The Most Amazing Weekend Trip To Colorado Springs (3-Day Trip Itinerary)
So you want to take a weekend trip to Colorado Springs? I’ve got you covered! My little sister made it to nationals for track and field which happened to be in Pueblo, about 30 minutes away from Colorado Springs. However, we stayed in Colorado Springs and had so much fun exploring! We hiked, ate at the legendary White Pie, and took a tour through the Garden of the Gods. I hope this itinerary for a weekend trip to Colorado Springs gives you the much-needed travel inspiration to have the best getaway in these beautiful mountains.
Colorado Springs is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique attractions. You can expect to enjoy various activities, from hiking and rock climbing to visiting museums and exploring the US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center. The city has several iconic landmarks, such as the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, which offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, Colorado Springs has plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options to choose from as well. So let’s get into it!
When is the best time to visit Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is a great destination to visit year-round, but there are certain times of the year that are particularly appealing. The best time to visit Colorado Springs is from March to May and from September to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner, making it an ideal time to explore the city.
Springtime in Colorado Springs
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Colorado Springs. The snow has melted, and the flowers are in full bloom. This is when I visited and I couldn’t have gone during a better time with sunny skies and the chilly evening breeze. The temperatures are mild, with average highs ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. This is a great time to explore the city’s many parks and gardens, such as the Garden of the Gods, which is home to stunning rock formations and scenic trails.
Fall in Colorado Springs
Fall is another great time to visit Colorado Springs. The weather is still mild, with average highs in the 60s and 70s, and the crowds are thinner than during the summer months. This is a great time to hike in the mountains and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which takes visitors to the top of Pikes Peak, is also a popular attraction during the fall.
Summer and Winter in Colorado Springs
Summer and winter are also great times to visit Colorado Springs, but they come with their own set of challenges. During the summer months, the weather can be hot, with average highs in the 80s and 90s, and the crowds can be thick. However, this is a great time to explore the city’s many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and rafting. During the winter months, the weather can be cold, with average highs in the 30s and 40s, and the snow can make travel difficult. However, this is a great time to hit the slopes and enjoy winter sports.
Overall, the best time to visit Colorado Springs depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you’re looking for mild weather and thinner crowds or outdoor adventures and winter sports, Colorado Springs has something to offer year-round.
How to get to Colorado Springs?
Driving to Colorado Springs is an option, and it’s a very scenic and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of Colorado. How do I know? We DROVE all the way to Colorado Springs from Texas! My mom vows to not make the drive again 😛 but I love road trips so I actually loved it.
From Denver, take Interstate 25 south to Colorado Springs. The drive takes about an hour and a half, depending on traffic.
For those coming from other parts of the state or neighboring states, there are several highways that lead to Colorado Springs, including US-24, US-85, and US-87.
No matter how visitors choose to get to Colorado Springs, they are sure to be greeted with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the natural beauty of Colorado.
My parents and I took turns driving allllllll the way from Texas! It took about 12 hours and we rode through New Mexico. Here’s a picture during our 2nd of 2 stops we made on the way in Folsom, New Mexico which is right on the border of Colorado and New Mexico.
Colorado Springs has its own airport, the Colorado Springs Airport (COS), which is located just 10 miles southeast of downtown Colorado Springs. Several airlines operate flights to and from the airport, including American Airlines, Delta, and United.
For those coming from farther away, Denver International Airport (DEN) is also an option. It is located about 90 miles north of Colorado Springs, and there are several shuttle services and rental car options available for transportation from the airport to Colorado Springs.
Where should you stay?
When planning a weekend trip to Colorado Springs, finding the perfect accommodations can make all the difference. Luckily, there are so many options to choose from, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy vacation rentals.
Hotels in Colorado Springs
We stayed at Element by Westin which was luxurious, modern, and comfortable. We had a discount because the regular rate is pretty pricey in my opinion. But I really loved our stay. Equipped with a fitness studio, courtyard seating, and delicious breakfast.
The room was like a studio apartment, equipped with dishes, a vase for water (their water is filtered and ready to drink from the faucet which was perfect since I brought my reusable water bottle), a walk-in shower, and two plush beds. We definitely used the workout space and took the elevator to the rooftop restaurant to see the city view from above.
For those looking for a more traditional lodging experience, there are plenty of hotels in Colorado Springs to choose from. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Colorado Springs AFA Northgate, an IHG Hotel, is a popular choice among visitors. It features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and a shared lounge and terrace. The location, customer service, cleanliness, and amenities make it a great option for travelers.
Another great option is The Antlers, A Wyndham Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. This historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a rooftop pool and hot tub, and a fitness center. The location is perfect for those looking to explore the city’s many attractions.
Vacation Rentals in Colorado Springs
For those looking for a more unique lodging experience, vacation rentals in Colorado Springs are a great option. Airbnb has a wide variety of options ranging from cozy cabins to spacious homes.
One popular option is the “Tiny House in the Shire,” a charming tiny home located in the woods just outside of Colorado Springs. This cozy retreat features a full kitchen, loft bedroom, and a private patio with a hot tub.
Another great option is the “Historic Downtown Loft,” a spacious loft located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. This beautifully decorated space features a full kitchen, two bedrooms, and a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city.
No matter what type of accommodations you’re looking for, Colorado Springs has something to offer. From luxurious hotels to cozy vacation rentals, there’s no shortage of options for the perfect weekend getaway.
Itinerary
Day 1 ѧѦ
Morning
Food: Garden of the Gods Cafe
Because the morning activity for today will be visiting the iconic Garden of the Gods (open 8 am-3 pm), I recommend getting some yummy breakfast at the Garden of the Gods Cafe. It’s close, has 4.5 out of 5 stars, and allows you to quickly jump into the tour of the GOTG. This is a chic and cozy spot that has a wide selection of food and drinks (an extensive mimosa selection for your brunch needs). They serve quality food and excellent pastries. They also provide vegetarian and vegan options.
Experience: Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods was about 15 minutes from our hotel, so not far at all. We decided to drive through because we got there in the evening. But this is such a convenient trip to make and you get to see the beautiful red rocks that have been there for millions of years.
Afternoon
Food: Shah’s Kabob & Gyro
I had a taste for Greek food, specifically gyros. We happened to find this gem in Pueblo called Shah’s and they had delicious traditional American gyros. I would go again if I were in that area it was that good! They have a funky alien theme and were decorated with Colorado professional teams like the Denver Nuggets. It was very clean and the staff was so friendly! It seemed to be a hot spot in the area as we saw a delivery-looking man getting multiple orders during the hour we were there. I highly recommend making the brief trip to Shah’s if you have the time!
Other places to eat that are in Colorado Springs include:
- The Public House ($$)
- Grizzly Grill ($$) – in the Cheyenne Zoo
- Hatch Cover ($)
Experience: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo or US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center
Both experiences are within a reasonable distance from Culvers. The Cheyenne Zoo has 5 stars and is a wonderful place to feed Giraffes, see beautiful Grizzly bears, and enjoy a brisk and much-needed walk after lunch.
The US Olympic and Paralympic Center in Colorado Springs offers an immersive tour experience for visitors. The tour provides a unique glimpse into the world of Olympic and Paralympic training, showcasing the state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies utilized by elite athletes. Visitors have the opportunity to explore training areas, sports medicine clinics, and sports science labs where groundbreaking research is conducted. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, achievements, and daily routines of the athletes who train at the center. Overall, the tour offers a fascinating and inspiring behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and commitment required to compete at the highest level of athletic excellence.
Evening
Food: Springs Orleans
Springs Orleans in Colorado Springs offers a lively culinary experience with its New Orleans-inspired cuisine. The menu features a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes, including gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys. The restaurant’s vibrant and lively atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience. With its flavorful food and lively ambiance, Springs Orleans is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of the Big Easy in Colorado Springs
Day 2 ѧѦ
Morning
Food: Eat In or Dine Out
Have a lovely breakfast at your residence for day 2. We were exhausted from day 1 activities so we decided to eat at our hotel. I had a yummy and surprisingly healthy breakfast for the next two days. Egg whites scramble with wheat pancakes and a pastry and fresh cranberry + orange juice.
If you are looking to eat out, here are some awesome options in Colorado Springs:
- Omelette Parlor ($$)
- New Day Cafe ($$)
- Wade’s Cafe ($)
Experience: North Cheyenne Cañon Park
This was probably my favorite part of our weekend trip to colorado springs (besides seeing my little sister compete, of course). I’m not sure if this is a hidden gem, or if we just got there at the right time, but there were almost no tourists, mostly locals, and they were all friendly.
We hiked about 6-7 miles and ran about 3 of those after meeting a friendly man that happened to be in his 60s or 70s who was JOGGING up the mountain and inspired my dad and I to jog (as well as you can see in the video below🤣).
We got so many gorgeous photos and it felt like we had the mountains to ourselves compared to Garden of the Gods which is understandably so run with tourists. If you want tips on the specific trail we took, leave a comment and I’d be happy to go in more detail. It was so breathtaking we plan on returning here on our next trip to Colorado.
Afternoon
Food: Culvers
Apparently, we have these somewhere in Texas, which is where I live. But I had never tried this American fast-food chain! I’d maybe compare it to Whataburger but Culvers has a huge focus on ice cream. They make specialty ice creams that I’d go back for way too often if I lived close to one. I got an Oreo and cookie dough milkshake.
Experience: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo or US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center
Both experiences are within a reasonable distance from Culvers. The Cheyenne Zoo has 5 stars via Google reviews. You can place to feed Giraffes, see beautiful Grizzly bears, and enjoy a brisk and much-needed walk after lunch.
Evening
Food: White Pie
This is a must-visit on your weekend trip to colorado springs! Trust me! The ambiance is lively and the staff is friendly. Try one of their incredible pies that will have you returning back the next day for more. This was the first thing we ate when we got to Colorado Springs before checking our hotel. We returned a second time because the pizza was SO. DAMN. GOOD.
Day 3 ѧѦ
Morning
Food: Urban Egg
This is a pretty popular spot in Colorado Springs where the staff greets you with warm smiles when you enter. Order the savory and yummy biscuit and gravy or the sweet and savory chicken and waffles. They use local produce and ingredients which is always fresher and better. Make sure you get a reservation because this is a hot spot in Colorado Springs and you don’t want to miss out! Reservations can be made through Yelp. Check this link to get in line.
Experience: Manitou Incline
My coworker told me about the Manitou Incline and said it was long but satisfying. This extreme hike has 2,744 steps to get to the top and will take around an hour to complete! It’s also described as a stair master, but outside. We didn’t have time to do this because of my sister’s track meet in Pueblo. When we go back, we will definitely check this place out!
Afternoon
Food: Restaurant Near Manitou Incline
There are a few places near Manitou Springs where you can enjoy a 4-5 star bite.
- Sahara Cafe ($$)
- Adam’s Mountain Cafe ($$)
- The Loop ($$)
- Mo’s Diner and Lounge ($)
Experience: Pikes Peak or Ziplining
Pikes Peak is one of the most iconic mountains in the United States, and a must-visit when in Colorado Springs. Visitors can drive up the mountain’s scenic highway, take a cog railway, or even hike to the top. At the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, as well as grab a bite to eat at the Summit House restaurant.
If you are looking to go ziplining, which is something I wish we had time to do, here are some of the best options in Colorado Springs.
- Manitou Springs Colo-Rad Zipline Tour
- Woods Course Zipline Tour in Seven Falls
- Cloudscraper Zipline at the Royal Gorge
Evening
Food: The Rabbit Hole
A popular option is The Rabbit Hole, which offers a creative menu of globally-inspired small plates and craft cocktails. This is a super edgy and avant-garde restaurant that serves dishes like bison short rib, rabbit meatloaf, and duck confit. The Rabbit Hole has 4.5 stars out of 5 and for a good reason. The ambiance is perfect for a cozy late-night with their beautiful lights on the stairs and the subway speakeasy-type entrance. Definitely check this restaurant out if you’re an adventurous eater ready to expand your palette. They also have more common meals like shrimp pasta, truffle mac and cheese, and house salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is home to many popular attractions that are worth visiting on your weekend trip to Colorado Springs. Some of the top attractions include the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and the United States Air Force Academy. These attractions offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area, learn about the history of the region, and enjoy fun activities for the whole family.
What are some must-see destinations in Colorado Springs?
In addition to the top attractions, there are several must-see destinations in Colorado Springs. These include the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, and the Olympic Training Center. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that visitors are sure to enjoy.
What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of fun activities to do. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding in the nearby mountains. There are also several lakes and rivers in the area that offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and white-water rafting.
What is the best time of year to visit Colorado Springs?
The best time of year to visit Colorado Springs depends on what you want to do. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, the winter months are the best time to visit.
What are some recommended day trips from Colorado Springs?
There are several recommended day trips from Colorado Springs that visitors can take. These include visiting the historic mining town of Cripple Creek, exploring the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and taking a scenic drive through the Garden of the Gods.
What are some good romantic activities in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Some romantic activities include taking a hot air balloon ride over the mountains, enjoying a couples massage at a local spa, or taking a scenic train ride through the mountains.
Let me know if you have any questions about this weekend trip to Colorado Springs itinerary! I had an unforgettable time exploring the mountains, eating delicious food, and taking in the views of Colorado Springs.
Check out my Instagram post about my weekend trip to Colorado Springs:
