A true Pikes Peak Region summer bucket list
Updated: May 12, 2026
The area in and around Colorado Springs is magical in the summer, with endless adventures to be had.
While it can get hot during the day, it cools off nicely in the evenings. It can be overwhelming to know what to prioritize, so we’re here to help. Enter: your perfect summer itinerary.
Make the most of the nice weather and seek out a camping-inspired stay in the area. If you want to be in the heart of Downtown, camp out at Kinship Landing’s camping deck. You’ll be near all the great city center amenities, have access to a bathroom and shower and get to experience urban camping. Pitch a tent, hang a hammock and enjoy the view of the downtown scape set against the peaks.
Another option is booking a spot at the Colorado Springs KOA. Located south of town, this location offers cabins, RV sites and traditional camping sites with access to an incredible pool – splash park, water slides, playground and more.
Browse all lodging options and categories here.
Make the most of patio season while you dine – we have plenty of them in Colorado Springs! Favorites include Lumen8 Rooftop Social, Cerberus Brewing and OCC Brewing. Also, don’t forget to stop for ice cream to cool off. Lolley’s and Josh & John’s downtown are both great options.
Browse all dining options and categories here.
AM: Chase waterfalls in North Cheyenne Cañon Park
PM: Attend a Ford Amphitheater show
Summer in COS calls for a hike, and North Cheyenne Cañon Park never disappoints. Go early in the morning during the weekdays to avoid peak hours with limited parking. There are multiple waterfall hikes to enjoy in this park. Helen Hunt Falls is great for those seeking a shorter hike and more immediate reward of falls. If you’re looking for a longer hike that will span a few hours and miles, try St. Mary’s Falls. It follows a creek along the way and results in a large fall at the end. If you want to go chasing waterfalls, why not do both?
In the evening, see a show at the Ford Amphitheater. This outdoor venue is gorgeous in the summer and offers beautiful sunsets most nights. Browse the calendar of events to find a show you’ll love.
AM: Drive the Pikes Peak Highway
PM: Hang around Downtown Manitou Springs
If driving up to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak feels intimidating, summer is a great season to try it out. Weather conditions are more reliable on the Pikes Peak Highway during the summer, and there are plenty of spots to pull off and take breaks. Make sure you’re driving a car with good breaks, tires and AWD – or consider taking a shuttle and avoid driving altogether. Crystal Creek Reservoir and Glen Cove are both great stopping points along the way. When you get to the summit, grab a donut (or three) at the Summit Visitor Center and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
You’ll be pretty tired after a day exploring America’s Mountain, so take it easy when you get down. Walking around Downtown Manitou Springs is a fun way to spend the afternoon. Check out shops, restaurants, mineral springs, the Penny Arcade and more.
AM: Raft the Arkansas River
PM: Grab at glass at the Winery at Holy Cross Abbey
If you don’t get on the water in the summer, what are you doing? The Pikes Peak Region has many great outfitters that operate on the Arkansas River, providing whitewater rafting excursions for all experience levels. Head down to Cañon City and get ready to take on the rapids (or enjoy a relaxing float).
Afterward, reward yourself with a nice glass of wine on the beautiful grounds of the Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. This property has a rich history as a monastery and also makes delicious wine with locally grown grapes.
AM: Do a paddle yoga class with Dragonfly Paddle Yoga
PM: Go to a farmer’s market
PM: Take a Jeep tour through Garden of the Gods Park
Connect with the water and cool off in a unique way with Dragonfly Paddle Yoga. This class is great for beginners – you don’t have to be an experienced yogi to enjoy it! Operating on Quail Lake, Dragonfly classes offer beautiful views and a chance to relax while connecting with nature.
Check the schedule to hit a local farmer’s market – there are plenty that run during the summer! Some favorites include Old Colorado City Farmers Market, Colorado Springs Sunday Market at Acacia Park and Black Forest.
End the day with a Jeep tour through Garden of the Gods Park and the Pikes Peak foothills. Adventures Out West and Mountain Jeep Tours both offer great experiences with fun tour guides.
If you’re looking for some fun local happenings to inspire the timing of your trip, check out these signature Pikes Peak Region events!
June 13 — 14, 2026
Celebrate Pride with the Colorado Springs community.
June 20 – 21, 2026
The Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival is one of the largest celebrations of inclusion ever to be held in Colorado Springs.
June 21, 2026
Brave drivers have been racing to the top of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain since 1916.
July 9, 2026
Experience this premier food and drink event in the Pikes Peak region, where the area's most celebrated chefs, brewers and…
July 14 — 18, 2026
Saddle up for five days of cowboy fun!
Year Round
Browse the local art galleries and art studios along W. Colorado Avenue in Historic Old Colorado City.
Festivals & Events
Colorado Springs Sunday Market115 E Platte Ave
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903
Festivals & Events
Old Colorado City Farmers Market2408 W Colorado Ave, Bancroft Park
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904
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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