The Ultimate Colorado Springs Bucket List: 25 Things to Do Before You Leave
Colorado Springs is unlike anywhere else in the American West
At 6,035 feet above sea level, Colorado Springs sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains with Pikes Peak as its constant backdrop. The city blends military heritage, world-class outdoor adventure, Victorian spa culture, and a booming culinary scene.
1. Watch the sunrise from Garden of the Gods
The park opens at 5am. Set your alarm. The light on the red rocks at sunrise is indescribable — and you'll have the trails mostly to yourself before 7am.
2. Summit Pikes Peak
Drive the toll road, ride the cog railway, or hike the Barr Trail — but do it. Standing at 14,115 feet above sea level, you'll understand why this mountain inspired "America the Beautiful."
3. Go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River
Just 45 minutes from Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge section of the Arkansas River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. Royal Gorge Rafting offers guided trips for all skill levels — from beginner-friendly float trips to heart-pounding Class V runs through the gorge.
4. Soar above the Royal Gorge on a zip line
1,000 feet above the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Zipline Tours offer the most dramatic aerial views in Colorado. The six-line Classic Course is perfect for first-timers.
5. Hand-feed a giraffe at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The only mountain zoo in America. The giraffe feeding deck is the highlight, but the African Rift Valley exhibit and ski lift to the Will Rogers Shrine are close seconds.
6. Explore Cave of the Winds
500 million years of geology accessible by lantern tour, wild spelunking, or from the air via the Terror-Dactyl plunge from a 1,200-foot cliff.
7. Spend a night glamping near the Royal Gorge
Swap a hotel for a riverside yurt or luxury Airstream at Royal Gorge Vacation Rentals — arguably the most unique lodging near Colorado Springs.
8. Dine at WhiteWater Bar & Grill
After a day of adventure, the WhiteWater Bar & Grill in Cañon City is the best post-adventure meal in southern Colorado. Undefeated Flavors. Legendary Portions. Bold American cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music on weekends.