont County area features the Royal Gorge and Park, the nation’s highest suspension bridge, dangling more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River. It also is home to river rafting for all levels and skills. There are many guided tours available.
Canon City is home to several state and federal penitentiaries, so it’s no surprise that the Museum of Colorado Prisons is a popular attraction. Fremont county is becoming a hot spot for mountain biking with the expanded Oil Well Flats trail system. Canon City is a city that can feed your need for adventure and excitemen
30 locals recommend
Cañon City
Located 46 miles from Colorado Springs, the Fremont County area features the Royal Gorge and Park, the nation’s highest suspension bridge, dangling more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River. It also is home to river rafting for all levels and skills. There are many guided tours available.
Canon City is home to several state and federal penitentiaries, so it’s no surprise that the Museum of Colorado Prisons is a popular attraction. Fremont county is becoming a hot spot for mountain biking with the expanded Oil Well Flats trail system. Canon City is a city that can feed your need for adventure and excitemen
Pueblo is a short 30 minute drive from Colorado Springs. It lies on the banks of the Arkansas River and used to be well known mining town and later became a hub still making hence it’s nickname the Steel City. It is now famous for it’s friendly locals and famous green chili, the official chili of the State.
Top sights to see in Pueblo, include: Lake Pueblo State Park. It has 60 miles of shoreline and 10,000 acres of land. Activities include two full service marinas, recreational fishing, hiking, camping and swimming at a special swim beach.
The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is the crowning jewel of the city. There are lots of bars, shops and restaurants to choose from, you can even take a boat or gondola ride.This family and dog friendly attraction is the highlight to a trip to Pueblo. You also won’t want to miss the Pueblo Zoo, this smaller cousin of the Cheyenne mountain Zoo is open year round and is home to over 420 animals of more than 140 species
16 locals recommend
Pueblo
Pueblo is a short 30 minute drive from Colorado Springs. It lies on the banks of the Arkansas River and used to be well known mining town and later became a hub still making hence it’s nickname the Steel City. It is now famous for it’s friendly locals and famous green chili, the official chili of the State.
Top sights to see in Pueblo, include: Lake Pueblo State Park. It has 60 miles of shoreline and 10,000 acres of land. Activities include two full service marinas, recreational fishing, hiking, camping and swimming at a special swim beach.
The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is the crowning jewel of the city. There are lots of bars, shops and restaurants to choose from, you can even take a boat or gondola ride.This family and dog friendly attraction is the highlight to a trip to Pueblo. You also won’t want to miss the Pueblo Zoo, this smaller cousin of the Cheyenne mountain Zoo is open year round and is home to over 420 animals of more than 140 species
Cripple Creek is just a 45 minute scenic drive from Colorado Springs. This mining town takes you on a trip back in time. Cripple Creek is a town rich in history from the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, the Butte Theater and the many casinos that line main street. Enjoy train rides through the Gold Mining District or have a picnic at the town park. A trip to Cripple Creek is a must in the fall as the leaves change and the Aspens quake and shimmer in the bright autumn sky. Cripple Creek is an easy day trip that takes you back in time to Colorado’s wild west past.
228 locals recommend
Cripple Creek
Cripple Creek is just a 45 minute scenic drive from Colorado Springs. This mining town takes you on a trip back in time. Cripple Creek is a town rich in history from the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, the Butte Theater and the many casinos that line main street. Enjoy train rides through the Gold Mining District or have a picnic at the town park. A trip to Cripple Creek is a must in the fall as the leaves change and the Aspens quake and shimmer in the bright autumn sky. Cripple Creek is an easy day trip that takes you back in time to Colorado’s wild west past.
My favorite local coffee shops
This neighborhood coffee shop is right around the corner from the The Royer Sun & Royer Moon! Must try items : cold brew with ice cream & roasted zucchini & fennel sandwich!
47 locals recommend
Good Neighbors Meeting House
505 Columbia StThis neighborhood coffee shop is right around the corner from the The Royer Sun & Royer Moon! Must try items : cold brew with ice cream & roasted zucchini & fennel sandwich!
Brunch Please
The Franklin ( buttermilk fried chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, smothered in housemate sausage gravy) Or Strawberry Shortcake ( biscuit smothered with sweet strawberry sauce topped with whipped cream) biscuit never fails!
115 locals recommend
Denver Biscuit Company - Colorado Springs
528 S Tejon StThe Franklin ( buttermilk fried chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, smothered in housemate sausage gravy) Or Strawberry Shortcake ( biscuit smothered with sweet strawberry sauce topped with whipped cream) biscuit never fails!
503W
503 W Colorado AveBrunch Sat. & Sun 9am -2pm only!
Amazing hash, chicken & waffles, & more!
Mountain Shadows Restaurant is where all the locals go after a hike or take the family for good old comfort food like biscuits & gravy, pancakes & classic breakfast food!
71 locals recommend
Meadow Muffins
2223 Colorado AveMountain Shadows Restaurant is where all the locals go after a hike or take the family for good old comfort food like biscuits & gravy, pancakes & classic breakfast food!