The northside is at your fingertips with this itinerary
Updated: June 26, 2026
You can spend an entire visit just exploring the north side of Colorado Springs and Tri-Lakes region – so why not give it a try?
With this itinerary, you’ll see why a home base up north is worth the hype. Energetic entertainment hub so you never get bored? Check. Plenty of nearby restaurants and shops? Check, check. Places to learn history, rejuvenate and see a show? Check, check, check.
There are some great lodging options on the north side of Colorado Springs! If you’re looking for a full-service resort vibe, consider the Flying Horse Resort & Club. This AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel is where Tuscan warmth meets the rustic mountain landscape. Think luxury – award-winning golf courses, spa, steakhouse with a three-story wine tower (yes, tower), beautiful pool and all the accommodations you could ask for.
Another option is Hotel Polaris, located outside of the North Gate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. With a sleek mid-century modern design, this Forbes Four-Star property has nods to the Air Force cadets throughout. It screams nostalgia paired with modern amenities like a heated, saltwater pool, beautiful spa, flight simulators, several restaurants and rooftop bar.
Browse all lodging options and categories here.
For breakfast, Loyal Coffee is a must! The Northgate location is conveniently located and is a perfect spot to enjoy coffee and pastry. Urban Egg in Briargate is another locals-favorite for brunch.
Grab lunch or dinner at favorite spots like La Casa Fiesta in Monument and ViewHouse off Woodmen Road. For a fancier night out, Roth Sea & Steak near the Ford Amphitheater is a great date-night spot. And if you’re looking for a nightcap with a view, don’t miss The Aviator on the rooftop of Hotel Polaris.
Browse all dining options and categories here.
AM: Tour the Hosmer Visitor Center
AM: Shop at Scheels
PM: Go to Jungle Reef Aquarium
Kick off your trip with a tour of the Hosmer Visitor Center! Opened in 2026, Hosmer isn’t just a visitor center – it’s a full experience. You’ll learn about the 47-month journey of an Air Force Academy cadet through interactive displays and memorabilia.
After your tour, go shopping at Scheels! If you’ve never been to Scheels, you might be surprised to discover it’s more than simply an outdoor gear store. You’ll also find an arcade, handmade fudge, home décor shop, candy store, clothing and even an indoor Ferris wheel!
End your day with a visit to Jungle Reef Aquarium. This hands-on adventure includes habitats for birds, reptiles, stingrays and aquatic animals. Check daily schedules for various animal interactions and sessions!
AM: Visit the Western Museum of Mining & Industry
PM: Play at Topgolf
PM: Catch a show at Ford Amphitheater
Open since 1970, the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) is a northside Colorado Springs gem. Head over to see displays that feature working machinery, a model mining drift and gold panning stations, plus historic buildings on the 27-acre campus. In the fall, the WMMI also hosts the Miners Pumpkin Patch – a fun, seasonal event that families enjoy!
After the museum, play a few rounds at Topgolf Colorado Springs. Make it an afternoon by grabbing lunch at the on-site restaurant. There are game options for all skill levels and ages, so everyone can play together.
End the day with a show at the Ford Amphitheater. Open seasonally May through October, there are plenty of dates to catch your favorite music and comedy acts. Check the schedule to see who’s coming during your visit!
AM: Recreate on Palmer Lake
PM: Explore Downtown Monument
PM: Reset at Woodhouse Spa
For day 3, head up to Monument and Palmer Lake – just north of Colorado Springs (known as the Tri-Lakes area). Depending on the time of year, you can rent kayaks or paddle boards and take them out on Palmer Lake. Enjoy beautiful views and nearby trails.
Afterward, explore Downtown Monument. Some favorite spots include 3 Hundred Days of Shine Distilling, Lolley’s Ice Cream and Goat Patch Brewing Monument.
Rest and reset with an evening massage and/or facial at Woodhouse Spa in Briargate. They also have body treatments like wraps, exfoliation and waxing.
AM: Go to the Black Forest Backyard Market
PM: Explore Fox Run Regional Park
PM: Retail excursion at the Promenade Shops at Briargate
Don’t leave town without visiting Black Forest! The seasonal farmers market – the Black Forest Backyard Market – runs from late May through mid-October. With more than 70 vendors, plus a Kids Korner, it’s a fun outing for families.
After you shop for goods and eats at the market, check out Fox Run Regional Park! This massive park spans 417 acres of pine forest, meadows and lakes. Enjoy hiking trails, playgrounds and wildlife sightings.
Before you leave, treat yourself to some more shopping at the Promenade Shops at Briargate. Here you’ll find plenty of stores and restaurants. Don’t forget to check the schedule of events, as the Promenade Shops hosts fun activities. A favorite is the “Music Under the Mountains” free summer concert series!
If you’re looking for some fun local happenings to inspire the timing of your trip, check out these area events!
May 22 — 24, 2026
Tap your feet to infectious beats at the annual MeadowGrass Music Festival, discovering details on the official dates, tickets, activities…
Attractions
Fall Mountain Farm16300 Mt Herman Ln
Monument, Colorado 80132
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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