There is no doubt about it, Colorado and Colorado Springs, in general, is beautiful. There’s a reason that when you drive across the border it welcomes you to “Colorful Colorado”. It’s especially breathtaking in the fall when the leaves begin to change, and I would love to invite you to watch our fall colors.
As a military family, it was quite a transition for us. We’re New Yorkers, and we’re accustomed to skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle of a crowded city. However, once we arrived, we saw the beautiful mountains and decided that we were never going back. As a matter of fact, our very youngest was born here in Colorado Springs, so Colorado is now home to us. So what made us stay? And why do I want you to now visit our beautiful adopted hometown? There are a variety of reasons for this, with so much to do for everyone. One of them being that it’s great for both families and singles alike.
Colorado Springs is known as the ideal place for unique outdoor recreation, surrounded by stunning scenery. It’s the perfect escape for couples, friend-cations, solo excursions and weekend escapes from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are activities and experiences for people of all abilities, ranging from mild, leisurely nature walks, to extreme water sports as well as challengers for fitness-enthusiast.
It’s an outdoor enthusiast and a photographer’s dream. With hiking trails that lead to spectacular backdrops, I want to share with you five family-friendly reasons why you should visit Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods Park
Colorado Springs Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark and is one of the most visited attractions in the region. With it’s towering sandstone rock formations amidst brilliant blue skies, it’s also a photographer’s dreamscape, quite like most of Colorado. The Garden of the Gods Park is perfect for hiking, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes. For the more adventurous, you can go rock climbing, and for those who would much prefer an easier way to get around, you can take advantage of their Trolley, Jeep or Segway tours.
Red Rock Canyon
For those interested in a more leisurely stroll and learning about geology, then Red Rock Canyon is perfect for you. It’s great for hiking and bird watching. The trails are limitless and the views are breathtaking, including the views of Pikes Peak. Just as with the Gardens of the Gods Park, the red rock formations are unique and one of a kind.
The Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center
Colorado Springs boasts The Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center. Home to hopefuls trying to make it to the Olympic Games as part of Team USA. While visiting the center is free, tours are offered year round for a small fee. Taking a tour of the facility might even enable you to see athletes training in their desired sport, although it’s not guaranteed.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
While each state may have a zoo, Colorado Springs is home to America’s ONLY mountain zoo. At 6,714 feet above sea level, you get breathtaking views of the city. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo also has the largest reticulated herd of giraffes in captivity, which you can also hand-feed. Home to over 750 animals, there is much to see and do at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Open 365 days a year, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a must visit.
The Airplane Restaurant
When it comes to food, Colorado is known for its Bison. However, if you want something exclusive, then might I suggest eating at the Airplane Restaurant? Colorado Springs boasts the only place where you can eat on a plane without having to go through a security checkpoint at the airport. The Airplane Restaurant is one of kind. You can have a buffalo steak meal or even a bison burger.
Whether you’re visiting Colorado Springs because of your love of the outdoors, or you just want to indulge in nature, Colorado Springs has something for everyone, and I invite you to pay us a visit!
For more information on Colorado Springs, visit the Colorado Springs CVB.
