Interesting places to visit near Colorado Springs, United States

Location: Garden of the Gods is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA, nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This iconic park offers visitors breathtaking views of towering red sandstone formations sculpted by nature over millions of years. Its unique geological features combined with accessible scenic hiking trails make it a must-see stop for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. The park's rich history and stunning vistas provide a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

Key activities: Explore numerous well-marked hiking and walking trails suitable for all skill levels, enjoy rock climbing in designated areas, visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center for educational exhibits, and take stunning photographs of the dramatic landscapes. Picnic areas and guided tours enhance the experience.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is very family-friendly with easy trails suitable for young children and interactive exhibits at the visitor center that engage kids with the natural and cultural history of the area.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park, making it an excellent destination for travelers with pets to enjoy the outdoors together.

Location: Situated in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is uniquely perched on the side of Cheyenne Mountain, offering breathtaking views alongside its animal exhibits.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly (on leash), History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why It's a Great Detour: As the nation’s most accessible mountain zoo, it provides an extraordinary opportunity to experience close-up animal encounters in a stunning natural mountain setting. Its innovative layout and commitment to accessibility make it a welcoming destination for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges and families with young children.

Key Activities: Visitors can feed giraffes, explore interactive exhibits, enjoy scenic chairlift rides over the zoo, and attend educational programs about wildlife conservation. The zoo also features picnic areas and a café offering local cuisine, perfect for food lovers.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The zoo is highly kid-friendly with hands-on animal interactions, a petting zoo area, and engaging educational activities designed to captivate young minds.

Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs on leashes are welcome in designated outdoor areas, allowing pet owners to enjoy the natural surroundings together, though pets are not permitted inside animal exhibit buildings.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a memorable detour that combines wildlife adventure, stunning mountain vistas, and family-friendly fun, making it a must-visit for travelers exploring the Colorado Springs region.

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the U.S. Air Force Academy Visitor Center offers a captivating blend of historic charm and cutting-edge interactive exhibits. This detour provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the Air Force Academy while enjoying stunning mountain vistas, making it a rewarding stop for travelers of all interests.

Key activities: Visitors can tour the impressive Visitor Center featuring immersive multimedia displays, learn about the Academy's history and mission, admire the striking architecture of the nearby Air Force Academy Chapel, and stroll the scenic grounds. The center also offers educational programs and a gift shop with unique memorabilia.

Kid-friendly: The interactive exhibits and engaging storytelling make this an excellent destination for families with young children, offering hands-on learning experiences that keep kids entertained and inspired.

Dog-friendly: The outdoor areas around the Visitor Center and Academy grounds are dog-friendly, allowing travelers with pets to enjoy a pleasant walk in a well-maintained, scenic environment. However, dogs are not permitted inside the Visitor Center building itself.

Location: Cripple Creek, Colorado, USA, nestled in the scenic Rocky Mountains.

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Foodies.

Why it's a great detour: Cripple Creek's Victorian Downtown offers a unique journey into America's legendary mining past with beautifully preserved architecture and engaging museums. This charming town combines rich history with stunning mountain scenery, making it an enriching stop for travelers seeking culture, nature, and small-town charm.

Key activities: Visitors can explore the Cripple Creek Heritage Center and Mining Museum, take guided walking tours of historic buildings, enjoy gold panning experiences, and browse local artisan shops. Foodies will appreciate cozy cafes and eateries serving regional specialties. Nearby trails offer hiking opportunities for nature lovers.

Kid-friendly focus: The town is welcoming for families, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities like gold panning that captivate children of all ages.

Dog-friendly notes: Many outdoor areas and some shops are dog-friendly, allowing travelers to bring their pets along to enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic strolls through town.