Seeing the city like a local doesn’t require a dime! We’ve found the best things to do for free in Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods
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It’s easy to see how this area earned such a lofty title. The magnificent red rocks look like the only way they could have gotten there was on the shoulders of deities. You can learn the facts behind the Garden’s formations at the Visitor and Nature Center just across the road. You’re welcome to explore the park on foot or bicycle, and the Visitor Center offers guided van, Jeep and Segway tours. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can also book a guided horseback tour of the park!
United States Olympic Training Center
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Another great thing to do for free in Colorado Springs is tour the flagship training facility of the US Olympic team and the active headquarters of the US Olympic Committee. There are 16 guided tours available daily during the summer. Enjoy the Hall of Fame, which honors some of the most spectacular athletes in US Olympic history.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park
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This gorgeous park comprises over 1,600 acres at the bottom of a 1,000-foot deep canyon. The variety of altitudes in the park means you’ll also see a variety of wildlife in the canyon, from deer to mountain lions and black bears. If you’re looking for something outdoorsy and free in Colorado Springs, you won’t want to miss out on the miles of hiking trails and North Cheyenne Creek, a great place to swim in the summer.
Air Force Academy
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If you’re feeling the need for speed, you definitely won’t want to miss a tour of the US Air Force Academy. Not only will you likely have the chance to witness some amazing plane maneuvers firsthand, you’ll also get to see where the best pilots in the country are trained. Explore areas like the Cadet Chapel, the Honor court and Falcon Stadium. Listen for planes passing overhead - you may get to witness some training exercises!
Red Rock Canyon
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If Garden of the Gods doesn’t fill your need for rosy rocks enough, there’s another bright red park you can check out for free in Colorado Springs! You’ll definitely want to wear comfy shoes to hike around this canyon, and bring your camera! There’s also an open-air pavilion that can host movie screenings or live entertainment.
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
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Housed in what was once the El Paso County courthouse, the Pioneers Museum is filled with photographs and artifacts that recount the city’s history and story. You can trace the evolution of Colorado Springs from a small mining town to a popular tourist destination. It may seem small, but it’s easy to spend a few hours here.There’s a lot to see and learn!
