If you are headed to Colorado Springs in the Summer, keep reading!
This blog post is all about what to wear, what to do, where to eat and where to stay in Colorado Springs.
Get ready for breathtaking landscapes and adventure packed trails! Colorado Springs is truly a picturesque paradise of mountains, peaks and valleys, From hiking through towering peaks to exploring charming downtown delights, this post will uncover the best ways to soak up the sun and savor every moment!
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What to Wear
Colorado in the Summer time is very hot! It’s important to remember what kind of activities you will be doing while you are there in order to pack correctly! We were doing outdoorsy things such as hiking, water rafting, visiting Pikes Peak, and going to waterfalls. However, we also had great dinner dates where we dressed up! I mainly packed athleisure wear (athletic shorts and tank tops).
- Tank tops or T shirts. Getting multiple colors of tops and work out shorts is great because you can mix and match!
- Running shorts or biker shorts, I found most of my outfits at target and amazon! These shorts are great lululemon dupes! They have every color!
- Comfortable sneakers
- Hiking boots
- Athleisure wear
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Bathing suit
- Cover up
- Sandals
- Water shoes for white water rafting
- Jeans
- Nice top for dinner
- At least one nice dress for dinner! This one would be great!
- Wedges to pair with a nice outfit for a nice dinner date
- Jacket and long pants- if you are going to go up to Pikes Peak- this is a must.
- Light jacket for cooler evenings
Weather:
The weather in Colorado Springs in the Summer was in the 80’s and sunny! We were there in August. It was extremely hot during the day especially since we were out doing physical activity. Just remember it is important to bring your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and water bottle- everywhere with you! The temperatures can also drop lower in the evenings, so having a light jacket or sweater with you is a good idea!
What to Do and See:
Going on the Cog Railway up to Pikes Peak was pretty cool but beware! The seats are so close together that you are basically touching knees with strangers. Luckily, I am short so this didn’t happen for me. The ride up to the top has great views on the way up and takes about an hour. You can also drive yourself if you would like. This is definitely a climb up to the top, so if you get altitude sickness easily, this may not be for you. It is a fantastic view from the top though and worth it! If you do make it to the top, don’t forget to try the famous Donuts in the Sky! I did bring a jacket because the temps at the top were in the 50’s! Brr!!
Garden of the gods is a must see! The natural rock formations are stunning and there are great views and many trails you can take. Don’t forget your water bottle and hat!
Seven Falls was an adventure. It is a journey to the top and if you don’t like heights, this is not for you. It is a 224 step climb to the top and very steep! Don’t look down! There are a lot of visitors so it is very crowded but it is worth it when you get to the top. The waterfalls are amazing but the hikes around the area at the top are even better! We got some great pictures at the top of these mountains.
This was my first time white water rafting and I am so glad I went! We chose the medium intensity option and it was very tame in my opinion. It is pretty neat that they have different paths for easy, medium and hard for people who are comfortable with different levels. Again, I had no experience and went with the medium intensity ride and it was great! We even stopped off to some rocks and we’re able to do some jumping into the water, with the guide of course. We saw the Royal Gorge while on our way through the canyon which was cool too.
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings was fun to see because my husband and I really love history and thinking back to how people lived in different times. The Ancestral Puebloan ruin dwellings date back 800-1000 years. You can walk through them and touch everything! It is very kid friendly.
Cave of the Winds Adventure Park has a cave tour but also has fun activities for families such as zip lining, obstacle courses, climbing walls, and even (if you dare) the “Terror – Dactyl” which is a ride that launches you off a 200 foot cliff in Williams Canyon at nearly 100 mph! We tried it and it was exhilarating!
Here is a complete list of must see spots in Colorado Springs:
- Garden of the gods
- Seven Falls
- U.S. Olympic Training Center
- Cave of the Winds Mountain Park – I recommend trying the
- Manitou Cliff Dwellings
- Royal Gorge Bridge
- White water rafting
- The Broadmoor
- National Museum of World War II Aviation
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
- Red Rock Canyon Trails
- Downtown Colorado Springs
- Pikes Peak – Cog Railway Ride
- Biking
- Horse back riding
- Archery
- Axe Throwing
- Fly fishing
- Zip Lining
Where to Eat:
- Dinner at The Rabbit Hole: This place was so unique! The entrance is an old subway entrance on the city street sidewalk and you head underground for an upscale dining experience with great food and amazing cocktails!
- Brunch at Urban Egg, La Baguette, or Burnt Toast! There are so many great spots for brunch here!
- Lunch at Atomic Cowboy for a great burger or Streetcar 520 for a hip exerience!
- Ice Cream at Josh and Johns. Perfect spot on a hot day! They have home made waffle cones and many flavors!
- Don’t forget to try Pikes Peak Donuts in the sky!
Where to Stay:
- The Broadmoor Hotel: Our experience at this hotel was top notch! With rich history and sophisticated style, it definitely is a luxurious experience! This Forbes 5 star resort has breathtaking mountain views, a pool, amazing restaurants, and Seven Falls is right next door! They also have tennis, pickleball, lake canoeing, shopping, and falconry! It also has a bowling alley inside the resort! The landscape was out favorite part, just walking around the grounds is an experience in itself, especially in the morning. Don’t forget to get reservations for brunch on the terrace, which is required on Sunday. Don’t worry if you are not into the outdoors adventure days, the spa here is the perfect escape and provides the ultimate relaxation. We also loved how it is actually the sister hotel to Sea Island in Georgia, another luxurious resort that is worth seeing!
Colorado Springs definitely has a lot to offer, especially if you are looking for adventure! It is definitely a family friendly town with lots to do and see and the food was delicious! If you are daring enough, they even serve Rocky Mountain Oysters. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure in the wilderness, a history buff exploring the rich cultural heritage, or a foodie indulging in the vibrant culinary scene, this city has it all. I hope this guide has provided you with good inspiration and ideas for your next trip!
Have you visited Colorado Springs before? Let me know what you have done and what are your must see spots! Leave a comment below or save to pinterest for later!
