5 day Itinerary in Colorado Springs
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase (at no additional cost to you).
Day 1
Arrival Day: After settling into our pet-friendly cottage we rented through VRBO, we headed out for dinner. Located in a historic building in Old Colorado City was Pizzeria Rustica. The simple menu and casual setting was perfect for our first night in Colorado Springs! We enjoyed a ceasar salad and one of their wood fired pizzas (to share of course!).
Day 2
The day started at Mountain Shadows Restaurant in Old Colorado City for breakfast. Kevin opted for the breakfast burrito while I had an omelet. Mountain Shadows was featured on DDD for their huge cinnamon rolls. Of course, we couldn’t resist buying cinnamon roll to go! (Warning: they often sell out of cinnamon rolls so plan on going early.)
Next up was the Manitou Cliff Dwellings and the Cliff Dwellings Museum. Here you can explore the cliffs by walking through them and actually touch the dwellings. Not only did we enjoy incredible views, but we also learned about the Native American culture. Afterwards, we stopped in downtown Manitou Springs for more incredible views and some shopping. We also indulged in a cold beer at Manitou Brewing Company.
Later in the afternoon, we dropped in Ivywild School, which is an old school building turned into a marketplace. There are a few shops along with merchants for food and drinks here. They even have a bar in the old “principal’s office.” We grabbed some nachos from one of the food merchants and made our way down the hall to Bristol Brewing Co.
Dinner at Front Range BBQ was calling our name later that evening! If a place has been featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives then it has to be good!
Day 3
Pike’s Peak is by far the main attraction in Colorado Springs. We purchased tickets for the cog railway to Pike’s Peak weeks in advance of our trip. Our tickets were for a 9:20am time, and we arrived 30 minutes in advance. After parking, we walked to the train station where an announcer tells guests where to board. The train operators welcome everyone aboard then the ride begins! Along the climb to the top, the operator will share historical information and give a time schedule for departing the summit. We witnessed breathtaking views of snow, trees, and wildlife on our way up. There is no doubt why Pike’s Peak is called “America’s Mountain.” Upon arriving to the top, we stopped in the Summit Visitor’s Center and devoured one of their world-famous donuts. Back outside on the 360 deck, we took in the most stunning views! They say on a clear day you can see 5 states from here. Our visit this day was just that – sunny and clear! It is one of those experiences where you have to pause, take deep breaths, and just look around at the beauty of nature. Needless to say, this was the highlight of our trip!
Later in the evening we ventured out to The Rabbit Hole in downtown Colorado Springs. Known as one of Colorado Springs best kept secrets, the speakeasy was just down steps of what looks like a subway entrance. We were able to get seats at the bar, but it was a busy place! The bartender said to try and get reservations here in advance.
Day 4
Shortly after sunrise, we arrived at Garden of the Gods Park. We walked the Perkins Central Garden trail around the enormous sandstone rock formations under the sunny blue sky. Afterwards, we drove by the U.S. Air Force Academy campus. Kevin was able to go out on the field at the Airforce football stadium. Then we went to eat breakfast at King’s Chef Diner.
We had a 90 minute guided tour booked at Glen Eyrie Castle in the afternoon. We not only learned about General Palmer, who was the founder of Colorado Springs, but we also walked through parts of the castle and carriage house. The tour guide explained the castle’s unique history, architecture, and the surrounding landscape. Next on the agenda was a stop for a cold beverage at Pike’s Peak brewing. Later in the evening, we had dinner at Paravicini’s Italian Bistro in Old Colorado City.
Day 5
Our morning began at Garden of the Gods Cafe and Market for breakfast. We ate our meals and purchased some baked pastries to-go. Then, we headed to Seven Falls park. We arrived to the parking area and took the shuttle over to the park entrance. Once inside, visitors can walk a paved path surrounded by the beauty of nature. At the end of the path, we were able to climb the 224-step stairway to view the falls. At the top, we chose to take the winding 1 mile trail to Inspiration Point for more incredible views. We made our way back down then stopped inside the Seven Falls Shop to purchase some souvenirs.
In the afternoon, we stopped at Wimberger’s Old World Bakery to purchase some fresh baked break to take home with us. Next, we visited the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum. Alongside many of the galleries and exhibits here, you’ll see stories about team USA athletes and their journey to the Olympics. The rich history of the Olympics and the training the athletes receive is just incredible! There are a number of other learning experiences here as well as an amazing display of the Olympic Torches throughout the years. And, the museum features interactive games guests can play!
We dined at the Skirted Heifer that evening. It’s another restaurant featured on DDD. Our cheeseburgers and fries were scrumptious! Did you know they make their own sauces, pickles, and condiments? They also use local produce as well as local grass-fed beef.
Day 6: Amy’s Donuts on our drive back home.
For more on Colorado, check out Denver, Golden, and Fort Collins.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase (at no additional cost to you).
