Best 18 Things to Do In Manitou Springs, Colorado

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are two things in one: a replica of Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings from the 1900s and a museum. They offer a glimpse into the past and a chance to learn about the lives of the people who lived in the area centuries ago.

Your visit doesn't end with the cliff dwellings. Explore the on-site museum with artifacts, cultural displays, and educational exhibits. You can even browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs that commemorate your journey through time.

Next time you find yourself at Manitou Springs in Colorado, don't miss visiting Cave Of The Winds Mountain Park. This amusement park boasts over 20 interconnected caverns, each sculpted by water and time into fantastical formations.

Beyond the caves, take a thrilling zipline ride, feeling the wind in your hair. Conquer the ropes course, testing your balance and agility as you navigate suspended obstacles and platforms high above the ground.

Delve deep into a place where vintage arcade games come alive, laughter fills the air, and nostalgic memories dance around every corner. That's what awaits you at the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade.

Classic games like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Skee-Ball are also available. While the name suggests "penny" prices, most games require tokens these days. But fear not, budget adventurers! The arcade offers special deals and even free rides for little ones.

Stepping into Miramont Castle is like stepping into a storybook. Built in 1895 as a private residence, it boasts nine different architectural styles, from English Tudor to Byzantine, all woven together seamlessly. 

Wander through the castle's 30 rooms, each meticulously restored and furnished with Victorian-era artifacts. Lavish parlors, cozy libraries, and a solarium are the things to see in Manitou Springs Museum which offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the castle's original owners.

This 45-foot plunge creates a refreshing mist and a powerful roar, especially after heavy rain. Getting close to the base lets you feel the raw energy of the cascading water.

The history of Rainbow Falls adds another layer of charm. While some accounts claim it was named for the rainbows often seen misting around the falls, others say it earned the name due to the vibrant wildflowers that once bloomed nearby. The uncertainty adds to the mystique of the place.

Imagine colossal red rock formations sculpted by millions of years of wind and water erosion, creating towering spires, balanced rocks, and natural amphitheaters. These awe-inspiring rock formations, reaching heights of up to 300 feet, paint a dramatic picture against the clear blue Colorado sky. 

This natural wonder is the place both Colorado Springs Manitou Springs cherish about. Just within around 7-mile drive from the town, you can reach the Colorado Springs attraction.

This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is generally considered easy, with minimal elevation gain and well-maintained paths. Perfect for a casual stroll or a workout that won't leave you wiped out.

Paul Intemann Trail winds through forested sections and offers glimpses of Red Mountain and the town of Manitou Springs below. If you have a furry companion, they're welcome on a leash on the trail. The trail is accessible year-round, although snowy conditions may require extra caution in winter.

Craving comfort food early in the morning? Look no further than Adam's Mountain Cafe, a hidden paradise for vegetarian foodies. Their signature Vegetarian Lasagna is legendary.

The homemade soups, hearty veggie chilis, and fluffy pancakes made with local grains are sure to warm your soul. The attentive staff are always ready to help with the best recommendations. Who knows, they might even help you with some trending things to do in Manitou Springs Colorado.

It all started in the park in January 1996 and still flying. The Great Fruitcake Toss is more than an average pie-throwing contest. It's a delightfully absurd tradition that brings a smile to everyone's face.

Here, the humble fruitcake takes center stage as the projectile of choice. Imagine fields filled with people flinging fruitcakes across the park, aiming for targets, testing their throwing prowess in the name of good-natured fun.

This is the must-visit place in Colorado if you're in search of unique things to gift someone. The oldest gift shop in the town boasts Native American art, handcrafted jewelry, regional specialties, and locally-made goods.

Garden Of The Gods Trading Post covers over 25,000 square feet of shopping space, so get ready to wander through aisles brimming with colorful textiles, glistening gemstones, and enticing aromas. Think of it as an Aladdin's cave of Colorado-themed wonders! 

Welcome to the gateway to unlocking epic experiences tailor-made for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Adventures Out West presents Manitou Springs Colorado attractions in a totally different way!

AOW throws you into the heart of the action, with adventures designed to get your adrenaline pumping and your senses tingling. Expect ziplines, mountain bike rides, or a thrilling Jeep ride. They take "adventure" out of the dictionary and infuse it with their brand of excitement. 

Towering at 14,115 feet, this Colorado Manitou tourist attraction dominates the landscape, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas that span for miles.  You can conquer its summit in various ways, catering to different levels of experience and fitness.

Take the scenic Pikes Peak Highway for a leisurely drive, hop on the historic cog railway for a nostalgic journey, or challenge yourself with an epic hike on the Barr Trail. Get ready to immerse yourself in the stories that shaped this iconic mountain. 

Who says entertainment can't be a full-sensory experience? The Iron Springs Chateau combines their melodramatic masterpiece with a delicious three-course meal, ensuring you're fueled for laughter and cheers. And after the main act?

Get ready for a vaudeville-style revue filled with music, dance, and more audience interaction. It's like a nonstop party for your senses! Worrying about the price? You can relish them all at $30 to 50 per person.

Looking for budget-friendly things to do in Manitou Springs Co? Consider spending a day with family at Deer Valley Nature Park. There's even a playground designed for young visitors.

Escape the hustle and bustle and find serenity in Deer Valley Park. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a solo hike, a quiet picnic, or simply unwinding surrounded by nature. So lace up your shoes and head out to discover its hidden delights!

Started as a food truck in 2019, the Chism family business has won several loyal customers over the years. They make their beignets fresh to order, ensuring they're fluffy, and bursting with flavor. 

What's better than a delicious beignet? A delicious beignet paired with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Rocky Mountain Beignets uses locally roasted coffee beans to create a variety of coffee drinks that are sure to please any palate.

Are you an outdoor thrill-seeker? The Barr Trail throws down the gauntlet. Its steep inclines, switchbacks, and altitude test your endurance and determination. But conquering it brings an unmatched sense of accomplishment.

It's a 13-mile trek with an elevation gain of over 7,000 feet. The trail winds through lush forests, meadows bursting with wildflowers, and even a surreal alpine tundra. It's like experiencing multiple ecosystems in one hike!

Manitou Colorado Springs features eight mineral springs open to the public. Each has its distinctive flavor and effervescence. Some are sweet and citrusy, others tangy and iron-rich.

These mineral-rich waters have been touted for their healing properties for generations. Some claim they soothe aches and pains, and others swear they invigorate the spirit. Whether you believe in their magic or enjoy the invigorating dip, soaking in these springs is a natural way to feel rejuvenated.

Though its days as a bustling luxury hotel are over, the Barker House still holds a special place in Manitou Springs' heart. Today, it serves as senior housing, offering a glimpse into its glorious past for residents and visitors alike.

It's a reminder that some places hold timeless charm, their stories continuing to resonate even as times change. Built in the late 1800s, it's witnessed the town's evolution from a health retreat to a popular tourist destination.