Colorado Springs, Colorado

Olympic City USA

Your Guide to Colorado Springs

Natural wonders and military heritage at the base of Pikes Peak

Colorado's second-largest city sits at the base of Pikes Peak, the mountain that inspired "America the Beautiful." Garden of the Gods offers free access to stunning red rock formations, while the nearby Air Force Academy and military installations shape the city's character.

The quirky mountain town of Manitou Springs neighbors Colorado Springs, adding artsy vibes and natural mineral springs. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and countless hiking trails make this a destination for outdoor families.

Located 70 miles south of Denver, Colorado Springs offers a different perspective on Colorado—more conservative, more military, but equally stunning in natural beauty.

Explore Colorado Springs

The best of the Pikes Peak region

ICONIC

Garden of the Gods

Free city park with towering red sandstone formations. Paved trails, rock climbing, and iconic photo ops. Best at sunrise or sunset when the rocks glow. Visitor center has exhibits.

PEAK

Pikes Peak

America's Mountain at 14,115 feet. Drive the highway, take the cog railway, or hike the Barr Trail. The summit house serves famous high-altitude donuts.

QUIRKY

Manitou Springs

Artsy mountain town with mineral springs, eclectic shops, and the Manitou Incline. Victorian architecture, penny arcades, and the gateway to Pikes Peak.

ZOO

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

America's only mountain zoo. Giraffe feeding is a highlight. Incredible views of the city below. Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun sits at the top.

MILITARY

Air Force Academy

The Chapel's 17 spires are an architectural icon. Free visitor access to select areas. Cadet Chapel, nature trails, and the planetarium.

OLYMPIC

U.S. Olympic Training Center

Free tours of where Olympic athletes train. See the facilities where swimming, wrestling, and other Olympic sports hopefuls prepare for the games.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Colorado Springs visit

How far is Colorado Springs from Denver?

About 70 miles south, roughly 75 minutes via I-25. The drive is easy and direct. Some visitors combine both cities in one trip, though each deserves at least a full day.

Is Garden of the Gods really free?

Yes, completely free. It's a city park, not a national park. Parking can fill up—arrive early in summer. The Visitor Center charges for some programs but entry is free.

Should I drive or take the train up Pikes Peak?

The cog railway is more scenic and less stressful—the road has sharp switchbacks. However, driving allows flexibility to stop at viewpoints. Both require reservations in peak season.

What's the Manitou Incline?

A brutal 2,744-step staircase climbing 2,000 feet in less than a mile. Former railway bed. Very popular fitness challenge. Free but extremely challenging—know your fitness level.

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Continue your Colorado adventure

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