Fun Things To Do In Manitou Springs: Outdoors, Unique Experiences, & Food

I’ve always had a soft spot for towns that feel like they fit right into the mountains, and that’s exactly what I found in Manitou Springs. There’s something special about Manitou Springs, that mix of small-town weirdness, mountain air, and community.

For years, I’d been wanting to spend some time here, exploring beyond the usual day-trip from Colorado Springs, and finally made it happen when I moved here in 2021.

Throughout that time, I’ve been hiking, soaking, eating my way through local spots, and honestly spending way too much money at the boutique shops. Between the mineral springs, the Incline, and the cozy little shops, it felt like stepping into a slower, more colorful pocket of Colorado.

If you’re planning a trip and not sure where to start, I’ve rounded up my favorite things to do-from hikes and hidden gems to spa soaks and good eats-so you can make the most of your time here.

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Fun Things to Do in Manitou Springs: Outdoors, Unique Experiences, & Food

Getting Oriented in Manitou Springs

Before getting into the guide, let’s get oriented in Manitou Springs! 

Where It Is & Why It’s Special

Manitou Springs sits just west of Colorado Springs, tucked right at the base of Pikes Peak, near Garden Of The Gods. The area was originally known for its naturally carbonated springs, which people once believed had healing powers.

That energy still lingers here—you can feel it in the rhythm of the town and the friendliness of the locals.

Best Times to Visit & Seasonal Highlights

Manitou Springs is great year-round, but each season is different for travel.

• Spring & Summer: Long, sunny days which are perfect for hiking, waterfalls, festivals, and outdoor patio dinners.
  
• Fall: Cooler air, golden aspens, which are perfect for fall leaf peeping and road trips.
  
• Winter: Quiet streets, snowed-in trails, and a slower pace if you’re craving a cozy mountain getaway at a cabin. Also skiing and snowshoeing!

Getting Around In Manitou Springs

The town is small and super walkable, so once you park, you can mostly leave your rental car behind. Parking can be limited downtown, especially in summer, so it’s worth getting there early.

Manitou sits at about 6,300 feet, so if you’re coming from sea level, take it easy your first few hours. Drink plenty of water, skip the heavy hikes right away, and give your body a little time to adjust.

Outdoor Experiences, Attractions, & Tours

There are TONS of places to see in Manitou Springs both paid and free. Some places are close like Garden of the Gods and Manitou Incline, while others like The Paint Mines Interpretive Park and Cripple Creek are a little farther away.

These are some of my favorites to explore!

Manitou Incline (aka the “incline” hike)

If there’s one thing in the Springs that’ll test both your legs and your willpower, it’s the Manitou Incline. This beast of a trail climbs nearly 2,000 feet in under a mile—yes, really!

I’ve done it early in the morning when the air is cool and the sun hits the ridgeline, and it’s easily one of the most satisfying (and humbling) hikes near Colorado Springs. Note, I never said easy! 

Bring plenty of water, pace yourself, and remember there’s no shame in taking breaks. Most people hike up and then descend down Barr Trail, which is a much gentler and scenic return route.

There are 2 bailout points along the hike up if you feel like you need to bail out before reaching the top, just fyi. 

Barr Trail to Pikes Peak (for return or full hike)

So there’s the Manitou Incline, and then there’s Barr Trail. 

The trail starts right in Manitou and winds through pine forests, switchbacks, and rocky outcrops with occasional views of the valley below. If you’ve got the stamina, you can follow it all the way to the summit of Pikes Peak.

When I’m not up for the full hike, I’ll usually drive, take a scenic jeep tour, or hop on the Cog Railway to the top. Either way, the views are unreal.

Cog Railway Up Pikes Peak

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is one of those things that feels a little touristy but totally worth it. Phil and I took it one fall morning and the changing aspens along the slopes made the whole ride feel absolutely cinematic. 

You start right in Manitou Springs and go all the way to 14,115 feet. 

At the top, make sure to grab a donut, apparently they taste different because of the altitude? I don’t know… haha you tell me.

Miramont Castle

Miramont Castle. It’s a 19th-century mansion tucked into the hillside, filled with antique rooms and random architectural details that somehow all work together.

The tea room downstairs is one of my favorite little escapes. 

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

Just a few minutes outside town, Cave of the Winds is a fun adventure park. 

I’ve done a couple cave tours, and both are such a fun change of pace besides hiking. The above-ground section has zip lines and cliffside swings.

I like to pair this spot with a few others in the area when I’m doing bigger outings—it’s perfect if you’re planning a couple day trips to Colorado Springs or just want a half-day adventure.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Every time I visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, I leave with this quiet appreciation for how much history is packed here. 

You can actually step inside, climb ladders, and imagine what life was like centuries ago. It’s small but meaningful—especially if you like learning about the deeper roots of the region and native history.

Free & Budget-Friendly Things to Do

Walk Manitou Avenue & Explore Local Shops

Manitou Avenue is one of those streets where I always end up popping into art shops, grabbing a snack, or chatting with local makers. There’s something nostalgic about it.

I do enjoy the sound of the penny arcade, the smell of fresh popcorn, and people walking around. There is the Mineral Springs spread out throughout this area, but keep in mind, it is an acquired taste.

Garden of the Gods (nearby, a 10 min drive)

I always tell people: if you’re visiting Manitou Springs, you have to carve out time for some hiking in Garden of the Gods. It’s free, close, and unbelievably beautiful.

I usually go early in the mornings so that it’s more peaceful without all the crowds and tours begin. You can really get in a nice hike there before starting your day in Manitou Springs. That’s usually how I like to structure my day.

Local Events & Seasonal Freebies

Manitou has this wonderfully weird lineup of events that perfectly matches its personality. 

I’ve been to the Emma Crawford Coffin Races (yes, people actually race coffins) and even the town’s annual fruitcake toss in January—which is as chaotic as it sounds.

This town really does try to work in conjunction with Colorado Spring’s tourism board to highlight the local community and bring fun events here.

Here’s a list of some of their most famous festivals with their time of year: 

• The Great Fruitcake Toss – late January
  
• Carnivàle (Mardi Gras-style parade and gumbo cook-off) – late February / early March
  
• Wine Walk & Colorado Wine Festival – April and June
  
• Ice Cream Social and Pie Baking Contest – early July
  
• Free Summer Concert Series in Soda Springs Park – Monday & Friday Evenings during summer
  
• Commonwheel Art Festival – Labor Day weekend
  
• Heritage Brew Festival – early October
  
• Emma Crawford Coffin Races – The Saturday before Halloween

Wellness & Hot Spring Culture

Mineral Springs Tour / Springs Walk

So there are Mineral Springs in Manitou Springs. They are naturally made springs that come out of fountains. 

They’re scattered along the main streets, each one has its own unique flavor and mineral blend. You can grab your water bottle and do a little “spring tasting” walk. Some taste sweet, some metallic, some aren’t good.

These springs are the heart of Manitou’s story. The story goes that people have been coming here for centuries to experience their healing qualities.

It’s completely free!

SunWater Spa

There is one spa and hotsprings in Manitou Springs, SunWater Spa. It’s a cedar-lined retreat tucked right into the hillside, with soaking tubs filled from the same mineral springs that run beneath the town. 

The tubs are placed outside where you can view the mountains and honestly, the views are really pretty.

It’s honestly a great pause between hikes or day trips, especially if you’ve just come from Crags Trail or another hiking trail in Colorado Springs.

Where to Eat & Drink (My Favorite Places!)

Best Local Restaurants & Cafés

After a long hike on the Manitou Incline or a day exploring nearby Garden of the Gods, I’m usually starving, and thankfully, Manitou has plenty of spots that hit the sweet spot between cozy and creative.

For breakfast or a slow morning, I love Good Karma Café. It’s tucked off the main street, and the smell of espresso and fresh pastries hits you before you even walk in. Their breakfast burrito is my go-to, especially if I’m heading out for another hike afterward.

If I’m craving something hearty, Adam’s Mountain Café always delivers good food too. Their menu leans toward fresh, globally inspired dishes, and the atmosphere feels really nice. 

Here is a list of more of my favorite restaurants in Manitou Springs: 

Breweries & Bars

There are a handful of places to get a beer after a walk or if you want to meet up with a friend for lunch. 

Manitou Brewing Company is my top pick—it’s small, laid-back, and their patio is perfect on warm evenings. I usually go for one of their seasonal IPAs, paired with sweet potato fries.

These are some of my favorites: 

Coffee Shops

I LOVE LOVE LOVE coffee shops!! They are so relaxing and always just have good vibes in there. No matter where I go, I always try to find some good local coffee shops I can support!

Here are some of my favorites in Manitou Springs: 

• Rocky Mountain Beignets— okay, not strictly just a coffee shop, but their fresh-made beignets and quality espresso make this spot a must-visit!!
• Red Dog Coffee — locally roasted beans and hearty breakfast burritos.
• The Loft— small, welcoming community-focused café next to the Penny Arcade
• The Maté Factor Café—Slightly off the main drag, more relaxed, good for a late breakfast.
• Balanced Rock Café— A bit of a drive (or a quick hop) but perfect after a morning hike at Garden of the Gods; nice patio, coffee + snacks.

Where To Stay In Manitou Springs

There are a lot of places to stay in town depending on your budget and the places you want to be nearby. Below I’ve included some local stays that I recommend to anyone coming to this part part of town.

All of these hotels are close to Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City, and downtown Colorado Springs for your convenience!

Bicycle Lodge – Budget

Right in downtown Manitou Springs. This is a fun, locally owned stay with a laid-back vibe. Perfect if you like easy access to trails, friendly hosts, and a place that feels more like a home than a hotel.

Kinship Landing – Mid

Probably the CUTEST hotel right in downtown. A modern, community-driven boutique hotel downtown. It’s bright, social, and designed for travelers, which is why I like them.

The Broadmoor – Luxury

If you’re looking to treat yourself with something more luxury, The Broadmoor is a classic. The lake, the lights, and the timeless charm make it feel like a winter postcard come to life. Love this hotel but not gonna lie, it does come with a price tag.

Local Tips You Should Know

✔️ Parking

I’ll be honest, parking in Manitou can test your patience, especially on weekends. Most of the main spots along Manitou Avenue fill up fast, so I usually aim to arrive before 9 a.m.

If I’m running late, I park near Hiawatha Gardens and take advantage of the free shuttle that loops through town. It’s easy, saves gas, and lets me start exploring right away without circling for a spot.

Here are some places you can park for the free year-round shuttle pick up. 

✔️ Avoiding crowds (start early!)

Manitou might be small, but it’s rarely quiet once mid-morning hits. 

My best advice? Start early. 

There’s something really nice and peaceful about wandering the streets before the shops open or hitting the Manitou Incline while the air’s still cool. By the time the crowds show up since it can get pretty hectic real quick.

✔️Altitude and Pacing

Even though Manitou Springs sits lower than some mountain towns, the 6,300-foot elevation can still sneak up on you.

Usually this is a good place to start when  you arrive in Colorado Springs to walk around and maybe up and down some stairs here before going into the mountains for something a little more steep.

✔️ Weather & Best Time Of Day For Outdoor Stuff

Colorado weather is basically its own personality. 

Mornings tend to be calm and clear, but by afternoon, storms can roll in fast, usually in summer and early fall. 

I like to plan hikes and outdoor adventures early in the day by 8am if I can, then spend afternoons exploring shops, cafés, or soaking at SunWater Spa. 

✔️ What to pack

I always pack layers, no matter the season. The temperature can swing 20 degrees in a single day, and mountain breezes can feel chilly. 

Below, I’ve listed some of my non-negotiables packing gear/clothing for Colorado along with why I personally love and recommend them.

I always love it when bloggers put in the extra work in explaining why they love it so I wanted to do that here too. I’m pretty picky with what I purchase and spend money on, so I want to make sure you make the right decision for yourself too.

✔️ My Personally Recommended Packing List:

• A reusable water bottle – I love a Nalgene bottle for extra water and this one is so cute!!
• Comfy hiking shoes – having good hiking shoes is important for back pain and stability. Trust me, as someone who’s hurt her back, I would know!
• Good & Clean Sunscreen – This is the one I use for my sensitive skin and LOVE it!
• Good Wide Brim Sun Hat – This is the exact same sun hat I use for my hikes. It’s wide brim, light-weight, and breathable!
• Light rain jacket – having a light packable rain jacket is important, especially in winter!! I love this one for how light it is and also the color and style is so freaking cute!!

If you’re heading out on any of the nearby scenic drives from Colorado Springs, toss in snacks, more water, and a camera! This is the exact camera I personally use to capture all the photos you see on this travel blog.

For my ENTIRE travel closet, I’ve included a link here! It has my outdoor clothing, travel photography gear, and slow travel products I love. 

✔️ Accessibility & family-friendliness

Manitou Spring’s roads are pretty accessible. Most of downtown is flat, with plenty of shops, rest stops, and benches. If my 90 year old grampa had the chance to visit, this would be a perfect place for him. To give you some perspective. 

Final Thoughts – Where Are You Going Next?

Manitou Springs is a really cute, quirky town compared to Old Colorado City or Downtown Colorado Springs.

It’s artsy, a little odd, full of touristy shops, and unique tours like segway tours in Garden of the Gods. 

If you’re planning a longer trip in the area, make sure to check out my travel guides on fun things to do in Colorado Springs for adults, scenic drives near Colorado Springs, and my Colorado Springs 3-day itinerary to help you map out your entire Colorado Springs trip!