Are you thinking about visiting Colorado Springs, Colorado? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Colorado Springs worth visiting?
This mountain town is a good place to visit for two to three days. Colorado Springs sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, and it offers access to world-class hiking and stunning parks both within and near the town. The Garden of Gods is a world class park in town and the city also offers easy access to the famed Pike's Peak in Pike National Forest. Many visitors use Colorado Springs as a base for exploring the many outdoor recreation areas that are nearby.
Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs
Reasons to Visit Colorado Springs
Hiking
There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.
Museums
Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.
Food
There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.
Nightlife
The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.
Authenticity
Colorado Springs has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the Summer?
The high season for travel in Colorado Springs is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here. Summers are warm and nice.
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 22°C (71°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 30°C (86°F).
The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. During this season it's fun to experience the small town charm, the hiking, and the famous sights and museums. Also, you'll be able to grab some drinks at a bar.
Summer Weather in Colorado Springs
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 22°C (71°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
| August | 20°C (68°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
| September | 15°C (60°F) | 24 mm (0.9 in) |
Is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the Autumn?
The weather in Colorado Springs can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 9°C (48°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Colorado Springs, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
This is a great time of year to admire the wonderful scenery, browse the museums, and take a hike. Also, you can experience the small town charm.
Autumn Weather in Colorado Springs
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 9°C (48°F) | 17 mm (0.7 in) |
| November | 2°C (36°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) |
| December | -3°C (27°F) | 8 mm (0.3 in) |
Is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the Winter?
Winter is the shoulder season for travel in Colorado Springs. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet. Winters are quite cold in Colorado Springs.
The weather in Colorado Springs can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -3°C (26°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, and enjoy the evening activities.
Winter Weather in Colorado Springs
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | -3°C (26°F) | 8 mm (0.3 in) |
| February | -1°C (30°F) | 8 mm (0.3 in) |
| March | 2°C (35°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) |
Is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the Spring?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Colorado Springs. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
The weather in Colorado Springs can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 7°C (45°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The stunning mountain scenery at this time of year shouldn't be missed. You can wander around the town to enjoy the sights, but the real charm is when you get out into the nearby mountains. Drive, bike, hike, go camping, or just relax in the awe of the mountain views. During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the beautiful scenery, and the small town charm. Also, you can check out the nightlife.
Spring Weather in Colorado Springs
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 7°C (45°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) |
| May | 12°C (54°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| June | 18°C (64°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Colorado Springs
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Colorado Springs might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Colorado Springs here or see if Colorado Springs is expensive here.
Related
What is Colorado Springs most famous for?
Colorado Springs is most famous for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views. The mountain town is very popular for its hiking. And many visitors also come to this mountain town for its museums, food, and nightlife. It is often described as welcoming, friendly, outdoorsy, and healthy.
What is the most famous sight in Colorado Springs?
The most popular sight in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Colorado Springs on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Pikes Peak and other attractions here.
How touristy is Colorado Springs? Is it a popular mountain town to visit?
Colorado Springs is an off-the-beaten-path mountain town that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- JEEP TOUR - Pikes Peak or Bust: $180
- Ebike Tour: Garden of the Gods: $245
- Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway: $99
- Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings Tour: $40
- EBIKE Mountain Adventure in Gold Camp Road: $169
- Scenic Tour of the Pikes Peak Highway (November thru April): $90
- Mountain Bike Tour: Gold Camp Road: $245
- Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour: $54
How long should I spend in Colorado Springs?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Colorado Springs is two to three days. Since Colorado Springs has a variety of activities such as hiking, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Colorado Springs? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Colorado Springs?.
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