A National Natural Landmark, this 1,341-acre park features dramatic red and orange sandstone formations set against Pikes Peak. Enjoy scenic walks, interpretive exhibits, guided bus tours, and a charming café at the Visitor & Nature Center .
Highlights: Free entry, easy trails, and junior ranger programmes ideal for families.

Held at the historic Rock Ledge Ranch, this festival presents old-fashioned wagon rides, pumpkin picking, hayrides, live music, and artisanal food vendors .
Date: Around October 6 (check website), directly against the majestic backdrop of Garden of the Gods.

Take part in this distinctive festival featuring a pumpkin catapult, gold panning, tractor hayrides, orchard tours, and a corn maze. Admission includes one pumpkin per guest .
When: Saturdays throughout October — ideal for families or casual daytime outings.

Experience the “Boo at the Zoo” event with evening trick-or-treating, a haunted house, spooky-themed activities, and up-close giraffe feedings .
Highlights: A delight for guests of all ages seeking family-friendly Halloween fun.

Celebrate Halloween at 1,000 ft above the Arkansas River with candy giveaways, the Cloudscraper zip line, and the Royal Rush Skycoaster .
Date: October 19, 4–7:30 p.m. — costumes encouraged for a festive experience.

October marks Arts Month in the city, with local galleries, studios, and the popular First Friday Art Walk serving refreshments and live entertainment .
Locations: Downtown CS, Old Colorado City, Manitou Springs — excellent for cultural immersion and casual evening exploration.

A spirited annual event in Manitou Springs, featuring costumed teams racing elaborately decorated coffins, followed by a lively parade .
Date: Last Saturday of October, with festivities through the evening — perfect for guests seeking local flavor and spirited merriment.

Delight in an autumn excursion aboard a century-old narrow-gauge railroad through golden Aspen groves. Plus, visit the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine for an underground mining experience .
Plan: Combine scenic train ride and mining tour for a picturesque and historic day trip.

For a memory-making experience, consider sunrise or sunset hot-air balloon flights—capturing the autumnal landscapes and mountain passes from on high .
Advice: Reserve in advance; layer clothing and plan for pre-dawn starts.

Immerse yourself in the local craft-beer movement with guided tastings at award‑winning breweries such as Bristol Brewing Company (housed in a former elementary school), complete with self‑guided brewery tours .
Evenings: Ideal for relaxed nights after wedding celebrations.

• Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: Free admission, local history exhibits, and family‑friendly special events .
• McAllister House & Weber‑Wahsatch Historic District: Discover Victorian architecture and curated historic tours

• Cripple Creek Fall Festival: Fall craft fairs and stunning Aspen scenery.
• Mueller State Park: Just west of the city, offering hiking, wildlife observation, and brilliant fall foliage.