Colorado Springs provides an engaging mix of city life, outdoor recreation, and nature. Although it continues to grow as a major metropolitan area in Colorado (size-wise, it’s the largest city in the state), the city still offers a slower pace compared to Denver along with no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the stunning landscape, including Pikes Peak, the Manitou Incline, and Garden of the Gods. Here’s a look at how the city came to be, and all the best things to do there.

History:

General William Jackson Palmer, a Civil War hero and railroad magnate, established Colorado Springs in 1871, imagining a resort community in the shadows of the stunning Pikes Peak.

According to the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, the city attracted wealthy residents and capitalists. Intellectuals, artists, writers, and inventors flocked to the city. Thousands of people seeking a cure for tuberculosis traveled to Colorado Springs as well, hoping the area’s fresh air and abundant sunshine would heal them from the disease.

Interest in the city continued to grow after gold was discovered in Cripple Creek in 1891, bringing even more wealth to area.

Over time, Colorado Springs has grown to have a strong military presence, with Fort Carson established in 1941, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NRAD) in 1957, and the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1958.

The city has now grown into a hotspot for tourism, with resorts like The Broadmoor. It also attracts Olympians from around the world thanks to its training facilities.

Outdoor recreation:

Garden of the Gods – spanning over 1,300 acres, find plenty of trails and opportunities to explore the stunning red rocks formations.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space – has great opportunities for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.

Pikes Peak – “America’s Mountain” is 14,115 feet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors have the chance to hike or drive to the summit of the mountain. There’s also a passenger train that travels to the top.

North Cheyenne Canon Park – this 1,600 acre park is cut 1,000 feet into the 1.5 billion year old granite rock, and offers an extensive trail network for hikers, bikers, and runners.

Bear Creek Regional Park – features a garden, pavilion, playground, tennis courts, dog park, archery range, horseshoe pit and volleyball court.

Culture:

The Broadmoor – this legendary destination resort features picturesque mountain views, luxurious accommodations, and much more.

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum – known as “Olympic City USA” Colorado Springs is home to this historical and cultural sports museum.

Old Colorado City – this historic neighborhood showcases turn of the century architecture and the rich history of Colorado’s gold rush days, with plenty of restaurants, outdoor cafes, and more.

Taste of Pikes Peak – this food festival features more than 60 local restaurants, breweries, and distilleries.

Dining:

The Rabbit Hole – this is a late-night haunt that serves New American fare.

Four by Brother Luck – serves southwestern-style dishes and features a renowned local chef.

The Famous Steakhouse – a classic restaurant to get steak.

Paravicini’s Italian Bistro – a top Italian restaurant in Colorado Springs.

Lodging:

The Mining Exchange Hotel – this 128-room historic hotel once served as a meeting place for mining magnates, and is close to Garden of the Gods, the Colorado Springs Airport, and Bear Creek Regional Park.

Great Wolf Lodge – this hotel includes an indoor water park, themed suites, and dining, making it a great family-friendly option.

Kinship Landing – offers a great basecamp with access to downtown Colorado Springs.

Hyatt Place Colorado Springs – this is another conveniently located option.

Getting there:

According to Google Maps, it takes about an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and a half to get from Denver to Colorado Springs.

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