Answer: Old Colorado City (OCC) is a charming historic district in Colorado Springs, known for its walkable streets, boutique shops, and dining options. Many visitors enjoy staying here for its convenient location and vibrant atmosphere. That said, like any lively downtown area, there are considerations regarding nightlife and public spaces that can affect comfort and safety, particularly for seniors.

Answer: The drive from Denver International Airport to Colorado Springs is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours via I-25 South, giving you plenty of opportunities for interesting stops along the way that can be enjoyable for a family with kids ages 8 and 13. Since you arrive at 8am, you can plan for breakfast, sightseeing, or short outdoor activities without feeling rushed.

Answer: Visiting Colorado in July is a wonderful time to enjoy the mountain towns without the crowds of ski season. Many ski towns transform into hubs for summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, festivals, and scenic gondola rides. Even though you won’t be skiing, the towns themselves often retain their charming alpine architecture, pedestrian-friendly main streets, and lively restaurants and shops.

Answer: Great question — late October in Colorado Springs is classic “layering weather.” Days can be pleasantly cool and sunny (comfortable for walking), but temperatures swing quickly with elevation, wind, and clouds. You’re on the right track thinking about flexibility rather than just one heavy top.

Answer: Colorado Springs is a fantastic choice for a Thanksgiving trip, especially with a large family. The city and surrounding areas offer a variety of outdoor and indoor attractions that can appeal to both adults and children. Since you’re planning 4-5 days, it’s good to mix sightseeing, light hiking, and kid-friendly activities.

Answer: Driving from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Colorado Springs in mid-February is generally straightforward but requires some preparation for winter conditions. The route is mostly via Interstate 25 (I-25) southbound, which is a major highway and typically well-maintained, even in snowy weather. The drive is around 70-75 miles and usually takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes without heavy traffic or adverse weather.

Answer: The Senior Lifetime Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62+) is a one-time fee pass that provides free access to most federal recreation sites managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Answer: Colorado Springs has several vibrant districts that combine arts, galleries, and unique shopping opportunities. For visitors who enjoy art, boutiques, and a fun walking experience, the following areas are particularly recommended.

Answer: Colorado offers a wealth of scenic locations for a mountain and ranch-style getaway, with opportunities for horseback riding, lake views, and immersive nature experiences. Near Colorado Springs and throughout the central Rockies, there are several ranches and mountain lodges that cater to visitors looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation.

Answer: Cheyenne Mountain Resort is one of the most popular family-friendly stays in Colorado Springs because of its big pool complex, lake access, and resort-style feel. It’s understandable that it may feel a bit pricey, especially for several nights. The good news is that there are a few other hotels and resorts that offer great pools, good locations, and comfortable amenities without reaching Cheyenne’s price range — and some may even surprise you in terms of quality.

Answer: The drive to Devil's Head Lookout Trail from Colorado Springs is a popular route but can feel intimidating if you are not used to mountain roads. Here’s a detailed overview to help you plan:

Answer: Choosing between The Antlers and the Marriott on Tech Center Drive depends on your priorities, especially with a young child and the desire for a pool.

Answer: The weekend of September 18–21 in Colorado Springs will be significantly impacted by the Pikes Peak Marathon and associated events. While staying at The Broadmoor gives you a luxurious base, it’s important to plan for extra traffic, road closures, and increased crowds in town.

Answer: Mid-March in Colorado presents a mix of winter and early spring conditions, and snowfall varies significantly by elevation. Colorado Springs itself sits at about 6,000 feet, and while it can have snow in March, it is often patchy and may not accumulate enough for kids to play in consistently. The higher elevations of the Front Range and nearby mountains are much more reliable for snow and winter activities like tubing.

Answer: Visiting Colorado Springs in the summer offers a lot of family-friendly activities that don’t require hiking, and there are plenty of options within a reasonable drive from Denver as well. Here are some ideas to fill your days with fun experiences for teenage kids:

Answer: Colorado Springs can offer some surprisingly cozy options for enjoying an outdoor heated pool or hot tub even in March, especially since the city’s elevation and climate often allow for mild winter-spring weather compared to higher mountain towns like Breckenridge. Here’s a breakdown of some options and considerations for your trip:

Answer: The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs is open to the public for certain areas and tours. Visitors can explore the grounds, visit the visitor center, and tour key landmarks, but there are specific rules and requirements to follow.

Answer: For a family visiting Colorado Springs for three nights in July, staying in a location that balances easy access to daytime activities and evening walkability is key. Since your focus is mainly sleeping accommodations and you want to explore breweries, gastropubs, and other nighttime activities on foot, the downtown area is generally the most convenient base.

Answer: While Colorado Springs itself doesn’t have large lakes for high-speed water sports, there are several nearby locations within a 1-2 hour drive where you can enjoy jet skiing, banana boating, and other fast water activities. Most are reservoirs or mountain lakes that offer rentals during the warmer months.

Answer: Great question! A 4-day trip to Colorado Springs with teens can be really fun, especially if you mix outdoor adventures like hiking and snow activities with scenic drives. Since the timing is “later this week” in early March, snow is possible but conditions will vary significantly depending on elevation. Here’s a suggested 4-day itinerary, plus guidance on snow expectations and safety.

Answer: The drive from Aspen to The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs covers approximately 430-450 miles depending on the route you take. Under normal summer conditions, the drive typically takes about 8 to 9 hours without long stops. It is a long journey through mountain roads, high passes, and scenic areas, so planning breaks is recommended for comfort and safety.

Answer: For a one-night stay in Colorado Springs with young children, you’ll want a hotel that balances convenience, comfort, and access to family-friendly attractions. Staying near Garden of the Gods or close to the downtown area offers both scenic views and easy access to casual dining.

Answer: Colorado Springs offers several guided jeep tours that are family-friendly and can accommodate young children. When traveling with kids ages 5 and 7, it’s important to look for tours that emphasize safety, slower pace, and the option for a private vehicle or small group to ensure a comfortable experience.

Answer: Both The Broadmoor and Cheyenne Mountain Resort are iconic Colorado Springs resorts, each with its own style and appeal. Since you are not interested in golf or tennis and want a great resort base for exploring local attractions, here are some points to consider.

Answer: The drive from Colorado Springs Airport (COS) to Salida offers several options, but the most scenic route combines mountain passes, river views, and charming small towns along the way. Instead of taking the most direct highways, a slightly longer route allows you to enjoy some of central Colorado’s iconic landscapes.

Answer: The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs is primarily a luxury resort, and the property is large and carefully managed. Generally, guests who are not staying at the resort are welcome to visit certain areas, such as the shops, art galleries, and public spaces, but access to some areas is restricted to overnight guests or those with reservations at restaurants, spas, or events.

Answer: Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is very visitor-friendly and similar in accessibility to what you might have experienced at Arches National Park. The park features a scenic loop drive that allows visitors to enjoy the stunning red rock formations without needing to hike.

Answer: Good news — most standard rental cars are fully allowed on the Pikes Peak Highway, and the vast majority of visitors who drive up the mountain are in regular sedans, SUVs, or minivans from rental companies. The road is paved all the way to the summit, and there are no special vehicle requirements such as 4WD, high clearance, or off-road capability.

Answer: Finding affordable and reliable dining options in Colorado Springs can be tricky since some popular “top cheap eats” lists are outdated and some restaurants have closed. Here are some current, highly-rated options for budget-friendly meals that are well-loved by locals and travelers alike.

Answer: Flying into either Denver or Colorado Springs gives you different starting points, so your itinerary can be adjusted accordingly. Since you have a rental car, you’ll have flexibility to explore both cities and nearby mountain areas.

Answer: The Pikes Peak Shuttle is a great option if you want flexibility and a lower cost compared to the Cog Railway. Here’s a detailed comparison and guide for planning your Labor Day visit.

Answer: Colorado Springs, especially near Pikes Peak, has several resort-style accommodations that offer stunning mountain views, outdoor spaces, and amenities such as pools and spa facilities. Since you’re looking for something beyond family-focused resorts like Great Wolf Lodge, there are options that cater more to relaxation and scenic mountain experiences.

Answer: The drive from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs can be much more than just a transfer; there are several scenic routes that allow you to enjoy Colorado’s foothills, mountain vistas, and charming small towns along the way. End of July is a great time for clear skies and lush landscapes.

Answer: Your itinerary for Colorado Springs is ambitious but doable if your family is comfortable with active days and driving between sites. Since it’s your first trip to Colorado and you’ll be based in Colorado Springs, you have a good mix of nature, sightseeing, and local attractions. Here’s a detailed look and suggestions for adjustments.

Answer: Given your itinerary through Colorado Springs, Royal Gorge, and Mt. Princeton, and your interests in photography and car touring with minimal hiking, there are several additional options worth considering to fill an extra day or two. This area is full of scenic drives, historic sites, and photogenic small towns that don’t require strenuous activity.

Answer: Both Glen Eyrie Lodge and the BW Plus Peak Vista Inn are viable options for a first-time stay in Colorado Springs, but they offer very different experiences. Your choice will depend on what kind of atmosphere and amenities you prefer.

Answer: The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a popular attraction in Colorado Springs, taking visitors from the base to the summit of Pikes Peak. It climbs over 14,000 feet, offering spectacular views along the way, but the steep grade and open-air nature of the train can be intimidating for those with a fear of heights.

Answer: For a stay near Colorado College in Colorado Springs that balances convenience, walkability, and comfort for both you and your 85-year-old mom, there are several good options to consider. Since you’ll be there for a reunion and have extra time to explore, staying in or near downtown Colorado Springs will give you easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions while still being close to the college.