The end of summer doesn’t have to mean bringing down the curtain on family fun — especially in the Pikes Peak region. Whether you’re trying to entertain the kids or visitors from out of state, you’ll find something everyone can enjoy.
Check out these places in west Colorado Springs:
Garden of the Gods
Wander the trails on your own, or sign up for a guided tour of this world-famous park. Drive your vehicle around the winding roads, or sign up for a trip on a 1909 trolley, a Segway or an e-bike. The Visitors Center offers a theater, a gift shop and a café.
Rock Ledge Ranch
This historic site is part museum, part outdoor adventure area. Home to Indigenous people for thousands of years, it also preserves buildings including the Galloway Homestead Cabin and the 1890-era Blacksmith Shop. Visit with the farm animals or settle in for story time.
Manitou Springs is just up the road with fun opportunities for all ages.
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
In the early 1900s, the stones for these buildings were transported from Dolores, Colorado, to protect them from vandals. They were carefully documented and reconstructed to represent Ancestral Puebloan architecture, which visitors are welcome to explore.
Cave of the Winds
Go underground to walk among ancient rock formations and 15 “rooms” with an expert guide. Up on the surface, kids can play on the Wind Walker Challenge Course, Bat-A-Pult Zip Line or the Cliff Hanger Climbing Wall.
Cog Railway
Chug along on this ride through forests and rock formations to the stunning views at the top. Roam through the Summit Visitor Center and its interpretive exhibits before sampling the famous donuts. Dress in layers — it can be cold and windy at the 14,115-foot-tall summit.
In Downtown Colorado Springs, you’ll find two fun and fascinating places to visit.
U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum
Explore this 60,000-square-foot space, which offers interactive exhibits, innovative displays and an artifact collection in 12 galleries. It all embodies the Olympic spirit of excellence, friendship and respect, along with the Paralympic spirit of determination, equality, inspiration and courage.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Local history comes alive in this former county courthouse. Exhibits chronicle 150 years of city life through artifacts, the story behind Colorado Springs’ reputation as a premier health destination, the work of famed ceramic artist Artus Van Briggle and many other interesting displays.
Southwest Colorado Springs is home to the nation’s highest zoo.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The entire family will fall in love with these animals as you learn about them. Wander the grounds, listen to the keepers talk about their charges and even feed certain animals. Turn the kids loose in one of the dedicated play areas or watch them ride the historic carousel.
Head north for this unique attraction:
Western Museum of Mining & Industry
Wander among historic buildings and machinery on the 27-acre campus before entering the 12,200-square-foot hall. There, you’ll find a walk-through mine, gold-panning stations, the Fluorescent Minerals Room and an 1895 steam engine.
Go south to a destination that’s worth the brief drive.
Buell Children’s Museum
This award-winning treasure trove for creative education offers classes, exhibits and multiple activities that spin off from those exhibits. Part of the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center, the Buell will help your children tap into their imagination.