There’s something about Colorado Springs that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a living postcard. Maybe it’s the dramatic red rock formations that jut from the earth like nature’s own skyline, or the way Pikes Peak looms in the distance like a silent, snowcapped guardian. If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in Colorado Springs, here are some must-do experiences that truly capture the spirit of this Rocky Mountain gem.

Start High: Sunrise in a Hot Air Balloon

Nothing—and I mean nothing—compares to watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon as it floats silently above the Colorado Springs landscape. I did this hot air balloon ride on a chilly August morning, and it was my very first—long before we eventually checked off that dream flight over Cappadocia, Turkey.

There’s a kind of stillness up there that’s hard to put into words. As we drifted high above the foothills and watched the world slowly wake up, the sky blushed in soft hues of orange and gold. It was one of those rare moments that feel both peaceful and electric all at once. And to top it all off? A champagne toast when we touched down—because who says adventure can’t come with a little luxury?

👉 Ready to float above the Rockies? Book your hot air balloon ride in Colorado Springs now!

Step Back in Time: Manitou Cliff Dwellings

These preserved Ancestral Puebloan dwellings are both fascinating and a little humbling. You can walk through actual homes built into the cliffs over 700 years ago—no roped-off displays, just hands-on history. There’s a small museum on site, too, but the real magic is just being there and imagining life in those stone rooms, surrounded by forested hills and towering rock faces.

Garden of the Gods – Hike It, Cruise It, or Ride in Style

If you’re short on time or energy, a slow drive through the Garden of the Gods is still breathtaking—seriously, those red sandstone formations feel like something straight out of a fantasy film. But there are more fun ways to explore too: take a guided Jeep tour for some off-road stories and incredible photo ops, or hop on a Segway tour if you’re feeling a little adventurous with a modern twist.

If you’ve got the stamina, hiking one of the trails (try the Perkins Central Garden Trail) is totally worth it. You’ll get up close with those towering rocks, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some bighorn sheep along the way. However you choose to explore, you’re in for something unforgettable.

👉 Want to roll through red rock country? Book your Garden of the Gods Jeep or Segway tour today!

Dine in a Jet: The Airplane Restaurant

Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—an actual Boeing KC-97 tanker turned into a restaurant. I’ll be honest, the food is solid but not mind-blowing, but the experience? Totally unique. You can sit inside the plane’s fuselage, check out the cockpit, and snap some ridiculous selfies pretending to fly the thing. Definitely a fun stop after a day of exploring.

The Drive (or Ride) of a Lifetime: Pikes Peak

They don’t call it “America’s Mountain” for nothing. You can climb the 14,115-foot mountain via a 31-kilometer scenic highway that winds its way to the summit, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn. If you’re not up for the drive yourself, consider taking the cog railway—it’s a relaxing, no-stress way to enjoy the ride—or hop on a guided Jeep tour for a more adventurous and informative way to reach the top.

The views from the summit are unreal, stretching all the way to Kansas on a clear day. The air’s thin, the sky feels closer, and the moment you step out at the top—it’s something you won’t forget. Oh, and don’t leave without trying one of the famous high-altitude donuts from the summit cafe. Trust me, they somehow taste better at 14,000 feet.

👉 Up for the adventure? Book your Pikes Peak Jeep tour now and ride to the summit in style!

Meet Tomorrow’s Champions at the Olympic Training Center

Just a few minutes away is the Olympic Training Center, where you can tour the facilities and maybe even spot a future gold medalist mid-workout. The guided tours are fascinating—seeing the dedication and discipline behind the scenes really hits home. I left totally hyped up… and slightly ashamed of how winded I got walking to the parking lot.

Get Inspired at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

A visit to the United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum is anything but your typical museum experience. With interactive exhibits, authentic gear from legendary athletes, and powerful storytelling through immersive videos, it’s the kind of place that stirs something in you. I found myself getting unexpectedly emotional watching the Paralympic stories—raw, real, and deeply inspiring.

If you’ve ever needed a motivation boost—or just want to walk in the footsteps of greatness— this Museum delivers. It’s an unforgettable stop that celebrates the spirit of resilience, drive, and human potential.

👉 Don’t miss out—grab your U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum tickets now before they sell out!

Spooky & Quirky: The Ghost Town Museum

This one’s a hidden gem. It’s an indoor replica of an old western town with real artifacts from the late 1800s. Think: saloon doors, creaky wagons, and ancient typewriters. It’s got a fun, slightly spooky vibe—especially if you go on a rainy afternoon when the wind whistles through the old wood.

Ghost Stories on Gold Camp Road

If you’re up for a bit of spine-tingling adventure, Gold Camp Road is a must. By day, it’s a scenic (if slightly rugged) drive through old railroad tunnels and pine-covered hills. But at night? Locals swear it’s haunted. Strange lights, disembodied voices, unexplained cold spots—I didn’t see any ghosts, but I definitely felt watched in those tunnels. Go with a group, bring a flashlight, and prepare to jump at every sound. It’s spooky fun.

Final Thoughts

Colorado Springs has this way of blending natural beauty and offbeat charm into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re soaring in a balloon, hiking through ancient rock formations, or creeping through haunted tunnels at midnight, there’s always something new to discover. My advice? Leave room in your itinerary to wander. Sometimes, it’s the unplanned detours that turn into the best memories.

📌 Loved this guide? Pin it now so you’ve got all the top things to do in Colorado Springs at your fingertips when it’s time to plan your trip!