Top 11 Weekend and Day Trips from Colorado Springs

Looking for unforgettable things to do in Colorado Springs and beyond? Thanks to its central location and easy access to towering peaks, quaint small mountain towns, and breathtaking national parks, Colorado Springs is the perfect starting point for both quick day trips and memorable weekend getaways.

Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, charming downtowns, or hot springs, here are our top picks for the best weekend and day trips from Colorado Springs:

1. 1. Denver

2. 2. Manitou Springs

3. 3. Woodland Park

4. 4. Cañon City

5. 5. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

6. 6. Breckenridge
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8. 7. Boulder
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10. 8. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
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    9. Steamboat Springs
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13. 10. Glenwood Hot Springs
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15. 11. Rocky Mountain National Park

Nearby Small Towns and Day Trips from Colorado Springs

Just a short drive from the city, these nearby towns and scenic spots offer some of the best quick day trips for locals and visitors alike.

1. 1. Denver: Just an hour away, Denver makes for an easy day trip where you can stroll through world-class museums, explore the Denver Botanic Gardens, grab lunch in LoDo, or sample craft breweries before heading back home the very same day.
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1. 2. Manitou Springs: Just outside of Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs is a resort city perfect for a quick getaway. Hike the Manitou Incline, explore the Cave of the Winds, wander local shops, and sip from its natural mineral springs.
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1. 3. Woodland Park: With sweeping views of Pikes Peak and a peaceful mountain-town atmosphere, Woodland Park is perfect for a refreshing day trip that includes nature trails, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and inviting local cafés.
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1. 4. Cañon City: About an hour drive south leads you to Cañon City, where you can spend the day riding the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, driving the scenic Skyline Drive, touring local wineries, or walking through its historic downtown.
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1. 5. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park: Located just west of Cañon City, Royal Gorge Bridge & Park offers some of Colorado’s most dramatic views. Spend the day walking the suspension bridge, riding the aerial gondola, ziplining across the canyon, or simply taking in the scenery before heading back to Colorado Springs.
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Weekend Trips from Colorado Springs

1. 6. Breckenridge: A beloved mountain town about two hours away, Breckenridge is perfect for a full weekend of adventure. Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter, scenic hikes and festivals in the summer, and a charming Main Street filled with shops, cafés, and après-ski spots any time of year.
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1. 7. Boulder: Known for its lively downtown, outdoor recreation, and culinary scene, Boulder makes an excellent weekend escape. Spend your days hiking Chautauqua Park, exploring Pearl Street, visiting local breweries, and taking in views of the Flatirons before settling into one of the city’s boutique hotels.
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1. 8. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: For a truly unique Colorado experience, head to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, where towering sand dunes meet alpine vistas. Spend the weekend sandboarding, stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the state, and exploring the surrounding foothills and forests.
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1. 9. Steamboat Springs: A scenic mountain town known for its four-season recreation, Steamboat Springs invites weekend travelers to unwind in natural hot springs, explore miles of trails, and enjoy a welcoming downtown filled with shops and local eateries.
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1. 10. Glenwood Hot Springs: For a relaxing and scenic retreat, Glenwood Hot Springs offers one of the largest mineral hot springs pools in the world. Visitors can soak in naturally heated waters, enjoy spa amenities, and take in the surrounding mountain views, making it an ideal destination for a restorative weekend.
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1. 11. Rocky Mountain National Park: Just over two hours north of Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park boasts 415 square miles of spectacular mountain terrain, towering peaks, scenic trails, and incredible wildlife viewing. No matter the season, this park delivers classic Colorado adventure all year long. Bonus: the charming town of Estes Park at the base of the national park boasts cozy lodgings and a delicious culinary scene, along with can’t-miss shopping, spas, wineries, and arts and culture to round out your weekend.
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With so many unforgettable day trips and weekend getaways just minutes from your doorstep, living in Colorado Springs puts adventure in your backyard. Ready to come home to a community that connects you to it all? Explore new homes by Vantage Homes today.