Living in Colorado, we have exceptional travel experiences within walking distance or a short road trip, and Colorado Springs is one of those destinations in our state with so many fun things to do with kids.
From its amazing zoo to riding the rails, Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region is a frequent destination for our multigenerational family travel because it offers so much to see and do.
Photo Courtesy: The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Here are our top things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.
Multigenerational family travel is actually a present to me – time spent with the grandkids, just me, Papa, and them. (Sometimes we even let our adult children come along!)
Since we are still working grandparents, we don’t have the luxury that some retired grandparents do.
A road trip to Colorado Springs is a short 90-minute drive from our home, allowing us time to chat with our grandkids and enjoy the beautiful Colorado scenery.
There are so many things to do in Colorado Springs that we usually run out of time before things to do.
My multigenerational family is creatures of habit, and we love to return again and again to enjoy these top things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.
Photo Credit: Diana Rowe / TravelingInHeels.com
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
From our first overnight multigenerational family travel adventure many years ago, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo will always hold a special place in my heart.
The highest altitude zoo in the U.S. features up-close-and-personal visits with the giraffes, and this is our first stop every time. Because how can you resist giraffes?
After purchasing the affordable giraffe food, the grandkids fed the long-necked creatures with nervous excitement and an “ewww” from my granddaughter when the animal’s rough tongue claimed its snack.
The giraffes are the first of many hands-on animal meetings.
Feeding the birds and petting a baby wallaby were also met with fascination and giggles on our first visit. (Animal experiences vary.)
During our first visit, petting a baby wallaby was one of the experiences at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Since then, this Colorado Springs zoo offers many unique experiences with animals.
Since that first visit so many years ago, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo continues to be our favorite Colorado road trip, and the experience is always different.
Photo Credit: Diana Rowe / TravelingInHeels.com
Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center
Take time to get outside by visiting the always-free Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs.
A National Natural Landmark, Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center is a not-to-miss stop in Colorado Springs. Dramatic views, 300-foot towering sandstone rock formations, and snow-capped Pikes Peak.
Your visit to this magical attraction is always absolutely FREE. The Garden of the Gods is Colorado’s most photographed view, so be sure to take your camera.
For families who love hiking, the Garden of the Gods offers 15 miles of trails to explore. Check-in at the visitor and nature center to determine which hike is best for your kids.
Got curious kids?
Stop in at the Geo-Trekker Theater to find out how those red rocks got there, complete with dinosaurs, sea monsters, and more.
Virtually "soar" high above Garden of the Gods and see some of the most awe-inspiring aerial footage in the world.
Add a horseback riding adventure into the Garden of the Gods with Academy Riding Stables to truly make your visit memorable.
Horseback riding in Garden of Gods Park is priceless — and one of many things to do in Colorado Springs.
Photo Courtesy: The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway (Reopening in May 2021)
All aboard -- the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway is back beginning May 2021!
Originally built in 1891 and owned and operated by The Broadmoor since 1925, this historic railway is the highest railroad in America (one of two in the U.S.). Welcome back to the highest cog railway in the country, one of Colorado’s top attractions, and one of the nation’s most unique experiences.
Since October 2017, it has been undergoing a $100 million renovation of its tracks, cogs, railcars, and depot to create a new and improved journey to the summit.
And now it's back and you can’t miss riding the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway! The newly renovated railway will be better than ever climbin’ up America’s Mountain beginning May 2021.
Ride the rails on the World’s highest cog train, ascending Pikes Peak year-round. Climb to 14,115 feet and experience the magnificent panoramas that inspired the song America the Beautiful.
And that’s only the beginning of all the things to do in Colorado Spring with kids. Did we miss your favorite things to do? Share with us in the comments below