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Springtime in the Rockies can be wonderful! If you’re planning a visit to Colorado Springs this Spring Break or perhaps are entertaining out-of-town guests, consider some of these local attractions. Some are more popular, and some are lesser known and off the beaten path, but there is a little of something for everyone in your family.
Here is our list of 10 family-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs this Spring Break!
Lions and tigers and bears…oh my! The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is unique in the country as it is nestled into a mountainside, overlooking the city of Colorado Springs from the south. While you’re there, feed a giraffe from one of the largest herds of reticulated giraffes in North America, gaze at one of the last remaining Amur Leopards in the world, and get up close and personal with Budgie Buddies (Australian Parakeets). Hop on the Mountaineer Sky Ride to the very top of the zoo where you will enjoy stunning panorama views of Colorado Springs.
The Air Force Academy offers a glimpse into past and present military life set in a beautiful mountain landscape. Visit the spectacular Cadet Chapel that boasts 17 spires and blue, red, and purple illuminated stained glass. Drive or take the walking trail to the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center where you can view historic artifacts, military exhibits, and a movie on the Cadet Training Program. We recommend entering the base from the north gate (exit 156B on I-25), and be prepared to show a valid driver’s license or military ID.
Colorado Springs is proud to be called Olympic City U.S.A.! Situated on 35-acres in the center of the city, the Olympic Training Center offers facilities for some of our favorite athletes including gymnast Gabby Douglas and swimmer Michael Phelps. Visit the newly renovated visitor center where you can relive historic Olympic and Paralympic moments on HD projector screens and catch a guided tour that runs on the hour. Groups of 10 or more receive a group discount, and you can also request a VIP experience with an elite athlete as your guide!
Glen Eyrie is a Queen Anne Victorian style castle that was the former home of Colorado Springs’ founding father, General William Jackson Palmer. Palmer built it as a gift to his wife, and it was the home in which they raised their three daughters during the late 1800’s. This extraordinary property, which is now privately owned, opens to the public regularly for tours and Royal Teas. Make sure to make your reservations in advance and be prepared to travel back in time to the elegant life of nineteenth century wealth.
Established by Julie Penrose in 1941 on behalf of her late husband and founder of the Broadmoor Hotel, Spencer Penrose, The Penrose Heritage Museum offers a rare glimpse into turn-of-the-century transportation. Maintained by the El Pomar Foundation, the museum houses race cars used in the early days of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, Julie’s Cadillac limousine, and two presidential carriages used by William Henry Harrison (9th President of the U.S.) and Chester A. Arthur (21st President of the U.S.). Best of all, this museum is free and open to the public!
Your Spring Break adventure in Colorado Springs wouldn’t be complete without a food tour! Join us as we eat and drink our way through downtown Colorado Springs on The Original Colorado Springs Food Tour. We have a special priced ticket for children (ages 5-12) and welcome budding foodies! During the tour, we’ll visit up to five of our favorite local restaurants over the course of three hours. Learn more of Colorado Springs’ past and get the insider’s scoop on the local food scene!
Located just north of downtown Colorado Springs near Colorado College, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is one of the premier galleries in the city. Founded in 1936, the architecture reflects an art deco style. It is home to some 15 different galleries each displaying a mixture of permanent and traveling exhibits. Within the center is also a professional theatre, local restaurant, and art school. We highly recommend a visit if only to see the famed Chihuly glass chandeliers!
Up behind the Broadmoor Hotel and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the Will Rogers Memorial Shrine of the Sun, which is the resting place of Julie and Spencer Penrose. Rogers, who died in a tragic plane crash in 1935, is remembered throughout this five-story observation tower with photos of his life. Most impressively, the shrine was actually carved from one large pink granite boulder quarried directly from Cheyenne Mountain, and it contains no nails or wood. Enjoy sweeping views from this high location.
One of the few historic attractions on the north side of Colorado Springs, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry has three distinct points of interest. The first is the Mine Reclamation Exhibit, which explains the process of restoring mines to productive use. The second is the Reynolds Ranch House, which is included in the State Register of Historic Properties. The house is the only remnant left of Husted, which was a small supply town and depot that has since disappeared. And third, the museum houses a 10-stamp mill replica, a typical tool used from from 1890-1920. Mining was a huge industry for Colorado Springs, and here you can see the life and machines of some of these fearless pioneers.
Head to historic Manitou Springs at the base of Pikes Peak and stroll around the eclectic downtown filled with artisan galleries, gift shops, and different eateries. While on your stroll, sip from the natural mineral springs located through the downtown area. Because of the slight variation in mineral deposits, each spring tastes different. Can you taste the difference? While you’re there, be sure to check out the historic Penny Arcade!
Make this Spring Break unforgettable! There are plenty of things to do in Colorado Springs. From history to food to wild animals, you’re bound to find something that you’ll remember forever.
Cheers! Your Rocky Mountain Food Tours Team
(So, what’s a food tour, anyway…?)
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