Quick Info
Main street: Manitou Avenue. Vibe: Quirky, artistic, alternative. Don't miss: Penny Arcade, mineral springs, art galleries. Parking: Limited—arrive early or use side streets. Best time: Weekday mornings for peace, weekends for energy.
Downtown Manitou Springs is unlike anywhere else in Colorado. Victorian buildings house crystal shops and metaphysical stores. Street performers play beside mineral spring fountains. The smell of incense drifts from boutiques. It's part mountain town, part artists' colony, part something entirely its own.
Manitou Avenue serves as the main thoroughfare, lined with restaurants, galleries, and shops for about a mile. The vibe is decidedly counter-cultural—this is Colorado Springs' bohemian neighbor, attracting free spirits since the 1960s.
Must-See Attractions
Penny Arcade
A Manitou institution since 1933. This free-admission arcade houses vintage machines from the early 1900s alongside newer games. Mechanical fortune tellers, love testers, strength testers, and old-school pinball. Bring quarters—or buy tokens. Kids and adults alike get lost here for hours.
Mineral Springs
Eight public springs bubble up throughout downtown. Each has different mineral content and flavor. Sample them on a self-guided walking tour. Bring a bottle to fill.
Art Galleries
Manitou has more galleries per capita than most towns its size. The Manitou Art Center hosts rotating exhibitions. Smaller galleries showcase local painters, sculptors, and photographers. First Fridays bring art walks.
Memorial Park
A green space along Fountain Creek with picnic areas, a playground, and the Stratton Spring. Good spot to rest between shopping. Live music sometimes on summer evenings.
Shopping
Crystal and metaphysical shops: Manitou's specialty. Multiple stores sell crystals, tarot cards, incense, spiritual books, and New Age supplies. Even skeptics enjoy browsing.
Vintage and antiques: Several shops offer antiques, vintage clothing, and collectibles. Quality varies—dig for treasures.
Art and crafts: Local artisans sell jewelry, pottery, paintings, and handcrafted items. Good for unique souvenirs.
Outdoor gear: A few shops cater to hikers heading to the Incline or Pikes Peak. Basic supplies, not full outfitters.
Dining
Breakfast and coffee: Several cafes serve morning crowds heading to the Incline. Adam's Mountain Cafe is a local favorite for brunch.
Lunch spots: Casual restaurants and food trucks offer quick bites. The Mate Factor serves vegetarian-friendly fare and yerba mate drinks.
Dinner: A handful of sit-down restaurants serve elevated mountain cuisine. Reservations helpful on weekends.
Bars and breweries: Manitou Brewing Company anchors the craft beer scene. Several bars stay open late by mountain town standards.
Events and Festivals
Emma Crawford Coffin Races: Every October, teams race coffins down Manitou Avenue. The most famous Manitou event—weird, wonderful, and very well-attended.
Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off: January competition bringing gumbo to the mountains. Tickets include tastings.
Art Walks: First Friday gallery openings throughout the year. Wine, snacks, and new art.
Halloween: Manitou takes Halloween seriously. Downtown transforms with decorations, events, and a parade.
Tips
Parking is tough. Free street parking exists but fills quickly on weekends. Arrive before 10am or walk from overflow lots. Some businesses validate.
Cash helps. Some smaller shops prefer cash. ATMs are available but fees apply.
Dogs are welcome. Many shops allow leashed dogs. Water bowls appear outside storefronts.
Plan 2-3 hours. That's enough for casual browsing and a meal. Add time for galleries or the Penny Arcade.
Combine with Ruxton Avenue. Walk up Ruxton to see the Cog Railway depot and Iron Springs Melodrama. Different vibe, still charming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is downtown Manitou Springs walkable?
Yes, extremely. The main stretch is about a mile on mostly flat sidewalks. Everything is within walking distance once you park.
What's the best day to visit?
Weekdays are quieter for shopping. Saturdays have the most energy and street performers. Sundays are slower—some shops close or reduce hours.
Are there public restrooms?
Yes, in Memorial Park and near the Penny Arcade. Restaurants also accommodate customers.
Is downtown good for kids?
Yes. The Penny Arcade is a highlight. The mineral springs are fun to taste. Memorial Park has a playground. Crystal shops fascinate curious kids.
What time do shops open?
Most open around 10am. Restaurants may open earlier for breakfast. Hours vary by season—some close earlier in winter.