Are you looking for fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs? We’ve got you covered!
As the second-largest city in Colorado, there are so many ways you can enjoy Colorado Springs with kids.
If your family loves hiking and other outdoor adventures, Colorado Springs has plenty for you.
But that’s not all it offers! A family-friendly amusement park, historical structures, and underground adventures are just some of the things you can do in Colorado Springs with kids.
If you only have one day in town, our top 3 things to do in Colorado Springs would be:
- Garden of the Gods: It’s FREE to enter, has AMAZING rock formations, and is super family-friendly
- Manitou Cliff Dwellings: It’s such a unique feature and not something you’ll find just anywhere
- Seven Falls at Broadmoor: As touristy as it is, it is still spectacular to see in person, and you’ll feel very proud of yourself after you’ve climbed up those 224 steps!
Keep reading to learn more about the family-friendly fun you can find in Colorado Springs!
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Where is Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in Colorado. It’s perfect for visiting after a few days in Denver, as it’s about an hour’s drive south and just east of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.
While Colorado Springs has its airport, it’s only about 1.5 hours from the Denver airport, making it very convenient to get to, no matter where you fly into.
Fun Things to Do With Kids in Colorado Springs
1. Visit Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado Springs, and with good reason.
This 1300-acre park has so many beautiful rock formations that are known worldwide. Kids will enjoy the visitor’s center exhibits before you even start exploring outside!
While exploring the rock formations, take the time to do some of the kid-friendly hikes in Garden of the Gods. Kids will love climbing on the rocks and taking silly pictures with the rocks.
Plan to spend a minimum of two hours in the park, though you could spend a whole day. And bring lots of water!
2. Pikes Peak Cog Railway
At over 14,000 feet, Pikes Peak is the tallest peak in the southern Front Range, making it one of Colorado’s most famous landmarks.
One of the reasons Pikes Peak is so popular is the ability to summit the top very easily by cog railway. The railway was closed from 2018 through May 2021 for an overhaul. Now, visitors can take the 9 miles to ride up the mountain again!
The cog railway operates year-round, with varying schedules depending on the season. During high travel times like summer and spring break, it is recommended to purchase tickets as far ahead as possible, as they can sell out.
Of course, you can always drive to the top of Pikes Peak. If you choose to drive, allow yourself plenty of time to get up and down. Read these tips about driving Pikes Peak before you go to ensure a safe trip.
3. Seven Falls at the Broadmoor
The Seven Falls is a unique attraction and fun for everyone! The big attraction at Seven falls is the 224 steps that follow the seven waterfalls.
Guests can climb halfway, take a break, and climb the remaining steps. At the top of the steps is a short hike to a scenic overlook.
In addition to the main attraction, another staircase (or elevator!) leads up to the Eagle’s Nest.
Visitors can get a great view of the main staircase and falls from there! Seven Falls is open seasonally, and hours and days vary greatly depending on the time of year.
We recommend bringing a couple of water bottles per person, as there are no water fountains. There is a gift shop that sells water bottles if needed.
4. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
If your family loves animals, you’ll want to plan a visit to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo! You’ll get to see animals from all over the world, like elephants, giraffes, and hippopotamuses.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo even showcases local Rocky Mountain animals, like moose, on its 143-acre property.
In addition to the zoo, guests can also ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride for an additional fee. At the top of the Sky Ride, visitors can take in the gorgeous view of the area while kids play on the bouldering wall.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open year-round, with off-peak and peak pricing. You must purchase your tickets in advance. The zoo releases tickets in January and February for the popular summer months. Visit their website for more information.
5. Cave of the Winds
If you want to spend a day filled with various activities but don’t want to drive around from place to place, Cave of the Winds is what you are looking for.
In addition to the massive cavern on-site, Cave of the Winds offers many other attractions for the young and old. Ropes course, climbing walls, ziplines, and aerial rides are just a few of the fun and excitement at Cave of the Winds.
Cave of the Winds is open year-round, but available attractions and hours differ depending on the time of year. Advanced tickets are required at this time.
6. Manitou Cliff Dwellings
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings have an interesting history. They are not original to the area but were moved to Manitou from McElmo Canyon over three years in the early 1900s.
Even though the cliff dwellings have been moved, it is still fascinating to walk through and learn about Pueblo history over 1000 years old!
Open days and hours differ depending on the time of year, so check the Manitou Cliff Dwellings website before your visit.
Tickets are available on-site. Keep in mind, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings is not wheelchair accessible. Leashed pets are allowed on-site.
7. Manitou Springs Walking Tour
Have you ever tasted spring water directly from its source? In Manitou Springs, you can taste natural spring water from 8 different sources, right in the heart of town.
Download this map of the springs, bring an empty cup, and have fun. The springs are spread out over a 1 mile walk in the heart of town. Take time to shop and dine while you enjoy the tour.
8. The North Pole: Santa’s Workshop
It might seem odd to have a Santa-themed amusement park in Colorado, but it works for this place.
As one of the less typical things to do in Colorado Springs, The North Pole is still a fun, family-friendly option. This amusement park is geared more for families with young kids with both family and kid-friendly rides.
The North Pole is open seasonally, with hours varying depending on the day. Visit their website for ticket and hour information.
9. Ghost Town Museum
Take a trip back to the Wild West at the Ghost Town Museum in Colorado Springs. The museum is inside a historic building and houses several structures from the Pikes Peak region.
These buildings have been arranged to give visitors an idea of what the area looked like over 100 years ago. In addition to touring the structures, visitors can churn butter, play some old games, and even pan for gold.
The Ghost Town Museum is open year-round, with hours varying depending on the season. Visit their website for current hours and admission prices. You can purchase admission online or at the door, with no reservations required.
10. Take the Manitou Springs Mineral Springs Tour
Manitou Springs is known for its natural mineral spring fountains located throughout town.
You can take a self-guided tour of the springs, and taste-test each one. Or you can take a guided tour during the summer months (Memorial Day Weekend through end of August).
Bring your own cup or water bottle and try each one and then vote on your favorites!
FAQ: Colorado Springs Travel Tips
Where to Stay in Colorado Springs?
Due to its popularity with tourists, Colorado Springs has plenty of places to stay.
If you like to stay in a town within walking distance to shops and restaurants, stay at one of the many hotels and inns in Manitou Springs, like the Pikes Peak Inn. Many of the attractions listed below, like Garden of the Gods and Seven Falls Park, will be a short drive from town.
If you prefer a popular hotel chain, there are several along I-25 that will suit your family.
When is the Best Time to Visit Colorado Springs?
With Colorado’s crazy weather, you never know if you’ll have snow or sunshine in the winter. Plus, some of the above attractions are closed in the off-season.
However, the summertime can be crazy busy with everyone on summer break.
We think the best time to visit Colorado Springs is the late summer/early fall. We visited over Labor Day Weekend, and even though it was busy, the crowds were manageable.
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