Colorado Springs is a destination that has a little bit of everything. You can spend the morning climbing the tallest staircase in the United States, ride a historic cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak in the afternoon, wander through a European-style castle, and end the day with dinner in a restaurant tucked beneath the streets of downtown. It’s easy to see why Colorado Springs has become one of the best weekend getaways in Colorado.
This 3-day Colorado Springs itinerary combines some of the area’s most iconic attractions with a few lesser-known gems. I’ve also included practical travel tips, parking information, and reservation recommendations throughout this guide to help you make the most of your visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit:
Colorado Springs is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May through October) when hiking trails are clear and scenic drives are fully open. Summer offers warm days, cool evenings, and the longest daylight hours, making it the ideal time to fit multiple activities into your itinerary.
If you’re hoping to experience colorful fall foliage, late September through early October is one of the most beautiful times to visit. Winter brings fewer crowds and snow-covered mountain views, though some hiking trails may be icy, and weather at higher elevations can change quickly.
Climate:
Colorado Springs has a semi-arid climate with over 240 sunny days each year, making it an excellent destination for outdoor activities in every season.
Summer daytime temperatures typically range from the upper 70s to mid-80s°F, while evenings often cool into the 50s and 60s. Spring and fall are generally mild, though it’s not uncommon to experience warm sunshine followed by a brief afternoon thunderstorm. Winter temperatures can vary significantly, with snowstorms possible between sunny, dry days.
Altitude:
Colorado Springs sits at approximately 6,035 feet (1,839 meters) above sea level, while many of the area’s most popular attractions climb much higher. If you’re visiting from a lower elevation, give yourself time to acclimate, drink plenty of water, and avoid overexerting yourself during your first day. It’s also completely normal to feel short of breath more quickly than you’re used to.
Getting Around
The easiest way to explore Colorado Springs is by car. While downtown Colorado Springs and neighboring Manitou Springs are both walkable once you’ve arrived, many of the area’s top attractions are spread throughout the region and are most easily reached by driving.
✈️ Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN)
If you’re traveling from outside of Colorado, Denver International Airport (DEN) will likely offer the most flight options and often the best prices. From the airport, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive (75 miles) south to Colorado Springs via Interstate 25.
Renting a car is highly recommended. It’ll give you flexibility to explore Colorado Springs and its surrounding attractions at your own pace.
✈️ Fly into Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
If you’re able to find a flight that fits your schedule and budget, Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is the most convenient option. Located just 15–20 minutes from downtown, you’ll spend less time driving and can begin exploring almost immediately after landing.
While COS is smaller than Denver International Airport, it offers nonstop service from several major U.S. cities and is a great option if you want to maximize your time in Colorado Springs.
🚗 Driving from Denver, Boulder & Other Parts of Colorado
Colorado Springs also makes for an easy weekend getaway if you already live in Colorado. The drive follows major highways for most of the route and is straightforward year-round, though winter weather can occasionally impact mountain and interstate conditions.
Day 1: Paint Mines, Downtown Colorado Springs & Dinner Underground
If you’re flying into Colorado for this trip, try to book a morning or early afternoon flight so you have enough time to enjoy your first evening in Colorado Springs. Rather than heading straight to your hotel, make your first stop one of the state’s most underrated landscapes before settling into downtown.
Before reaching the city, take a slight detour to Paint Mines Interpretive Park, located about 40 minutes east of downtown Colorado Springs.
Driving Times
- Denver International Airport → Paint Mines Interpretive Park: approximately 2 hours
- Colorado Springs Airport → Paint Mines Interpretive Park: approximately 45 minutes
- Paint Mines Interpretive Park → Downtown Colorado Springs: approximately 45 minutes
Although Garden of the Gods often steals the spotlight, Paint Mines Interpretive Park is one of the most unique landscapes in Colorado. The park is known for its colorful clay formations, hoodoos, and layered rock formations in shades of pink, white, yellow, orange, and lavender. Millions of years of erosion created this otherworldly landscape, and Indigenous communities once collected the vibrant clays here to make natural pigments, giving the park its name.
Unlike many scenic destinations in Colorado, you won’t find towering alpine peaks or dense pine forests here. Instead, the open prairie gradually gives way to winding trails that lead into a maze of colorful geological formations, making it feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
The park is free to visit and is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Staying on the designated trails is required to help preserve the fragile clay formations, so be sure to admire them from the boardwalks and marked paths.
If you’re visiting during the longer days of late spring or summer, another option is to time your arrival at Paint Mines for the golden hour before sunset. As the sun gets lower, the colorful clay formations become even more vibrant, and the soft evening light makes this one of the most photogenic times to visit.
Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring. The main loop is relatively easy and gives you plenty of opportunities to wander, photograph the rock formations, and take in one of Colorado’s most underrated natural attractions.
Address: 29950 Paint Mine Rd, Calhan, CO 80808
Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
After exploring the Paint Mines, make the drive back toward downtown Colorado Springs and check into your hotel before heading out for the evening.
During my visit, I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Downtown, and I’d happily stay there again. The location makes it incredibly easy to explore downtown on foot, with restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and local attractions all within walking distance.
The rooms are modern and comfortable, and if you’re planning a busy itinerary like this one, having a central home base means you won’t spend your evenings driving across the city after a full day of exploring.
Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Downtown
125 N Cascade Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
A Trip Down The Rabbit Hole
Hidden beneath the streets of downtown, The Rabbit Hole is inspired by Alice in Wonderland and feels more like stepping into a speakeasy than a traditional restaurant. From the moment you descend the staircase, you’ll notice whimsical décor, moody lighting, and an atmosphere that’s unlike anywhere else in the city.
The menu features elevated comfort food with creative twists, making it a great choice whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable first meal in Colorado Springs.
A few standout menu items include:
- Rabbit Hole Mac & Cheese
- Bison Short Ribs
- Pork Belly Bao Buns
- Lobster Bisque
- Seasonal mocktails
Because it’s one of downtown’s most popular dinner spots, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
The Rabbit Hole
101 N Tejon St
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Hours: Daily, 4:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.
Day 2: Manitou Incline, Pikes Peak & Exploring Manitou Springs
Start the Morning with the Manitou Incline
No trip to Colorado Springs is complete without at least considering the Manitou Incline. Originally built as a cable car track in the early 1900s, it has since become one of the most famous hiking challenges in the United States, and for good reason.
The trail climbs an astonishing 2,768 stairs in just 0.88 miles, gaining roughly 2,000 feet of elevation along the way. With an average grade of 45% and sections reaching nearly 68%, it’s less of a hike and more of a stair-climbing workout straight up the mountainside.
Manitou Incline Stats
- Distance: 0.88 miles (one way)
- Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
- Summit Elevation: 8,500 feet
- Average Grade: 45%
- Steepest Grade: 68%
- Number of Stairs: 2,768
- Difficulty: Extremely Strenuous
While the climb itself is less than a mile, don’t underestimate it. The combination of the relentless incline and Colorado’s elevation makes this one of the most physically demanding hikes in the state. It’s completely normal to stop frequently, catch your breath, and take in the incredible views as you climb.
One important thing to know is that free reservations are required to hike the Incline. Reservation times help manage the more than 70,000 visitors who tackle the stairs each year, so be sure to book your preferred time slot in advance through the City of Colorado Springs website.
Parking & Shuttle Information
Parking near the Incline is limited, so planning ahead will make your morning much less stressful.
The option I recommend is parking at the Dillon Mobility Hub.
Dillon Mobility Hub
134 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs
Parking costs $1.25 per hour and is enforced daily from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. From here, you can hop on the free Route 33 shuttle, which operates during park hours and drops hikers near the trailhead. It’s an easy, affordable option and eliminates the hassle of finding parking closer to the Incline.
If the Dillon lot doesn’t work for your plans, you also have two other options:
- Hiawatha Gardens Parking Lot: $1.75/hour. From here, it’s about a 1.3-mile walk to the base of the Incline, or you can take the free shuttle.
- Iron Springs Chateau Parking Lot: $15 (cash only). This is one of the closest parking options but fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
After reaching the summit, it’s best to descend using the nearby Barr Trail, creating a loop back to the trailhead. While the descent is much easier than the climb, it’s still steep and rocky in sections, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
Plan on spending anywhere from 2 to 4 hours for the entire experience, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
Step Inside Glen Eyrie Castle
After cleaning up from the Incline, trade hiking boots for history with a visit to Glen Eyrie Castle, one of Colorado Springs’ most unique and often overlooked attractions.
Built in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs, the English Tudor-style castle sits tucked away on more than 700 acres at the base of Queen’s Canyon. It’s easy to forget you’re only minutes from downtown as you drive through the gated property surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and peaceful gardens.
There are a couple of ways to experience the estate, both of which should be reserved in advance. If you’re interested in learning more about the property’s history, the 90-minute guided castle tour is offered daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. Tickets cost $14 per person and take visitors through portions of the castle while sharing stories about General Palmer, the estate’s architecture, and its role in Colorado Springs’ early history.
Book your guided castle tour at Glen Eyrie here.
For a more unique experience, Glen Eyrie is also known for its traditional afternoon tea service, offered at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Reservations are required, and the experience includes an assortment of teas served alongside finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and desserts in an elegant historic setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a slower-paced afternoon, it’s one of the most memorable dining experiences in Colorado Springs.
Book your traditional afternoon tea service at Glen Eyrie here.
Glen Eyrie Castle
Address: 3820 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Hours: Daily, 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway has been carrying visitors to the summit of Pikes Peak since 1891, making it the highest cog railway in the world. Instead of driving the scenic highway yourself, the train does the climbing while you sit back and enjoy sweeping views of forests, valleys, alpine tundra, and eventually the famous 14,115-foot summit.
The round-trip journey takes approximately 3 hours, including time at the summit.
I recommend booking one of the afternoon departures, which fits nicely after hiking the Incline and gives you plenty of time to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. Tickets often sell out weeks in advance during the summer and fall, so reserve them as early as possible.
Parking is available directly at the depot for $20 per vehicle.
Book the Pikes Peak Cog Railway now!
Don’t Skip the Famous Summit Donut
One of the fun traditions at the top of Pikes Peak is grabbing one of the world-famous Pikes Peak Summit House donuts.
These donuts have developed something of a cult following because they’re made using a recipe specifically adapted for the high altitude. The lower air pressure changes how baked goods cook, so these light, cake-style donuts are something you can only truly recreate at over 14,000 feet.
Even if you’re not usually a donut person, this is one of those classic Colorado experiences that’s worth trying.
Dinner at Night Ramen
After a full day, there’s nothing better than ending the day with a warm bowl of ramen. Night Ramen is a cozy, modern ramen shop in downtown Colorado Springs specializing in rich, flavorful broths and handcrafted bowls inspired by traditional Japanese ramen. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day spent in the mountains.
Night Ramen
22 S Tejon St
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 5:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (Closed Mondays.)
End the Night at Josh & John’s Ice Cream
Before heading back to your hotel, make one final stop at Josh & John’s Ice Cream. This beloved local shop has been serving homemade ice cream in Colorado Springs for years and is known for its creative seasonal flavors alongside classic favorites.
If you’re visiting Colorado, there’s one flavor you absolutely have to try: Purple Mountain Majesty. Made with blackberries, raspberries, and chocolate chips, it’s inspired by the famous lyric from “America the Beautiful,” which was written after Katharine Lee Bates’ visit to Pikes Peak. It’s become one of the shop’s signature flavors and is the perfect sweet ending to an adventure-filled day.
Address: 111 E Pikes Peak Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
Day 3: Red Rock Canyon, Garden of the Gods & Seven Falls
For your final day in Colorado Springs, you’ll experience some of the area’s most iconic landscapes while still making time for a few quieter spots that are often overlooked.
Start the Morning at Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Before heading to the more famous Garden of the Gods, start your morning at Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Located just a few minutes away, this 1,474-acre park offers many of the same dramatic red sandstone formations as its more well-known neighbor, but with noticeably fewer crowds.
There are more than 15 miles of trails throughout the park, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs. If you’re looking for a moderate hike that showcases the best of the area, I recommend the Red Rock Canyon Loop.
Distance: Approximately 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Around 800 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Route Type: Loop
The trail winds through towering sandstone cliffs, open meadows, and scenic overlooks, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos along the way. Wildlife sightings are common, especially during the quieter morning hours, and because the park sits just west of downtown, you’ll still enjoy impressive mountain views throughout the hike.
One of my favorite things about Red Rock Canyon is that it feels a little more peaceful than Garden of the Gods. While both parks are beautiful, Red Rock Canyon gives you a chance to enjoy similar scenery without constantly navigating large tour groups.
Address: 3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Hours: Daily, 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Explore Garden of the Gods
Just a five-minute drive from Red Rock Canyon Open Space is Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs’ most recognizable attraction. Designated a National Natural Landmark, this free public park features massive sandstone rock formations that dramatically rise from the earth, with Pikes Peak creating an unforgettable backdrop.
Even if you’ve seen photos online, they don’t quite prepare you for the scale of these formations in person. Rather than simply driving through the park, I’d recommend spending a couple of hours exploring several of the shorter trails that connect many of the most famous viewpoints.
Some highlights include:
- Central Garden Trail: An easy, paved 1.5-mile walk that takes you directly beneath the park’s towering rock formations.
- Balanced Rock: One of the most photographed landmarks in Colorado Springs and an easy stop just off the road.
- South Gateway Rocks: The iconic entrance to Garden of the Gods and one of the best photo spots in the park.
- Kissing Camels: A unique rock formation named for its resemblance to two camels facing each other.
Find more hikes around Garden of the Gods here.
If you’re interested in learning more about the park’s geology and history, stop by the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center before leaving. Admission is free, and the exhibits provide excellent insight into how these incredible formations were created over millions of years.
Brunch at Garden of the Gods Market & Café
After a morning on the trails, head just outside the park to Garden of the Gods Market & Café, one of the most popular brunch spots in Colorado Springs.
Known for its generous portions and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to refuel before continuing your day.
Some menu favorites include:
- Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Huevos Rancheros
- Breakfast Burrito
- Eggs Benedict
- Fresh-baked pastries
The café also has a small market featuring local products, baked goods, and grab-and-go snacks if you want something for the drive home.
Garden of the Gods Market & Café
410 S 30th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Hours: Daily, 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Spend the Afternoon Exploring Manitou Springs
If you only have time to visit one charming mountain town during your trip, make it Manitou Springs.
Unlike downtown Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs has a quirky, artistic personality. The streets are lined with locally owned boutiques, art galleries, outdoor outfitters, candy stores, bookstores, and historic buildings, making it easy to spend an hour or two simply exploring without an agenda.
As you explore downtown, keep an eye out for the town’s famous mineral springs, which flow from natural fountains scattered throughout Manitou Springs. Each spring has a different mineral composition, giving every one a distinct taste. It makes for a fun scavenger hunt as you walk through town.
Visit Seven Falls
Finish your afternoon at one of Colorado Springs’ most famous natural attractions: Seven Falls. Located within South Cheyenne Cañon, Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls that tumble a total of 181 feet through a narrow granite canyon. It’s often called “The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado”.
Admission includes access to the paved walkway leading to the falls, but if you’re up for a little more adventure, climb the 224-step staircase alongside the waterfalls to reach viewing platforms overlooking the canyon.
If you still have some energy left after the morning hike, continue onto one of the trails above the falls for even more panoramic views. Because Seven Falls is operated by The Broadmoor, admission tickets should be purchased in advance, particularly during the busy summer months.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from somewhere else in Colorado or flying into Denver for a longer road trip, Colorado Springs is a destination that offers far more than just incredible mountain views. In just three days, you can hike iconic trails, explore colorful rock formations, ride to the summit of Pikes Peak, wander through charming mountain towns, and discover a few hidden gems along the way. While this itinerary covers many of the area’s highlights, there’s plenty more to experience if you decide to extend your stay. No matter how you spend your time here, Colorado Springs is the kind of place that keeps you coming back for another adventure.
