Colorado Springs holidays
If a destination could win a prize for best bowl-you-over natural beauty at its doorstep, Colorado Springs would be a front-runner. Colorado’s second-largest city is surrounded by natural wonders like the Garden of the Gods and the Royal Gorge, making a holiday in Colorado Springs a prime opportunity to hike, climb, raft and ski. But this is also a great city escape with national museums, indie bookstores and a growing culinary scene.
Colorado Springs holiday highlights
Colorado Springs
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Natural wonders
It’s not a Colorado Springs holiday without a visit to the Garden of the Gods, a public park where jagged geological mounds burst from the red earth. Head here at sunset to see the landscape glow — High Point Overlook is a great vantage point. Other must-see sites include Red Rock Canyon, the Broadmoor Seven Falls and the Manitou Cliff Dwellings.
Worthwhile museums
Even for non–sporting fans, the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum is a good time. It starts with the impressive architecture and continues with interactive AI displays and stories of human triumph. The National Museum of World War II Aviation is a history enthusiast’s dream. The hangar full of aircraft is a testament to mechanical mastery, and the staff are always close by to answer any questions.
Where to stay
Downtown has a healthy selection of chains and even a few new independent hotels. You’ll find a nice mix of price points too, meaning a middle-of-the-road stay is relatively accessible. If a splashy resort experience is what you want, head for the upmarket options around Pleasant Valley and Manitou Springs.
Colorado Springs: Know before you go
Language
English
Currency
United States dollar ($)
Time zone
UTC-7 (MST) and UTC-6 (MDT)
High season
June – August
Low season
January – February
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Caption
Photographer name
Things to do in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs
Gaylon Wampler
Shopping
Colorado Springs has the gourmand covered, with chocolate shops, speciality wine and artisan grocers. There are also long-standing independent bookshops, artist collectives and even a letterpress. If you’re chasing a piece of Colorado to take home with you, pick up an ethically sourced taxidermy insect at Novis Mortem Collective or Cronk Art and Curiosities.
Family-friendly things to do
For the adventurous family, there are tours of the Manitou Grand Caverns and zip line rides at Cave of the Winds. To wind back the clock, walk through Old Colorado City, which dates back to 1859. If a picnic is more your family’s pace, pick up some baked goods and head to North Cheyenne Canon Park.
Places to eat
The food in Colorado Springs ranges from pitch-perfect American classics to modern fine dining. Breakfast is huge here, with headliners including fluffy pancakes, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy. Avenue 19 and Ivywild School are popular food halls for dinner, while downtown has a host of refined drinking and dining options.
FAQs about Colorado Springs holidays
With temperatures reaching a high of 30ºC (86ºF), July is the warmest month in Colorado Springs.
The cost of your city break in Colorado Springs will vary depending on things like where you're coming from, when you go, and your preferred hotel. Colorado Springs flights and hotels are usually more expensive during peak times, but you can score savings by travelling in the off-season.
The shoulder seasons offer cooler weather and fewer crowds, making for a more enjoyable visit to the outdoor attractions. You’ll also benefit from discounted rates for flights and hotels to Colorado Springs. Want to try your hand at ice climbing or head out skiing
January brings the coolest weather. Organise your Colorado Springs holiday then and you can anticipate lows of -10ºC (14ºF).
A weekend holiday to Colorado Springs is just enough time to squeeze in a few natural wonders, some great food and a quick shopping spree. If you want to complete more hikes or ski runs, wander the museums or uncover other cultural highlights, then four to five days is ideal.
The official currency in Colorado Springs is the United States dollar (USD). It's helpful to have a small amount of cash during your trip to Colorado Springs, but credit cards and digital payments are typically accepted in most places.
The locals primarily speak English here. Every city has its own distinct lingo, so it's worth picking up a few common phrases to use during your city break in Colorado Springs.
With an average rainfall of 10 cm, July is the rainiest month to go on a Colorado Springs holiday. When the drizzle sets in, head indoors and make the most of the city's shopping malls, art galleries, cafes and more.
US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) / North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) Headquarters and National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) are just the beginning of what this city has in store. Look up all the things to do in Colorado Springs and see why it should be your next travel stop.
Colorado Springs is generally considered a safe place, especially if you're in the well-known tourist areas. As with any destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure. Read up on any travel warnings or safety tips to ensure your holiday to Colorado Springs is enjoyable and worry-free.
Colorado Springs has a range of museums, galleries, rooftop bars, cafes and restaurants. Beyond the city’s comfort, a holiday to Colorado Springs is made extra special by its stunning scenery. Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, Colorado Springs offers hiking, biking and exploring galore.
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