Nerd out in the best possible way in Colorado Springs
Updated: June 18, 2026
Colorado Springs has a rich history that includes everything from the gold rush days and western heritage to industrial advancements and space exploration.
Learn about it all with this itinerary crafted for all the nerds-at-heart.
Colorado Springs is home to many historic hotels that hold a significant place in our city’s story. The Antlers Hotel was originally built by General William J. Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs. Palmer also built Glen Eyrie Castle for his family to live in, which is now a stunning lodging option. The Broadmoor is perhaps the most widely known historic lodging property in the city. It was founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist Spencer Penrose, who, along with his wife Julie, worked to shape Colorado Springs into the destination it is today! The Cliff House at Pikes Peak is another great historic option. Built in 1873, it’s hosted guests that include Theodore Roosevelt, Charles Dickens Jr., Thomas Edison and Clark Gable.
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Ivywild School is a century-old elementary school-turned-food hall that houses an award-winning brewery, a whiskey distillery, several dining concepts and retail. If you're an aviation enthusiast, the Airplane Restaurant is an obvious choice. It’s covered floor-to-ceiling in historic airplane memorabilia; you even have the option to dine inside a fully intact Boeing KC-97 tanker! Book a Victorian High Tea at either Glen Eyrie Castle or Queen's Parlour Team Room at Miramont Castle Museum to nosh on fancy snacks in beautiful castles. Be sure to also head to the Golden Bee, an authentic 19th century British Pub that was imported to The Broadmoor and reconstructed panel by panel.
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AM: Colorado Springs Historic Walking Tours
AM: Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
PM: Explore Old Colorado City
There’s no better introduction to local history than a Colorado Springs Historic Walking Tour in Downtown Colorado Springs! Your knowledgeable guide will share the well-known stories of the city’s most prominent figures, as well as more obscure tales of Wild West outlaws and the Gold Rush glory days.
Once you’re finished, pop over to the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (CSPM). This free museum displays fascinating artifacts that document the Pikes Peak Region’s past and present. Along with engaging exhibits, the CSPM boasts gorgeous architecture: the building was the county’s original courthouse over a century ago! Check their website ahead of time to see if you can make it to a lecture or themed event. It won’t take long for you to realize why the CSPM is a local favorite and a historical treasure.
Pro tip: On your way to Old Colorado City, stop at Visit Colorado Springs at 515 S. Cascade Avenue to see the Trolley Through Time mural that includes QR codes to learn about each element and bring the mural to life with moving elements!
Spend your afternoon and evening exploring Old Colorado City. This charming historic district was briefly Colorado’s territorial capital. You’ll see glimpses of the neighborhood's past as a bustling destination for miners embedded into the Victorian buildings. Back then, it was a hub full of saloons, supply stores and brothels. Nowadays, it’s an awesome area to stroll, shop and dine!
AM: Miramont Castle Museum
AM: Manitou Springs Mineral Spring Tour
PM: Western Museum of Mining and Industry
In the morning, visit Miramont Castle Museum in Manitou Springs. With 40 rooms, nine distinct architectural styles and beautiful gardens, you’ll have plenty to explore. This castle was built in 1895 and designed by architect Father Francolon, who came to Manitou for health reasons. Francolon had traveled the world before constructing Miramont, so global influences can be seen in the unique architectural styles such as English Tudor and Byzantine. There’s also an on-site tuberculosis hut that’s a surviving relic from when the castle was leased to the Sisters of Mercy and used as the Montcalm Sanitarium.
Since you’re in Manitou Springs, you can’t leave without tasting the famous mineral springs the town is named for! This effervescent mineral water was the impetus for Manitou becoming a health destination. As people started to settle in the region to heal from tuberculosis and other ailments, they hoped this mineral-rich water would improve their health. Today, you can still taste water from 8 different springs, each with its own flavor due to varying mineral content. Stop by the Manitou Springs Visitor Center to pick up a tasting cup for your tour!
Once you're sufficiently hydrated from the spring water, head north to the Western Museum of Mining and Industry. Mining made the Pikes Peak Region what it is today, so seeing the machinery and processes behind the trade is a major key to understanding our city’s history. Pan for gold yourself to get an up-close look at how miners made a living!
AM: Pikes Peak Trolley Museum
PM: National Museum of WWII Aviation
PM: Colorado Springs Philharmonic show
Kick off the day with a visit to the Pikes Peak Trolley Museum. This hidden gem will give you an engaging look into this historic mode of transportation that was integral to the development of Colorado Springs. It also doubles as a restoration site, so you may even catch the volunteers bringing old streetcars back to working condition!
Ready to move from land to air? Because next on the agenda is a visit to the National Museum of World War II Aviation. Military history is deeply intertwined with Colorado Springs’ story, as it’s home to five prominent military installations. This museum delights all visitors, not just airplane enthusiasts. See over 4,000 artifacts from the WWII, including 28 fully restored and operational aircraft! Make sure to check their website ahead of time so you can catch flying demonstrations, special tours and lectures.
Close out the day with a stirring music experience by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic! This world-class orchestra, led by music director Chloé Dufresne, has been delighting audiences for 100 years. The group most often performs at the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts in Downtown Colorado Springs.
AM: Hike Vindicator Valley Trail
AM: Visit Rita the Rock Planter Troll
PM: Cripple Creek Heritage Center
PM: Explore the Cripple Creek main street
PM: Ride the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
Spend your final day in the Pikes Peak Region immersed in the Gold Rush history of Cripple Creek and Victor. These neighboring mining towns an hour outside of Colorado Springs are worth the trip. Start with a leisurely hike around Vindicator Valley Trail! This evenly paved two-mile trail is beginner-friendly and offers a glimpse at old gold mines of the city’s past along with beautiful mountain views. Don’t leave Victor without checking out Rita the Rock Planter – a beautiful troll sculpture created by world-renowned artist Thomas Dambo. She’s just a short hike away from the parking lot, so a small detour for a big reward!
After your hiking adventures, peruse the artifacts at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center. This museum overlooks Cripple Creek and is the perfect introduction to the city. Once you’re done taking in the history and learning about the city’s attractions, head down to the main strip to admire historic buildings, shops and quaint local restaurants. You might even run into the free-roaming Cripple Creek Donkeys!
Close out the day with a scenic ride on the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. This train ride will bring a peaceful end to your trip while teaching you railroad and mining history! Make sure to check the schedule ahead of time, as the train operates seasonally May through October.
If you’re looking for some events to attend that will inspire the timing of your trip, these historically and culturally significant sites and events are excellent choices.
June 17, 2026
Wake up early and bring your appetite! It’s time for one of Colorado Springs’ most beloved traditions.
September 19 — 20, 2026
The Pikes Peak Regional Airshow returns to Colorado Springs in September of 2026!
June 12 — 14, 2026
The Cripple Creek Gold Rush Rodeo (previously known as the Top of the World Rodeo) has fun for the entire…
Looking for even more? Check out these resources to plan additional days in the Pikes Peak Region. And don't forget – you can always use our AI chatbot Penny in the bottom righthand corner to further assist you in your trip planning.
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