Summer Day Trips from Denver: Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods - Photo by Joshua Woroniecki on Unsplash
Yes, it's touristy. Yes, you've probably been there before. And yes...it's absolutely worth going back.
Just 90 minutes south of Denver, Colorado Springs is packed with iconic Colorado attractions, stunning scenery, and enough adventure to fill an entire day. From towering red rock formations to mountaintop views and quirky mountain-town charm, this is one of those classic Colorado day trips that never gets old.
Why We Love It
Colorado Springs has earned its place on just about every Colorado bucket list. The attractions are popular for a reason, and somehow they still manage to exceed expectations.
You'll find incredible scenery, easy hikes, family-friendly attractions, and enough fresh mountain air to remind you why you live in Colorado in the first place.
What to Do
Explore Garden of the Gods
If you've never been to Garden of the Gods, prepare to stop every five minutes to take another photo. Towering red sandstone formations rise hundreds of feet into the sky, creating one of Colorado's most recognizable landscapes.
The park offers paved walking paths, hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and plenty of opportunities to simply soak in the views.
Best of all? Admission is free. Plan your visit here.
Drive or Ride to the Top of Pikes Peak
At 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak is one of Colorado's most famous mountains. Drive the scenic Pikes Peak Highway or hop aboard the historic Cog Railway for an unforgettable ride to the summit.
On a clear day, you can see for miles across the Front Range.
And yes, the famous summit donuts really do taste better at 14,000 feet. Plan your visit here.
Wander Through Manitou Springs
Just minutes from Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs feels like Colorado's quirky little cousin.
Stroll the historic downtown filled with local boutiques, galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants. Don't forget to sample the town's naturally carbonated mineral springs scattered throughout downtown.
If you're feeling nostalgic, stop by the Penny Arcade, where vintage arcade games, skee-ball, and pinball machines make for a fun afternoon.
Venture into Cave of the Winds
Looking to cool off? Head underground at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park.
Choose from several guided cave tours or, if you're feeling adventurous, try one of the thrill rides overlooking Williams Canyon.
It's a unique stop that's equal parts geology lesson and adrenaline rush. Plan your visit.
Pro Tips
Start early, especially during holiday weekends.
Reserve Pikes Peak or Cog Railway tickets in advance during peak summer months.
Bring layers. Temperatures at the summit of Pike’s Peak can be 30 degrees cooler than downtown Colorado Springs.
Stay hydrated. Higher elevations have a way of sneaking up on you.
Garden of the Gods is especially beautiful early in the morning or around sunset.
Drive Time from Denver
Approximately 1½ hours, depending on traffic.
Perfect For:
First-time Colorado visitors
Families
Scenic drives
History buffs
Adventure seekers
Anyone checking iconic Colorado landmarks off their bucket list
One More Thing...
If you only have time for one stop, make it Garden of the Gods. It's one of those rare places that somehow lives up to the photos.
But if you can squeeze in all four highlights, you'll understand why Colorado Springs remains one of the state's most popular day trips, even if the secret has definitely been out for a while.
Want to learn more about things to do in Denver? Book a Discovery Meeting with us today.
