Intro
Explore the heart of Colorado Springs with our guide to downtown attractions and activities. Discover vibrant nightlife, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences amidst historic landmarks and trendy neighborhoods. Visit iconic spots like Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the US Olympic Training Center, and enjoy the citys unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm.
Downtown Colorado Springs is a vibrant and eclectic area that offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and small-town charm. Located at the base of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's most iconic mountains, downtown Colorado Springs is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. From its rich history and stunning natural beauty to its thriving arts and culture scene, there's something for everyone in downtown Colorado Springs.
Whether you're interested in exploring the great outdoors, browsing local shops and galleries, or simply enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants, downtown Colorado Springs has something to offer. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy in downtown Colorado Springs.
Outdoor Recreation
Downtown Colorado Springs is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with Pikes Peak towering above the city. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the many parks, trails, and open spaces that offer endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring.
- Pikes Peak: Take a drive up to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's 54 fourteeners. The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can even visit the Pikes Peak Summit House for a snack or souvenir.
- Garden of the Gods: This free public park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With its unique red rock formations, hiking trails, and stunning views of Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods is a natural wonder that's not to be missed.
- Monument Creek Trail: This 10-mile trail follows the creek through downtown Colorado Springs and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's perfect for hiking, biking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll.
Cultural Attractions
Downtown Colorado Springs is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues. Here are a few of the top cultural attractions to visit:
- Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center: This museum features a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including works by local artists.
- Pioneers Museum: Learn about the history of Colorado Springs and the surrounding region at this museum, which features exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to early settlers.
- Colorado Springs Philharmonic: Catch a performance by this world-renowned orchestra at the Pikes Peak Center.
Shopping and Dining
Downtown Colorado Springs is a shopper's paradise, with a variety of unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores. And when you need a break from shopping, there are plenty of delicious restaurants to choose from.
- Tejon Street: This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, and is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing.
- Old Colorado City: This charming neighborhood is home to a variety of unique shops and restaurants, including the famous Old Colorado City Bakery.
- The Rabbit Hole: This popular restaurant serves up delicious burgers and sandwiches in a fun, eclectic atmosphere.
Events and Festivals
Downtown Colorado Springs hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, from outdoor concerts and festivals to holiday celebrations. Here are a few of the top events to catch:
- Colorado Springs Festival of Lights: This annual festival features parades, fireworks, and holiday lights displays throughout downtown Colorado Springs.
- Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo: Catch a thrilling rodeo competition at the Norris-Penrose Event Center.
- Colorado Springs PrideFest: Celebrate diversity and inclusivity at this annual festival, which features live music, food vendors, and more.
Getting Around
Getting around downtown Colorado Springs is easy, with a variety of transportation options available.
- Parking: There are several parking garages and lots throughout downtown Colorado Springs, including the City Parking Garage and the Bijou Parking Garage.
- Public Transportation: The Mountain Metropolitan Transit system offers bus service throughout downtown Colorado Springs and the surrounding area.
- Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are both available in Colorado Springs, making it easy to get around without a car.
Insider Tips
Here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to downtown Colorado Springs:
- Take a stroll along Tejon Street: This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, and is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing.
- Visit the Colorado Springs Visitor Center: The visitor center is a great resource for information on downtown Colorado Springs, including maps, brochures, and insider tips.
- Catch a sunset at Garden of the Gods: The views of Pikes Peak at sunset are breathtaking, and Garden of the Gods is a great place to watch the sun go down.
What are the best things to do in downtown Colorado Springs?
+Downtown Colorado Springs offers a variety of attractions and activities, including outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, shopping, and dining. Some of the top things to do include visiting Garden of the Gods, exploring the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, and catching a performance by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.
How do I get around downtown Colorado Springs?
+Getting around downtown Colorado Springs is easy, with a variety of transportation options available. These include parking garages and lots, public transportation, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.
What are some insider tips for visiting downtown Colorado Springs?
+Some insider tips for visiting downtown Colorado Springs include taking a stroll along Tejon Street, visiting the Colorado Springs Visitor Center, and catching a sunset at Garden of the Gods. These tips can help you make the most of your visit and discover some of the hidden gems of downtown Colorado Springs.
We hope you've enjoyed this article on downtown Colorado Springs! Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's always something new to discover in this vibrant and eclectic city. From outdoor recreation and cultural attractions to shopping and dining, downtown Colorado Springs has something for everyone. So why not come and explore for yourself?