5 Best Places to Visit near Colorado Springs

Can’t get away this summer?  Have a “Staycation” right in your backyard!

We live in one of the most beautiful spots in the United States, and people drive for miles to see all of the sights that are right in our own backyard. These are some of our favorite places to visit, but I am sure you have some of your own – send me your favorite places to travel in Colorado so I can pass them on!

Garden of the Gods Park:  I am still in awe of the beauty of the red rocks, in the backdrop of majestic Pikes Peak.  It is a great place for kids to walk around, and older adults to appreciate earth’s natural beauty.  Stop by the Visitor’s Center for guided tours, and information on the geology of the red rocks.  Hike, bike or stroll through the park and enjoy the vistas!

Pike’s Peak:  Looming over our city, the top of Pikes Peak offers majestic views in all directions.  The summit of this 14,114 ft. mountain can be accessed by the Cog Railway, driving or biking the Pikes Peak highway, or hiking Barr Trail (leave early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms!).

Spruce Mountain Trail: This is a beautiful hike, located just north of Palmer Lake.  There is a moderate climb to the top of the mesa, and then you can hike a relatively flat loop around the top of the mesa.  Stop and have a snack on one of the rock outcroppings and enjoy the view!  Round trip is about 5.5 miles.  On your way back through Palmer Lake, take a break on O’Malley’s deck for a cold brew and cook your own burger, or have an ice cream at the Rock Shop.

Golden Bee:  This 19^th century English-style pub is part of the historic Broadmoor Hotel, on the southwest side of Colorado Springs.  Live piano music and “sing-alongs” are part of the nightly fun. Enjoy the potted cheese and crackers, English pub fare, or a yard of ale, and get “Bee’d” – you have to go to experience it!  While you are there, take a stroll around the lake on the hotel grounds and enjoy the beautiful flowers, architecture, and views.

Bishop Castle:  Located just 24 miles west of Colorado City (1.5- 2 hours from Colorado Springs), this castle was started as a cabin in 1969 and just kept getting bigger.  Possibly the largest one-person project, this “castle” needs to be seen to be believed.  A combination of rock, mortar, rebar and welded supports, the structure just goes on and on (quantity over quality?).   The builder is an eccentric and opinionated man, who shares his beliefs openly, while he continues to build his own unique “castle”.

I know I have only scratched the surface – send me your favorite destinations in and around Colorado Springs that I may share.  Wherever your travels take you this summer, drive safely and courteously (friendly reminder: check your oil level before you take off, something that Honest Accurate Auto can do for you too)!

If you’re in or near Colorado Springs, contact us and get your car ready for your summer adventures!