38 Awesome Things to Do In Colorado Springs with Kids
Traveling to Colorado Springs on a family vacation? Here’s the most comprehensive list of activities to do with kids in Colorado Springs!
The City of Colorado Springs is a great vacation destination for the entire family!
Whether you want to explore the region’s rich history, go on easy hikes, or go on adventurous outdoor activities, there are so many family-friendly activities to do in Colorado Springs!
This article is a comprehensive list of all the best things for families to do in Colorado Springs. (And keep reading to see the one thing I recommend avoiding!)
You’ll find activities for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages! And there are lots of sites and activities you can only do right here in Colorado Springs!
So whatever your favorite family activities are, you’ll find so many fun things to do in Colorado Springs!
Here are the best Colorado Springs kids activities!
Fun Things to Do with Kids in Colorado Springs
1. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
You and your kids will absolutely love the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located on the mountainside above Colorado Springs.
At the featured exhibit of animals native to the Rocky Mountains, you’ll see mountains lions and grizzly bears.
Your kids can hand-feed the zoos giraffes or even go behind-the-scenes in the giraffe barn.
Each day, there are tons of animal demonstrations and special experiences on offer.
Before you go, don’t miss the mountaineer sky ride, the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, or the zoo’s historic carousel!
2. Garden of the Gods Park
There is something for everyone at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center.
First, stop at the visitor welcome center, where you can explore exhibits on Colorado geology, flora and fauna, and native peoples.
You can also pick up free trail pass, refill your water bottles, eat at the cafe, and find restrooms.
In the Garden of the Gods park, you can book a guided hike with a local geologist, book a Segway tour, or take an e-bike tour through the park.
More adventurous families can book a private rock-climbing trip in the Garden of the Gods
If you like to hike, you can explore the parks’ 21 miles of trails.
There are several easy and moderate paved roundtrip paths—perfect if you’re traveling with young children. Try the Siamese Twins trail or the Perkins Central Garden trail.
Families with older kids can hike the Scotsman/Buckskin Charlie trail.
This beautiful park really is a must-see when you’re in Colorado Springs.
3. Flying W Ranch
See what life is like on a real ranch, at the Flying W Ranch, a 1400 acre working cattle ranch.
You can check out the ranch animals, ride a train, hike to the top of Christmas Rock, and watch a horseshoe demonstration.
You can also watch the Sweetwater Plains Dancers perform and watch a Navajo rug weaver at work.
Then, you’ll experience an unforgettable Western stage show and classic chuckwagon supper, featuring smoked brisket, trail beans, biscuits, and more.
4. Old Colorado City Historic District
Head to Old Colorado City, on the west side of Colorado Springs, to explore this charming historic district.
You’ll find lots of shops and boutiques, as well as amazing restaurants serving family-friendly fare, from Italian specialties to burgers and fries.
Families with kids will love special events like Territory Days, usually in late May, and live music events throughout the year.
Be sure to allow time to stop for ice cream at Colorado City Creamery!
5. Take a Food tour
Perfect for families with tweens and teens, this Colorado Springs food tour will introduce you to amazing restaurants and boutique food shops.
Along the way you’ll also learn about the history, architecture, and art of Colorado Springs!
Foodie highlights include burgers and milkshakes, thin crust pizza, lemonade, southwestern specialities, and Purple Mountain Majesty ice cream!
6. Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers
Run by El Paso County, home to Colorado Springs, the Bear Creek Nature Center and Fountain Creek Nature Center offer many public programs for kids (and adults).
Programs vary by season, but you can expect excellent programs about birds, insects, and other animals, as well as trees, flowers, and so much more.
Staying in Colorado Springs for a while? The nature centers offer a variety of multi-day summer camp programs too.
You’ll also find lots of easy trails for short hikes with young children. And kids will love learning about local wildlife by exploring the engaging, interactive exhibits at the each site’s visitor’s center.
7. City Rock Climbing Gym
Set in downtown Colorado Springs, City Rock climbing gym is a great destination if you have kids or teens who want to practice rock climbing in a controlled environment.
City Rock offers belay lessons, personal coaching, and climbing camps.
I love taking my teens to indoor climbing gyms all over the world when we travel. City Rock is the perfect place to introduce your kids to rock climbing or to get some physical activity in case of rainy weather.
8. Cosmo’s Magic Theater
Cosmo’s Magic Theater has shows for the whole family.
Perfect for children ages 3 through 12, “Magic for Children” will amaze and delight younger kids. This show is held on Saturday afternoons.
Adults, teens, and children age 12 and older can choose from two different evening magic shows, held on Friday and Saturday nights.
9. Great Wolf Lodge
If your family loves waterparks, you’ll be glad to know there’s a Great Wolf Lodge in Colorado Springs! You can stay on-site, or get a day pass.
Beyond all the water slides and pools, your kids will have fun exploring the lodge during the MagiQuest scavenger hunt, challenging themselves on the ropes course or climbing wall, or checking out the bowling alley and arcade games.
Best Museums in Colorado Springs
10. Ghost Town Museum
Let your kids see what a Wild West mining town was like! This museum is packed with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Panning for real gold has to the favorite!
Your kids will love exploring historic buildings, like a general store and mining office, and artifacts from actual Colorado mining towns.
It might seem kitschy, but my kids absolutely loved this museum.
11. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
The Pioneer Museum has lots of fun exhibits.
Your family can learn about the history of Colorado Springs, African-American migration to Colorado Springs, health and cures in Colorado Springs, the Ute people in the Pikes Peak region, and more.
For the littlest family members, there’s a play area where they can pretend to camp in the great outdoors!
12. Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
At the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, you can explore exhibits of Native American and Hispanic art, as well as modern American and European art.
The museum also offers art lessons and plays, so check their calendar before your vacation to see what upcoming events might appeal to your family.
13. U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center
Get a close-up look at the Team USA Olympic Training Center.
Your tour guide may show you the strength and conditioning gym, the wrestling gym, and the aquatics center, where athletes train for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
You’ll also want to visit the Olympic and Paralympic Museum and the Team USA shop! Use these inspiring Olympics captions when you post your photos!
14. May Natural History Museum
If you have a kid who loves bugs (or if you do), the May Museum is a great place to go!
There are more than 7,000 insects on display—including butterflies, beetles, spiders, scorpions, moths, and more!
The museum has a gift shop where you can find unique insect-themed gifts.
15. National Museum of WWII Aviation
The National Museum of WWII Aviation features 20 World War II aircraft and seven other airplanes that help tell the story of WWII aviation.
The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, including WWII military vehicles, clothing, and equipment to help tell the story of the role of aviation in WWII military history.
You can take a self-guided tour of the museum, or take a guided tour for an additional fee.
16. US Air Force Academy Planetarium
To conținue learning about military history and aviation, head to the United States Air Force Academy’s planeterium.
Planetarium shows are open to the public. Different shows are offered nearly every day, making this one of the coolest free things for families to do in Colorado Springs!
17. World Figure Skating Museum
This little museum is packed with history!
Your kids will love seeing artifacts like historic ice skates, skating costumes, and trophies. There are some really cool figure skating sculptures and lots of photographs of famous skaters.
If your kids are figure skaters or have ever been on the ice, or just like watching figure skating on TV, this museum is worth a stop.
18. Western Museum of Mining & Industry
If your kids like machinery, minerals, or mines, you’ll definitely have to stop at the Western Museum of Mining & Industry.
There some large outdoor equipment to check out. But the indoor museum is where you’ll learn about mined minerals, walk through a model mine drift, and learn about mining in the US.
Highlights include the display of phosphorescent minerals and panning for gold!
You can also tour the historic Victorian-era farmhouse on site.
The WMMI offers special events throughout the year, like half-day summer camps, family days throughout the year, and pumpkin patch events in October, and changing temporary exhibits.
19. Space Foundation Discovery Center
The space museum is a must-see if your kids are interested in astronauts and outer space.
Your kids will love the hands-on exhibits about extreme environments, rockets, and traveling to the moon. Special activity workshops for kids are occasionally offered.
20. ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy
Learn about the rodeo and cowboys, and the impact of both on the American West through artifacts and exhibits. You’ll see saddles, spurs, belt buckles, chaps, and cowboy boots!
For many kids, the highlight of the museum is the exhibition of retired rodeo livestock who take up residence at the ProRodeo Hall of Fame every summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Favorite Outdoor Adventure Activities for Kids in Colorado Springs
If you’re looking for some amazing outdoor adventures, you have so many choices in the Colorado Springs Area
21. Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Tour
Take a sunrise hot air balloon tour of Colorado Springs!
You’ll have unbelievable views of Pikes Peak, the Garden of the Gods, and the mountains surrounding Colorado Springs.
This is an amazing, unforgettable experience. You’ve never had a better view of the great outdoors than from a balloon!
22. Zipline Tour at Seven Falls
See the Seven Falls Waterfalls from an entirely different perspective!
- The Woods Course Zipline Circuit takes you on five ziplines, extending up to 1,500 feet, you’ll have amazing views of lush forests, rocky gorges, and the Seven Falls Waterfalls.
- The Fins Course lets you fly down five ziplines, extending up to 1,800 feet. You’ll also traverse two suspension bridges and bound down a 180-foot rappel. You’ll see incredible scenery and get your adrenaline pumping!
23. Whitewater Rafting Trip
If you’re vacationing with teenagers, a white water rafting trip is probably one of the top things they’d like to do! Where better to embark on this adventure than in beautiful Colorado?
From Colorado Springs, head just over an hour southwest to Cañon City, where you have several choices of rafting trips:
- Half Day Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Trip: Packed with Class III-V rapids, perfect for thrill seekers! No experience required. Participants must be 14 and older.
- Full Day Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Adventure: Spend the morning in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, enjoy a riverside lunch, then venture into the Royal Gorge for advanced rapids. Previous experience recommended; Participants should be 14 and older.
- Whole Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline: Have the most adventurous day ever! In the morning, navigate Class III rapids on Big Sheep Canyon. In the afternoon, experience a nine-cable zipline course! Participants must be 6 and older. Lunch included.
- Family Float: This family-friendly rafting trip is a fun introduction to the Cañon City rapids! Children must be at least one year old.
Whichever rafting trip you choose, you’ll love experiencing the gorgeous Colorado scenery from the river! This will be a trip you and your kids won’t forget!
Note: all rafting trips are not for anyone with back problems or heart conditions, who are pregnant, or who have other serious medical conditions.
24. Mountain biking
Mountain bike through abandoned gold mining territory!
You’ll be transported up to Gold Camp Road, where you’ll take in the scenery before riding your bikes down the mountain.
You’ll have an expert guide to help you choose easier or more difficult terrain. Bike and safety equipment included.
25. Falconry
Discover the ancient sport of falconry! Students will learn about different types of birds of prey.
Students will see hawks fly and have the opportunity to wear a later glove and hold a trained Saker falcon.
This is a really cool class, perfect for the tween or teen who’s hard to impress!
Colorado Springs Hikes for Families
In addition to the hikes in the Garden of the Gods Park, Bear Creek Nature Center, and Fountain Creek Nature Center mentioned above, these hikes are great for families!
26. Helen Hunt Falls Hike
Helen Hunt Falls is located in the North Cheyenne Cañon Park. This 1,600 acre park has extensive trails.
You can view the falls from the Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center, or take a short walk to the top of the falls, where a bridge spans the falls.
If you have older kids, you can hike up to Helen Hunt Falls from the entrance the canyon.
If you continue up North Cheyenne Canyon Road, you’ll access more hiking and biking trails.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park is home to mountain lions, black bears, mule deer, and many species of birds.
27. Red Rock Canyon Open Space Hikes
There are several easy, intermediate, and advanced hiking trails at Red Rocks. Most are also open to dogs, bikes, and horses,
You’ll also find about 80 technical climbing routes. Climbers must register at the Garden of the Gods visitor center before climbing.
28. Seven Falls Waterfalls Hikes
The Broadmoor’s Seven Falls has two absolutely beautiful hiking trails.
The more challenging trail to Inspiration Point is an hour roundtrip, and the easier trail to Midnight Falls is a half-hour roundtrip.
Note that unlike other hiking areas, there is an admission charge for Seven Falls. You’ll have to park and either walk or take the shuttle to the base of the waterfalls.
Tickets do sell out, so it’s recommended to buy them in advance. Hours and dates of operation vary by season, but Seven Falls is never open Tuesdays. (Admission to the falls is included in the Seven Falls Woods Course Zipline Tour and the Fins Course Zipline Tour.)
Try to book tickets earlier or later in the day to avoid crowds. If you want to eat at Restaurant 1858, book a reservation in advance.
Things to Do with Kids in Manitou Springs
29. Explore Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is a charming small town, just outside of Colorado Springs.
You’ll want to try the mineral spring water that the town is famous for! There are eight natural springs in Manitou Springs!
You’ll love the adorable bakeries, souvenir shops packed full of Colorado merchandise, and the free summer concert series!
Be warned that parking is a challenge, so allow plenty of time to find a parking space.
30. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Cave of the Winds Mountain park is great family fun!
Tour guides lead three different cave tours:
- the family-friendly Discovery Tour, for all ages (babies in front carriers)
- the spooky Haunted Lantern Tour, for people age 8 and up
- the more challenging Expedition Tour, which involves crawling and climbing through muddy cave passages and navigating ropes and ladders, for teens and adults.
But there’s so much more to do here than cave tours!
For adventure seekers, there’s a ride that drops you into the canyon at nearly 100 miles/hour, outdoor rock climbing guided tours, two zip lines, and more!
Younger kids can take on the ropes course challenge, a climbing wall, and a pillar climb.
The littlest explorers can pan for gemstones or crawl through a cave simulation.
31. Miramont Castle
Located in a beautiful Victorian-era home, the Miramont Castle Museum is an interesting mix of architectural styles.
The museum features a range of exhibits on diverse topics, including the Manitou Springs volunteer fire department, wars, maps, and more.
Be sure to treat yourself to lunch or tea in the Queen’s Parlour Tea Room!
32. Manitou Incline
Best for older kids, teenagers, and adults who are fit and love a challenge, the Manitou Incline is a steep up-hill climb! You’ll go up 2,000 feet of elevation in less than one mile!
The good news is that once you get to the top, you can take the less-steep Barr Trail back to the base, rather than risk going down the super-steep Incline!
33. Arcade Amusements in Manitou
Kids of all ages love the Penny Arcade!
Choose from loads of pinball machines, play skeeball, and race the horse derby!
Each room of the arcade features different games. Most games cost more than a penny, but it’s cheaper than modern arcades.
Young children will like the small kiddie rides. Win enough tickets and you get to pick a prize.
34. Colo-Rad Zipline
Zipline high above Manitou Springs!
The Colo-Rad Zipline course will take you on five ziplines, cliff-to-cliff style, with short nature hikes between the lines.
You’ll have an incredible view of Gregory Gulch and the surrounding mountains.
Things to Do with Kids in the Pikes Peak Region
Pikes Peak, known as America’s Mountain, rises high over Colorado Springs. While a visit to the top of Pikes Peak is a must-do, there are lots of family-friendly things to do in the region that are easy day trips from Colorado Springs!
35. Summit Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak rises 14,115 feet into the sky! At the top, you’ll be awestruck by the views.
In the beautiful visitor center, you’ll find world-famous doughnuts, so many great Colorado souvenirs, a restaurant, and restrooms.
Bring a jacket with you, even in the summer. Temperatures at the summit tend to be thirty degrees cooler than at the bottom of the mountain.
The Pikes Peak Highway is steep and windy! Drivers will need to focus on the road, rather than the scenery.
You have several options for reaching the summit of Pikes Peak:
Drive Pikes Peak Highway
- Drive your own vehicle to the summit. You’ll need to purchase a timed entry permit and a one-day admission ticket or annual pass.
- Drive your own vehicle to Mile 7, then take the Pikes Peak Shuttle to the summit. The shuttle driver will tell you information about the mountain on the way. You must purchase a shuttle ticket (which includes your admission ticket).
Take a Pikes Peak Tour
- Take a Pikes Peak scenic tour in a spacious passenger van. Perfect for large groups who want to take it all in, this tour has time for multiple stops and plenty of photo ops. Cost includes entry fee and highway toll fee, plus snacks and drinks.
- Take a Pikes Peak Jeep Tour. Your experienced driver will tell you history and folklore about the mountain, and help you spot the native wildlife. Perfect for a smaller group that wants an experience tailored to their interests. Cost includes all fees, plus snacks and drinks.
- Experience the Pikes Peak Summit downhill bike tour! You’ll take a shuttle to the summit, where you’ll have plenty of time for photos, before jumping on your bike and taking a guided tour down the mountain! Bikes, safety equipment, and all fees included in the cost.
Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railroad
- Skip the Pikes Peak Highway and take a the Cog Railway to the top. You’ll have great views of the scenery along your journey, but only 30 minutes or so to enjoy the summit.
36. Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
Go way back in time, to the Cretaceous period.
Take a guided tour of the Dinosaur Resource Center, located in Woodland Park, to learn about the marine reptiles, pterosaurs, and dinosaurs who used to live in this area.
Your kids will love the hands-on activities and getting a peak at the working paleontology lab where real fossils are being examined and restored.
37. Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
Take a train ride on the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad to go back in time and learn about the Colorado gold rush.
You’ll get to see a historic mining town, learn about the history of the region, and take photos of amazing scenery.
The train, which has open-air cars, runs May through October.
38. The North Pole, Santa’s Workshop, Cascade, Colorado
It can be Christmas at any time of the year!
Nestled into the mountainside at the base of Pikes Peak, the North Pole—Santa’s Workshop features twenty-plus amusement park rides, magic shows, and incredible gift shops.
Santa and his elves are at the park each day, if your kids are already working on their Christmas list for next year!
What NOT to do in Colorado Springs
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a popular destination, but not one that I recommend visiting.
The dwellings were originally located in other areas of Colorado, moved to Manitou Springs, and reassembled. There’s also a museum with dioramas and displays of pottery, tools, and artifacts.
Unfortunately, the displays lump together the cultural artifacts and traditions of many different Native Americans.
I personally think that, at best, both the dwellings and the museum lack context and explanation, and, at worst, the museum stereotypes and exploits Native American traditions and people. (I’m not the only one to find the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offensive.)
You’ll learn much more by visiting the authentic cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.
Where to stay in Colorado Springs with Kids
Best Hotels in Colorado Springs
The Broadmoor — 9.6⭐️
Hands down, the best place to stay in Colorado Springs is The Broadmoor, with or without kids.
At The Broadmoor, you’ll have access to two swimming pools, including seasonal water slides and a children’s wading pool.
You can use the fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts, or golf. Enjoy the on-site movie theatre, art and history tour, or spa.
For an extra special retreat, stay at The Broadmoor’s Cloud Camp. A stay in the Main Lodge includes all Broadmoor amenities, as well mountaintop views, hikes, yoga, campfires, and more.
Element Colorado Springs Downtown — 8.8⭐️
Perfect for families, the conveniently located Element Colorado Springs Downtown features rooms with two queen beds plus a sofa bed!
There’s an indoor swimming pool. Breakfast is included, and it’s actually good!
Spring Hill Suites — 8.7⭐️
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Colorado Springs Downtown, is conveniently located. You’ll enjoy the onsite fitness center and indoor pool.
Hilton Garden Inn — 8.6⭐️
The Hilton Garden Inn, Colorado Springs Downtown, is conveniently located. There’s an indoor swimming pool and fitness center.
Best Vacation Rentals for Families in Colorado Springs
If you want more space to spread out, consider renting a house, apartment, or cabin in Colorado Springs. Check out these great options:
Beautiful Farmhouse Retreat — 10⭐️
Located in Old Colorado Springs, this completely renovated home sleeps up to 8 people.
Mountain Retreat — 10⭐️
Located between Old Colorado City and Manitou Sprigs, this contemporary home is within walking distance of many attractions; sleeps 5.
Old Colorado City Home — 10⭐️
This renovated home in Old Colorado City comes with lots of extras, like a a putting tree, fire pit, and hot tub; sleeps 6.
When is the best time to visit Colorado Springs?
There’s no bad time to visit Colorado Springs!
Spring in Colorado Springs
Springtime is perfect for anyone who wants to participate in outdoor activities in Colorado Springs.
The high temperature averages between 50 and 60 degrees, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
Summer in Colorado Springs
In the summer months, temperatures range from 70 to 90 degrees, but the lack of humidity makes the heat more bearable.
However, it’s also peak tourist season, so attractions are more crowded.
Fall in Colorado Springs
Autumn in Colorado Springs is gorgeous! Temperatures average 50 to 75 degrees during the day.
If your kids have a fall break, consider visiting Colorado Springs then.
Winter in Colorado Springs
Winter daytime temperatures in Colorado Springs average 45 degrees, and much cooler at night.
Most tourist to Colorado head to the mountains to ski, but plenty of Colorado Springs attractions are open year-round.
Final Thoughts: Colorado Springs Kids Activities
After reading about all the amazing activities for kids in Colorado Springs, you’re going to have a hard time choosing what to do here with your kids!
My family loves visiting Colorado Springs because there’s so much to do, and I think your family will love it too!
Plan for a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. Find the right level of adventurous activities for your children’s ages and interests. And don’t forget souvenir shopping!
Add in a few things that you really want to do, and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Colorado Springs!
Need help planning your itinerary? Use this three day Colorado Springs Itinerary to get you started!
