The Perfect 3-Day Colorado Springs Itinerary: By A Local

I’ve called Colorado Springs home for over four years, and it still amazes me every single day.

Whether it’s your first time here or a weekend getaway, this is the exact itinerary I share with my friends and family when they come to visit.

It’s full of mountain views, local flavors, and easy adventures that show off what makes this city so special (and also what convinced me to move here.)

I know most of you only have a couple of days off, so this Colorado Springs itinerary is designed to help you see the best spots without feeling rushed. Think of it as a guide from a local (me!) who’s spent plenty of weekends exploring, eating, and wandering through this beautiful city… a friend who knows the good stuff.

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The Perfect 3-Day Colorado Springs Itinerary: By A Local

What I love most about this area is how much variety you can fit into one weekend. You’ve got red rock canyons, alpine lakes, and quiet mountain towns all within an hour’s drive. Whether you’re here to hike, eat, or just slow down, Colorado Springs somehow feels both wide open and close-knit.

This itinerary leans into the outdoors, but it also makes space for slow travel, good food, and wandering through some of my favorite local neighborhoods.

I usually prefer a kind of balance that explores the landscape and the local places within a town.

That’s the way I like to travel and I know you do too.

Two Things To Know Before You Go 

1. Where Is Colorado Springs & How To Get There

Colorado Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak, right where the mountains meet the plains. It’s the kind of place where you can sip coffee downtown in the morning and stand at 14,000 feet by mid afternoon. (I’ve done just this!) Just an hour south of Denver, it’s an easy weekend escape for both locals and first-time visitors.

2. Getting Around Colorado Springs

The easiest way to get around is by renting a car. Public transportation here is limited and most of the best views and trailheads are spread out.

Parking is usually easy to find, even downtown, but expect some paid lots near popular spots like Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs.

If you’re visiting in Colorado Springs in the winter, check the forecast before heading up into higher elevations; the weather can change fast. Otherwise, you’ll find mild days, cool nights, and sunshine year-round, one of the best perks of living here!

3-Day Colorado Springs Itinerary (Outdoor Adventure & Local Travel Focused)

Colorado Springs is one of those places that rewards early mornings and open plans. There’s always something to explore just around the bend, from red rock trails and mountain overlooks to local cafés and cozy downtown spots.

My 3-day itinerary blends outdoor adventure with easygoing moments so you can see the best of the area without feeling rushed.

It also assumes you have 2 full days with the last day being a 1/2 before heading to the airport. If you have extra days, I’ve added optional add-ons you can do.

Each day is personally designed to give you a mix of nature, food, and local flavor.

Let’s jump in!

DAY ONE: Garden of the Gods + Downtown Colorado Springs

☀️ MORNING: Red Rocks, Fresh Air, and Time To Acclimate to the altitude.

Start your weekend with the view that makes everyone fall a little in love with Colorado Springs — Garden of the Gods.

No matter if you’re exploring the garden in the summer or winter season, it’s free, FULL OF AMAZING HIKES, and easily one of the most beautiful city parks in the country. Drive the scenic loop first to get your bearings, then park in one of the lots on the drive and walk the paved Garden of the Gods main trail for a closer look at the red sandstone formations.

If you’re up for a little more hiking, take the short trail around Balanced Rock or watch the early light on the Kissing Camels. Mornings here are quiet, cool, and golden. It’s honestly the best time to hear the birds and avoid crowds.

After your hike, stop by Red Dog Coffee in Manitou Springs or Loyal Coffee downtown for a caffeine fix and a quick bite before heading into the city.

🌤️ AFTERNOON: Local Lunch + Downtown Colorado Springs Wandering

Head to Downtown Colorado Springs for lunch. You’ll find plenty of locally owned spots — Shuga’s, Dos Dos, and White Pie are a few favorites depending on your mood.

Spend a little time walking through Tejon Street, popping into local shops and galleries. If you’re interested in history or just want a break from the sun, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is free and surprisingly beautiful inside — perfect for a slower afternoon.

🌙 Evening: Dinner at Old Colorado City

After going home to refreshen up a bit, end your first day with dinner in Old Colorado City, one of my favorite parts of town!

It’s a small-town with cute shops you can check out beforehand! Reserve a table at Paravicini’s Italian Bistro or just get a table at Mother Muffs.

DAY TWO: Pikes Peak Mountain + Manitou Springs

☀️ Morning: Driving To The Summit Of Pikes Peak Mountain

If there’s one thing you should do in Colorado Springs, it needs to be Pikes Peak. You can drive yourself up the Pikes Peak Highway, take a scenic jeep tour, hop on the Cog Railway, or go on one of the many hikes on Pikes Peak.

However you get to the summit, the climb to 14,000 feet is BEAUTIFUL! You wind through pine forests and alpine tundra before opening up to the summit view.

Bring layers though because it can be 30 degrees colder at the top and also take your time adjusting to the altitude.

🌤️ Afternoon: Wandering Manitou Springs

After your mountain morning, head down to Manitou Springs where there are so many things to do in this quirky, artsy town at the base of Pikes Peak. It’s full of local shops, mineral springs, and colorful details tucked into every corner.

Grab lunch at Good Karma Café or Manitou Brewing Company, then wander the main street. There’s a lot of cute touristy shops where you can buy some souvenirs.

If you’re craving a slower pace, visit one of the local art galleries or stop by Manitou Springs Penny Arcade. Also, the ice cream at Pikes Peak Chocolate and Ice Cream is so good!

🌙 Evening: Dinner + Cozy Wind-Down

You’ll go for a nice dinner in one of my favorite restaurants in town. I’ve personally have gone to all of these and they are all AMAZING!! Choose what you’re feeling and make sure you make reservations if you need it. I’ve provided more info on that below for each restaurant as well as what type of food it is.

My Favorite Restaurants In Town:

• Atmosphere Gastropub – Amazing Burgers
• Night Ramen – Flavorful Ramen
• Dos Santos – Really Yummy Tacos (loud music)
• Dos Dos – Amazing Mexican Food & Margaritas
• White Pie – Delicious Pizza
• Red Leg Brewery – The Best Outdoor Brewery With Food Trucks
• Por Favor Tacos & Tragos – Incredible Mexican Food And Margaritas

If you want a calm night in, head back to your stay, order takeout, and catch the sunset from a balcony or my favorite scenic overlook Mesa Overlook. The light over the Front Range is beautiful this time of day — soft, gold, and slow.

Pulpit Rock is a great place to catch sunset with the most amazing views of Colorado Springs.  

DAY THREE : Local Trails + Heading Home

☀️ Morning: Hike, Breakfast, + Going Home

Start your last morning with more mountains. If you’re craving something close and peaceful, head to either Pulpit Rock Open Space, Ute Valley Park, Blodgett Open Space — it’s one of my favorite local spots for sunrise hikes and beautiful views.

My personal recommendation is Blodgett Open Space. The trails here weave through rolling hills with views of Colorado Springs in the distance, and it’s usually quiet, especially early in the day.

Honestly they all have amazing views. They’re all perfect spots to slow down, breathe, and take in your last views before heading home.

After your hike and before you head to the airport, grab an amazing breakfast at Omlette Parlor — they have the BEST skillets! It’s one of my favorite places to go for breakfast!

Optional Add-Ons: If You Have Extra Days Available

If you have another day to spare, you can easily stretch this itinerary into a four-day trip!

I would suggest going on a scenic day trip from Colorado Springs. There are tons of surrounding places to visit and these are some of my personal suggestions that’ll take you through some mountain views. I love a road trip, so I had to add these in here.

My Favorite Scenic Day Trips From Colorado Springs:

1. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (Cañon City) – About an hour southwest of the city, this place offers incredible canyon views and one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. You can ride one of my most favorite trains in southern Colorado: The Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This takes you for a scenic trip through the canyon. It’s absolutely incredible!
   
2. Cripple Creek & Victor– This is a historic mining town tucked into the mountains, filled with gold-rush charm, scenic drives, and quirky museums. It’s especially beautiful in fall when the aspens turn gold. About an hour from Colorado Springs.
   
3. Woodland Park – This town is just 20 minutes going into the mountains from Colorado Springs. It has great cafés, easy hikes, and probably the one of the best views of Pikes Peak.
4. Guanella Pass – This drive is a mountain pass about 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs. If you’re here visiting in the Fall, I absolutely recommend taking some time to get out there!

✔️ For a full breakdown on more scenic day trips from Colorado Springs, check out my FULL Day Trips from Colorado Springs Guide!

More Amazing Tours in Colorado Springs

Even if you love exploring on your own, sometimes a guided tour can show you a side of Colorado Springs you might miss otherwise.

I’ve taken a few myself over the years, and what I love most is how they blend local stories, history, and views you might not get to on your own and you support small local operators.

Here are a few worth checking out during your stay:

1️⃣ Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour

If you want the best mix of fun and scenery, this off-road adventure takes you around the park’s famous red rock formations with a local guide who shares history and geology along the way. I’ve personally taken this one and it is so fun!

2️⃣ Garden Of The Gods Segway Tour

A segway tour is just… FUN. The ride is scenic, peaceful, and a great option if you’re wanting to travel the garden in a unique and fun way. You’ll be laughing and smiling the whole time, I promise!

3️⃣ Hot Air Balloon Ride

If you’re visiting in warmer months, this is a stunning way to start your morning. The views of the Front Range at sunrise on a hot air balloon are unreal.

Local Tips To Know Before You Go

After living here for 4+ years, I’ve learned a few things that make exploring Colorado Springs a whole lot easier (and way more enjoyable).

These are some of my personal tips:

• Stay hydrated. Colorado Springs sits around 6,000 feet, which means the air is thinner and much drier than most places. Bring a reusable water bottle and drink more than you think you need — trust me, it makes a difference.
  
• Bring layers. The weather here can change on a dime. Mornings are cool, afternoons warm up, and evenings cool right back down. Even in summer, I always keep a light jacket or fleece in the car.
  
• Don’t rely on cell service. Some trails and scenic drives drop signal, especially around Pikes Peak or in canyon areas. Download Offline Google Maps before heading out so you’re never stuck guessing which turn to take.
  
• Rent a car (or drive your own). Unfortunately, public transportation won’t get you far here. A car gives you freedom to explore spots like Balanced Rock or Manitou Springs without worrying about schedules or ride shares.
  
• Take it slow. The altitude and dry air can sneak up on you, especially if you’re flying in from sea level. If you start feeling lightheaded or tired, rest, hydrate, and skip that extra hike — the mountains aren’t going anywhere. A lesson I learned early on.
  
• Be mindful of the land. Stay on marked trails, pack out your trash, and avoid stepping on fragile vegetation. The landscapes here are stunning, but they’re also delicate.
  
• Support local. Whether it’s a café, small shop, or tour operator, your dollars make a real impact here. Colorado Springs has a strong local community, and the best experiences come from connecting with the people who call it home.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

One of the best things about visiting Colorado Springs is how many different ways there are to stay here. I always encourage travelers to stay somewhere that connects them with the community, because the people behind these places genuinely care about sharing what makes this city special. 

Here are a few of my favorite stays I personally recommend:

The Broadmoor – Luxury

A Colorado classic. If you’re looking for timeless charm, beautiful grounds, and five-star comfort, this is your spot. Even if it’s a splurge, it’s an experience in itself — think lakeside walks, mountain views, and a cozy fireplace to end the night.

Kinship Landing – Mid

My top pick for travelers who love good design and community vibes. It’s a boutique hotel downtown with both private rooms and shared bunks, a rooftop lounge, and a café that’s a local favorite. It’s modern, welcoming, and filled with adventurous energy.

Colorado Springs Marriott (near Ute Valley Park) – Mid

A great mid-range option surrounded by trails and mountain views. It’s a comfortable base for anyone planning to hike or explore the west side of the city, especially if you want quick access to nature without being far from downtown. This is a more corporate standard hotel that’s in a beautiful place.

Bicycle Lodge – Budget

A hidden gem for couples or solo travelers who want something stylish but laid-back. It’s close to trails and local coffee shops, and the owners are the kind of people who make you feel like you’re staying with friends. Plus they have live music and good beer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How many days are enough for Colorado Springs?

If it’s your first time visiting, two to three days is the sweet spot. That’s just enough to see the main highlights like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Old Colorado City without feeling rushed.

If you have more time, you can stretch your trip with a few Day Trips from Colorado Springs to nearby mountain towns and scenic drives.

Q2: What’s the best month to visit Colorado Springs?

Summer (Mid May-August) and Fall (September to October) are my favorite seasons here. You’ll get comfortable weather and beautiful photos photographers dream about.

Summer does bring long, sunny days but also more visitors, while winter has its own charm — think snow-dusted red rocks and crisp, quiet mornings. If you’re curious, I wrote an entire Colorado Springs Winter Guide that dives deeper into what it’s like that time of year.

Q3: Is Colorado Springs good for families?

Absolutely! There’s something for everyone — easy hiking trails, interactive museums, kid-friendly restaurants, and plenty of outdoor space to run around.

If you’re planning a family weekend getaway, mix in a few relaxing stops (like Red Rock Canyon or the Pioneers Museum) between your bigger adventures.

Q4: What should I pack for a weekend in Colorado Springs?

Layers, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and good walking shoes. The weather here can be unpredictable, so being prepared means you’ll be comfortable no matter what the day brings.

If you’re visiting in winter, toss in a really warm jacket and check the road conditions before heading into the mountains. Also, a 4 x 4!

Q5: How do I travel responsibly here?

Mindful travel makes all the difference. Respect trail rules, shop and eat local when you can, and be conscious of your environmental impact.

If you want more ideas on how to be a thoughtful traveler, I wrote a full post on How to Be a Responsible Tourist with easy ways to make a positive difference during your stay.

Final Thoughts – Where You Going Next?

This 3-day Colorado Springs itinerary is one of my favorite weekend getaways. It’s the same itinerary that highlights all the things that made me fall in love with this city in the first place. Between red rock trails, mountain views, cozy cafés, and golden Colorado sunsets, I feel confident you would have an amazing time!

Whether you follow this itinerary exactly or use it as a loose guide, I hope it helps you plan a trip that feels a little slower, a little freer, and a lot more connected to this beautiful place I am so happy to call my hometown.

If you’re looking for more things to add to your Colorado Springs itinerary, check out my Fun things to Do In Colorado Springs For Adults Guide. I know you’ll find something good in there to explore a little deeper. 🌿