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Day Tripping this summer near Colorado Springs!
Looking for quick destinations and things to do close to Colorado Springs? There are many things to see and do that don’t require a long trip. Here are a few ideas!
Number one on my list is The Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition, at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science this summer. At what other time will you be able to see manuscripts that are over 2000 years old? These scrolls include the oldest known Biblical documents, as well as other writings from long ago. The documents were discovered in 1947 by Bedouin shepherds in caves near the Dead Sea. The exhibition also includes many artifacts from Israel and explores the history of the Holy Land, history that continues to impact our world today.
Bishop Castle (about 100 miles, near Rye CO) is a uniquely Colorado destination. Jim Bishop has been constructing this castle for nearly 60 years and it is a testament to individualism and building a monumental building. The surrounding area is beautiful and you are allowed to walk and climb throughout the entire castle. Quantity and size wins over quality, but it is an amazing structure complete with towers and bridges. Admission is free, although donations are suggested. Visit BishopCastle.org for more information and directions.
A fun lunch spot is the BuckSnort Saloon (62 miles). This old rough-hewn log structure is located in Sphinx Park, just west of Denver near Pine, CO. Built in the late 1800’s as a mercantile to support the narrow-gauge railroad workers, the saloon and several log cabins were built along the rock outcroppings and ledges in this small community. Serving sandwiches and burgers, with occasional music on the deck overlooking Elk Creek, this a memorable drive. Many people also enjoy floating down the nearby South Platte River on sunny days!
Colorado in home to many relaxing Hot Springs, the closest being Desert Reef Hot Spring in Florence (40 miles). Mount Princeton and Cottonwood Hot Springs are both near Buena Vista (just under 100 miles) and are worth the trip. Hot Sulphur Springs is about 150 miles away, located just beyond Granby. Of course, Glenwood Hot Springs is the big one, but at 225 miles away, it is a little long for a day’s drive. The large pool and water slides are popular with families and kids. (Do you have a favorite Hot Spring location in Colorado?)
Red Rocks Amphitheater (60 miles, Morrison) not only has amazing outdoor concerts throughout the summer, the surrounding grounds is a Denver park and is available for hiking and mountain biking through the spectacular rock formations. If you have never been to a concert there, it is an amazing experience (unless it rains!). The views of Denver are beautiful in the night sky, and it is a great place to see your favorite music artists. Check out the concert schedules and various events and offerings at RedRocksOnline.com!
We can’t forget to mention some of our own Colorado Springs highlights:
- Garden of the Gods park for the views and hiking/biking.
- Glen Eyrie Castle for a scrumptious afternoon tea, or see the sights with a Castle Tour or a geological Rock Tour.
- Pikes Peak – drive the highway or hike to the top for fantastic views! The last Sunday in June, see the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb up close and personal.
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – our own little gem, not to big and not too small.
- Manitou Springs – lots of shops and restaurants at the base of Pikes Peak.
Colorado has so much to offer, and I know I have only scratched the surface. With the mountains in our backyard, the possibilities are endless!
Be sure you are up to date on your vehicle maintenance before you head out of town and drive safely. Happy Summer travels from Honest Accurate Auto Service!
