Your Unforgettable Weekend in Colorado Springs {3-Day Itinerary}
If you’re dreaming of a picture-perfect weekend in Colorado Springs, you’re in the right place! I’ve been fortunate to visit this gem multiple times, and I’m thrilled to share our tried-and-true 3 day itinerary with you. Get ready for breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures in one of my favorite getaway spots!
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Day 1: Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Flying W Ranch
Morning
Start off your day with a delicious breakfast at The Urban Egg in downtown Colorado Springs. We recommend the omelettes and breakfast sandwich.
After breakfast, make your way to the iconic Garden of the Gods. First, explore the visitor’s center to learn all about the geology and wildlife of the region. Next, go right down the road to hike the Perkins Central Garden Trail.
This trail is just over a mile long and highlights some of the most beautiful sections of the Garden of the Gods. There are restrooms available near the parking area and the paved path is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
For even more adventure, book a jeep tour or guided e-bike tour through the gardens.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, make your way to Garden of the Gods market and cafe to enjoy its deli counter and bakery.
Afternoon
No family vacation in Colorado Springs is complete without a trip to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, one of the best zoos in the country. We recommend doing at least one of the interactive feeding experiences. Our favorite was feeding the giraffes!
Don’t miss taking a trip on Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Mountaineer Sky Ride, an open-air ride highlighting the spectacular views of the Colorado Springs area.
Make sure you purchase your ticket online in advance. This is a very popular Colorado Springs attraction and it does occasionally sell out!
Following your zoo trip, head to the Flying W Ranch for fun outdoor activities, a delicious dinner and entertaining show. You will definitely want to get there when the gates open at 5:00 to take advantage of the beautiful grounds.
Activities include ax throwing, archery, a short train ride, wagon ride and seeing a variety of animals. They even had baby goats we were able to bottle feed!
Day 2: Manitou Springs and Paint Mines
Morning
Today you will venture to the west side of Colorado Springs to the quaint mountain town of Manitou Springs. Start off with hand-rolled bagels and coffee from The Loft. Then, take your time meandering through the streets of downtown Manitou Springs.
You won’t want to miss the Penny Arcade, souvenir shopping and tasting the eight naturally-carbonated springs located through town. The homemade beignets at Rocky Mountain Beignets will make the perfect mid-morning treat.
If you are an adventure seeker, The Manitou Incline definitely needs to be on your Colorado Springs itinerary. This challenging hike has stunning views that make the climb 100% worth it.
Manitou Springs is also home to the foot of Pikes Peak. If you wish to summit the mountain, you can drive it yourself, take the highly-rated jeep tour or the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
For more details on all there is to do, check out our guide to the best of Manitou Springs!
Afternoon
Continue the day with lunch at Toasted. We love the charcuterie tray and burgers!
With so much to do in Manitou Springs, feel free to continue your adventures into the afternoon. On the itinerary for the late afternoon and evening is a hike at the stunning Paint Mines Interpretive Park.
The Paint Mines feature colorful geological formations including hoo-doos, spires and gulches that are truly awe-inspring. You will want at least 2 hours to explore the park.
Check out our complete guide to visiting the Paint Mines to read more!
For a dinner the whole family will love, wrap up your day indulging in gourmet mac and cheese at The Mactory. The menu includes dishes such as Lobster Mac and Sweet ‘N Sour Mac. Yum!
Day 3: Seven Falls and Cave of the Winds
Morning
On today’s itinerary for Colorado Springs we have Seven Falls, where you will see some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Colorado. You will need to purchase tickets in advance.
The one mile hike to the falls is paved so you can easily take a stroller. You will walk by flowing streams, be surrounded by towering rock formations, and likely see interesting wildlife.
At the end of the one mile walk you will encounter the gorgeous waterfalls. You can climb stairs to the top of the falls, or ride an elevator to the overlook. Halfway up the stairs is the perfect place for a family photo!
Afternoon
If you wish to have lunch while at the Seven Falls, there is an upscale restaurant called Restaurant 1858 which is right by the falls, in addition to a couple food trucks along the path.
Next, make your way to Cave of the Winds. You will love the unique experience of the cave tours, which you will need to book in advance. If you are visiting with kids, we recommend doing the 45 minute family-friendly “discovery tour”. Learn about the history of the cave and see beautiful formations such as stalactites and stalagmites.
In addition to cave tours, Cave of the Winds has even more adventures to experience. Participate in the aerial ropes course, rock climbing, zipline and TERROR-dactyl ride.
For dinner, enjoy one of the most beloved and unique restaurants in the area. Edelweiss German Restaurant is an authentic German restaurant serving favorites such as schnitzel and sauerbraten. Reservations are required.
Free Colorado Springs Itinerary Download
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Other Things to Do in Colorado Springs
If you have more time in Colorado Springs (which we highly recommend!), consider adding any of the following activities to your itinerary!
- Air Force Academy Tour
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space
- US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center
- Manitou Cliff Dwellings
- Glen Eyrie Castle
- ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum
- Fine Arts Center
- Western Museum of Mining and Industry
Day Trips from Colorado Springs
One of the best parts of Colorado Springs is the easy access to many other unforgettable locations! Check out our detailed list of the best day trips from Colorado Springs, to explore areas like The Royal Gorge, Denver, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Each of these destinations are 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs or less!
How to Get to Colorado Springs
There are airports in both Colorado Springs and Denver. If you are flying into Denver, simply take highway 25 south to Colorado Springs.
When is the Best Time to Visit Colorado Springs?
Summer is the most popular time to visit Colorado Springs, and for good reason. The weather is warm, yet not typically too hot, and the wildlife and landscape really show off. From wildflowers to big horn sheep, it seems like the whole area comes to life in the summer.
To avoid the largest crowds, consider coming in the shoulder season (late May/early June, or September).
Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
The most iconic place to stay in Colorado Springs is The Broadmoor. With its gorgeous grounds and first-class amenities, The Broadmoor is a great option for your Colorado Springs vacation.
There are also many beautiful vacation rentals to choose from. We personally love the historic homes for rent in the area!
How Many Days Should I Stay in Colorado Springs?
You could easily spend more than 3 days in Colorado Springs. On our last trip we explored for 5 full days and we felt it was the perfect amount of time.
If you only have one day for your adventure, check out our Colorado Springs one day itinerary.
Tips for Visiting Colorado Springs
- If you are from an area with lower altitude, make sure to hydrate well in the days leading up to your trip, as well as while you are there. This can help you avoid altitude sickness.
- Don’t do much hiking on the first day. Let your body adjust to the altitude.
- Keep water and sunscreen with you at all times.
Your Colorado Springs Vacation Itinerary
I hope this guide helps you plan an incredible weekend in Colorado Springs! It is a beautiful area with so much to do for families.
For more details on all there is to do, visit our post on the best things to do in Colorado Springs!
Don’t forget to capture those memories and tag me on Instagram! I LOVE seeing all the memories you are making with your family. Safe travels, friends!
Explore More in Colorado:
- Your Unforgettable Weekend in Colorado Springs {3-Day Itinerary}
- 11 Epic Day Trips from Colorado Springs
- 9 Memorable Things to Do in Colorado Springs for Families
- Paint Mines Interpretive Park: The Best-Kept Secret of Colorado Springs
- A Colorado Springs Day Trip You Won’t Forget
- Exploring Manitou Springs: 7 Things You’ll Love to Do
- Plan the Perfect Babymoon in Colorado
