While we were hosted for our visit to Colorado Springs, Colorado, all my opinions are my own.
We decided to take our travel adventures to the Rocky Mountains this winter season!
As a family of 7, we took our first flight across the US and visited Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Traveling to Colorado Springs, Colorado
We traveled from Jacksonville, Florida to Colorado Springs. We did have a connecting flight in DFW, it wasn’t a terrible travel commute at all. Once we arrived in Colorado Springs, we rented a car right onsite in the airport at the car rental station next to the baggage claim.
Renting a car was super convenient and essential for getting around in town. If you have a large family like mine, I truly recommend renting a car while you’re in town. It’s probably the best cost-effective thing to do rather than taking public transportation or shared rides such as Uber and Lyft. Also, in my opinion, and personal experience it was much more convenient as well.
Day 1 Attractions in Colorado Springs
On our first day arriving, we took the opportunity to explore and began our itinerary of activities. The first place we visited was Glen Eyrie.
Glen Eyrie Castle
The Glen Eyrie was a beautiful sight to explore. This place was inspiring and was filled with peace. I loved the history behind this amazing place that is now home to the Navigators. We tour the Castle at Glen Eyrie and hope to go back one day and enjoy Tea with my daughters. They offer public tours twice each day from Monday through Saturday and once on Sundays. This is a historical place now has cottages and is home to the Colorado Conference Center.
Garden of The Gods Visitor & Nature Center
Our second activity was a tour at the Garden of The Gods Visitor & Nature Center. It is open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM. This place was absolutely magnificent. It is comprised of over 1,323 acres of national landmark and scenic trails. We explored the amazing towering sandstones of rock formations. We went on a guided nature walk throughout this beautiful park. The views were absolutely phenomenal. My children loved it and were amazed at this beautiful National park.
Dinner at Spring Orleans
Spring Orleans is an amazing restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs. This amazing place serves New Orleans Cajun-style cuisines. My family and I enjoyed the beautiful atmosphere and dinner before calling it a night. This amazing Cajun restaurant is open for dinner throughout the week, brunch on the weekend, and closed on Mondays.
Lodging in Colorado Springs
For part of our trip, we stayed at the amazing Hotel Elegante Conference & Event Center. This place is just minutes from Pikes Peak and the Garden Of The Gods. The location is absolutely amazing. It is just minutes from the downtown district in Colorado Springs. This hotel has both an indoor and outdoor pool as well as a tennis court. There are some amazing restaurants on-site as well as a convenience store that serves Starbucks coffee. This family-friendly hotel has amazing rooms and suites. While the rooms were a bit outdated, we enjoyed staying at this amazing hotel. The service here from the staff was absolutely impeccable.
Day 2 in Colorado Springs, Colorado
We began our day with breakfast at the amazing Hotel Elegante. This was super convenient before starting our day.
The North Pole Colorado
We started our adventures at The North Pole Colorado which is Santa’s Workshop. This amazing vintage amusement park is right at the foot of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This place is open all year long sharing the spirit of Christmas. My kiddos had the opportunity to enjoy almost all of the rides and even had the opportunity to meet Santa!
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
We took our adventures to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo where we were able to enjoy, interact and understand the animals. This was fun for all ages. My husband and I truly enjoyed feeding the giraffes.
We spent most of our time exploring and learning about the different animals who lived here. I definitely recommend this to all families visiting Colorado Springs. This is a must! The hours of operation vary, so I definitely suggest checking out their website for the schedule. During the month of December, they also have a wonderful Electric Safari during the evenings. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to experience this during our trip.
Dining in Colorado Springs, Colorado
We enjoyed some amazing tacos from T-Byrds Tacos & Tequila. The tacos were absolutely phenomenal. We truly enjoyed the service as well. this casual restaurant serves Mexican street food. We sat outside and enjoyed the downtown District.
Dinner at Odyssey Gastropub
We enjoyed an early dinner at the Odyssey Gastropub as a family. This family-friendly restaurant served amazing food. The service was also amazing.
Day 3 in Colorado Springs, Colorado
We started our day off exploring the Space Foundation Discovery Center. This is the region’s first and only dedicated space and science center. This amazing museum is interactive and focuses on STEM Exploration, development, and utilization. Let’s just say, my children absolutely loved this place! We spent our entire morning on a guided tour exploring all of the amazing simulations and exhibits.
The Broadmoor Colorado Springs
We checked out of our hotel and checked into the amazing Broadmoor.
We also had the opportunity to explore their famous Gingerbread Chateau. It was stunning!
Whenever you are visiting Colorado Springs, you must stay at the Broadmoor! This place is absolutely magnificent. The Broadmoor is a 5-star luxury hotel and resort. This amazing resort which is an amazing blend of history and luxury was very welcoming. We explored the main building but stayed in the West building. The experience was absolutely incredible. We stayed and had a king and two double beds connecting suites.
Festival of Lights Parade
We were able to enjoy the Festival of Lights in the downtown District of Colorado Springs. This was a cultural and artistic event of programs, and performances for the general public. My family and I truly enjoyed this.
Dinner At Jax Fish House
After the amazing parade, my family and I enjoyed dinner in the downtown district at Jax Fish House. This was an amazing seafood restaurant that serves all types of fresh seafood daily. It was super crowded from the festivities therefore, I truly recommend you make reservations. Since we are a large party we were unable to dine in however, we were able to enjoy takeout. We enjoyed takeout back at our suites at The Broadmoor.
Breakfast at The Broadmoor
They are over eight restaurants at the Broadmoor. We enjoyed a luxury Buffet style breakfast at the Ristorante del Lago. The service was absolutely phenomenal. They also served made-to-order omelets, fresh fruit, pastries, and a host of other items. Reservations are required therefore, I recommend making reservations ahead of time.
Overall Experience in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Overall, my family and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Colorado Springs. This was an amazing opportunity to enjoy the Rocky Mountains. Although Colorado Springs is a small town, it didn’t feel like it. Everyone we encountered was very polite and kind. I can’t wait to visit again during the Spring or Summer to enjoy the other seasonal activities.
If you’re on the fence and thinking about Colorado Springs, I truly recommend you Visit Colorado Springs for yourself and your family!