Adventure on a Quick Weekend Getaway: Colorado Springs

Natural Wonders

Garden of the Gods: Garden of the Gods is a stunning natural wonder. With admission being completely free, this is a must add to any itinerary. It features towering red rock formations, dramatic views of Pikes Peak, and various hiking trails for visitors to explore. The park is famous for its unique geological formations and is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The rock formations in the Garden of the Gods were created millions of years ago during the geological upheaval that formed the Rocky Mountains. The red rocks are primarily composed of sedimentary rock, such as sandstone and conglomerate, which were deposited over millions of years. In 1879, Charles Perkins, a friend of General William Jackson Palmer (founder of Colorado Springs), purchased 480 acres of land, including the Garden of the Gods, with the intention of building a home. However, Perkins eventually decided to donate the land to the city of Colorado Springs under the condition that it remain a free public park forever.

Pikes Peak Highway: Pikes Peak is one of the most iconic mountains in the United States, located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. The scenic toll road allows visitors to drive up the 19 miles road to the summit, while over looking breathtaking views. Reservations are required May 24th-September 30th and can be made at www.drivepikespeak.com. Calling (719) 385-7325 before you leave your hotel, will give you a weather/road report and let you know of any road closures, and also give you any other info you may need before driving to the summit. There is multiple ways to get to the summit, but I think the toll road offers the best views. *Insider tip: When coming back down from the summit drive in low gears. This will help with not having to rely only on your breaks to slow down. If your breaks get too hot by the check point at mile 11, they will make you wait 30-40 minutes for your breaks to cool down.*

Adrenaline Filled Adventures

Seven Falls: Seven Falls is a majestic series of waterfalls located in South Cheyenne Cañon, southwest of Colorado Springs, Colorado. With a two sets of stairs, it’s 224 steps to the top, it is definitely a slight workout. Don’t worry there’s a resting platform after the 1st set of stairs. Seven Falls consists of seven distinct cascading waterfalls, with the largest waterfall dropping 181 feet in a single plunge. The waterfalls are surrounded by lush vegetation and towering granite cliffs, creating a picturesque natural setting. In addition to admiring the waterfalls, Seven Falls offers various recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. These include zip lining across the canyon, hiking, birdwatching, and dining at the on-site restaurant. All visitors must park at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd located at the Norris Penrose Event Center, where complimentary shuttle service transports all visitors to and from the park entrance every 20 minutes.

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park: This is the highest suspension bridge in the USA. 955 feet below, runs the Arkansas river. It spans a length of 1,260 feet across the Royal Gorge, making it an impressive engineering feat. Built in 1929, this bridge has brought millions from across the world to marvel in its beauty. There’s also a zip line, that goes across the entire gorge, and a sky coaster for those who are thrill seekers! Open 365 days a year, weather permitting. Your ticket includes the Bridge, Gondola, Playland, and the Theater.

Relaxing Vibes

SunWater Spa: SunWater Spa is a holistic wellness center located in Manitou Springs. SunWater Spa is known for its healing mineral waters, which flow from natural springs located on the property. The water is rich in minerals and is believed to have therapeutic properties, offering relaxation and rejuvenation to those who soak in it. The spa features a variety of facilities designed to promote relaxation and well-being, including indoor and outdoor soaking pools, saunas, and meditation spaces. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the warm mineral waters while taking in views of the surrounding mountains and natural beauty. In addition to soaking pools, SunWater Spa offers a range of wellness services and classes, including yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and energy healing. These offerings are designed to promote physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.

Night Life

Breweries and Taprooms: Colorado Springs is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and taprooms scattered throughout the city. Visitors can sample a wide variety of locally brewed beers while enjoying live music or food truck fare.

Bars and Pubs: From upscale cocktail lounges to cozy neighborhood pubs, Colorado Springs has a range of bars and pubs to suit every taste. Whether you're looking for handcrafted cocktails, local brews, or a laid-back atmosphere, you'll find plenty of options to choose from.

Live Music Venues: Several venues in Colorado Springs host live music performances ranging from intimate acoustic sets to high-energy concerts. Whether you're into rock, jazz, country, or indie music, you're sure to find a venue that caters to your musical preferences.

Dining and Entertainment Districts: Downtown Colorado Springs and the nearby Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs neighborhoods are bustling hubs of dining and entertainment. These areas offer a mix of restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries, making them perfect for a night out on the town.

Cultural Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Colorado Springs hosts a variety of cultural events, festivals, and special events that showcase local artists, musicians, and performers. These events often feature live music, art exhibits, food vendors, and more, providing opportunities to experience the vibrant cultural scene of the city.

Unique Experiences

Red Rocks Amphitheater: Take a peak at the schedule and go to a concert! Red Rocks Amphitheater is a world-renowned outdoor concert venue located near Morrison, Colorado, just about an hour from Colorado Springs. It has hosted some of the biggest names in music since it opened in 1941. The amphitheater has a seating capacity of around 9,500, with seating arranged in tiers carved into the natural rock formations. Many artists and concert-goers consider it one of the best concert venues in the world due to its natural beauty and incredible acoustics.

The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center: Located near Divide, Colorado, it’s about an hour's drive from Colorado Springs. If you’re going in the colder months make sure to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle because this is in the mountains! (We went during a snow storm and we’re so happy to have four-wheel drive) The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center is located near Divide, Colorado, about an hour's drive from Colorado Springs. This wildlife center is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and education of wolves and other wildlife. The sanctuary provides a permanent home for rescued wolves and offers educational programs to raise awareness about wolf conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats. During the tour, guests have the opportunity to observe the resident wolf packs and learn about the individual wolves' stories and backgrounds. The staff at the sanctuary work to rehabilitate injured or orphaned animals with the goal of releasing them back into the wild whenever possible. The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect wolves and their habitats. Through research, advocacy, and public outreach, the sanctuary works to promote coexistence between humans and wolves and to ensure the long-term survival of these iconic predators.

Breakfast

Urban Egg: With an award-winning menu, Urban Egg makes their breakfasts from scratch daily using local, organic ingredients when possible.

Mountain Shadows Restaurant: Featured on Guy Fieris Diners, Drive In’s, and Dives. Mountain Shadows Restaurant offers a scenic setting with views of Cheyenne Mountain and the resort's golf course. Their breakfast menu features hearty classics like eggs benedict, Belgian waffles, and biscuits and gravy.

Lunch

The Skirted Heifer: Known for their gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients, The Skirted Heifer offers a unique dining experience. Their signature "Skirted Heifer" burger, topped with green chili and a fried egg, is a must-try.

Phantom Canyon Brewing Company: If you're in the mood for a brewpub lunch, Phantom Canyon Brewing Company is a great choice. Located in a historic building downtown, they offer a diverse menu featuring pub fare and handcrafted beers brewed on-site.

Dinner

Four by Brother Luck: This restaurant offers a creative and eclectic menu inspired by local and seasonal ingredients, with a focus on innovative flavor combinations.

Paravicini's Italian Bistro: Craving Italian? Paravicini's serves up traditional Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood in a charming setting.

Carlos' Bistro: For a fine dining experience, Carlos' Bistro offers a menu of upscale dishes including seafood, steak, and decadent desserts.