Fun Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs & Fountain, Colorado

In today's economy we need to save money. For many families this means that you have to entertain the kids for almost nothing. I live in Fountain, which is just south of Colorado Springs. Here is a list of free and very inexpensive things that I do with my kids.

Free:
Uncle Wilbur Fountain - Downtown, Colorado Springs

This fountain was originally paid for by donations and volunteer hours to put up. The donations for this fountain keep it running even when the city is contemplating shutting down all water-based parks. Wear a swimsuit (you can cover up with a cotton shirt if you like) and bring some crocs for flip flops and just have fun in the fountain. Every hour the fountain activates with music and animatronics playing in the water. Kids of all ages enjoy being here and there is plenty of room for folding chairs and picnic - plus a playground close by so you can let the kids run a little loose and still keep a close eye on them.

AGA Water Park - just of El Paso Street in Fountain (From 85/87 turn up Commanche Village Drive, turn right between the railroad tracks and AGA Park will be on the right of the road just past the Masonic Lodge.

This water park was just recently put up. I've driven by but so far we have had other plans and haven't participated. There are a LOT of places for kids to play; lots of water squirting and wave pools to play in. Nothing extreme, but enough to keep kids of all ages entertained with plenty of room for picnic and rest for the adults.

Fountain at Town Hall - Downtown, Fountain

While not as impressive as the Uncle Wilbur fountain there is still a small fountain with artistically timed jets of water at the corner in front of the Town Hall. There are benches for adults as well as grassy areas for picnic. On Tuesdays from 3-7pm there is a farmer's market. Also, the Fountain Branch library is just around the corner, so on Tuesdays when the branch does their children's reading program you can then spend the afternoon at the fountain.

Pikes Peak Area Libraries and their weekly kids programs - all branches

I'm not 100% sure what all of the branch's schedules are, but the theme for this summer is "Be Creative at your Library". With lots of activities around exploring and discovering the inner artist and scientist in your child. On Tuesdays the Fountain Branch holds their program - located just behind the town hall (south). I think Monday it is the Old Colorado City Branch (follow the signs from Colorado Avenue), Wednesday is the ELIC (East Library and Information Center) off north Union Avenue. Visit your local library branch to sign up and get a list of the days and times for all branches. If your child reads at least 2 hours they are invited to attend a party in August at the branch where you signed up!

Don't forget to sign up with your local library. The Security Public Library has their Reading Programs on Thursday at Widefield High School's Auditorium when a guest is invited; if there is a craft planned come anytime during that week and pick up or participate in the craft. There is a party in August for all children who read at least 2 hours - and prizes for every 2 hours read.
The Fountains of Manitou Springs - Throughout Manitou Springs

The kids may not enjoy this as much as the adults, but if you bring a gallon jug and some lemonade mix the fountain of life (the Indian at the end of Manitou Avenue) makes a fantastically sparkling glass of lemonade! We used to window shop through Manitou with cups clipped to our belt loops. When we passed a fountain we would stop for a moment and try it out. Take some time to stop by the penny arcade and visit St. Andrew's Episcopalian Church where the road divides.

Concerts in the Park - Various parks across the city - including Pi-Ute park in Security!

Fountain Nature Center (and Bear Creek Nature Center) - just off Hwy 85/87

Year round the Fountain and Bear Creek Nature Center's offer a variety of programs - many free. During the summer guides will take groups on special tours to point out interesting wildlife activities taking place in the parks. Fountain also offers overnights for kids - usually about $20 per child - to learn about the nocturnal life in the park. Stop by El Paso County Parks and see what is going on and to sign up for activities. There are also numerous volunteer opportunities for older kids - have fun and get resume padding for future jobs and college applications.

Not too costly:

The Picture Show - Citadel Crossing Shopping Center

On Tuesdays shows are only $0.75 per person - $1.50 the rest of the week. The food is quite expensive so go to lunch first and then enjoy the movie. Take the kids for ice cream afterward!

Sertich Ice Center - Memorial Park, corner of Pikes Peak and Union

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 11am is Matinee skating - $1.50 entrance and $1.50 skate rental. If you have your own skates that is even better. You can also sign up for skating classes (about $60 per 10-week session) and see what kinds of activities are going on - including hockey games, skating competitions, and Nutcracker on Ice in December.

Know anything else that is cheap or free? Please let me know!