Skip to content
PLAN YOUR TRIP

Updated: May 19, 2023

How to Plan a Low-Cost Trip in COS Amid High Gas Prices

Here are some tips to save on costs while visiting.

With gas prices on the rise, spring and summer travel season might look a little different this year – but having a tighter budget doesn’t have to equate to having less fun. For families seeking a trip full of adventure without overspending, Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region offer plenty of low-cost and free options. Check out our resources before planning your visit.

Free Activities

Hiking Trails – Spending time outdoors is not only good for the mind, body and soul, but also the wallet! Check out parks like Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon Open Space and North Cheyenne Cañon for some of the best hiking trails to enjoy.

Parks and Open Spaces – Our region has an abundance of free parks and open spaces. Bear Creek Regional Park and Fox Run Regional Park both have Nature Centers that offer incredible programming for families.

Museums – Head to free museums like the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, Penrose Heritage Museum and Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum where you’ll learn a ton and have fun doing it.

For more ideas, check out our Free Family Fun itinerary.

Low-Cost Activities

Explore Neighborhoods – Areas like Old Colorado City and Downtown Manitou Springs are fun to spend the afternoon browsing and exploring. Both areas are full of shops, restaurants and parks to enjoy. Manitou Springs also has a self-guided mineral spring walking tour that your family will love.

Head to an Affordable Attraction – The area has plenty of attractions to visit that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Head to places like Miramont Castle Museum, the Space Foundation Discovery Center and the Ghost Town Museum.

Soak in Local Art – Whether you’re in town for a First Friday Artwalk or exploring on your own, the local art scene is something you won’t want to miss. Check out various galleries, or do a guided or self-guided Art on the Streets tour.

For more low-cost activities, check out Pikes Peak Region Attractions.

Alternative Lodging

Downtown Lodging – Instead of driving everywhere in town, consider lodging in a central location like Downtown Colorado Springs where you can walk or use alternative transportation to explore. Downtown hotel options include the Hilton Garden Inn, Kinship Landing, The Mining Exchange and SpringHill Suites by Marriott/The Element by Westin. Explore more lodging options on our site.

Camping and RV Parks – Head to one of the area’s many incredible campgrounds or RV parks as an alternative to a traditional hotel stay. Options include Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Colorado Springs KOA and Golden Eagle Campground. Find more here.

Bunkrooms – Want to save money on a downtown hotel room? Kinship Landing is equipped with shared bunkrooms that offer both privacy and affordability.

Vacation Rentals – Families can often save on costs by booking a vacation rental. View some of our local options here.

Explore more lodging options on our site.

Alternative Transportation

Scooters and e-bikes – Colorado Springs now offers e-bike and scooter options to get around. Check out PikeRide bike share, a nonprofit with a mission to elevate the community with a fun, healthy, planet friendly and cost-effective way to get around. Hubs are located in Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs. Learn more about the scooter options, including rules for riding and parking.

Buses – Colorado Springs has a bus system, Mountain Metro, that can transport people all around the city. Additionally, there are options like Gray Line Tours that can take people on excursions like up Pikes Peak Highway.

For more transportation options, check out our transportation page.

Related Stories
Magazine cover with man and dog overlooking a beautiful, vibrant landscape
Start Planning Your Colorado Springs Trip

Get Your FREE Official Vacation Planner for Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region.

Request A Vacation Planner