Updated: January 15, 2026

5 Things You Still Haven’t Done in COS

Let’s make 2026 the most fun year yet

You know that ongoing bucket list you’ve been meaning to cross off for years? It’s 2026 and it’s time to bring your Pikes Peak Region bucket list to life. Here are 5 things you still haven’t done in the Pikes Peak Region – what are you waiting for?

1. Stand on the summit of Pikes Peak

America’s Mountain is perhaps the most iconic feature of Colorado Springs, yet many visitors – and locals – have yet to summit her majestic peak. With many ways to get to the top, and accessible paths and Summit Visitor Center awaiting, it’s doable for those of many ages and abilities. A few of our favorite ways to get to the top = hiking, driving and riding the historic The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway.

2. Visit the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun

The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun is a historic monument located 1.4 miles from the Zoo entrance and was built by Spencer Penrose between 1934-1937. The shrine includes beautiful artwork and murals, a chapel, a chime that has played music since 1937 and spectacular views. Take a trip on your next visit to the Zoo, or sign up for the Zoo’s annual Run to the Shrine (walking is allowed) every May.

3. Do an Art on the Streets walking tour

For 24 years now, Downtown Ventures has created Art on the Streets, which turns Downtown Colorado Springs into a yearlong outdoor gallery. It’s a fun, vibrant way to explore downtown while taking in the thought-provoking sculptures and murals from local artists. Do a self-guided tour with the Otocast mobile app
that includes commentary from the artists themselves, or sign up for a guided walking tour!

4. Attend a performance or exhibit at Ent Center for the Arts

Did you know there’s great shows and galleries right at your fingertips at the UCCS campus? Ent Center for the Arts features galleries of contemporary arts, Theatreworks performances and more programs open to the public. Some are free and others require ticket purchases. View the full calendar of events online.

5. Try a new outdoor activity!

The Pikes Peak Region is bustling with options for outdoor activities. Whether snowshoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding are on your bucket list, it’s time to finally give it a go. There are great options for renting gear at local shops like Pikes Peak Outfitter, or gear rental sites like GOBE
and Quiptu.

Author

Alexea Veneracion

Director of Communications | Visit Colorado Springs

Alexea is a Hoosier turned Colorado gal. She started her career at a PR agency before diving headfirst into all things tourism. Her favorite spot in COS is the summit of Mt. Muscoco, and she’s the most likely to find an innovative solution to a problem. Ask her about the next great story idea for what’s happening in the Pikes Peak Region.

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