Whether you’re looking to learn about the local environment and wildlife, experience white knuckle thrills, or bond with your family, Pikes Peak offers tons of attractions and adventures for an unforgettable trip. Here are the top three experiences to try when you visit:

1. Family Fun in the Pikes Peak Region

Create unforgettable memories when you visit America’s Mountain: Pikes Peak. Drive the 19 miles to the top, making frequent stops on the pull-offs to get out, stretch your legs, and take stunning photos to look back on later. Pikes Peak is also the perfect spot to learn about the history, geology, nature, and wildlife in Colorado!

• Plan to spend an afternoon at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, home to more than 750 animals and America’s only mountain zoo. Feed the giraffes, ride the historic carousel and be sure to check out the incredible views.
• If you want to celebrate the holiday season year-round, take those good boys and girls to Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole, where they can enjoy Christmas-themed rides and of course see the elves in action.
• In Pikes Peak, you can even turn a family dinner into a fun event. Flying W Ranch offers traditional Chuckwagon cookouts complete with cowboy singalongs and delicious home-cooked food.
• Experience the mighty crashing waters of The Broadmoor Seven Falls in Pikes Peak. Drawing in families from all over the world, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking scenery, unique hiking trails, a gift shop, Restaurant 1858, and more.
• The Garden of the Gods Trading Post is ideal for families who want to relax after a long day of playing in Pikes Peak. Enjoy the 25,000 square feet of space, indulge yourself in a delicious treat from Colorado City Creamery, and shop for unique gifts and souvenirs to remember your trip by.
• Old Colorado City, once planned to become the capital of Colorado, is a unique city full of history and small-town charm. Enjoy the area’s eclectic boutiques, award-winning dining options, striking local art galleries, and other family-friendly activities on your next visit.

You can view all the best family-friendly things to do here.

2. Unique Thrills for the Adventurous Traveler

Whitewater rafting is a favorite Colorado pastime, and Echo Canyon River Expeditions can help you check this adventure off your bucket list. Choose from half, full, and even multi-day excursions for a heart-pounding good time.

• Cave of The Winds Mountain Park is another must-see for thrill-seekers. If you’re feeling really brave, ride the Terror-Dactyl, which launches screaming passengers across Williams Canyon at 100-miles-per-hour! There’s also a gentler Bat-a-Pult aerial adventure plus a world-class climbing course, cave tours, and more.
• Hit the road or take to the skies with Adventures Out West. This tour provider and outfitter offers hot air balloon rides for awesome views of Pikes Peak, some of the best zipline experiences in Colorado, off-road jeep tours, rafting trips, guided hikes, and more.
• Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is another sight to behold, crossing the Arkansas River at a height of 956 feet. Adrenaline junkies will love riding the Skycoaster or Cloudscraper ZipRider. There is also a mountaineering experience, gondola ride, and even a playland for little ones to enjoy.
• Experience the wild side of Colorado when you join The Broadmoor Outfitters for thrilling outdoor adventure and unmatched hospitality. You will have access to some of the best instructors in the area, available to help you get started on Stand Up Paddleboarding, ziplining, and some of the more unique activities available like falconry, mountain biking, and paintball.

See all of the most thrilling experiences in Pikes Peak here.

3. Must-Sees for History Buffs

At the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, you can literally walk through history and touch the past. These preserved Ancient Puebloan structures date back hundreds of years and offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of indigenous people.

• Since 1891, the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway has operated as the world’s highest cog railway and takes visitors up to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak.
• For even more historic architecture and fun, spend a day strolling through downtown Historic Manitou Springs, where you’ll find plenty of galleries, shops, and dining. Historic Cripple Creek is another well-preserved Western town with plenty of family-friendly fun year-round.
• With the Pikes Peak Tour by Gray Line, you can leave the driving to the experts and enjoy a tour of Pikes Peak for all its worth. Gray Line Tours, which has a 42-year history, makes your tour of the area a leisurely adventure, giving you plenty of time to take in all of Pikes Peak’s beauty and history.
• Find out more about historical attractions around the Pikes Peak Region here.

Ready to plan your next adventure in the Pikes Peak Region near Colorado Springs? You can find things to do, lodging options, and even more travel inspiration here.

*This blog post is sponsored by Pikes Peak Region Attractions.