Colorado Springs Road Trip with Changing Aspens and Local Hot Spots
A classic road trip is your best bet for a get-a-way this year as social-distancing guidelines continue to alter 2020 plans. Colorado Springs, CO – the #1 most desirable city in the nation – is a must-see. The great outdoors and mountain views will be waiting and accessible by bike, foot, or car. The New York Times listed Colorado Springs in their “52 Places to Go in 2020” roundup, citing the town’s proximity to national parks; renowned restaurant scene; U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, which opened in July; and Hybl Performance Center, which opened in August. Thinking of hitting the road? We have plenty of ideas for where to eat, stay, and play to add to your bucket list below.
Fun Activities
Take in some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery and wind your way through beautiful alpine scenery, mountain reservoirs, deep forests, and towering clouds – without ever leaving your car on the Pikes Peak Highway. All 14,115-feet of America’s most famous mountain can be conquered from the socially distant setting of your vehicle. Once at the peak, view the brand-new Summit Complex, a 38,000-square-foot building valued at about $60 million which will provide an immersive visitor experience – while being built was the highest on-going construction site in North America!
Looking for a short-and-sweet hiking spot? Mount Cutler Trail is a kid-friendly hike that features beautiful wildflowers and stunning mountain views. This two-mile round-trip trail is perfect for the hiking novice. If you’re up for more of a challenge, split off from the Mount Cutler Trail at the fork and head up to Mount Muscoco with 1,300-foot elevation gain and plentiful birds and flowers.
View the changing Aspens in the Rocky Mountain wilderness at Cheyenne Mountain State Park –a 2,701-acre park featuring over 28-miles of trails for hiking, biking, and designated trails for equestrian and dog users. The park also features a year-round campsite equipped with 51 full-service campsites and ten basic walk-in tent sites, which is now open.
Pawtoberfest is usually a jam-packed dog walk and beer festival in Pikes Peak—but this year it’s a bit different. The event will be virtual, complete with a commemorative t-shirt, costume contest, and more happenings to raise funds to continue the Pikes Peak Humane Society’s lifesaving programs. Register and join them on Facebook on Oct 26 – Oct 30, 2020!
Show support for the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo by making your reservation online and stay the entire day to see and learn about all of the animals. Named the #4 Best Zoo in North America by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, you’re in for way more than just watching.
Local Eateries
It’s not a proper road trip without stopping at local eateries to satisfy your travel-hunger. Luckily, Colorado Springs has a culinary scene that does not disappoint. From award-winning local businesses to hidden gems with unique entrees, the sky is the limit when it comes to Colorado Springs’ eateries:
If you dine at Garden of the Gods Market and Café, you’re in for a heavenly culinary experience. The eclectic café menu and gourmet food market continues to be recognized among “The Best of Springs” by the Gazette. Or take in panoramic views of downtown and be treated to tableside preparation at The Peppertree, dubbed one of the “100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America” in 2017 by Open Table. Time for a drink? Distillery 291 crafts award-winning whiskey that embodies the “taste, smell and folklore of the Wild West” and was recognized as the Best American Rye in 2018 by Whiskey Magazine.
Accommodations
Every year people visit Colorado Springs and end up permanent residents as the area is a top growing city for millennials. With the ability to get from the office door to the mountain trails in less than 20 minutes, Colorado Springs is truly a nature lover’s city. In addition, the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC has set up a special set of resources on its webpage for families and individuals who are interested in relocating here permanently. However, if you are just looking for accommodations while en route, there are many unique and convenient places to stay during your trip.
Garden of the Gods Resort opened in 1951 with a grand and ambitious vision: to create the ultimate escape where recreation and relaxation reign supreme — and where the distractions of the outside world disappear, bringing the things that matter most clearly into focus. This still holds true today with many ways to relax, such as taking time to golf with your friends, take a dip in the pool, or lounging by the outdoor fireplace. Additionally, wind down from a long day at The Mining Exchange Hotel & Spa in downtown Colorado Springs, built in 1902 as a stock exchange for local mining companies.
Make sure to visit our Outdoors Activities page to learn more about why Colorado Springs is the ideal to both visit and relocate. Also, contact us for more information on the endless opportunities to work and live here. Be sure to check out Visit Colorado Springs you’re planning a road trip of your own!