Oftentimes overshadowed by its neighboring National Park (Rocky Mountain), Colorado Springs is a true hidden gem in southeastern CO. This 3-day Colorado Springs itinerary will take you to unique rock formations, epic hikes, mountain zoos, cliff dwellings, anddddd even the North Pole.
Although three days in any city is never enough, this guide will make sure you see the most in a short amount of time. Follow along exactly, or check out the list at the end for more things to add to your itinerary! Whatever you decide, you will surely have an EPIC one weekend in Colorado Springs.
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Colorado Springs 3-day Itinerary Quick View
Short on time? Here’s a quick overview of the best things to do in Colorado Springs during your 3-day getaway! From out-of-this-world hiking to unique restaurants, there’s something for everyone! Check out this quick Colorado Springs itinerary to ensure it fits your interests! If so, keep reading for all the details!
- Day 1: Drive to the top of Pike’s Peak, Visit The North Pole, Dinner at The Rabbit Hole, Sunset at Garden of the Gods
- Day 2: Climb the Manitou Incline, Explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Dinner and drinks at Manitou Brewing Co
- Day 3: Check out Broadmoor Seven Falls, Explore Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Dinner at The View House, One last hike at Garden of The Gods
How do I get to Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is located just over 1 hour from Denver, making it the perfect weekend getaway from the big city! You can also fly directly into the Colorado Springs airport, but it will likely be far more expensive.
After arriving at the airport of your choice, grab your rental car and head towards the adventures!
Tip: I recommend using Discover Cars to find the BEST deal of rental cars near Denver or Colorado Springs!
What is the best time to visit Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs receives mostly mild temperatures but can get a bit chilly in the winter months. Summer brings warmer temperatures, but also the most rain.
Fall and spring are met with mild temperatures (perfect in my opinion!). Really, there is not a bad time to visit Colorado Springs! Some of the attractions listed below do close in the winter, so be sure to keep that in mind when planning your vacation!
- Winter (Dec-Feb): 43/18 (Here’s a winter guide!)
- Spring (March-May): 65/34
- Summer (June-August): 83/55
- Fall (Sept-Nov.): 63/36
- Most Rain: July and August
- Snow: 57.3 inches per year
*Temperatures are averages and reported in Fahrenheit*
Where should I stay in Colorado Springs?
Booking.comDuring your one weekend in Colorado Springs, you can choose between luxury hotels like The famous Broadmoor, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly options like the Quality Inn and Suites. I recommend finding a hotel near The Garden of the Gods as two of your nights will end at this park.
Sample 3-Day Colorado Springs Weekend Itinerary
Yay! It’s time. I hope you find this 3 day Colorado Springs itinerary extremely helpful in planning your next getaway!
Day 1 in Colorado Springs:
Morning:
Start your morning with an amazing drive up to Pikes Peak. This unique Colorado 14er features 19 miles of safe roads, photo stops, and animal sightings. Once you make it to the top, you can grab a fresh doughnut for breakfast at the gift shop and take in the epic 360 degree views.
If you do not want to drive yourself, you can also take the 3.5-hour Cograil Ride to the top!
Important! Hours 9am-5pm. Reservations are needed from May 27th through the peak summer months. Always call 719-385-7325 for road conditions and closures before visiting (the road was closed the first time we visited).
Afternoon:
SANTA! I KNOW HIM! (Anyone else LOVE Elf and alllll the Christmas Festivities?!)
After marveling at the views on top of Pikes Peak, head to North Pole Santas Shop at the base of the mountain. This charming amusement park offers over 24 different rides and attractions.
Although it is best suited for children, the young at heart (uh me) can definitely spend a few hours here. Its free to get in with rides, snacks, and attractions at an additional price.
It’s open from late May to early October (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday) from 10am-5pm.
Evening:
After working up an appetite at the North Pole, head to The Rabbit Hole for a unique underground dining experience. Try to arrive right at the opening (4 pm) so you can have time for a sunset hike! If not, just feel free to switch the two around!
Then, end your night with a sunset stroll at Garden of the Gods where you can marvel at the unique red rock formations. I recommend hiking the Palmer, Buckskin-Charley, Niobrara, and Bretage Trail Loop your first night as it is an easy 4-mile loop past the most famous rock formations.
Traveling with your dog? Check out this Dog-friendly Guide to Colorado Springs.
Day 2 in Colorado Springs:
Morning:
Start your morning with a trek up the Manitou Incline. Be prepared to not feel you legs for the next 2 hours of your life…but with great reward. After climbing 2,768 steps, you will be rewarded (with a great sense of accomplishment) and amazing views. The way down brings you down the Barr Trail with a less steep incline.
Tip! I would not recommend this in the hot summer months or if you are not used to hiking. It is a difficult trail! You do need to make a free reservation before hiking.
Afternoon:
Open year-round (depending on weather) the Manitou Cliff Dwellings is a unique, historic stop. Here you can explore the amazing architecture of the ancient cliff dwellers. You can go inside the cliff dwellings and then stop by the museum to learn more.
If you have extra time, you can also spend some time window shopping in downtown Manitou Springs!
Evening:
After your hike this morning, you deserve an ice-cold beer (or four) in a fun atmosphere! Manitou Brewing Company is the perfect stop to end your night. Order a beer flight and dinner and then head back to your hotel for the night.
Day 3 in Colorado Springs:
Morning:
If you know me, you know I am obsessed with waterfalls. Climb 224 more stairs to get the best views of The Broadmoor Seven Falls, 181 feet of beautiful cascading waters. The Falls are open from March- to October and cost 17 dollars per person at the gate.
Afternoon:
Because what is better than a relaxing day at the zoo with epic views of the mountains around you? The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open 365 days a year and features many interactive zoo exhibits such as feeding rhinos and goat encounters. It is consistently ranked as one of the very best zoos in all of the USA.
Advance tickets are required and can be purchased here!
Evening:
Because one day at Garden of the Gods is not enough… End your Colorado Springs weekend trip with one more epic hike. Or add an additional adventure to your last night with a Garden of the Gods Jeep tour or segway tour before dinner!
After your hike, and dinner at The View House for a delicious dinner on the rooftop with amazing views.
Other things to do in Colorado Springs:
- Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Cave tours, ropes courses, ziplines, and more…you could easily add an entire day to your Colorado Springs weekend.
- Garden of the Gods Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride: Can you think of any better way to view the majestic red rocks?
- Red Rock Canyon Park: With over 22 different hikes to choose from, you will find more amazing views at this free park.
- National Museum of World War II Aviation: History fanatics will love to stroll around this museum chalked full of fully restored aircraft, artifacts, and historical documents.
- Ghost Town Museum: Come check out a preserved Wild West Town, hands-on exhibits, gold panning, and more! A true Wild West experience!
Other Tips to Know Before Visiting Colorado Springs:
When we visited in November, we were met with a lot of closures due to snow. Be sure to call ahead to check for road conditions and closures for the above attractions.
If you are planning on spending more time in the great state of Colorado, check out the Colorado GetOut Pass to save money on over 70 different attractions!
3-day Colorado Springs Weekend Trip Itinerary Recap:
Love this itinerary?! Make sure to save this map to bring with you on your adventure!
- Day 1: Pike’s Peak, The North Pole, The Rabbit Hole, Garden of the Gods
- Day 2: Manitou Incline, Manitou Cliff Dwelling, Manitou Brewing Co
- Day 3: Broadmoor Seven Falls, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, The View House, Garden of The Gods
One Weekend In Colorado Springs Isn’t Enough
As you can see, there’s SO much to do in Colorado Springs that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Colorado Springs itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Colorado Springs!
What else would you add to this “One Weekend in Colorado Springs” Itinerary?
Tip! Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more USA weekend getaways and dog-friendly adventures!
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