Located at the base of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities. However, there are many other exciting places to visit near Colorado Springs that are worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in the surrounding areas. In this overview, we’ll take a look at some of the top places to visit near Colorado Springs.
Introduction
Colorado Springs is a great base for exploring the surrounding region, which offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. From scenic drives and hiking trails to historic landmarks and cultural institutions, there’s no shortage of things to see and do near Colorado Springs. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the top places to visit, including national parks, monuments, and other attractions that are within a few hours’ drive of the city.
Natural Wonders
One of the most popular natural attractions near Colorado Springs is Garden of the Gods, a free public park featuring unique red rock formations and stunning views of Pikes Peak. Another must-see is the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, which spans the Arkansas River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Cultural Attractions
For those interested in history and culture, there are plenty of attractions to explore near Colorado Springs. The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a unique attraction that features fossils of ancient plants and animals, while the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Adventure Activities
Colorado Springs is also a great base for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and rafting. The nearby San Juan Mountains offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state, while the Arkansas River provides world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at these and other top places to visit near Colorado Springs. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in the surrounding areas. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the best of Colorado!
Places to Visit Near Colorado Springs
Rocky Mountain National Park
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers stunning mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
Things to Do:
- Drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the US
- Hike to the top of Longs Peak, the highest peak in the park
- Take a guided tour to spot elk, moose, and bighorn sheep
Garden of the Gods
Just a few miles west of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a free public park featuring unique red rock formations, hiking trails, and stunning views of Pikes Peak.
Things to Do:
- Hike the Perkins Central Garden Trail for breathtaking views of the city
- Take a guided tour to learn about the park’s unique geology and history
- Have a picnic at the scenic overlooks or in the park’s many picnic areas
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Located in the historic town of Manitou Springs, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a series of ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings that date back over 700 years.
Things to Do:
- Explore the cliff dwellings and learn about the history and culture of the Anasazi people
- Visit the museum to see artifacts and exhibits on the region’s natural and human history
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the dwellings and the people who built them
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a unique park that preserves the remains of ancient plants and animals. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Heraklion Crete)
Things to Do:
- Take a guided tour to learn about the park’s fascinating fossil history
- Explore the park’s many hiking trails and scenic overlooks
- Visit the museum to see exhibits on the park’s fossils and natural history
Table Mountain
Located just outside of Colorado Springs, Table Mountain is a unique geological formation that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city
- Explore the park’s many hiking trails and scenic overlooks
- Visit the museum to learn about the park’s unique geology and history
Pikes Peak
Located just west of Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak is a iconic mountain that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Things to Do:
- Take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the summit of the mountain
- Hike to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
- Explore the many hiking trails and scenic overlooks in the Pikes Peak area
Cañon City
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Cañon City is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a tour of the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
- Explore the many hiking trails and scenic overlooks in the Cañon City area
- Visit the museum to learn about the town’s history and natural history
Woodland Park
Located about 30 minutes west of Colorado Springs, Woodland Park is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby San Isabel National Forest
- Visit the Woodland Park Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Salida
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Salida is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby San Isabel National Forest
- Visit the Salida Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Leadville
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Leadville is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby San Isabel National Forest
- Visit the Leadville Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Manitou Springs
Located just west of Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Garden of the Gods
- Visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings to learn about the area’s history and culture
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Colorado City
Located about 30 minutes east of Colorado Springs, Colorado City is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
- Visit the Colorado City Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Palmer Lake
Located about 30 minutes north of Colorado Springs, Palmer Lake is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Palmer Lake Open Space
- Visit the Palmer Lake Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Monument
Located about 30 minutes north of Colorado Springs, Monument is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Anekal)
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Monument Creek Preserve
- Visit the Monument Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Castle Rock
Located about 45 minutes east of Colorado Springs, Castle Rock is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Castle Rock State Park
- Visit the Castle Rock Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Golden
Located about an hour and a half east of Colorado Springs, Golden is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
- Visit the Golden Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Georgetown
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Georgetown is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park
- Visit the Georgetown Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Estes Park
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Estes Park is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park
- Visit the Estes Park Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Winter Park
Located about an hour and a half west of Colorado Springs, Winter Park is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park
- Visit the Winter Park Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Crested Butte
Located about two hours and a half west of Colorado Springs, Crested Butte is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Crested Butte Wilderness Area
- Visit the Crested Butte Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
- Explore the many shops and restaurants in the town’s historic downtown area
Aspen
Located about two hours and a half west of Colorado Springs, Aspen is a charming town that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Things to Do:
- Take a hike in the nearby Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
- Visit the Aspen Visitor Center to learn about the area’s natural and human history
As we conclude our exploration of the places to visit near Colorado Springs, it’s clear that there’s no shortage of exciting destinations to discover. From the stunning natural beauty of Garden of the Gods to the rich history and culture of the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, there’s something for everyone in this region.
In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy near Colorado Springs. We’ve explored the great outdoors at Mueller State Park and the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and we’ve delved into the region’s rich history at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and the Manitou Cliff Dwellings.
We’ve also touched on the unique experiences and events that can be found in the area, from hot air balloon rides to wine tastings and more. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Shimoga)
In conclusion, Colorado Springs and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of exciting and diverse attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique experience, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover all that Colorado Springs has to offer!
Here are five FAQs related to ‘Places To Visit Near Colorado Springs’:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking trails near Colorado Springs?
Some of the most popular hiking trails near Colorado Springs include the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the Manitou Incline. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and range in difficulty from easy to challenging. Be sure to check trail conditions and difficulty levels before heading out on your hike.
What are some must-see attractions in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is home to a variety of unique attractions, including the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, and the Pioneers Museum. Visitors can also explore the city’s rich military history at the National Museum of World War II Aviation or the United States Air Force Academy.
Are there any scenic drives near Colorado Springs?
Yes, there are several scenic drives near Colorado Springs that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. One popular option is the Pikes Peak Highway, which takes drivers to the summit of Pikes Peak. Another option is the Gold Belt Tour, which winds its way through the historic mining towns of Cripple Creek and Victor.
Can I visit any national parks near Colorado Springs?
Yes, there are several national parks and monuments near Colorado Springs. The most popular option is Great Sand Dunes National Park, which is located about an hour and a half west of the city. Visitors can also explore the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, the Colorado National Monument, and the Mesa Verde National Park, which is located about a three-hour drive from Colorado Springs.
Are there any family-friendly activities near Colorado Springs?
Yes, there are many family-friendly activities near Colorado Springs. The city is home to several amusement parks, including the Colorado Springs Funplex and the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Visitors can also explore the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, which features a variety of animals from around the world. Additionally, the city offers several museums and attractions that cater to families, including the Colorado Springs Children’s Museum and the Pioneers Museum.