Elevation Map Of Colorado Springs
Introduction
Colorado Springs is a stunning city in Colorado with a unique landscape. The city is located at an elevation of 6,035 feet and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This comprehensive travel guide will cover everything you need to know about Colorado Springs, including the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a public park featuring towering sandstone rock formations that are millions of years old. The park is free to enter and offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and guided tours.
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak is a 14,115-foot mountain that offers stunning views of Colorado Springs. Visitors can drive to the summit or take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a more scenic experience.
United States Air Force Academy
The United States Air Force Academy is a military academy and campus located in Colorado Springs. Visitors can take guided tours of the academy and learn about the history and traditions of the United States Air Force.
Hidden Gems
Manitou Incline
The Manitou Incline is a challenging hiking trail that gains over 2,000 feet in elevation over less than a mile. The trail features over 2,700 steps and is a great workout for experienced hikers.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the highest zoo in America and features over 800 animals and 170 species. Visitors can take a behind-the-scenes tour or feed the giraffes.
Seven Falls
Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls that are over 181 feet tall. Visitors can take a scenic hike to the falls or ride the in-mountain elevator to the top.
Food Scene
The Rabbit Hole
The Rabbit Hole is a unique restaurant in Colorado Springs that features a speakeasy-style atmosphere and delicious food and drinks. The menu includes creative cocktails and dishes like duck confit and mushroom risotto.
Four by Brother Luck
Four by Brother Luck is a restaurant that specializes in modern American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently and features dishes like elk loin and bison tartare.
Streetcar520
Streetcar520 is a restaurant that offers a diverse menu of American and international dishes. The restaurant is located in a historic trolley car and features outdoor seating and live music.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Colorado Springs offers many free and affordable activities, including hiking in the parks and visiting the United States Air Force Academy. Visitors can also save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels and camping sites.
Outdoor Adventures
Colorado Springs is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the numerous parks and hiking trails, go rock climbing or mountain biking, or take a hot air balloon ride over the city.
Historical Landmarks
Colorado Springs is rich in history and features many landmarks and museums. Visitors can learn about the city’s mining history at the Western Museum of Mining and Industry or explore the historic district of Old Colorado City.
Family-Friendly Activities
Colorado Springs offers many family-friendly activities, including visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, taking a train ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, or exploring the Children’s Museum of Colorado Springs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Visitors can explore the lesser-known areas of Colorado Springs, including the quirky Manitou Springs and the historic ghost town of Victor.
Natural Wonders
Colorado Springs is surrounded by natural wonders, including the Garden of the Gods and the Manitou Incline. Visitors can also explore the nearby Pike National Forest and the Royal Gorge.
Vibrant Nightlife
Colorado Springs offers a lively nightlife scene, including breweries, bars, and nightclubs. Visitors can check out local favorites like the Axe and the Oak Whiskey House or the Brooklyn’s on Boulder Street.
Local Markets
Colorado Springs features many local markets and farmers’ markets, including the Colorado Farm and Art Market and the Old Colorado City Farmers’ Market. Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Colorado Springs is located near both the mountains and the beaches. Visitors can explore the nearby beaches at Pueblo Reservoir or take a scenic drive through the mountains on the Gold Belt Scenic Byway.
Cultural Immersion
Colorado Springs offers many opportunities for cultural immersion, including visiting the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center or attending a Native American powwow. Visitors can also explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods and try local cuisine.
Art and Music Scene
Colorado Springs features a thriving art and music scene, including the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. Visitors can also explore local galleries and attend live music performances.
Walking Tours
Colorado Springs offers many walking tours, including historical tours of downtown and ghost tours of local cemeteries. Visitors can also explore the city’s street art and architecture on a self-guided walking tour.
Architectural Marvels
Colorado Springs features many architectural marvels, including the historic Broadmoor Hotel and the Glen Eyrie Castle. Visitors can also explore the city’s numerous churches and cathedrals.
Historical Sites
Colorado Springs is rich in history and features many historical sites, including the United States Air Force Academy and the Peterson Air and Space Museum. Visitors can also explore local landmarks like the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum.
Biking Routes
Colorado Springs offers many bike trails and routes, including the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail and the Palmer Park Loop. Visitors can also rent bikes and explore the city on their own.
Wellness Retreats
Colorado Springs offers many wellness retreats, including yoga studios and spas. Visitors can also explore the nearby hot springs or take a meditation class.
Adventure Sports
Colorado Springs is a popular destination for adventure sports, including rock climbing, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. Visitors can also try their hand at bungee jumping or skydiving.