Colorado Springs, Denver’s neighbor to the south and the state’s second largest city, has long suffered a bad rap among fellow Front Rangers. For years, locals have rejected the negative stereotypes, professing the area’s natural beauty and vibrant community. Now, after The New York Times recently featured the Springs in their popular “36 Hours” travel guide series, those proclamations from residents have earned some authoritative backing. Featuring a few picks from the professionals plus some tips from longtime locals, here’s our guide for getting to know Colorado Springs.

Enjoy the Views

  • Garden of the Gods: A registered National Natural Landmark, this public park boasts 1,300+ acres of breathtaking sandstone rock formations.
  • Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Purportedly the world’s highest operating cog train, this railway takes you to the tippy top of “America’s Mountain,” Pike Peak.
  • The Manitou Incline: Climb 2,744 steps up this mountainside staircase, with a 2,000-foot elevation gain and sections as steep as 68% grade — NOT for the faint of heart! 🥵

A Dash of History

  • The Broadmoor Hotel: This 106-year-old destination luxury resort is chock full of both local history and modern over-the-top indulgences.
  • U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: Explore old U.S. Olympic sports memorabilia and artifacts at this new museum featuring over a dozen galleries and interactive exhibits.
  • Old Colorado City: Shop, sip, dine, and dance in the vibrant heart of Colorado Springs.
An interactive map from Visit CO Springs.
Plan your visit with this interactive map from Visit CO Springs. (visitcos.com)

Something Uniquely CO Springs

Good Eats

  • Four by Brother Luck: Explore Southwestern-inspired cuisine on a seasonal four-course tasting menu from a “Top Chef”-caliber cook.
  • Josh & John’s: Flavors like Rumchata, Almond Joy, and Cookie Butter Crumble will keep you coming back for more.
  • Shuga’s: A community staple serving up “eclectic globally inspired eats.”
  • The French Kitchen: Eat, shop, and learn to cook French classics at this community culinary center.
What do you love about Colorado Springs?