Events in Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs, Colorado is a quaint mountain town just six miles west of downtown Colorado Springs.

The Historic Downtown Manitou Springs is an artist’s enclave featuring time-honored art galleries, street performers, creek-side restaurants and boutique stores. Enjoy a free concert at the town’s central Soda Springs Park, or take the kids fishing at Schryver Park, a shady oasis with an indoor pool, picnic area and stocked pond. Located at the base of Pikes Peak - America's Mountain, Manitou Springs is abundant with fun attractions and activities. Ride a zip line over a canyon, watch a hilarious show while enjoying a tasty dinner or shop in Colorado's largest art gallery.

***For an alternative route during summer construction, take Colorado Avenue - 1 block north and parallel to Highway 24.

There are numerous natural mineral springs dotted throughout Historic Manitou Springs and are still available to the public. The native tribes considered the eruption of bubbles in the mineral water the breath of the Great Spirit “Manitou.”

The first westerner to discover the healing waters was Dr. Edwin James. He was also the first American to conquer the elusive Pikes Peak. Stories of the mountain and the healing mineral springs inspired General William J. Palmer and Dr. William A. Bell to visit the area in 1868. They decided that the Pikes Peak region would be a great resort area and began carrying out this vision.

In the early 1890s, the town’s mineral springs and clean mountain air established the area as a health resort, attracting large numbers of tubercular patients, medical professionals, celebrities and tourists to Historic Manitou Springs. Throughout the following years, the town struggled with challenges of ever changing tourism patterns. The formation of a National Historic District in the 1980s initiated the renovation and revitalization of many of the town’s beloved buildings and traditions, reminding residents and visitors of the charm Historic Manitou Springs has always offered. The mineral springs were renewed by the creation of the Mineral Springs Foundation in 1987. Today, Historic Manitou Springs is a charming town that is full of high-caliber artists, galleries, unique shops and restaurants.

Experience the charming Historic Manitou Springs and find Things to Do in Manitou Springs to help you plan your trip.

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Manitou Springs is well-known for their quirky and unique events that are fun for the entire family.

Manitou Springs' events are a great way to have fun and experience this unique mountain town. From the world renowned Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, where drivers race to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, and the unique Emma Crawford Coffin Race, come enjoy the entertainment that Manitou Springs' festivals have to offer.

Fruitcake Toss

January

Watch hated holiday treats fly at this quirky local event.

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Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off & Carnivale Parade

February

Fill your bellies, warm your bones and cheer on competitors

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Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

June

Brave drivers have been racing to the top of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain since 1916.

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Pikes Peak Marathon

August

The Pikes Peak Marathon is arguably the most elevating marathon in the world.

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Manitou Springs Wine Festival

June

Spend your day in Manitou Springs enjoying generous tastings from 30 Colorado Wineries.

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Emma Crawford Coffin Races

October

The Emma Crawford Coffin Races in Manitou Springs are an entire day of spooky fun.

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Shopping

Manitou Springs is full of boutiques and delicious local eateries.

Shopping in Mantiou Springs ranges from art galleries to unique specialty shops like The Olive Tap. You can spend all day in Manitou Springs browsing the boutiques and filling up at one of their tasty restaurants.

Looking for other nearby shopping? Check out other Colorado Springs retail stores and art galleries.

Our Top Picks

Garden of the Gods Trading Post

The Garden of the Gods Trading Post offers one of a kind gift shop, you'll find something for everyone on your list. Browse through our vast array of collectible hand made jewelry, books, and souvenirs, toys for kids, apparel, as well as Home Decor items. Today, our Art Gallery features unique Colorado Artist, International artwork, Contemporary jewelry, as well as a magnificent collection of Native American Art.

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Olive Tap, The

The Olive Tap, located in the heart of Manitou Springs, offers a broad selection of 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Flavored Olive Oils, Balsamic Vinegars, Spices, and select Culinary and Gourmet products. A "Best Of" Colorado Springs Award winner. We look forward to seeing you!

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Manitou Springs is a foodie's favorite. It offers a variety of flavors including true Colorado cuisine, fondu, gluten-free bakeries and much more. Can't decide? Try a food tour that will take you to a number of the Manitou Springs restaurants while giving you a historic overview of the quaint mountain town.

The restaurants in Manitou Springs provide unique atmospheres and delicious cuisines. Taste outside your comfort zone by trying authentic Colorado cuisine such as elk steaks and buffalo burgers. Many of the restaurants have outdoor patios where you can enjoy live music performances in Historic Manitou Springs and the beautiful mountain views. Whatever your taste or style, these Manitou Springs restaurants are the perfect place to have fun and eat well!

Don’t forget to order our FREE Visitor Guide, and Save with Area Discounts on lodging, attractions, dining and more!