Ranked as one of the top zoos in the country by USAToday 10Best and Trip Advisor, you’ll get to explore innovative exhibits, enjoy fun events and find attractions to keep you entertained.

If you do NOTHING else, drive through Garden of the Gods! The park is popular for hiking, technical rock climbing, road and mountain biking and horseback riding. It attracts more than two million visitors a year, making it the city's most visited park. There are 21 miles (33.8 km) of trails at Garden of the Gods.

“The Grandest Mile of Scenery” is but the entryway to seven cascading mountain waterfalls at Seven Falls in Colorado Springs.

The Manitou Incline has been hailed as the holy grail of cardio for locals and athletes, alike. It consists of 2,744 steps made entirely of railroad ties! It’s only one mile in length, but the ascension averages a 41% incline and a 2,000 foot climb in elevation!

Some Tips:

Pace Yourself

Remember the tortoise and the hare? Keeping a slow pace will keep you from burning out too fast.

Hydrate & Breathe

You’ll be sweating…a lot. It’s important to stay hydrated. You must have water with you. Pace your drinking and try to make it last the entire hike.

Take a break...or two...or six

Don’t be afraid to stop and catch your breath every once in awhile! The majority of climbers stop a couple of times on their way up. While you’re resting, don’t forget to turn around and enjoy the view!

Take the Barr Trail back Down

You’ve finally done it! Take a moment to soak the grand accomplishment! Do NOT go back down the way you came. It is much harder on your body, especially your knees, to go down at that angle.

Instead, take the Barr Trail down. This beautiful trail will feel like a piece of cake compared to what you just did.

So maybe hiking isn't your thing! The scenic Pikes Peak Highway provides you the opportunity to enjoy 19 miles of mountain terrain, with frequent pull-offs for you to get out, stretch your legs, and take photos. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views, four different Colorado life zones and unique animal sightings, like the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, yellow-bellied marmots and (rumored) Big Foot.

Colorado Springs is home to the United States Air Force Academy. Much of the Academy is open to the public and we encourage you to enjoy the breathtaking views, incredible diversity of plants and wildlife, and rich history of the beautiful campus. We recommend allowing two to three hours for a self-guided tour.