🌄 10 Amazing Things to Do in Colorado Springs: Castles, Zoos, Airplanes & More!
- Switching Gears RV Diary
- Jul 7, 2024
- 6 min read
Colorado Springs is one of those rare destinations where the majestic Rocky Mountains meet rich history, quirky attractions, and world-class hospitality. With nearly half a million residents, it’s Colorado’s second-largest city — but don’t let the size fool you. It still holds onto the charm of a smaller western town, brimming with natural wonders and fascinating stories.
During our latest visit to the Front Range, we decided to pop over to our favorite Colorado city and explore 10 must-see spots — from castles and vintage airplanes to red rock trails and award-winning zoos.
If you're planning a Colorado Springs trip, consider this your travel bucket list. Let’s dive in!
✈️ 1. Dine in a Vintage Plane at The Airplane Restaurant
Our trip kicked off with an unexpected surprise — and sometimes those are the best kind. We searched Yelp for a nearby restaurant and stumbled upon something truly unique: The Airplane Restaurant.
Out front sits a massive Boeing KC-97 tanker, a 275-seat aircraft built in 1953 to refuel military planes. But the real surprise came when they asked, “Would you like to eat in the plane or the dining room?”
Of course, we picked the plane!
Inside, you’re greeted by flight attendant-style staff, vintage aviation memorabilia, and historic artifacts. It’s not just a meal — it’s an experience. And yes, the food was excellent, making this a must-visit spot even if you’re just passing through town.
🛩️ 2. Learn & Explore at the National Museum of WWII Aviation
Colorado Springs is home to multiple military installations, including the U.S. Air Force Academy, so it's fitting that you'll find the National Museum of World War II Aviation here.
Opened in 2012, this museum is on a mission to create a deeper understanding of the role American aviation played in WWII. You’ll start with a self-guided tour through early aviation history, including pre-war tensions and how they shaped aircraft development. Additional galleries showcase America's early involvement and the innovation that followed.
If you’re a history buff or aviation enthusiast, allow yourself plenty of time. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the technology — and the bravery — of the Greatest Generation.
🦒 3. Get Up Close with Animals at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Perched at 6,800 feet above sea level, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo holds the title of the highest zoo in the world — and it might just be one of the best.
What makes it so special? For starters, its mountainside design means you can view animals from different levels — or even from a chairlift! There’s a shuttle for those who prefer less climbing, and plenty of shade and seating for breaks.
The zoo is famous for interactive experiences, and our personal favorite is feeding the giraffes. You'll also encounter penguins, wallabies, and over 750 animals representing more than 170 species.
As an added bonus, the views from the zoo are stunning — offering panoramic overlooks of Colorado Springs far below.
🏜️ 4. See Balance Rock & Explore the Garden of the Gods Trading Post
Next up, we set out early to beat the crowds at the iconic Garden of the Gods, but since the main entrance was closed to vehicles that morning, we detoured through a lesser-known access point near Balance Rock.
While in the area, we visited Colorado’s oldest and largest gift shop, the Garden of the Gods Trading Post, which has its own charm and even a few critters to greet you. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, local art, or just grab a snack before hitting the trails.
🥞 5. Grab Breakfast & Step Back in Time in Old Colorado City
Before entering the main park, we stopped for breakfast and a stroll through Old Colorado City, a National Historic District with a colorful past.
Founded in 1859, it briefly became the first territorial capital of Colorado in 1861 — but that lasted only minutes. With no accommodations for legislators, the capital quickly moved to Denver.
By the 1890s, Old Colorado City was booming as a supply hub for gold miners. Since nearby Colorado Springs was founded as a "dry town," saloons and brothels popped up here instead. In 1917, it was annexed and cleaned up its act — today it's known for art galleries, cafes, and local events.
The day we visited, shops were still recovering from a wildly popular street fair called Territory Days — some even had signs saying they were closed “to let our wonderful staff recover from the terror-tory Days.”
🌄 6. Hike the Red Rocks at Garden of the Gods
Arguably the crown jewel of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a geological marvel and free to the public thanks to the Perkins family, who gifted the land to the city in the early 1900s.
The site is sacred to the Ute people, who called it “Tava”, meaning “sun.” Today, it features 21 miles of hiking trails and endless opportunities for sightseeing, climbing, and birdwatching.
The dramatic red rock spires are set against the backdrop of Pikes Peak, creating some of the most iconic scenery in Colorado. Don’t miss the Visitor Center, which offers interactive exhibits, maps, and access to guided tours. Just a heads-up: The trail maps could use “you are here” stickers — a GPS app like AllTrails can be a big help.
Fun fact: A lesser-known attraction in the park is a hidden cave discovered in 1846, located near the Kissing Camels rock formation. It’s been opened and closed many times due to safety concerns, but it’s one of the area’s fascinating secrets.
🧑🌾 7. Discover Pioneer Life at Rock Ledge Ranch
Just across from the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center is a lesser-known gem: Rock Ledge Ranch, a living history museum that tells the story of early life in the Pikes Peak region.
On the day we visited, no formal programs were running, but the grounds were open, and we took advantage of the opportunity to wander freely. On busier days, you can interact with costumed interpreters and learn about life from Native American history to 19th-century homesteading.
It’s a peaceful, educational break from the city — and a great place for families.
🏰 8. Tour Glen Eyrie Castle
Yes, Colorado Springs has a castle — and it’s amazing.
Glen Eyrie sits on 800 acres in Queen’s Canyon, surrounded by red rocks and pine forests. It was built by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs, as a family estate in the 1870s.
We took the guided tour ($12 per person) and learned about the castle's innovative design, including an early fire suppression system, elevators, and intercoms. It’s now owned by The Navigators and operates as a retreat center and wedding venue.
We didn’t spot them, but the tour guide told us that a herd of up to 100 bighorn sheep often roam the property!
🚗 9. See Vintage Cars at the Penrose Heritage Museum
Tucked behind the Broadmoor Hotel is the Penrose Heritage Museum, a hidden treasure founded in 1937 by philanthropist Spencer Penrose. Best of all? It’s free.
The museum showcases over 100 carriages, automobiles, and transportation artifacts, plus a dedicated exhibit to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb — an annual race up Pikes Peak that draws global competitors.
Parking is easy in the adjacent garage, and you can validate your ticket inside the museum.
🌟 10. Pretend You’re Royalty at The Broadmoor Hotel
We ended our adventure at the iconic Broadmoor Hotel, one of the most decorated luxury resorts in the country. Since opening in 1918, it has hosted presidents, celebrities, and world leaders — but you don’t have to be rich to enjoy it.
The hotel spans over 5,000 acres, features three championship golf courses, and offers activities like falconry, rock climbing, horseback riding, and spa treatments.
We didn’t stay overnight, but we explored the grounds, shops, and lobby, chatted with friendly staff, and treated ourselves to handmade candies from a lobby confectionary. It was the perfect way to feel fancy on a budget.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Why Colorado Springs Should Be on Your Travel Radar
Whether you're into natural beauty, history, quirky roadside stops, or luxurious escapes, Colorado Springs has something for everyone. Every time we visit, we discover something new — and we already can't wait to come back.
From giraffe feeding to castle tours, vintage planes to red rock trails, this city blends the unexpected with the unforgettable.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Here’s a quick summary of the Top 10 Things to Do in Colorado Springs:
The Airplane Restaurant 🍴
National Museum of WWII Aviation 🛩
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo 🦒
Balance Rock & Trading Post 🛍
Old Colorado City 🏛
Garden of the Gods 🌄
Rock Ledge Ranch 🧑🌾
Glen Eyrie Castle 🏰
Penrose Heritage Museum 🚘
The Broadmoor Hotel 🌟
Have you visited Colorado Springs? What was your favorite experience? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us in your travel photos!
👉 Stay tuned — four our next adventure
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