25 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Family and friends will adore this list of great things to do in Colorado Springs on the weekend, or, any day.

Tour the U.S. Olympic Training Center

The U.S. Olympic Training Center is a fascinating attraction that offers free tours to the public. Visitors can see the facilities where Olympic athletes train and compete, including the Aquatics Center, the Sports Center, and the Shooting Center. This center is responsible for training athletes who will represent the United States in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The center’s primary mission is to provide athletes with access to world-class training and coaching, as well as the resources necessary to help them succeed at the highest levels of international competition.

The US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs is one of three centers operated by the United States Olympic Committee, with the other two located in Lake Placid, New York, and Chula Vista, California. The Colorado Springs center is the largest of the three, covering 35 acres of land and offering a wide range of training facilities, including indoor and outdoor tracks, gymnastics facilities, a swimming pool, a shooting range, a weightlifting center, and a sports medicine clinic.

A valuable aspect of the US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs is the Sports Medicine Center, which provides athletes with access to medical professionals and state-of-the-art equipment. The center offers a range of services, including physical therapy, sports massage, and injury prevention and rehabilitation programs.

The US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs is also home to the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee headquarters. The committee is responsible for selecting and managing American athletes who will compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The committee works closely with coaches, trainers, and athletes to ensure that they are prepared for international competition and have the resources they need to succeed.

In addition to providing athletes with world-class training facilities and support services, the US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs is also committed to promoting Olympic values and principles. The center offers educational programs and community outreach initiatives designed to promote healthy lifestyles, physical fitness, and sportsmanship. The center also hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year, allowing visitors to learn more about the Olympic and Paralympic movements and the athletes who represent the United States in international competition.

Explore Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a natural park in Colorado Springs that is free to visit. The park offers over 1,400 acres of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are also picnic areas and scenic overlooks throughout the park.

Visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a free museum that explores the history of the city and the surrounding region. The museum features exhibits on the area’s Native American history, mining industry, and more. 

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (CSPM) is a cultural and historical landmark located in downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado. Established in 1903, the museum is housed in the beautifully restored 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, which itself is an important piece of Colorado Springs history.

The museum’s mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history and culture of the Pikes Peak region. The museum features exhibits that explore the stories of the people and events that shaped the city and the surrounding area. The exhibits cover a range of topics, including the history of Colorado Springs’ founding, the development of the city’s economy and infrastructure, and the stories of the people who have lived in the area over the years.

One of the most impressive exhibits at the CSPM is the McAllister House Museum. This historic house, built in 1873, was the home of one of Colorado Springs’ founding families, the McAllisters. The house has been restored to its original condition and is now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the rooms and artifacts of the house and learn about life in Colorado Springs in the late 19th century.

Another popular exhibit at the CSPM is the “Van Briggle Pottery: The Early Years” exhibit. The exhibit features a collection of pottery created by Artus Van Briggle, a famous American potter who lived and worked in Colorado Springs in the early 20th century. The exhibit explores the history of Van Briggle pottery and its impact on the art world.

Walk through Old Colorado City

Old Colorado City is a historic district in Colorado Springs that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The district features Victorian-era architecture, unique shops, and restaurants. You can catch one of the best farmer’s markets in Old Colorado City!

Stroll through the Colorado Springs Farmers Markets

Colorado Springs farmers markets are open from late spring or early summer through late fall. Farmers markets are free events that take place on Saturdays, in general, but each specific market has its own schedule. Here’s more about that:

Explore the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings

It’s not too far of a drive from the Springs in nearby Manitou Springs. The Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings showcase the history of Native American culture in the region. These ancient structures are educational and curious, and they offer a glimpse into a world that has long since vanished.

The Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings are a series of stone structures built into the cliffs that overlook the town. These structures were built by the Anasazi people, who inhabited the area from approximately 1200 to 1300 AD. The Anasazi were skilled builders and architects, and their structures were designed to blend in seamlessly with the natural environment. The Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings were originally located in what is now Mesa Verde National Park, but they were moved to their current location in the early 1900s. The move was the result of a desire to preserve these remarkable structures for future generations to see and learn from.

One of the most striking things about the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings is the level of preservation that has been achieved. Despite being hundreds of years old, the structures are remarkably intact, with many of the original features still visible. From the stone fireplaces to the intricate carvings on the walls, the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings are a true marvel of engineering and craftsmanship.

Visitors to the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings can also learn about the customs and traditions of the Anasazi people. For example, they were known for their intricate pottery, and many examples of their work can be seen at the site. Visitors can also learn about the Anasazi’s spiritual beliefs, including their reverence for the natural world and their belief in the power of the elements.

The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music and performances by local artists while taking in the beautiful surroundings of the center’s outdoor amphitheater.

Stroll Around America the Beautiful Park

Located in the heart of Colorado Springs, America the Beautiful Park is a great place to take little ones. There’s a large playground with plenty of swings, slides, and climbing structures to keep little ones entertained. There are also picnic areas and open spaces perfect for running around or having a game of catch.

North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a great place to explore the outdoors. There are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground that’s perfect for young children. The park also has a nature center that offers educational exhibits and activities for people of all ages. North Cheyenne Canon Park in Colorado Springs is a nature lover’s paradise, and at the heart of this stunning park is the nature center.

The nature center is housed in a beautiful stone building, which blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors will find a wealth of information about the park’s flora and fauna, as well as interactive exhibits that bring the natural world to life. One of the highlights of the nature center is its extensive trail network, which winds through the park’s rugged canyons and lush forests. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all abilities, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the city below. Along the way, visitors can learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife through interpretive signs and exhibits.

The nature center also offers a range of educational programs and events throughout the year, including guided hikes, nature walks, and workshops on topics such as birdwatching, geology, and ecology. These programs are designed to engage visitors of all ages and inspire a love of the natural world.

The philosophy of the park is “Leave No Trace” and that’s a great way to approach visiting nature preserves in any region of the world. 

The Pikes Peak Greenway Trail is a 20-mile paved trail that runs through Colorado Springs. It’s a great place to walk, skate or bike ride. There are several parks and playgrounds along the trail, as well as restrooms and water fountains.

Nestled in the heart of the Fountain Creek Regional Park, this nature center is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area and learn about the wildlife that inhabits it.

The center offers a variety of programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including guided nature walks, bird watching, and educational programs on topics like wetland ecology and geology. There are also exhibits showcasing the local flora and fauna, as well as interactive displays that provide a hands-on learning experience.

One of the highlights of the Fountain Creek Nature Center is its extensive trail system, which meanders through the park’s wetlands, meadows, and riparian areas. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the trails while taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife. The center also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a summer concert series and Halloween-themed activities in October.

In addition to its recreational and educational offerings, the Fountain Creek Nature Center is committed to conservation and stewardship of the area’s natural resources. The center participates in a number of local initiatives, including the Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District, which works to protect and restore the region’s waterways and wetlands.

Memorial Park is home to a lake where seniors can fish for free. The park also has walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Cheyenne Mountain is another iconic peak in Colorado Springs, with a summit that reaches over 9,500 feet. It offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains, and it is home to many hiking trails and picnic areas.

This center is dedicated to the preservation and education of wolves and other wildlife, and offers guided tours and interactive experiences.

Take a Wildlife Viewing Tour

Colorado Springs is home to many species of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears. You can book a guided wildlife viewing tour to get up close and personal with these animals.

Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscapes of Colorado Springs and enjoy views of the mountains and wildlife from above.

This museum has a large collection of mining equipment and artifacts, as well as interactive exhibits on Colorado’s mining history. You can read more here too:

Dog Sledding in the Winter

You can book a dog sledding tour through the snow-covered mountains of Colorado Springs, which is a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

Falconry at the Broadmoor

This unique opportunity offers an up-close and personal encounter with our magnificent birds of prey, giving you a chance to witness the incredible beauty and power of these majestic creatures. Begin your journey at the Broadmoor mews, where an experienced falconer will introduce you to our fleet of birds and share fascinating insights into their unique characteristics and the 4000-year-old tradition of falconry. From there, you’ll head to the flying field for a free-flight demonstration, where you’ll watch in awe as our falconer puts the bird through its paces and teaches you the training tactics and commands that make this sport so thrilling. And best of all, you’ll even have the chance to hold one of our magnificent birds yourself.

Beginners Lesson: A Perfect Introduction to Falconry

For those new to the world of falconry, the Beginners Lesson is the perfect place to start. You’ll have the chance to interact with a variety of trained birds, including falcons, hawks, and owls, learning about their habits, characteristics, and the basics of falconry. This 1.5-hour lesson is suitable for anyone aged five or older, so bring the whole family along for a truly unforgettable experience. 

Intermediate Lesson: Take Your Skills to the Next Level

Once you’ve completed the Beginners Lesson, you’ll have the opportunity to take your skills to the next level with the Intermediate Lesson. This 1.5-hour session gives you the chance to fly one of our birds of prey under the supervision of our expert falconer, putting your training tactics and commands to the test. Participants must be aged five or older, and have completed the Beginners Lesson within the past year to be eligible for this incredible experience. 

Take a tour of the Pikes Peak International Raceway

This track offers a variety of driving experiences, including stock car rides, drag racing, and more.

Take a scenic drive along the Gold Belt Scenic Byway

This 135-mile route passes through historic mining towns and offers beautiful views of the mountains.

This museum showcases a collection of vintage cars from the 1920s to the 1960s. The Colorado Springs Vintage Car Museum is a must-see destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This museum is home to an extensive collection of vintage cars, showcasing the evolution of the automobile industry over the past century. The museum’s impressive collection includes rare and one-of-a-kind vehicles from renowned manufacturers such as Rolls-Royce, Cadillac, and Packard. Visitors can marvel at the stunning craftsmanship and design of these iconic vehicles, each with their unique story to tell.

One of the most notable exhibits is the museum’s collection of classic Packard automobiles, featuring models from the 1920s and 1930s, known for their elegant design and luxury features. The collection includes a rare 1934 Packard Twelve Convertible Victoria, one of only three in existence, and a 1929 Packard 640 Custom Eight Roadster, recognized for its impressive speed and handling.

In addition to the Packard collection, the museum also boasts an extensive display of Rolls-Royce models, including a 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom, one of only three produced. Other notable exhibits include a 1930 Cadillac V-16 Roadster, known for its powerful engine and luxurious features, and a 1915 Stutz Bearcat, a popular sports car of the early 20th century. Visitors to the Colorado Springs Vintage Car Museum can also enjoy interactive exhibits, educational displays, and a gift shop offering a variety of car-related souvenirs and memorabilia.

Take a drive to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

This park features the highest suspension bridge in the United States and offers stunning views of the canyon.

Visit the National Museum of World War II Aviation

This museum showcases a collection of historic aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and transport planes. The National Museum of World War II Aviation is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in aviation history and the role it played in the Second World War. Located adjacent to the Colorado Springs Airport, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore restored aircraft and learn about the men and women who flew them.

The museum features a wide variety of exhibits, including restored airplanes and engines, flight simulators, and interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what it was like to fly and fight during World War II. Visitors can also explore a variety of military uniforms, equipment, and personal artifacts, providing a glimpse into the lives of the brave men and women who served in the war effort.

One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the Combat Gallery, which features a collection of iconic aircraft used during the war, including a B-25 Mitchell bomber, a P-51 Mustang fighter, and a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber. Visitors can get up close to these legendary planes and learn about their history and the role they played in the war effort.

In addition to its exhibits, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events, including guided tours and aviation summer camps for kids. The museum is also home to a research library, which houses a wealth of information on the history of aviation and the military.

So Much to Do, So Little Time!

Come on back over to this post as we will add seasonal adventures every few months. We didn’t include all the snow mountain and cross country ski adventures, yet. If you’ve got a favorite place or fun thing to do in Colorado Springs that’s free or nearly free, give us a holler at Editor@ ColoradoSpringsNewsandReviews.com and we’ll post your adventure suggestions!