Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States
1. Garden of the Gods
Enjoy stunning red rock formations and breathtaking views in this public park just minutes from Colorado Springs.
- Natural Beauty: Experience unique sandstone formations, balancing rocks, and towering spires.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore hiking trails, rock climbing routes, or rent a bike to traverse the park.
- Scenic Views: Capture memorable photos of the city skyline and Pikes Peak from various scenic vistas.
2. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain
Ride the Pike's Peak Highway or hike to the summit of North America's highest mountain with a stunning view of Colorado Springs.
- Scenic Drive: Travel along the famous Pikes Peak Highway and enjoy breathtaking vistas throughout the journey.
- Hiking Opportunities: Challenge yourself with various hiking trails, including the Barr Trail for the ultimate summit experience.
- Historical Significance: Visit the historic Summit House and learn about the mountain's rich history and Pike's Peak Marathon.
3. Manitou Springs
Relax in the healing waters of mineral springs and explore the charming town of Manitou Springs near Colorado Springs.
- Mineral Springs: Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters at one of many natural springs.
- Historic Architecture: Discover the unique Victorian architecture and historic buildings throughout Manitou Springs.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike nearby trails, visit the Manitou Incline or rent a bike to explore the area.
4. Cave of the Winds
Venture into one of Colorado's oldest and most famous caves for an unforgettable underground adventure.
- Underground Adventure: Explore caverns, stalactites, and unique rock formations during a guided tour.
- Thrilling Attractions: Experience the Bat-tastic Zip Line, Dream Springs Massage Chair, or Terror-dactyl ride.
- Educational Experience: Learn about cave geology and history during your tour with knowledgeable guides.
5. Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
Get up close to wolves and other native wildlife at this non-profit sanctuary near Colorado Springs.
- Educational Experience: Learn about wolf conservation efforts and gain insights into the lives of these fascinating animals.
- Wildlife Encounters: Meet wolves, foxes, lynx, and other wildlife during a guided tour or educational program.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the wolves in their enclosures and interact with them through the fence.
6. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Cross America's highest suspension bridge and explore breathtaking canyons at Royal Gorge Park.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Arkansas River and Sangre de Cristo Mountains from the bridge.
- Adventure Activities: Experience zip lines, gondola rides, or thrilling walkways throughout the park.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the park's history and early exploration efforts during your visit.
7. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Trek across towering sand dunes and explore alpine lakes at this unique national park near Colorado Springs.
- Natural Beauty: Experience the stunning contrast between snow-capped mountains and vast sand dunes.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, camp, or rent a sled to slide down the sand dunes for an exciting experience.
- Scenic Drives: Drive along the scenic Medano Pass Primitive Road and enjoy views of the park from multiple vantage points.
8. Breckenridge
Escape to a charming mountain town for skiing, snowboarding, or outdoor adventures in the winter, and hiking, biking, or festivals in the summer.
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding at Breckenridge Ski Resort.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore hiking trails, bike parks, or enjoy scenic gondola rides during the summer months.
- Vibrant Town: Discover a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options in Breckenridge's charming downtown area.
9. Estes Park
Visit the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning mountain views, outdoor adventures, and quaint shops.
- Natural Beauty: Experience breathtaking views of Rocky Mountain National Park, including Longs Peak.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, fish, or horseback ride in the surrounding wilderness.
- Vibrant Town: Discover a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options in Estes Park's charming downtown area.
10. Boulder
Experience a vibrant college town filled with art, culture, and outdoor activities just a short drive from Colorado Springs.
- Cultural Experience: Discover numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues throughout Boulder.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike the Flatirons, bike the Boulder Creek Path, or visit Chautauqua Park for outdoor fun.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Enjoy a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues in Boulder's lively downtown area.
11. Vail
Experience an upscale ski resort town for world-class skiing, dining, and entertainment in the winter, and outdoor adventures in the summer.
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at Vail Ski Resort.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore hiking trails, bike parks, or enjoy scenic gondola rides during the summer months.
- Upscale Dining & Shopping: Indulge in upscale dining and shopping experiences in Vail's picturesque village.
12. Telluride
Escape to a charming mountain town for skiing, snowboarding, or outdoor adventures in the winter, and a vibrant arts scene and festivals in the summer.
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding at Telluride Ski Resort.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore hiking trails, bike parks, or enjoy scenic gondola rides during the summer months.
- Vibrant Arts Scene: Discover numerous art galleries, performance venues, and festivals throughout Telluride.
13. Ouray
Relax in natural hot springs or explore stunning canyons and waterfalls in this picturesque mountain town.
- Natural Hot Springs: Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of various hot springs throughout Ouray.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike the Box Canyon Waterfall or explore nearby Jeep trails for scenic adventures.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains and surrounding landscapes.
14. Crested Butte
Experience a charming mountain town with stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant arts scene.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, fish, or explore the surrounding wilderness in Crested Butte.
- Vibrant Arts Scene: Discover numerous art galleries, performance venues, and festivals throughout Crested Butte.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains and surrounding landscapes.
15. Aspen
Experience an upscale mountain town filled with art, culture, and outdoor activities near Colorado Springs.
- Cultural Experience: Discover numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues throughout Aspen.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, fish, or explore the surrounding wilderness in Aspen.
- Upscale Dining & Shopping: Indulge in upscale dining and shopping experiences in Aspen's picturesque village.