25 Of The Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs In The Winter

Colorado is an incredible getaway if you’re looking for a winter wonderland.

Most consider mountain towns before the cities of Colorado’s Front Range. However, the Front Range shouldn’t be overlooked, with its mild winter weather and ample fun attractions.

Colorado Springs offers a wide variety of activities from museums and 5-star resorts to outdoor recreation and holiday spirit galore — there’s something for everyone here year-round.

Read on for the top things to do in Colorado Springs in the winter.

The Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs In The Winter 

Garden Of The Gods

Garden of the Gods is a 1,000+ acre park with 15 miles of trails and gorgeous views. Jutting up from the earth are the park’s famous red rocks, a site you won’t be soon to forget. Get up close to the red rocks and marvel at the beauty as you walk the Perkins Central Garden Trail. 

Best of all, the park is less crowded come winter.

Did You Know? Garden of the Gods was donated to the City of Colorado Springs in 1909 with the requirement that it always remain “free to the entire world.”

You can enjoy this park 365 days a year from 5 am – 9 pm, and it’s always free. 

This is a spectacular spot and easily one of the most fun things to do in Colorado Springs during winter.

For more information, check out Garden Of The Gods In Winter: Things To Do & Tips For Visiting.

The Broadmoor 

Visiting The Broadmoor Hotel is one of my favorite things to do in Colorado Springs.

In addition to 700+ guest rooms, the resort has two championship golf courses, an award-winning spa, shops, movie theater, and bowling alley. Plus, 20 restaurants, bars, and cafes… Phew, got that all?

Even with all the amenities, it’s the small details which set The Broadmoor apart from other resorts. The friendly staff provides world-class service and the expansive property is immaculately cared for.

The resort is the longest running AAA 5-Star Hotel in the country, it won’t take long to understand why. The historic hotel stands clear above the competition, even within the world of 5-star hospitality.

And yes, non-guests are invited to visit as well.

Whether or not you lodge here, I highly recommend an evening exploring the stunning property, followed by dinner and live music at The Golden Bee Restaurant.

The Broadmoor is especially worth a visit during the holidays, you won’t believe their grand Christmas decor.

Seven Falls 

On The Broadmoor property is Seven Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls located in a 1,000 foot tall granite canyon.

Visitors can view the falls from the base, the top of a 224 step staircase, or from the Eagle’s Nest viewing platform… I recommend checking it out from all three spots.

Day or night, witnessing the falls frozen over in the winter season is absolutely gorgeous.

Ice Skating In Acacia Park

Ring in the holidays by ice skating the outdoor rink in downtown Colorado Springs.

The Ice Rink in Acacia Park is open November through January for $15/ person, which includes skate rentals.

This is definitely one of the more popular things to do during the Christmas season, so plan accordingly. Tickets do sell out and are only available in person. Even if you don’t want to skate, this is a great spot to people watch with a cup of hot chocolate.

There’s also a larger, indoor rink — Sertich Ice Center — open year-round with public skating during select hours. 

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

Colorado Springs is home to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center and Committee Headquarters, the grounds of which you can visit.

In addition to this, they’ve recently opened a huge 60,000 square foot museum near downtown.

It features 12 galleries full of artifacts and interactive displays, exploring the history of Team USA in the Olympic Games.

It also recounts the stories of athletes and their journeys leading up to the world’s biggest stage.

North Pole Colorado Santa’s Workshop  

Sitting at the foot of Pikes Peak is the beloved Santa’s Workshop amusement park. 

In Colorado Springs since 1956, this charming park has been capturing the heart of kids for almost 70 years now. Here, little ones can visit the Christmas shops, write a letter to Santa, and meet him of course. In addition to riding the amusement park rides (for kiddos under 8 only). 

This is one of the best family-friendly activities in Colorado Springs especially during the holiday season.

Cave Of The Winds

Cave of the Winds is one of Colorado’s oldest attractions, offering tours since 1881.

Come see the incredible stalactites formed on the ceilings here at Cave of the Winds. Over thousands of years calcium-rich water has created icicle-like shapes over the cave’s walls.

You can join the one hour Discovery Tour, which details the history and discovery of the cave. Or you can join the 1.5 hour Lantern Tour, which takes you into the darkest parts of the cave with only a candle-lit lantern to guide the way.

I’d recommend the latter if you have time, it’s truly a unique experience.

The caves are a pleasant 54 degrees year-round, making this a great winter activity in Colorado Springs.

When you’re done exploring underground, the park also offers entertainment above ground. They have zip lines, rides, and climbing available even in the winter months, weather permitting.  

Downtown Colorado Springs

Downtown offers no shortage of entertainment options as the main hub of Colorado Springs.

Boutiques, parks, museums, and street art can all be found throughout the area, in addition to dining and nightlife options.

Fun Things To Do In Downtown Colorado Springs:

• Go for a self-guided art tour or check out the First Friday Art Walk.
• Learn something new at The Pioneers Museum or Money Museum.
• Grab a beer from a brewery or hit up Supernova Bar & Arcade.
• Enjoy indoor rock climbing at CityROCK.
• Grab a bite to eat at the fun marketplace, Coati.
• Go for a foodie tour with Rocky Mountain Food Tours, which you can book here: 3 Hour Food Tour In Colorado Springs

Museums In Colorado Springs

Looking to visit a museum during winter in Colorado Springs?

Check out the following popular options: 

• ProRodeo Hall Of Fame & Museum 
• Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
• Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum  
• Western Museum of Mining & Industry
• U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum 
• Penrose Heritage Museum 
• National Museum of World War II Aviation 
• May Natural History Museum 
• Ghost Town Museum 
• Peterson Air & Space Museum

Old Colorado City

Just west of downtown along Colorado Avenue sits Old Colorado City, one of the most charming historic areas in the Springs. This stretch is lined with 19th-century brick buildings filled with boutiques, candy shops, galleries, and locally owned restaurants.

It’s compact, easy to wander, and fun to explore for a couple of hours any time of year. The whole area has a nostalgic, small-town feel that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time — in the best way.

Cozy Up At A Brewery 

Colorado Springs offers a handful of great breweries serving up local brews and good vibes.

There are tons of great options to choose from, below are just a few favorites:

• Goat Patch Brewing Company 
• OCC Brewing 
• Colorado Mountain Brewery 
• Phantom Canyon Brewing Company
• Peaks N Pines Brewing Co. 
• Pikes Peak Lager House

This is a fun way to spend a chilly day indoors in Colorado Springs.

Glen Eyrie Castle 

One of the most unique things to do in Colorado Springs in winter? Visit a castle.

Built in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs, is an English Tudor-style castle. It’s available for tours, afternoon tea, or you can even spend the night.

Located at the base of Pikes Peak, just minutes from Garden of the Gods, the location of this castle is unbeatable and a must-see at least once.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

No matter the time of year, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Colorado Springs.

With over 146 acres in a distinctive mountain setting, this really is one of the more beautiful zoos in the United States.

At 6,714 feet above sea level, this is the highest elevation zoo in the US, and it’s got a lot of hills, so be prepared for a work out.

If visiting over the holidays, be sure to stop by at night for the Electric Safari, which showcases over 85 light sculptures.

Tip: While here be sure to feed the giraffes, this is one of the most popular things to do at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

For more information, check out Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Tips For Visiting.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are located at the base of Pikes Peak, overlooking Manitou Springs.

These authentic Anaszai cliff dwellings are over 800 years old and have been open to the public since 1907.

The dwellings are preserved under a protective red sandstone overhang and can be explored room by room via self-guided tour.

After visiting the dwellings, immerse yourself in the Pueblo and Anasazi Museums where you’ll have access to exhibits of tools and pottery. As well as information about the daily life which once occurred in these dwellings.

Ice Climbing

Beginner level ice climbing can be found in a few canyons surrounding the Colorado Springs area.

As an activity normally found deep in the mountains, this is quite the treat to find along the Front Range.

The winter sport is, of course, weather dependent and climbing routes are most likely found December into early spring. 

Front Range Climbing Company and Pikes Peak Alpine School both provide rentals and tour options for those interested in an exciting day out. 

Spa Day

A spa day is a perfect way to unwind and recharge during the colder months in Colorado.

Spend a relaxing afternoon (or full day) pampering yourself with a deep tissue massage, full body wrap, facial, or some quiet sauna time. 

SunWater Spa and Mx Spa are much-loved options in the Colorado Springs area.

Popular resorts, such as Cheyenne Mountain, Garden of the Gods, and The Broadmoor, also offer first-class spa services. 

Hot Springs

Looking for natural hot springs? SunWater Spa, mentioned above, is the closest option with mineral soaks.

However, in regards to natural hot springs, there aren’t any immediately near Colorado Springs.

For the closest option head to Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs or one of my favorite, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort near Buena Vista.

Visit A Bookstore 

Another relaxing winter activity is to browse a local bookstore.

Scan the latest releases or get lost in an all-time classic — there’s no better way to spend a chilly day than in a bookshop! 

For local bookstores, check out Hooked On Books, Poor Richard’s Bookstore, Westside Stories, or Born Again Books.

Pikes Peak Cog Railway 

At 14,115 feet above sea level, standing far above the mountaintops around it, Pikes Peak is impossible to miss.

This is 1 of 58 peaks exceeding 14,000 feet in Colorado, however, it’s especially unique in its close proximity to the Front Range and for its large, flat top.

The summit of Pikes Peak is so large, it houses a 38,000 square foot visitor center equipped with gift shop, dining, a museum, and of course, donuts.

And, yes, you can even reach the summit in winter, weather permitting of course. This time of year it’s best reached by the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.

The cog railway has been taking visitors up to Pike Peak’s summit since the 1890’s and has been modernized and improved by The Broadmoor, just recently reopening in 2021. 

This 9 mile ride covers a 7,000+ foot elevation change and provides sweeping, 360-degree views you won’t be soon to forget.

See for yourself why the view from this summit inspired Katherine Lee Bates to write “America The Beautiful.”

For more information, check out these Tips For Riding The Pikes Peak Cog Railway.

Snowshoeing In Colorado Springs

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Colorado Springs, snowshoeing is an easy way to get out and enjoy the mountains during winter.

Popular places to snowshoe near town include:

• Mueller State Park
• Red Rock Canyon Open Space 
• The Crags in Pike National Forest
• Garden of the Gods
• Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument 

If you need gear, REI and Christy Sports are some of the best places to rent snowshoe supplies. 

Looking to cross-country ski near Colorado Springs?

Check out the Nordic Center at the Country Club at Woodmoor or Mueller State Park. 

Manitou Springs 

Manitou Springs is only 5 miles from Colorado Springs but it feels like a whole different world.

This resort city sits at the base of towering Pikes Peak, giving it the cozy feel of a quaint mountain town.

While you’re here go for a walk through Schryver Park, taste the fresh mountain spring water, or explore the shops and restaurants in historic downtown.

Downtown Manitou Springs is jam-packed with art galleries, boutique shops, and picturesque creek-side restaurants.

A visit here is a must during your Colorado Springs winter getaway.

Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge is one of the best attractions near Colorado Springs.

Built in 1929, this bridge was an engineering marvel of its time, and to this day is still the highest suspension bridge in the United States.

The bridge is suspended 956 feet above the Arkansas River with 4,100 steel cables.

Visitors can walk the Royal Gorge Bridge while taking in magnificent views of the canyon and surrounding Rocky Mountains. Or take the Aerial Gondola across the gorge for a truly unique experience.

The bridge and gondola are only open when weather permits.

If you plan to walk across the bridge, be sure to bring lots of warm layers, it gets very windy. 

For those who prefer their feet firmly planted on solid ground, you can utilize the park’s viewpoints, dining, gift shops, playland for the kids, and more.

Winter Things To Do With The Kids In Colorado Springs 

Looking for things to do with the kids in Colorado Springs this winter?

Consider the following ideas:

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park
• Manitou Cliff Dwellings
• Play Street Museum 
• Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
• Go sledding or snow tubing  
• Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center
• North Pole Colorado Santa’s Workshop
• Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
• Manitou Springs Penny Arcade
• Cave of the Winds Mountain Park 
• Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Christmas Things To Do In Colorado Springs 

Colorado Springs has no shortage of Christmas festivities.

Check out popular Christmas events and attractions such as:

• Festival of Lights Parade
• Christmas at Flying W Ranch 
• Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
• Ice skating in Acacia Park
• Santa Express Train Ride – Royal Gorge 
• Afternoon tea at Glen Eryie Castle 
• See the Christmas decorations at The Broadmoor 
• Bridge of Lights at Royal Gorge
• North Pole Colorado Santa’s Workshop 
• Magic of Lights at Pikes Peak International Speedway 
• Holiday Markets at The Garden or Commonwheel Artist Co-op
• Winter Wonderland with the Wolves

For a full list of holiday and Christmas events in Colorado Springs, check out Christmas In Colorado Springs: Top Things To Do.

Ski Resorts Near Colorado Springs

The nearest ski resorts to Colorado Springs are Monarch Mountain and Ski Cooper, each about 2.5 hours from downtown.

Both are relatively smaller resorts, and therefore see few crowds.

Colorado Springs is also about 3 hours from Summit County.

In Summit County there are many huge ski resorts such as: Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Winter Park.

These are some of the larger resorts in the state, and since they’re nearest to Denver, they draw huge crowds.

Winter Weather In Colorado Springs 

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 51° / 25° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 43° / 18°
• January – 43° / 17°
• February – 45° / 20°

Winter in Colorado Springs is chilly but mild.

The city sees a rough average of 5” of snow per month during the colder months. 

Even in winter, sunny days are ample on Colorado’s Front Range.

Keep in mind it can often feel warmer than the forecast calls for, this is thanks to the sun’s intensity at our high altitude. 

As you can see, there are so many great things to do in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region during the winter.

I hope you’ve found this post to be helpful in planning your trip and have the best time. Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Denver and Colorado guides, or head on over to Visit Colorado Springs.