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$365,000
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1117 Montrose Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
MLS#: 2985935
Colorado Springs has around 26 million visitors every year. That's a lot of people for an area of only 750,000 people. It is a city that grabs you from the moment you arrive. With its dramatic mountain backdrop, red rock formations, and endless blue skies, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this place.
I fell in love with it back in 2012 and then moved here in 2014. Even after all these years, I am still amazed by its beauty. Tourists flock here for the scenery and adventure, but many end up staying for the quality of life and friendly neighborhoods.
Whether you’re thinking about moving or just want a taste of what makes this city special, Colorado Springs offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Here are the top 10 most popular experiences for first-time visitors to Colorado Springs. These will give you a well-rounded view of the city.
1. Garden of the Gods
1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 8090
Garden of the Gods is Colorado Springs’ crown jewel and a must-see for any visitor. This free public park features towering red sandstone formations set against the snow-capped Pikes Peak. You can walk, bike, or even take a guided Segway tour through miles of scenic trails. The park is open daily from 5 am to 9 pm, and the Visitor’s Center offers exhibits, maps, and a panoramic patio view.
Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends, but overflow lots and a free shuttle make it manageable. Sunrise is magical here. The rocks glow orange, and you’ll have the trails mostly to yourself.
Fun fact: Balanced Rock, one of the park’s icons, weighs over 700 tons and still draws crowds for photos.
Additional Notes about Garden of the Gods:
🔹 Most visitors stick to the main paved paths, but the Palmer Trail on the park’s west side is quieter and offers some of the best photo spots, especially in the late afternoon when the sun hits the rocks just right.
🔹 There’s a free geology tour led by park volunteers on Saturday mornings that dives into the history of the rock formations and shares stories about early explorers. Ask at the Visitor Center for the latest schedule.
🔹 If you want to see wildlife, come at dawn or dusk; herds of mule deer and even bighorn sheep sometimes graze near the Siamese Twins rock formation, far from the busiest areas.
2. Pikes Peak and America’s Mountain
101 El Paso Blvd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Pikes Peak is one of the most famous mountains in the U.S. and the inspiration for “America the Beautiful.” You can reach the 14,115-foot summit by driving the scenic highway or riding the historic cog railway. The views from the top stretch for miles, and on a clear day, you can see five states.
Summer and early fall are the best times to visit for mild weather and fewer road closures. Dress in layers, as temperatures at the summit can be 30 degrees cooler than in town. Don’t miss the world-famous donuts at the summit house. They’re only made at high altitude.
Extra Tips for Visiting Pikes Peak:
🔹 The drive up Pikes Peak has several picnic pullouts, but the Crystal Reservoir halfway up is a local favorite for fishing and quiet mountain views.
🔹 If you ride the cog railway, sit on the right side for the best views of the city and the valleys below. Conductors sometimes share stories about famous summit visitors, including presidents and Olympic athletes.
🔹 On clear days, you might spot “mountain wave” clouds from the summit. These rare formations only happen in a few places worldwide and are a favorite subject for local photographers.
3. Seven Falls
1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
Seven Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls tucked into a dramatic box canyon. The main attraction is climbing the 224 steps alongside the falls for a bird’s-eye view.
There’s also an elevator for those who prefer a less strenuous route. Arrive early to avoid long shuttle waits from the main parking lot at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road.
Evening visits are special. The falls are illuminated with colored lights, creating a magical atmosphere. There’s a small entrance fee, but the experience is worth it. Fun fact: Seven Falls is the only waterfall in Colorado listed among National Geographic’s top international waterfalls.
Plan Your Visit to Seven Falls:
🔹 The staircase next to the falls can be slippery, but there’s a hidden viewing platform halfway up that most people miss. Look for a small side path just before the main overlook.
🔹 If you visit in spring, you might catch the rare sight of the falls running full-force with snowmelt. People say this is the most impressive time to see all seven drops at once.
🔹 The on-site restaurant, 1858, has a patio right next to the creek and serves Colorado trout. Ask for a table outside for the best ambiance.
4. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
100 Cave of the Winds Rd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Cave of the Winds offers a mix of underground adventure and above-ground thrills. Guided cave tours take you through ancient limestone caverns filled with unique rock formations and local legends. For the brave, the Haunted Lantern Tour explores the cave by candlelight and shares eerie stories from the past.
Above ground, you’ll find zip lines and a mountain-top obstacle course. Book tickets ahead, especially on weekends, as tours fill up quickly. The cave stays cool year-round, so bring a jacket even in summer.
Insider Advice for Cave of the Winds:
🔹 The Haunted Lantern Tour isn’t just for scares. Guides share real stories about early explorers who got lost in the caves. You’ll also see sections not open to regular tours.
🔹 There’s a small overlook near the Wind Walker Challenge Course that offers stunning views of Williams Canyon.
🔹 During summer, the park sometimes hosts “cave concerts” with local musicians performing in the Echo Chamber. The acoustics make even a single guitar sound magical.
5. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
4218 Co Rd 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212
About an hour from Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the world’s highest suspension bridges, soaring 955 feet above the Arkansas River. Walking across the bridge is a heart-pounding experience.
The park offers zip lines, a sky coaster, and an aerial tram for thrill-seekers. Arrive late in the afternoon for smaller crowds and discounted tickets. The bridge was built in 1929 purely as a tourist attraction and remains an engineering marvel today.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Royal Gorge Bridge:
🔹 Early morning visitors often have the bridge to themselves and can spot golden eagles riding the thermals above the gorge. Bring a light jacket, as the wind can be brisk even in summer.
🔹 The park’s gondola ride is included with admission and gives a totally different perspective of the gorge.
🔹 There’s a little-known hiking trail on the south rim that leads to quiet overlooks and charming meadows. Ask a staff member at the visitor center for directions to the “Overlook Trail.”
6. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Perched on the side of a mountain, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the most unique zoos in the country. You can hand-feed giraffes, ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride for gorgeous city views, and explore habitats that mimic the animals’ natural environments.
Advance tickets are required and can be purchased online. Bring snacks and a jacket, as the weather can change quickly at this elevation. The zoo is especially popular with families, but animal lovers of all ages will find something to enjoy.
Don’t Miss This at the Zoo:
🔹 The giraffe feeding deck is busiest midday, but if you come right at opening, you’ll have more time to interact and can sometimes help the keepers with breakfast feedings.
🔹 The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, just above the zoo, is included with admission and offers panoramic views. Drive up the winding road for a peaceful break and a bit of local history.
🔹 The zoo’s Sky Ride is open year-round and is especially stunning during the “Electric Safari” holiday lights event. You can see the city glowing below and the animals surrounded by twinkling displays.
7. Old Colorado City Historic District
2408 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Old Colorado City is the city’s original settlement, now transformed into a lively historic district. Stroll brick sidewalks lined with art galleries, boutiques, and old-time saloons. The area hosts seasonal festivals and a popular farmers market.
Free street parking is easiest to find before lunch. This neighborhood offers a glimpse into Colorado Springs’ Wild West roots and is a great spot for people-watching and picking up local art or souvenirs.
Hidden Highlights in Old Colorado City:
🔹 Many of the historic buildings have hidden basements that once served as speakeasies or tunnels during Prohibition. Some shop owners will share stories if you ask about the building’s past.
🔹 On the first Friday of every month, local artists open their studios for “ArtWalk,” and you can meet painters, sculptors, and jewelers who’ve lived in the area for decades.
🔹 There’s a small public garden behind Bancroft Park where locals gather for free yoga classes and acoustic music on summer evenings.
8. High Point Overlook
647 Ridge Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
High Point Overlook is one of the most underrated spots in Colorado Springs. It's easy to reach by car and offers some of the best views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky lights up with color.
Bring a camera, a blanket, and take your time. It’s where many people go to get above it all, literally and mentally.
Scenic Secrets from High Point Overlook:
🔹 Local photographers love this spot for capturing lightning storms and rainbows over Pikes Peak. Summer afternoons often bring dramatic skies worth sticking around for.
🔹 A narrow, unmarked trail leads down from the overlook to a quiet meadow filled with wildflowers in late spring.
🔹 At night, the overlook becomes a natural stargazing platform. The city lights shimmer below, and on clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky.
9. Mt. Cutler Trail
N Cheyenne Canyon Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Mt. Cutler Trail offers a short, rewarding hike with expansive views of the city, mountains, and even Seven Falls. The trail is about two miles round-trip and is suitable for most fitness levels. Go early on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Along the way, you’ll find perfect hammock trees and shady spots to rest. This is a great introduction to hiking in the area, and you’ll often spot people bringing their dogs or kids along for the adventure.
Local Hiker Tips for Mount Cutler Trail:
🔹 The trailhead parking lot fills up fast, but there’s overflow parking along the road if you arrive before 8 am.
🔹 In late summer, wild raspberries grow along the lower sections of the trail. Bring a small container and pick a few for a snack.
🔹 If you hike at sunrise, you’ll often have the summit to yourself and can watch hot air balloons drifting over the city from a unique vantage point.
10. Palmer Park
3344-3376 Paseo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Palmer Park is a hidden gem right in the heart of the city. This massive park sits right in the middle of town and offers killer views of Pikes Peak.
With over 25 miles of trails, even frequent visitors discover something new each time. I’ve been dozens of times and still haven’t explored it all.
There’s a dedicated off-leash area for dogs, picnic spots, and plenty of boulders to climb. Parking is easy, and the park rarely feels crowded. Many people enjoy it for sunset walks and quick escapes into nature without leaving town.
Hidden Corners of Palmer Park:
🔹 The Yucca Trail is less traveled and winds through rocky outcrops with hidden caves. You’ll often spot lizards sunning themselves on the rocks.
🔹 There’s a “secret” overlook near the Grandview Trail where people gather for sunset yoga or to watch meteor showers.
🔹 In spring, the park’s meadows fill with wild lupine and paintbrush flowers. Local painters often set up easels along the trails to capture the colors.
Colorado Springs is a city that rewards curiosity and adventure. These are just a few ways to get a real feel for the Springs. There’s so much more to discover here, from hidden waterfalls to quirky museums and friendly neighborhoods. If you’re visiting for the first time, use this list as your guide and don’t be afraid to explore beyond the highlights.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or thinking about making Colorado Springs your new home, you’ll find a community and landscape that’s easy to fall in love with. Come see for yourself why so many visitors end up calling this place home.
Check out our guide on moving to Colorado Springs for more information about the city.
