The Best Attractions & Things to Do in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs, Colorado, sitting at more than 6,000 feet in altitude, draws thousands of tourists every year who come to enjoy the natural beauty and things to do and see in the area. There are national monuments to see, parks to hike in, mountains to climb, the Air Force Academy to visit, wildlife areas to explore, museums to see, shops and restaurants to enjoy and much more. Some of the most interesting attractions in the state of Colorado are situated in and surrounding the Colorado Springs area.

Pikes Peak

Situated in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, is the famous mountain known as Pikes Peak. This picturesque mountain sits just west of the downtown area of Colorado Springs, offering a variety of things to do and see. Offered at the mountain is the "Cog Railroad", a scenic ride to the top of this steep mountain with breathtaking views along the entire ride up. During the visit to this mountain, it is not uncommon to view glimpses of animals in their natural habitat that reside there. Species include bear, yellow-bellied marmot, bighorn sheep and a variety of birds. Hiking areas are scattered across the mountain and a road for those who wish to drive close to the top is available as an alternative to the Cog Railway.

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is a geological area with hiking trails available. The trails are surrounded by ancient beds of sediment with various colored sandstones, limestone and conglomerates. Pikes Peak greatly impacted the formation of these rocks thousands of years ago by its mere size, mass and location within such a close proximity of the park. The rocks are formed in breathtaking sculptures with spectacular views and picture-worthy areas. There is a restaurant, gift shops,and a museum within the park, as well as guided tours offered to the public.

Seven Falls and South Cheyenne Canyon

Seven Falls is a park that is open to the public, located in a natural box canyon. It offers breathtaking views of its seven cascading waterfalls within the park, which fall accumulatively 181 feet in total from its top to the bottom.The park features two trails for hiking which give good access for viewing the falls. Native Americans entertain for the public within the park, offering a sample of their tribal dances. Picnic areas are located throughout the park as well.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, is a zoo that is located on the side of a mountain, housing a variety of species in a faux natural habitat. An antique carousel sits atop of the mountain, offering rides for kids of all ages. Species that can be seen in this unique zoo include giraffes, grizzly bears, a variety of birds, primates, and mammals such as tigers, prairie dogs, orangutans and much more.

References and Resources:

http://www.pikes-peak.com/

http://www.cograilway.com/alongroute.htm

http://www.gardenofgods.com/home/index.cfm

http://www.sevenfalls.com/home/index.cfm

http://www.cmzoo.org/