Nestled at the foot of the majestic Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural charm. While guidebooks will point you to the Garden of the Gods and the Olympic Training Center, there’s so much more to this vibrant city than its headline attractions. As a local, I’ve spent years uncovering the hidden corners and unique experiences that make this place truly special. Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay, these insider tips will help you see Colorado Springs in a way most visitors never do.
Start your day like a true Springs resident by skipping the crowded coffee chains and heading to one of the city’s tucked-away coffee havens. Switchback Coffee Roasters, located in a quiet neighborhood east of downtown, offers an unpretentious atmosphere and some of the best locally roasted coffee you’ll ever sip. Chat with the friendly baristas, and you might just get a recommendation for a local event or hidden spot worth exploring. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their cardamom latte—a subtly spiced drink that’s become a cult favorite among locals.
When it’s time for breakfast, avoid the lines at popular downtown spots and drive a bit further to Old Colorado City. While this area is a tourist draw in its own right, it has its share of quieter gems. Bon Ton’s Café might not make the glossy brochures, but its green chile-smothered burritos are a local legend. On a sunny day, snag a table on the patio and soak in the laid-back vibe of this historic district.
Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to explore the outdoors, but why stick to the usual trails when there are so many lesser-known options? Everyone raves about Garden of the Gods, and rightly so, but head a little further west to Red Rock Canyon Open Space for a quieter, equally stunning experience. Here, you’ll find dramatic sandstone cliffs, serene ponds, and trails that wind through remnants of an old quarry. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Section 16 loop just beyond the park boundary. The views from the top are worth the effort, and you’ll likely encounter only a handful of other hikers.
If you’re visiting in the summer, the heat can be intense by midday, so consider retreating to one of the city’s cooler spots—literally. The Cheyenne Cañon area is a haven of shaded trails and rushing waterfalls. While Seven Falls often gets all the attention, North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers just as much beauty without the ticketed entry. The hike to Helen Hunt Falls is short and family-friendly, but if you’re up for more of an adventure, follow the Columbine Trail for a peaceful walk through aspen groves and pine forests. Bring a small picnic and find a spot along the creek—there’s no better way to escape the heat and connect with nature.
By mid-afternoon, you might be ready to cool off in another way. While breweries are everywhere in Colorado, the Springs has its fair share of craft beer that flies under the radar. The locals often flock to smaller spots like Goat Patch Brewing Company, which offers an eclectic rotation of beers and a cozy atmosphere. Chat with fellow patrons here, and you’ll quickly learn that Colorado Springs has a strong sense of community. If beer isn’t your thing, head to Lee Spirits downtown for expertly crafted cocktails that showcase house-made syrups and local ingredients.
Dinner options abound in Colorado Springs, but for a truly unique experience, venture into one of the family-owned eateries that reflect the city’s diverse heritage. Urban Tandoor, a hidden gem tucked away in a nondescript strip mall, serves some of the most authentic Indian food you’ll find outside of Denver. Try their butter chicken or the fiery lamb vindaloo. Another favorite is Paravicini’s Italian Bistro in Old Colorado City, where generations-old recipes meet warm hospitality. The gnocchi, hand-rolled and perfectly tender, is a must-try.
When night falls, resist the urge to turn in early—Colorado Springs has a vibrant, if understated, nightlife. For live music, head to the eclectic Lulu’s Downstairs in Manitou Springs. This venue, housed in an old bowling alley, features local bands and national acts in an intimate setting. If you prefer something quieter, stargazing at Palmer Park is a magical way to end your day. The park’s mesa-top trails offer sweeping views of the city lights below and a sky full of stars above. Bring a blanket, some warm layers, and maybe a thermos of hot cocoa from a local café for the ultimate Colorado night.
For those staying a few days, consider a side trip to nearby towns like Cripple Creek or Victor. These historic mining towns, just an hour’s drive from Colorado Springs, are like stepping back in time. While Cripple Creek is known for its casinos, venture to Victor for a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Colorado’s gold rush history. Take the self-guided walking tour, which leads you through old mining structures and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks.
Finally, one of the best-kept secrets in Colorado Springs is the abundance of small, local art galleries. While visitors often flock to the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, smaller spaces like the Kreuser Gallery and the Modbo offer a more intimate art experience. These galleries showcase works from local artists and often host lively openings where you can meet the creators themselves.
Leaving Colorado Springs without a few keepsakes would be a shame, but skip the generic souvenirs and opt for something truly special. The farmers’ markets, particularly the one at Bancroft Park on Saturdays, are a fantastic place to find handcrafted goods, from pottery to locally made soaps. For something edible, pick up a jar of honey from a regional beekeeper—it’s the taste of Colorado in a bottle.
As your time in Colorado Springs winds down, resist the urge to cram in one last tourist attraction. Instead, find a quiet spot—perhaps a bench at Monument Valley Park or a rock overlooking the plains at Ute Valley Park—and take a moment to soak in the beauty of this incredible place. The magic of Colorado Springs isn’t just in its dramatic landscapes or storied history; it’s in the little moments, the hidden corners, and the sense of discovery that comes from seeing the city like a local.
So go ahead, take the road less traveled. The best stories come from the places you never planned to find. And in Colorado Springs, those stories are waiting for you around every corner.