23 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs With Kids

Dreaming of an outdoor adventure the whole family will love? Mountain views, unique natural wonders, and lots of family fun? Look no further than Colorado Springs! Visiting Colorado Springs with kids is the perfect mix of family fun, natural beauty, and hands-on adventure.

From the breathtaking views atop Pikes Peak to the stunning red rock formations at Garden of the Gods, you will find no shortage of jaw-dropping views! Kids can walk through ancient cliff dwellings, ride the famous cog railway high into the mountains, or spend the day exploring nature trails and interactive museums.

With its mix of outdoor recreation, fascinating history, and exciting attractions, Colorado Springs is an ideal destination for families looking to unplug, explore, and experience the beauty of Colorado together. We have compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Colorado Springs with kids that we think you should add to your list!

***The Navigating Mom (and this post) may contain affiliate links. If you purchase from one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.****

Things to Know When Visiting Colorado Springs with Kids

• Colorado Springs is at a high elevation (6,033 feet). Be prepared for altitude changes, bring extra water, and make sure you warm up to hikes (which take you to even higher altitudes).
• UV radiation is more significant at higher elevations. Don’t forget the sun screen and protective clothing!
• Be prepared for changes in weather. In the summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so make sure you consider this when planning your hikes and activities.
• Due to dry conditions at times, be sure to observe and follow all fire bans that are put in place.
• Be sure to follow the Leave No Trace Principles at all times when exploring the wilderness of Colorado.

The Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs With Kids

Go For a Hike

Colorado Springs is a prime destination for hiking, being based at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by Colorado’s unique red rock formations. Colorado Springs features more than 300 miles of trails with hikes for all abilities, so you can’t go wrong here!

Some of the best trails in Colorado Springs with kids include the Siamese Twins Trail and Perkins Central Garden trail in Garden on the Gods, the Helen Hunt Falls trail in North Cheyenne Cañon, the Paint Mines Interpretive Park trail, the Fountain Creek Nature Trail, and the Mount Cutler Trail.

A couple tips for hiking in Colorado Springs: (1) The city sits at 6,305 ft. above sea level, and most of the hikes climb higher than that. Be prepared for altitude changes and give yourself time to adjust, (2) Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Colorado Springs. Be prepared for weather changes and make sure you come prepared.

Spend the Day in Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs is a small resort city about 15 minutes outside of Colorado Springs, known for its mineral springs and the towering Pikes Peak. It has a quaint, small town feel with lots of unique attractions.

You can spend the day walking through the downtown area, where you will find 8 different mineral springs that were once believed to have healing powers. The springs are a result of rainwater and snow melt from Pikes Peak soaking into rock fractures. Because of the depth it goes, the water is heated and mineralized before rising through the many natural and drilled springs in Manitou. You can pick up a map of the springs at the Manitou Springs Visitor Center.

There are also plenty of local shops located along Manitou Ave to explore and the famous penny arcade. Choose from local boutique and souvenir shops, candy shops, ice cream shops, and restaurants.

Manitou Springs is also the home base for several other must do attractions when visiting Colorado Springs with kids, including the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, and the Pikes Peak Highway.

Colorado Springs With Kids: Go Whitewater Rafting

Colorado Springs is surrounded by wilderness, including raging rivers and calm creeks. One of the best ways to experience this part of Colorado Springs is by going on a whitewater rafting trip!

Performance Tours offers whitewater rafting trips about 45 minutes outside of downtown Colorado Springs. Trips include the rafting in the Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River, and Browns Canyon (about 2 hours from Colorado Springs).

Whitewater rafting trips in Bighorn Sheep Canyon are family friendly, with children as young as 7 being allowed to participate. Royal Gorge whitewater rafting is more challenging for people 16 and up. Browns Canyon, a little further away, is also a moderate trip for kids as young as 7.

Another option closer to Denver, Colorado is Clear Creek. Beginning and intermediate trips are offered on Clear Creek for kids as young as 5, so rafters of all ages and experience levels can enjoy the ride.

Explore the Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs with kids and was one of our favorite places to explore during our road trip in Colorado. Garden of the Gods is a national natural landmark, given to the city of Colorado Springs in 1909 under the condition that it remain free to visit.

The highlight of the park is the unique red rock formations, with the towering Pikes Peak in the background. You can explore the park via car, on foot, or by joining a guided tour. You can drive through the park on your own, take a trolley or jeep tour, or join a Segway tour.

Explore the park on foot on the park’s 22+ miles of hiking trails. There is a wide selection of trails, ranging from beginner trails like the Perkins Central Garden Trail and the Ridge Trail to more advanced trails like the Scotsman/Buckskin Charlie Trail. You can also explore many of the trails via bike (you can bring your own or join an ebike tour).

Front Range Climbing Company offers 2 to 6 hour climbing tours in Garden of the Gods. The company offers a number of routes that are good for climbers of any ability, from experienced climbers to the family taking their first climb.

Before visiting the area, stop at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center. You can pick up a map here, or visit the Geo Trekker Theater, gift shop, and cafe.

Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway

One of the most iconic attractions when visiting Colorado Springs with kids is Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak, known as “America’s Mountain” reaches an elevation of 14,115 feet. From the summit, you will be treated to views of the Rocky Mountains, alpine forests, lakes, and plains stretching across Eastern Colorado.

The Pike’s Peak Cog Railway is one option for reaching the summit and taking in the stunning views the mountain provides. It gives you a relaxing ride up to the summit of Pikes Peak with the opportunity to take in views of the mountain landscapes and surrounding areas.

The ride to the top is a 9 mile journey, climbing over 7,000 feet to the summit. The ride to the top takes a little over an hour, with 40 minutes on the summit to explore. The total trip is about 3 hours long. The train runs year-round, but you should be prepared for changes in weather at the top (due to the high elevation).

Drive to the Top of Pike’s Peak

Another option for visiting Pikes Peak is driving to the top, giving you the opportunity to explore on your own! The highway contains a series of switchbacks that take you through four distinct zones, including Ponderosa Pine Forests, Spruce, Fir, and alpine tundra.

The highway to the top is 19 miles long and gains over 6,000 feet to reach the summit. On the trip to the top there are plenty of scenic overlooks to pull over and enjoy stunning views. Along the way, it is common to see marmots and bighorn sheep walking along the cliffs.

At the summit, you will find a visitor center with the famous high-altitude donuts, fudge, and coffee. The round-trip drive takes about 2-3 hours, not including time spent at the summit or scenic overlooks.

If you are visiting from late May to late September you will need to purchase a $2 time-entry permit along with a day pass (per person). There are no gas stations along the drive, so make sure you fill up before you begin your drive.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings is one of the best things to do when visiting Colorado Springs with kids. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings preserve is a collection of stones from Mesa top dwellings in McElmo Canyon. The dwellings were relocated in the early 1900’s to protect them from looting and deterioration. The difference from other dwelling sites? This one is hands on, so you can walk through, climb, and explore the dwellings (and this is why my daughter loved it!).

The cliffs are located at the foot of Pikes Peak and overlook Manitou Springs. The main features of the site in the two story reconstructed cliff dwelling. The dwelling contains 40 rooms and includes ladders you can climb up.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings also has a 3 story dwelling based on the Taos Puebloans people of New Mexico. It was home to a Native American family who entertained and educated tourists for years. It is now a museum and gift shop.

Go Hiking in North Cheyenne Cañon Park

The North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a 1,600-acre park in Colorado Springs that offers a 15+ mile trail system. The park is a great option for families looking to hike, bike, or spot some wildlife in Colorado Springs.

The Mount Cutler is an excellent trail option for families at only 2 miles round trip and an elevation gain of only about 500 ft. The Seven Bridges Trail is also found here. The trail is about 3.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 900 ft. The trail follows alongside a creek and crosses 7 bridges on the way.

The Helen Hunt Falls trail is another great option for families. It is a short, easy walk from the parking area. The area is also home to trailheads for longer trails in the park, so you can combine your visit with a longer, more challenging trail if you want.

Wildlife sightings are common in the park and include black bears, mountain lions, and mule deer. Dogs are allowed in the park but must be leashed. The trails are open for hikers and bikers. Entrance to the park is free.

Explore Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

Cave of the Winds is an adventure park that combines both outdoor exploration and a bit of thrills. The park offers an obstacle course, zip line, a climbing wall, and Geronimo’s Leap. You can also go underground and take a cave tour. Other activities include panning for gemstones, an adventure slide, and the caver’s crawl for kids.

There are a number of tours available to explore the Cave of the Winds. The Discovery Tour is a family-friendly tour that takes you through the lit portion of the cave and lasts about 45 minutes. The tour spans about a half mile with 196 stairs.

The Lantern Tour is a 90 minute guided tour led by lantern light. During the tour you will hear stories of folklore, cave creatures, and ghost stories. This tour is better suited for older children (must be at least 8 to participate).

The Expedition Tour is a more involved tour that includes climbing and crawling through undeveloped portions of the Cave of the Winds. The tour lasts 2.5-3 hours. Children must be at least 13 to participate.

Pioneers Museum

The Pioneers Museum is one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs with kids for those looking to learn about the history of the area. The museum is located in the El Paso County Courthouse in downtown Colorado Springs.

The Pioneers Museum has rotating, interactive exhibits on the region’s Native American heritage, early settlers, mining history, railroads, and the development of the city over time. The museum is always free, making it a great option for families.

Visit The North Pole Colorado

The North Pole is a Christmas-themed amusement park at the base of Pikes Peak. The park combines classic rides, holiday magic, and family-friendly entertainment in a nostalgic setting. Even during the summer months, visitors can experience the feeling of Christmas with festive decorations, cheerful music, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus himself.

The park features attractions like small roller coasters, antique cars, a ferris wheel, a carousel, shows, and themed play areas designed for kids of all ages. One of the highlights is visiting Santa’s house, where children can meet Santa and share their wish lists any time of year.

You can also explore the village shops, which includes 7 unique shops with gifts, toys, and sweet treats to take home. The North Pole is a great option when visiting Colorado Springs with kids for families that want to take a break from the hikes and outdoor adventure.

Visit the Royal Gorge

For stunning views and more thrilling adventures, head to the Royal Gorge in nearby Cañon City Colorado. Located about an hour outside of Colorado Springs, the gorge is definitely worth the trip! We made it a day trip from Colorado Springs. You can view the gorge by crossing the suspension bridge or via rail, and enjoy a variety of adventure activities.

One of the main features of the Royal Gorge area is the suspension bridge hanging 956 feet above the Arkansas River. If you are afraid of heights-this is not recommended. But if you can do it, you will be treated to stunning views of the gorge below. You can also check out the via ferrata course, the sky coaster, gondola rides, a 3 story playland, and a zip line.

The Royal Gorge Railroad is another way to see the gorge. We did the Vista Dome experience, and did not regret it for a second! The train ride itself is fun for kids, but the views through the gorge are stunning. We were also able to spot some bighorn sheep on the walls of the gorge.

You can choose from a variety of tours, including a laser light dinner train ride, the Vista Dome experience, the deluxe class experience, the coach class experience, and a ride with the engineer experience.

See Dinosaur Prints on Skyline Drive

If you choose to visit the Royal Gorge (or not), consider adding on a drive down Skyline Drive. The drive takes you along a narrow, paved road that follows along a high razorback ridge that overlooks Cañon City. The drive is accessed off of US 50 in Cañon City.

Skyline Drive is a one way road, so once you enter you have to complete the entire drive (but don’t worry-it is only 2.8 miles long!). Along the drive there are pull out areas where you can stop and enjoy the unobstructed views in all directions.

One of the highlights of the drive is the 107 million years old dinosaur tracks. The tracks were made by ankylosaurs (armored dinosaurs). They are marked at one of the pull outs with interpretive signs.

Colorado Springs With Kids: Visit The Bear Creek Nature Center

The Bear Creek Nature Center is an excellent option for families looking to hike and see wildlife in their natural environment, while also learning about the Rocky Mountains. The nature center offers hands-on learning, while the Bear Creek Regional Park offers miles of family-friendly nature and hiking trails.

The nature center offers interactive exhibits, educational displays, and hands-on learning experiences that help visitors discover the plants, animals, and ecosystems of the Rocky Mountain region.

Trails in the area take you through forests, meadows, and along Bear Creek. The nature center has 2 miles of trails and the regional park offers 10 miles of trails. The Nature Trail is 0.9 miles, flat, and takes you over bridges and along the creek.

Throughout the year, the nature center also hosts family-friendly programs, guided walks, and seasonal educational events that encourage children to learn through hands-on experiences in nature.

Fountain Creek Nature Center

The Fountain Creek Nature Center is another one of the best things for families to do when visiting Colorado Springs with kids. Located just south of Colorado Springs, the nature center sits along the scenic wetlands and cottonwood forests of Fountain Creek Regional Park.

The visitor center features interactive exhibits about local animals, birds, insects, plants, and the importance of wetland habitats. The trails in the nature center take you through ponds, marshes, meadows, cottonwood forests, and the Fountain Creek. A family-friendly 0.7 mile trail loops around the Nature Center pond and past the various environments.

Wildlife is commonly seen in the area, including blue herons, turtles, white-tailed deer, bull snakes, and bobcats. Bikes and pets are not allowed in the area.

Visit the Broadmoor Seven Falls

The Broadmoor Seven Falls is a family-friendly natural attraction in Colorado Springs. It takes you along a series of seven cascading waterfalls in a box Canyon. The falls tumble down steep granite cliffs surrounded by towering canyon walls and pine forests over a total of 181 feet.

One of the highlights of visiting Seven Falls is climbing the 224-step staircase that runs alongside the waterfalls. While the climb can be a bit challenging, the views from the top are well worth the effort, especially for adventurous families and older kids. At the top, visitors can access additional hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks and quieter sections of the canyon.

For those who prefer an easier experience, there are viewing platforms and an in-mountain elevator that provide incredible perspectives without the climb. In the evening, the waterfalls are often illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that makes Seven Falls feel even more unforgettable.

There is also on on-site restaurant, Restaurant 1858, that sits at the base of the falls. The restaurant is inspired by the Colorado Gold Rush.

Ghost Town Museum

The Ghost Town Museum will transform you back into an old Western town with hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. The museum highlights the history surrounding the gold rush and movement of people to the wild west.

The Ghost Town Museum contains a number of original structures that were taken from the Pikes Peak region and placed in the museum to preserve them. Kids can participate in a number of hands-on exhibits, including cranking a butter churn, operating an old-time arcade, panning for gold, and a shooting gallery.

The museum is open year round except for major holidays. The museum makes a great rainy day activity when visiting Colorado Springs.

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

For those interested in sports, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is an excellent option when visiting Colorado Springs with kids. Located in Olympic City USA, the museum celebrates the history, achievements, and stories of American Olympic and Paralympic athletes through interactive exhibits and immersive displays.

Spend the day exploring galleries dedicated to a wide variety of sports and learn about legendary athletes. The museum’s modern design and hands-on activities make it especially engaging for kids, allowing them to feel connected to the world of Olympic competition.

One of the things that makes this museum perfect for families is the interactive exhibits. Visitors can test their own athletic abilities through interactive challenges, watch inspiring athlete stories, and view memorabilia such as medals, uniforms, and Olympic torches. The guided family tour allows you to experience the museum while also enjoying fun activities that will hold their attention.

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

The Paint Mines Interpretive Park is a unique area about an hour outside of Colorado Springs. The park is known for its colorful clay formations, dramatic hoodoos, and striking geological landscapes. Over thousands of years, natural erosion carved the soft clay and rock into fascinating shapes and layers of pink, white, orange, and yellow earth.

The Paint Mines Interpretive Trail is a 3.4 mile loop trail. The trail is mostly flat with only mild elevation gain (334 feet), making it one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs with kids. There are 5 main stops along the trail that give you insight about the area and its history, as well as stunning views. The Overlook stop is where you can get a view of the entire Painted Mines, one of the best views in the park.

Entry to the Paint Mines Interpretive Park is free. The park is open year round. Pets and bikes are not allowed at the park. Be sure to follow the Leave No Trace Principles-you are not allowed to remove items from the park. Climbing on the rock formations is also not permitted.

Hike Through the Red Rock Canyon Open Space

The Red Rock Canyon Open Space is another opportunity in Colorado Springs to get outdoors and explore the Colorado wilderness. The 789-acre recreational park has a long history, being first established by Native Americans in 7000 BC.

The area offers trails that wind through canyons and ridges of red rock. Trails range from around half a mile to 3+ miles. The Mesa/Greenlee trail is 2.85 miles round trip, with a moderate incline on the way out. This trail features views of the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, making it one of the best scenic trails in Colorado Springs.

The Contemplative Trail is another good options for families. It is 1.75 miles round trip and takes you up close to the red rock formations. The trail begins and ends at Sand Canyon. This is a hiking only trail, bikes are not allowed on this trail.

For those traveling with their furry friends, there are two fenced in, off-leash dog loops in the park. Dogs are allowed on most trails in the park. Bicycling is also allowed on most of the trails.

Climbing is another popular activity in the area. Around 80 climbing areas have been established in the park. Those wishing to climb in the park must be registered through the Garden of the Gods visitor center. Paragliding can also be done in the park if you are really looking for some thrills!

Colorado Springs With Kids: Explore Downtown

The Tejon Street Corridor in downtown Colorado Springs is a vibrant area with shopping, dining, and family fun opportunities. The area is very walkable, making it a great area to explore in Colorado Springs with kids.

Throughout the Tejon Street Corridor you will find plenty of local and unique gift shops. Check out Poor Richard’s Books & Gifts for an old-fashioned bookstore, grab some gourmet treats at Cacao Chemistry & Patisserie, grab some hand-crafted soap at Rocky Mountain Soap Market, or check out the many local gift shops in the area.

Looking at street art is one of the most popular things to do in downtown Colorado Springs. The Art on the Streets program brings a variety of art pieces from artists around the world to the streets of downtown Colorado Springs including murals, sculptures, and art installations. You can take a self-guided tour and admire the artwork with your family.

In the warmer months (May-October), check out one of the weekly farmers markets in downtown Colorado Springs for unique and local goods and treats. If you happen to be visiting during the winter, you can enjoy some ice skating at Acacia Park.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

The Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors and is another great option for exploring the wilderness of Colorado. The park is located at the base of Cheyenne Mountain. Activities include hiking, biking, picnicking, and geocaching, making it one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.

The park contains 21 hiking trails that total over 27 miles. Easy, family-friendly trails include the 1 mile Little Bear Trail, the half mile Racoon Ridge Trail, the one mile Boulder Run Trail, and the one mile Zook Loop Trail, For a more challenging trail, check out the 2.64 mile Talon Trail or the 1.82 mile Soaring Kestral Trail.

There is a visitor center on site that has educational exhibits about local wildlife, geology, and ecosystems. Campsites are available at the park if you want to make it an overnight trip. The park is open daily. There is a vehicle entrance fee to enter the park.

Climb the Manitou Incline

The Manitou Incline is one of the most famous and challenging hikes in Colorado Springs. We did not attempt it, but wanted to include it so you don’t miss out! Originally built as a cable car track in the early 1900’s, the incline is now a steep hiking trail that climbs 2,020 feet in elevation in less than a mile. Despite the challenge, thousands of families climb the Manitou Incline each year.

The trail consists of 2,768 steps stretching straight up the mountainside. During the climb, you will be treated to incredible views of Manitou Springs, the surrounding mountains, and the Colorado landscape below. Once you reach the top, you will take the Barr Trail back down. The Barr Trail is a scenic, steep downhill trail back to the base. Downhill use of the Manitou Incline is not allowed.

The high elevation and steep grade make the hike physically demanding, so bringing plenty of water and taking breaks is essential. If you choose to conquer the hike, plan to allow at least 3 hours for the round trip. This hike is strenuous-know your family and know your limits before heading out.

Use of the trail is free, but donations are gladly accepted. Parking at the base of the hike is not free, but the free shuttle runs from downtown Manitou Springs to the incline.

Frequently Asked Questions

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