On a budget? No problem. Beat summer boredom without breaking your wallet with our list of free activities across Southern Colorado.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Colorado SpringsDive into Colorado Springs’ past with fascinating exhibits, programs, lectures and special events. Explore topics like the Springs’ history as a tuberculosis colony, indigenous impact and women’s and African Americans’ contributions to the city.
Garden of the Gods
Colorado SpringsOne of Colorado Springs’ most iconic natural wonders offers boundless hiking, biking and rock-climbing opportunities amidst stunning red rock formations. Stop by the Visitor and Nature Center for free exhibits on the geological history of the park, or take a seat for a low-cost, immersive video experience at the Geo-Trekker Theater.
Manitou Incline
Manitou SpringsThis challenging trail will get your heart pounding in more ways than one: the scenic incline gains 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile via 2,768 steps. Reward yourself at the top with stunning views of the Pikes Peak region. Online reservations are required but free.
The Hiawatha Gardens lot is under construction. Check current parking at manitouspringsco.gov. A free shuttle runs to the trailhead, or take the bus from downtown Colorado Springs.
Manitou Mineral Springs
Manitou SpringsTake a stroll and sip your way through each of Manitou Springs’ eight natural springs. The water is naturally carbonated and infused with minerals due to its long journey from the depths of the Earth. Alternate mineral water with bottled or tap water.
Manitou Springs Heritage Museum
Manitou SpringsLearn more about the historic town’s history through interesting artifacts and exhibits about unique events, Van Briggle pottery, the area’s old railroads and much more. Browse the museum store’s selection of books and gifts.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park
Colorado SpringsLace up your hiking boots for an adventure in the heart of North Cheyenne Cañon’s forest. Visitors can enjoy miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails peppered with cascading waterfalls and breathtaking scenery.
Old Colorado City Historical Society
Colorado SpringsLearn the history of Old Colorado City and the Westside at this illuminating museum. Have a few extra bucks? Stop by the bookstore, which stocks new releases and hard-to-find local history books.
Penrose Heritage Museum
Colorado SpringsDive into the legacy of Spencer and Julie Penrose, the fascinating couple who founded the El Pomar Foundation and many of the Pikes Peak region’s most iconic attractions. The museum features the Penroses’ personal collection of 30 carriages, an immersive exhibit on the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and the history of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Pikes Peak Hiking Trails
Manitou Springs / DivideSummit America’s Mountain on one of two trails: the Barr Trail, a popular 26-mile round-trip hike with 7,400 feet of elevation gain, or the Crags Trail, a more remote 13-mile round-trip that offers stunning views of the Continental Divide. At the summit, hike back down, stay overnight at Barr Camp, take a shuttle or ride the Cog Railway down.
U.S. Air Force Academy Hosmer Visitor Center
Colorado SpringsStep into the shoes of an Air Force Academy cadet with interactive displays that guide you through the 47-month cadet journey. Guests of all ages can peek into a model of a cadet’s dorm room, reflect while listening to Air Force and Space Force core values and marvel at a full-sized glider suspended overhead.
Historic Arkansas Riverwalk
PuebloThis 32-acre scenic stroll meanders through gorgeous scenery, about 60 pieces of public art and world-class dining and shopping. Along the way, check out Pueblo’s Walk of Valor, a mile-long, interactive walk displaying notable stories of heroism and bravery.
Louden-Henritze Archaeology Museum
TrinidadTravel back in time with this ancient history museum, featuring exhibits on early geological formations, plant and marine-animal fossils, dinosaur tracks and prehistoric humans.
Trinidad Trolley
TrinidadOperational Memorial Day through Labor Day, choose from two options for a 45-minute guided tour covering the area’s exciting history. Visit the Ave Maria Shrine and Mount San Rafael Hospital, or opt for the tour that stops by the Louden-Henritze Archaeology Museum.