Garden of the Gods Guidebook

Marisa
Garden of the Gods Guidebook

Sightseeing

The towering red rock formations of the Garden of the Gods Park come alive when you visit the free Visitor and Nature Center and explore the geology, plants, animals and people of this amazing 1334.64-acre regional park, located at 1805 North 30th Street in Colorado Springs. This incredible city-owned park is truly one of a kind. The site is a National Natural Landmark, having been recognized by the Department of the Interior as "a nationally-significant natural area." It offers towering sandstone formations, a wonderful view of Pikes Peak, paved and unpaved hiking paths, the historic Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, a living history museum, placed on the National Register for Historic Places in 1971, and many other amenities.
1169 locals recommend
Garden of the Gods Club and Resort
3320 Mesa Rd
1169 locals recommend
The towering red rock formations of the Garden of the Gods Park come alive when you visit the free Visitor and Nature Center and explore the geology, plants, animals and people of this amazing 1334.64-acre regional park, located at 1805 North 30th Street in Colorado Springs. This incredible city-owned park is truly one of a kind. The site is a National Natural Landmark, having been recognized by the Department of the Interior as "a nationally-significant natural area." It offers towering sandstone formations, a wonderful view of Pikes Peak, paved and unpaved hiking paths, the historic Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, a living history museum, placed on the National Register for Historic Places in 1971, and many other amenities.
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living history museum located on 230 acres at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, CO. Historical interpreters, dressed in clothing appropriate to their respective era, offer tours, demonstrations, and hands-on learning activities. Experience the daily lives of the people that lived, worked, hunted, herded, and raised families on this land at Rock Ledge Ranch. Check-out our special events throughout the year!
41 locals recommend
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
3105 Gateway Rd
41 locals recommend
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living history museum located on 230 acres at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, CO. Historical interpreters, dressed in clothing appropriate to their respective era, offer tours, demonstrations, and hands-on learning activities. Experience the daily lives of the people that lived, worked, hunted, herded, and raised families on this land at Rock Ledge Ranch. Check-out our special events throughout the year!
In busy Old Colorado City, galleries and quaint gift stores cluster alongside jewelers, candy shops, and tattoo parlors in 19th-century brick buildings along Colorado Avenue. Dining options range from American eateries to Italian trattorias and Greek tavernas. The Old Colorado City History Center Museum has exhibits on early pioneer settlement, and Simpich Showcase features puppet productions and a folk doll museum
388 locals recommend
Old Colorado City
388 locals recommend
In busy Old Colorado City, galleries and quaint gift stores cluster alongside jewelers, candy shops, and tattoo parlors in 19th-century brick buildings along Colorado Avenue. Dining options range from American eateries to Italian trattorias and Greek tavernas. The Old Colorado City History Center Museum has exhibits on early pioneer settlement, and Simpich Showcase features puppet productions and a folk doll museum
Pikes Peak, known as America’s Mountain, is the star attraction, but the journey along the way is full of show-stopping moments. You will never forget this 3.5 hour round trip journey and your first glimpse of the Summit. Get your advance tickets now to secure your seat on one of our many regular daily departures.
211 locals recommend
Pikes Peak Cog Railway
515 Ruxton Avenue
211 locals recommend
Pikes Peak, known as America’s Mountain, is the star attraction, but the journey along the way is full of show-stopping moments. You will never forget this 3.5 hour round trip journey and your first glimpse of the Summit. Get your advance tickets now to secure your seat on one of our many regular daily departures.
Enjoy Pikes Peak at your leisure on the safe, scenic Pikes Peak Highway. Encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world as you wind your way through an alpine wonderland, mountain reservoirs, beyond timberline, overtaking the clouds... all along the way to the 14,115 foot summit of America's most famous mountain.
681 locals recommend
Pikes Peak Summit House
681 locals recommend
Enjoy Pikes Peak at your leisure on the safe, scenic Pikes Peak Highway. Encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world as you wind your way through an alpine wonderland, mountain reservoirs, beyond timberline, overtaking the clouds... all along the way to the 14,115 foot summit of America's most famous mountain.
One of the best places to visit in Colorado Springs, particularly for families, is the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, home to a wide variety of species, with both domestic and exotic animals. A chairlift runs over the zoo and provides wonderful views of the park and its surroundings.
569 locals recommend
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd
569 locals recommend
One of the best places to visit in Colorado Springs, particularly for families, is the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, home to a wide variety of species, with both domestic and exotic animals. A chairlift runs over the zoo and provides wonderful views of the park and its surroundings.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park, at the edge of the foothills and the plains, is known for its diverse plant and animal life. Some of the inhabitants include black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and a wide variety of both native and migrant birds. Among the main features of the park are Helen Hunt Falls, the spectacular rock formations, and the Starsmore Discovery Center. Hiking trails of varying length, ranging from less than a mile to four miles, allow visitors to access beautiful sites, including Silver Cascade Falls. If you are planning to embark on one of the longer trails, or looking for additional information on the park, stop by the visitor center.
114 locals recommend
North Cheyenne Cañon Park
15220 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd
114 locals recommend
North Cheyenne Cañon Park, at the edge of the foothills and the plains, is known for its diverse plant and animal life. Some of the inhabitants include black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and a wide variety of both native and migrant birds. Among the main features of the park are Helen Hunt Falls, the spectacular rock formations, and the Starsmore Discovery Center. Hiking trails of varying length, ranging from less than a mile to four miles, allow visitors to access beautiful sites, including Silver Cascade Falls. If you are planning to embark on one of the longer trails, or looking for additional information on the park, stop by the visitor center.
The Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum is located in the old El Paso County Courthouse, which was built in 1903. Here, you'll find exhibits about the history of the town, as well as Pikes Peak and the surrounding area. The museum is set in a park with beautiful lawns, gardens, trees, a granite fountain, and outdoor sculptures. Tens of thousands of items are contained in its extensive collection, which is particularly well known for its assortment of quilts and Van Briggle art pottery. In addition, the museum contains a large collection of regional art. Native American items include significant pieces from the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho cultures. Also part of the museum is the Starsmore Center for Local History.
197 locals recommend
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
215 S Tejon St
197 locals recommend
The Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum is located in the old El Paso County Courthouse, which was built in 1903. Here, you'll find exhibits about the history of the town, as well as Pikes Peak and the surrounding area. The museum is set in a park with beautiful lawns, gardens, trees, a granite fountain, and outdoor sculptures. Tens of thousands of items are contained in its extensive collection, which is particularly well known for its assortment of quilts and Van Briggle art pottery. In addition, the museum contains a large collection of regional art. Native American items include significant pieces from the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho cultures. Also part of the museum is the Starsmore Center for Local History.
The Peterson Air and Space Museum is the state's oldest museum of flight, housed in original airfield structures that were built during World War II. It is one of the many free things to do in Colorado Springs, full of interesting artifacts, an airpark, and the Medal of Honor Park. Because of its location inside an active military base, visitors should be prepared for security checks. Note that you will need to request a pass online at least one day in advance.
16 locals recommend
Peterson Air & Space Museum
Ent Avenue
16 locals recommend
The Peterson Air and Space Museum is the state's oldest museum of flight, housed in original airfield structures that were built during World War II. It is one of the many free things to do in Colorado Springs, full of interesting artifacts, an airpark, and the Medal of Honor Park. Because of its location inside an active military base, visitors should be prepared for security checks. Note that you will need to request a pass online at least one day in advance.
Perched on 700 acres of rolling hills and red sandstone spires, Glen Eyrie Castle is a historic landmark home. It was built by the founder of Colorado Springs, General William Jackson Palmer, who constructed a massive carriage house for his family in the 19th century. Later it was restructured and became the castle you see today. It operates as a hotel and an event space, but even if you're not a guest, you are still welcome to roam the gorgeously manicured grounds, or stop by for afternoon tea. Tours are offered twice daily, as well, except for Sunday.
71 locals recommend
Glen Eyrie Castle
3820 N 30th St
71 locals recommend
Perched on 700 acres of rolling hills and red sandstone spires, Glen Eyrie Castle is a historic landmark home. It was built by the founder of Colorado Springs, General William Jackson Palmer, who constructed a massive carriage house for his family in the 19th century. Later it was restructured and became the castle you see today. It operates as a hotel and an event space, but even if you're not a guest, you are still welcome to roam the gorgeously manicured grounds, or stop by for afternoon tea. Tours are offered twice daily, as well, except for Sunday.
Located just north of Colorado Springs, at the base of the Front Range, our campus sits on 18,500 acres of breathtaking mountain panoramas. The youngest of five military service academies, we boast stunning mid-century modern architecture, state-of-the-art Division I athletic facilities, and unparalleled academic research centers. Here 4,000 exceptional young men and women from across the United States become future leaders in service to our nation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat guest, we hope to make your visit memorable and inspiring. Our visitor resources include important details for getting on base, business hours, and places of interest. Explore the campus using our convenient self-guided tour or visit us through our incredible virtual experience from the comfort of home. Take advantage of the Colorado outdoors using our handy trail guide or by taking part in ample fishing and hunting activities. Bringing the whole family? Our scavenger hunt, Instagram-worthy photo spots, and frequent furry visitors will keep the kiddos on their toes.
215 locals recommend
U.S. Air Force Academy
215 locals recommend
Located just north of Colorado Springs, at the base of the Front Range, our campus sits on 18,500 acres of breathtaking mountain panoramas. The youngest of five military service academies, we boast stunning mid-century modern architecture, state-of-the-art Division I athletic facilities, and unparalleled academic research centers. Here 4,000 exceptional young men and women from across the United States become future leaders in service to our nation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat guest, we hope to make your visit memorable and inspiring. Our visitor resources include important details for getting on base, business hours, and places of interest. Explore the campus using our convenient self-guided tour or visit us through our incredible virtual experience from the comfort of home. Take advantage of the Colorado outdoors using our handy trail guide or by taking part in ample fishing and hunting activities. Bringing the whole family? Our scavenger hunt, Instagram-worthy photo spots, and frequent furry visitors will keep the kiddos on their toes.
Huge. Hundreds of games. It's a fun arcade for young and old featuring the latest games mixed with old favorites. Parts of it feel like a playable museum.
166 locals recommend
Manitou Springs Penny Arcade
930 Manitou Ave
166 locals recommend
Huge. Hundreds of games. It's a fun arcade for young and old featuring the latest games mixed with old favorites. Parts of it feel like a playable museum.
Cave tours, spectacular scenery, rides and attractions from mild to wild.
464 locals recommend
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
100 Cave of the Winds Rd
464 locals recommend
Cave tours, spectacular scenery, rides and attractions from mild to wild.
Amazing hiking for all skill levels and lengths of trails. Beautiful scenery often less crowded than the trails of Garden of the Gods.
430 locals recommend
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
3550 W High St
430 locals recommend
Amazing hiking for all skill levels and lengths of trails. Beautiful scenery often less crowded than the trails of Garden of the Gods.
Another great hiking area for skilled hikers. This trail is moderate with some inclines and rocky terrain and spectacular views.
34 locals recommend
Section 16 Trailhead
Gold Camp Road
34 locals recommend
Another great hiking area for skilled hikers. This trail is moderate with some inclines and rocky terrain and spectacular views.

Food scene

Greek eats including gluten-free choices presented in a cheery space with a deck & mountain .
73 locals recommend
Jake and Telly’s Greek Taverna
2616 Colorado Ave
73 locals recommend
Greek eats including gluten-free choices presented in a cheery space with a deck & mountain .
Snug Salvadoran eatery serving homestyle gluten-free pupusas & tostadas with vegan & meaty fillings.
29 locals recommend
Monse's Pupuseria
115 S 25th St
29 locals recommend
Snug Salvadoran eatery serving homestyle gluten-free pupusas & tostadas with vegan & meaty fillings.
Festive fixture for a lengthy drink menu & pub grub in a spacious setting packed with movie props.
74 locals recommend
Mother Muff’s Kitchen and Spirits
2432 W Colorado Ave
74 locals recommend
Festive fixture for a lengthy drink menu & pub grub in a spacious setting packed with movie props.
Easygoing restaurant with a patio dishing up pizzas, plus subs, salads & desserts. Plus, the absolute best gluten free pizza option in Colorado Springs.
40 locals recommend
Slice420
2501 W Colorado Ave
40 locals recommend
Easygoing restaurant with a patio dishing up pizzas, plus subs, salads & desserts. Plus, the absolute best gluten free pizza option in Colorado Springs.
Warm venue pairing wine with traditional & creative spins on Spanish tapas, all gluten-free.
59 locals recommend
TAPAteria
2607 W Colorado Ave
59 locals recommend
Warm venue pairing wine with traditional & creative spins on Spanish tapas, all gluten-free.
Popular, upscale restaurant serving creative global fare & drinks in a warm, atmospheric space.
23 locals recommend
Carlos' Bistro
1025 S 21st St
23 locals recommend
Popular, upscale restaurant serving creative global fare & drinks in a warm, atmospheric space.
Breakfast & lunch standby known for its spicy green-chile dishes & hearty Mexican & American eats.
21 locals recommend
Western Omelette
16 S Walnut St
21 locals recommend
Breakfast & lunch standby known for its spicy green-chile dishes & hearty Mexican & American eats.
Elegant space at The Broadmoor resort serving daily breakfast a la carte or from a buffet.
8 locals recommend
Lake Terrace Dining Room
1 Lake Ave
8 locals recommend
Elegant space at The Broadmoor resort serving daily breakfast a la carte or from a buffet.
Rustic trattoria with a lively atmosphere doling out classic Italian dishes with homemade sauces.
127 locals recommend
Paravicini's Italian Bistro
2802 W Colorado Ave
127 locals recommend
Rustic trattoria with a lively atmosphere doling out classic Italian dishes with homemade sauces.
Family-owned eatery serving up standard Thai fare, including curry, rice & noodle dishes.
14 locals recommend
Wild Ginger Thai Restaurant
2628 W Colorado Ave
14 locals recommend
Family-owned eatery serving up standard Thai fare, including curry, rice & noodle dishes.
Brisket, ribs & sides served up cafeteria-style in a no-frills setting with indoor picnic tables.
75 locals recommend
Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q
315 S 31st St
75 locals recommend
Brisket, ribs & sides served up cafeteria-style in a no-frills setting with indoor picnic tables.
Down-home breakfast & lunch dishes (plus Thursday-Sunday early dinner) in a cozy converted house.
71 locals recommend
Meadow Muffins
2223 Colorado Ave
71 locals recommend
Down-home breakfast & lunch dishes (plus Thursday-Sunday early dinner) in a cozy converted house.
Quaint, small space delivering Neapolitan thin-crust pizzas made from area-sourced ingredients.
71 locals recommend
Pizzeria Rustica
2527 W Colorado Ave
71 locals recommend
Quaint, small space delivering Neapolitan thin-crust pizzas made from area-sourced ingredients.
Happening joint with Southern-style BBQ & other down-home favorites, plus a full bar & live music.
129 locals recommend
Front Range Barbeque
2330 W Colorado Ave
129 locals recommend
Happening joint with Southern-style BBQ & other down-home favorites, plus a full bar & live music.
Family-owned, counter-serve Mexican nook making build-your-own burritos, homemade tortillas & sides.
6 locals recommend
Azada Mexican Grill
16 E Bijou St
6 locals recommend
Family-owned, counter-serve Mexican nook making build-your-own burritos, homemade tortillas & sides.
Homey bar/eatery since 1985 with local art preparing mainly vegetarian dishes & homemade desserts.
104 locals recommend
Adam’s Mountain Cafe
26 Manitou Ave
104 locals recommend
Homey bar/eatery since 1985 with local art preparing mainly vegetarian dishes & homemade desserts.
Excellent Thai food, a family favorite, locally owned, great service and easy dine in or take out options.
13 locals recommend
Eim Thai
1466 Garden of the Gods Rd
13 locals recommend
Excellent Thai food, a family favorite, locally owned, great service and easy dine in or take out options.
THE go-to for Chinese delivery or take out. Good food, good prices, and great portions.
Lucky Dragon Chinese Restaurant
402 W Fillmore St
THE go-to for Chinese delivery or take out. Good food, good prices, and great portions.
This is a quintessential Colorado brewery and place to eat from local permanent food "trucks" while choosing indoor or outdoor seating, beautiful views and a fun atmosphere. Gluten free options are excellent!
50 locals recommend
Red Leg Brewing Company
2323 Garden of the Gods Road
50 locals recommend
This is a quintessential Colorado brewery and place to eat from local permanent food "trucks" while choosing indoor or outdoor seating, beautiful views and a fun atmosphere. Gluten free options are excellent!
BEST tacos in town!
Zocalo Colorado
BEST tacos in town!

Breweries & Drinks

Cozy choice offering American & Irish pub grub, craft brews & specialty cocktails amid rustic decor.
43 locals recommend
Alchemy
2625 W Colorado Ave
43 locals recommend
Cozy choice offering American & Irish pub grub, craft brews & specialty cocktails amid rustic decor.
Spacious, pet-friendly eatery serving an array of hearty pub grub standards alongside beer & wine.
25 locals recommend
Pub Dog Colorado
2207 Bott Ave
25 locals recommend
Spacious, pet-friendly eatery serving an array of hearty pub grub standards alongside beer & wine.
Happening bar & kitchen with an extensive craft beer menu & creative, Asian-inspired gastropub eats.
80 locals recommend
503W
503 W Colorado Ave
80 locals recommend
Happening bar & kitchen with an extensive craft beer menu & creative, Asian-inspired gastropub eats.
Craft cocktail lounge with chic decor & activities including pool, TVs, live bands & happy hour.
Bar-K
124 E Costilla St
Craft cocktail lounge with chic decor & activities including pool, TVs, live bands & happy hour.
Cozy hangout offering whiskey, craft cocktails & bar bites in a Gothic-inspired space.
18 locals recommend
Shame & Regret
15 E Bijou St
18 locals recommend
Cozy hangout offering whiskey, craft cocktails & bar bites in a Gothic-inspired space.
You won't be disappointed! Also a great place to eat from local food "trucks" that are permanently on the property.
50 locals recommend
Red Leg Brewing Company
2323 Garden of the Gods Road
50 locals recommend
You won't be disappointed! Also a great place to eat from local food "trucks" that are permanently on the property.

Essentials

118 locals recommend
Safeway
3275 W Colorado Ave
118 locals recommend
24 locals recommend
Costco Wholesale
5050 N Nevada Ave
24 locals recommend
20 locals recommend
Walgreens
4315 Centennial Blvd
20 locals recommend
78 locals recommend
Walmart Supercenter
707 S 8th St
78 locals recommend
Staples
4520 Centennial Boulevard
Another grocery store option!
King Soopers
Another grocery store option!

Coffee Shops

Seattle-based coffeehouse chain known for its signature roasts, light bites and WiFi availability.
Starbucks
3275 West Colorado Avenue
Seattle-based coffeehouse chain known for its signature roasts, light bites and WiFi availability.
Pneuma Coffee House
505 Castle Road
15 locals recommend
Carnelian Coffee Co
2428 W Colorado Ave
15 locals recommend
Laid-back spot with local artwork offers unique coffee drinks & smoothies, plus frequent live music.
45 locals recommend
Jives Coffee Lounge
16 Colbrunn Ct
45 locals recommend
Laid-back spot with local artwork offers unique coffee drinks & smoothies, plus frequent live music.