1. Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is one of my favorite places in Colorado – a dramatic landscape with the red rock formations set against the Rocky Mountains! It’s a photographer’s dream – especially during golden hour or when there’s been a dusting of snow. With an extensive trail system; it’s a fantastic spot for biking, hiking, and walking. There’s a short loop you can drive with picturesque pull-outs. Keep your eyes peeled – one visit, we saw a herd of bighorn sheep overlooking us! The park is free to enter and also has an informative visitor center.
2. Summit Pikes Peak
There are numerous ways to summit “American’s Mountain”. You can ride the cog rail, drive the windy road, or hike one of our most beloved fourteeners (Colorado is home to over 50 mountains with an elevation over 14,000 feet!). Be sure to pack a jacket as even in the middle of summer, it’s chilly at the top. Also, if you’re traveling here from sea level – make sure to keep hydrated to ward off altitude sickness.
3. Olympic Museum
With the winter Olympics in Italy fresh on my mind – it was a perfect opportunity to finally visit the Olympic Museum (it’s been on my list for years!). It’s located downtown Colorado Springs with easy access in the attached parking lot (for a fee). Be sure to book tickets in advance if you plan to visit during the busy summer tourist season. If you’re a Colorado resident, reduced rates are available on Saturdays. I’m not a huge museum lover – but I really enjoyed the Olympic Museum! With the blending of history, interactive stations, and athlete profiles – it captures the attention of all ages.
4. Manitou Springs
Yes, it’s touristy – but still a treasure of a cute town. Besides exploring Manitou Springs; it’s a great starting point to explore Cave of the Winds, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, and catch the cog rail to Pikes Peak. During my husband and my recent visit – we dined at The Keg Lounge both evenings. It’s a local favorite, the staff is super friendly, and has a killer happy hour!
5. Old Colorado City
This was the first time I’ve visited this neighborhood in Colorado Springs. Colorado City was the first capital of the Colorado Territory… holding that distinction for only 5 days before it changed to Golden (another near and dear to me Colorado town… as I called it home all through the 90’s – but that’s for another story 🙂 ). With boutique shops/galleries, unique restaurants, and several coffee shops – it’s a fun spot to spend a few hours exploring.
You can also join me in Colorado Springs here… (the first video I made for Travel by Kris in 2018).
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
