If you are looking for an epic weekend filled with jaw-dropping views, unforgettable adventures, and unique charm, Manitou Springs is the perfect Colorado destination. Nestled right at the base of Pikes Peak and just minutes outside of downtown Colorado Springs, this historic town was founded in the late 1800s as a health resort and remains a vibrant hub of history and natural wonder.
Our Weekend in Manitou Springs begins with a trip to the Manitou Springs historic district. After spending some time there, we took a trip to the Garden of the Gods. Day 2 sees us climbing to the top of Pikes Peak on the Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Then, after lunch, we went to see the awesome Seven Falls. And in between, we explored the area and ate a couple of fantastic meals in Manitou Springs.
Here is your ultimate guide to packing the best sights, bites, and hikes into one incredible weekend.
Table of contents
Day 1: Historic Charm and the Garden of the Gods
Morning: Taste the Town’s History.
Start your weekend by exploring the historic, pedestrian-friendly downtown of Manitou Springs. It’s lined with vibrant Victorian buildings, quirky art galleries, and local boutiques. Grab a free map and take a self-guided tasting tour of the town’s eight natural mineral springs.
The Eight Natural Springs:
Manitou has eight natural springs, each with unique mineral content.
- Shoshone Spring sits right downtown and is the easiest to access. High in calcium and magnesium.
- Navajo Spring is steps away from Shoshone and has a slightly different mineral profile.
- Twin Spring is tucked behind buildings on Manitou Avenue. Locals love this one.
- Iron Spring has the highest iron content and a distinctly metallic taste.
- Stratton Spring is a bit of a walk, but worth it for the quiet setting.
- Wheeler Spring requires a short uphill walk but delivers views along with your minerals.
- Cheyenne Spring sits near the trailhead for North Cheyenne Canyon and is a great pre-hike stop.
- Soda Spring is the most carbonated and sits in Soda Springs Park.
Bring a water bottle and make a morning of it. Taste-test your way through town. Some springs taste pleasant. Others taste like pennies dissolved in sparkling water. It’s all part of the experience.
For lunch, head over to Manitou Avenue. You can enjoy fantastic food at Norbu’s Himalayan Hut or grab some classic southern barbecue at Otis’s Barbecue. Another family favorite is the Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant.
Afternoon: Garden of the Gods
Just a short drive away is the Garden of the Gods. The park is a spectacular park filled with colossal, fiery-red rock formations that were tilted skyward by a slow-motion underground collision millions of years ago. The park is completely free to enter. Railroad executive Charles Elliot Perkins made this land a gift in 1909, with the mandate that it remain free to the public forever.
The unique geological formations are pretty incredible. They jump straight up into the sky. These towering red rock formations are incredible.
If you have time and love geology, start at the visitor nature center for fantastic terrace views. We decided to skip the Visitor Center due to time. We stopped and took a stroll on the Perkins Central Garden Trail. This 1.5-mile paved, accessible loop takes you right into the heart of the tallest rock formations. If you want a different perspective, add the extra 0.2-mile Upper Loop trail to your hike, which we did. Note that the Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark.
Pro-tips for the Garden of the Gods:
- Stick to the Perkins Central Garden Trail for an easy, accessible walk, especially if mobility is an issue. This path is about 1.5 miles long and made of smooth concrete. It’s perfect for visitors of all abilities, allowing them to easily circle the most impressive rock formations in the central gardens.
- Add the Upper Loop Trail for a better vantage point. Taking this trail adds just 0.2 miles to your hike. However, you get to go higher, offering a completely different perspective of the park and great opportunities for taking pictures.
- Watch for local wildlife. While exploring the trails, keep your eyes peeled for the animals that call the park home, including white-throated swifts, brown bats, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, and prairie lizards.
- Leave the alcohol behind. Despite the park’s early history involving a joke about building a “beer garden,” one of the strict conditions set when the land was donated to Colorado Springs in 1909 was that no alcohol could ever be sold there.
- Enjoy the completely free admission. You won’t need to purchase a ticket to explore the park’s 480 acres, as the land was gifted by the children of Charles Elliot Perkins on the condition that it remain free to everyone, forever.
Day 2: Summits and Waterfalls
Morning: Conquering Pikes Peak
No trip to Manitou Springs is complete without summiting the 14,115-foot Pikes Peak. The most scenic and less strenuous way up is the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. It offers a beautiful and historic journey to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak, often referred to as America’s Mountain. The iconic train made its first voyage up the mountain in 1891. The Cog Railway holds the title of the world’s highest cog railroad.
Passengers embark on a three-hour round trip that climbs through dense forests before reaching the starkly beautiful alpine tundra above the tree line.
During the ride, the train’s conductor acts as a guide, sharing bits of local history and pointing out interesting rock formations and wildlife, making it an unforgettable way to experience the mountain without the stress of driving the winding roads.
Pikes Peak Summit
Once you reach the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak, keep in mind that you only have about 40 minutes to explore before you need to reboard the train. During this quick stop, you can head inside the beautiful new Summit Visitor Center to warm up, check out the geological and historical exhibits, and browse the gift shop.
Be sure to step outside on a clear day to take in the breathtaking views, where you can supposedly see across five different states. Finally, no trip to the top is complete without grabbing a fresh batch of their world-famous high-altitude donuts and a cup of hot chocolate from the cafe.
Pro-tips for the Pikes Peak Cog Railway:
- Book tickets online way in advance. Walk-up tickets are rarely available during busy summer months.
- Park smart. While there is a paid lot right at the depot, it is very small, fills up fast, and you aren’t allowed to park there until 30 minutes before your departure time, which can be stressful. The easier, stress-free choice is to park at the Hiawatha Gardens lot in Manitou Springs and take the free #33 shuttle, which drops you off right at the station.
- Use the restroom before boarding. There are no bathrooms on the train.
- Pick the best seat. Book a seat on the three-seat side of the train (the left side when going up) for the most expansive, wide-open views of lakes and waterfalls. There isn’t a bad view on the train, but we wish we had booked on the left side.
- Dress in layers. It can be 85°F at the bottom and 30°F colder at the summit, with incredibly windy conditions.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to defend against altitude sickness.
Time at Pikes Peak Summit
Once at the top, the clock is ticking! You will have exactly 40 minutes to explore the Summit Visitor Center, take in the views of five different states, and buy a batch of their world-famous high-altitude donuts.
Afternoon: The Broadmoor Seven Falls
End your weekend at what is known as the “grandest mile of scenery in Colorado”. The Broadmoor Seven Falls is a majestic 181-foot waterfall that cascades down a box canyon in seven distinct steps.
The Grandest Mile in Colorado
It is highly recommended to purchase your tickets online beforehand. Once the shuttle drops you off, enjoy the beautiful 0.8-mile walk through South Cheyenne Canyon, passing the massive 790-foot-tall rock towers known as the Pillars of Hercules.
224-Step Adventure up the Metal Staircase
To view the falls, you can either ride an in-mountain elevator to the Eagle’s Nest viewing platform or take the 224-step metal staircase that climbs right alongside the rushing water.
If you have extra energy at the top of the stairs, you can explore two additional hiking trails:
Midnight Falls:
A peaceful, shaded 20- to 30-minute round-trip walk on a trail brings you to a smaller, private waterfall called “Midnight Falls”.
Inspiration Point:
A steep, roughly 1-hour-and-15-minute round-trip trek that rewards you with breathtaking views of Colorado Springs and the Great Plains, as well as the original grave site of writer Helen Hunt Jackson.
Heading Down the Steps
Then, you have to take the 224 steps down.
Eagles Nest View
The Eagle’s Nest (also referred to as Eagle’s View) is a designated viewing platform at the Broadmoor Seven Falls. Visitors can easily reach it by taking an in-mountain elevator, making it a fantastic, highly accessible option for those who use wheelchairs or scooters, or simply want to avoid climbing the steep 224-step staircase.
Inside the elevator area, guests can browse information at kiosks and view a fabulous mural depicting canyon birds such as golden eagles. While there are no separate attractions or waterfalls directly on the platform, it offers a beautiful, elevated vantage point to admire the main cascading falls.
Pro Tip for Seven Falls:
- Book 24 Hours Ahead: Purchase timed entry tickets online at least 24 hours in advance to guarantee your preferred time slot and avoid long gate lines.
- Park at Norris Penrose: There is no parking at the falls entrance. Park for free at the Norris Penrose Event Center (1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd) and take the complimentary shuttle to the park.
- Time it Right: Arrive for the first shuttle (around 9:30 AM) to beat the crowds and afternoon thunderstorms. For photographers, the “golden hour” (late afternoon) or visiting at night when the falls are illuminated offers the best lighting.
- Altitude: At an altitude of 7,200 feet at the top of the waterfall, you must also consider how the altitude will affect you, especially if you are not acclimated to it.
- The “Grandest Mile” Walk: Instead of taking the in-park tram immediately, walk the 0.8-mile paved road from the gate to the falls. This allows you to admire the Pillars of Hercules—towering 900-foot rock walls—at your own pace.
- The Stairs:
- The Main Climb: 224 steps lead to the top of the falls, where the hiking trails begin. Note there is a break area halfway up the 7 falls to catch your breath.
- The Overlook: A separate, shorter set of steps (or an elevator) takes you to the Eagle’s Nest for a panoramic view of all seven stages.
Where to Park: General Parking Options in Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs offers a variety of parking options, ranging from on-street spots to dedicated lots, though visitors should be aware that parking on residential streets is strictly prohibited and carries steep fines. Additionally, the city offers free ADA parking in all paid public parking spaces for vehicles displaying a valid placard or license plate.
Here is a breakdown of the main parking options in town:
On-Street Parking
There are 414 spaces located throughout the town with progressive rates starting at $3.50 per hour. Parking is paid from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is free after 6 p.m. Pro-tip: You can get 30 minutes of free parking twice a day at paid on-street spots, but you must register your license plate at the kiosk just as you would if you were paying.
Hiawatha Gardens Lot (10 Old Man’s Trail):
This is a highly recommended 155-space lot that accommodates regular vehicles, RVs, and long vehicles, and features EV charging stations. Rates start at $1.25 per hour (paid from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., free after 6 p.m.). It also serves as the pickup location for the free #33 shuttle.
Canon Lot (135 Cañon Ave):
Located in the heart of downtown, close to shops and restaurants, this 46-space lot has progressive rates starting at $3.50 per hour.
Other Paid Lots:
You can also park at the Dillon Mobility Hub (starting at $1.25/hr), the Wichita or Smischny lots (starting at $3.00/hr), or the Barr Parking Lot ($25–$32.50 daily).
Free Parking:
Fields Park offers limited free parking.
Where to Stay
For a comfortable and convenient home base, the Holiday Inn Express in Manitou Springs is a fantastic choice. Located just off the main strip, it offers a quality stay with great amenities, including a complimentary hot breakfast featuring items like omelets and turkey sausage to fuel your adventurous days, but it is no more than 5 minutes away from the historic Manitou Springs.
There are several historic hotels and VRBOs if you want to stay within walking distance of historic Manitou Springs, but you will be paying for that convenience. At certain times of the day, walking is preferable to hopping into a car and fighting the bad traffic during peak seasons.
With its perfect blend of unique culture, accessible nature, and bucket-list adventures, Manitou Springs truly makes a case for being Colorado’s most epic weekend getaway.
Other Activities to Consider around Manitou Springs:
If you have only one day, consider Viator as they are a great source to choose multiple activities, such as the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Manitou Springs, and the Garden of the Gods, or an E-Bike Tour of Manitou Springs and the Garden of the Gods.
Pikes Peak Highway
The Pikes Peak Highway climbs 19 miles to the 14,115-foot summit. The drive takes about an hour each way. The views are absurd. On a clear evening, you can see Denver, the plains stretching into Kansas, and mountain ranges layering into the distance like a topographical map come to life.
Pro Tips for the Pikes Peak Highway
- Go for sunset, not sunrise. Sunrise requires a 4 a.m. wake-up call and freezing temps at the summit. Sunset offers golden-hour light, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed pace.
- The summit is cold, even in the summer. Bring layers. Wind at 14,000 feet is no joke.
- The road is paved but winding. Take it slow. Watch for wildlife. The hairpin turns and steep drop-offs aren’t for the faint of heart, but the road is well-maintained and safe if you pay attention.
- Entry costs $15 per adult. Kids under 16 are free. The pass is valid for the day, so if you want to go up earlier to catch the sunset, you can do that without paying twice.
- At the summit, you’ll find a visitor center, gift shop, and the famous high-altitude donuts. Are they the best donuts you’ve ever had? No. Are they a fun novelty at 14,000 feet? Absolutely.
- Sunset from Pikes Peak is the kind of moment that makes you forget about your inbox, your mortgage, and whatever stress you carried into the weekend. It’s reset-button level good.
The Manitou Incline
The Manitou Incline is an extreme, one-mile hiking trail in Colorado that was converted from a former railroad track into approximately 2,744 steps made of railroad ties. Known as a “holy grail of cardio,” the punishing route challenges hikers with a 2,000-foot elevation gain and an average incline of 41%, peaking at 68% at its steepest section. Because of its extreme difficulty and treacherous terrain, climbers must make advanced free reservations and are strongly advised to take the connecting Barr Trail back down rather than descending the steep steps. The Barr Trail takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to climb down. Located in the Colorado Springs area, it takes most hikers 1 to 2 hours to complete.
Climbing at the Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a world-class rock climbing destination. If you’ve got the skills and gear, routes range from beginner-friendly to expert-level. If you don’t climb, watching others scale the formations is entertainment enough.
Cove of the Winds Mountain Park
After Garden of the Gods, swing by Cave of the Winds Mountain Park if underground exploration sounds appealing. The cave tour takes about an hour and showcases stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers. The Wind Walker Challenge Course and Terror-Dactyl ride add an extra dose of adrenaline if you’re traveling with thrill-seekers. It’s touristy, sure, but it’s also legitimately cool if you’ve never explored a cave system.
Miramont Castle
Visiting the historic 1895 Miramont Castle offers a unique opportunity to explore a 14,000-square-foot Victorian home with over 30 rooms, filled with vintage artifacts and local-history exhibits. Guests can easily take a 45-minute to one-hour self-guided tour of the museum’s four floors and take advantage of the free dedicated parking. We didn’t have enough time to check this historic structure, but worth considering if you have time.
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
If you love history, you might also want to check out the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, but be sure to check their operating hours in advance. We didn’t, and it was closed. On a tight weekend, check ahead so you don’t miss it.
What to Pack for Your Manitou Weekend
Colorado weather is unpredictable, even in summer. You need layers, sun protection, and gear that works whether you’re hiking at 14,000 feet or strolling through art galleries at 6,400 feet. Here’s what actually matters.
Clothing and Layers
- Base layers that wick moisture. Cotton kills when you’re sweating at altitude.
- A mid-layer fleece or lightweight puffy jacket. Mornings and evenings get cold.
- A waterproof shell. Afternoon thunderstorms are common from June through August.
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good tread. Trails get rocky and steep.
- Casual clothes for exploring the town. You’ll want something comfortable for walking on Manitou Avenue.
Gear and Essentials
- Sunscreen with high SPF. Altitude intensifies UV exposure.
- Sunglasses and a hat. The sun is relentless at elevation.
- Reusable water bottles. You’ll refill them at the springs.
- A small daypack for hikes. Carry water, snacks, layers, and a first aid kit.
- Headlamp or flashlight. Useful for evening walks or early morning starts.
- Cash for the penny arcade, tips, and small shops that don’t take cards.
- Phone charger and portable battery. You’ll be taking photos all weekend.
- Don’t overpack. Manitou is casual. Nobody cares if you wear the same hiking shirt two days in a row.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned travelers mess up their Manitou weekends. Here’s what trips people up and how to avoid the same fate.
- Underestimating altitude. Manitou Springs sits at 6,412 feet. The Incline and Pikes Peak take you much higher. If you’re coming from sea level, hydrate aggressively and take it slow. Altitude sickness is real, and it ruins weekends.
- Skipping breakfast before a big hike. Your body needs fuel at elevation. Don’t start the Incline on an empty stomach. You’ll regret it by step 1,000.
- Arriving at popular spots late. The Incline, Garden of the Gods, and Pikes Peak all see heavy traffic. Early mornings give you the best experience and fewer crowds.
- Ignoring weather forecasts. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Start hikes early. Be off exposed ridges by noon.
- Not bringing enough water. Dehydration at altitude hits harder than at sea level. Carry more water than you think you need.
- Overpacking your itinerary. You can’t do everything in 48 hours. Pick your priorities. Leave room for spontaneity and rest.
- Forgetting cash. Some shops, the arcade, and a few restaurants still operate on a cash-only basis or prefer it.
- Manitou rewards preparation and punishes assumptions. Plan smart. Stay flexible. Listen to your body. Altitude sickness is no joke.
Conclusion
The best weekend getaways aren’t about cramming in every sight and activity. They’re about finding a rhythm that lets you disconnect, recharge, and actually remember what you did without scrolling through a thousand photos. This is a must-visit destination for a great experience, for couples and families alike! No doubt, a family vacation in Manitou Springs is a guaranteed great time and unforgettable experience.
A weekend in Manitou Springs gives you natural beauty, quirky culture, and legitimate adventure without the pretension or price tag of Colorado’s more famous mountain towns. You can hike until your legs quit, explore art galleries that actually matter, and sip mineral water that’s been bubbling up from the earth for thousands of years. That’s a weekend well spent.
If you enjoyed reading this article on a perfect weekend in Manitou Springs, CO, check out all our other articles on Colorado travels and beyond, including:
- Mother Cabrini’s Shrine Guide for 1st Time Visitors
- Broadmoor’s Seven Falls: Adventure or Just a Tourist Trap?
- What The Estes Park Aerial Tramway Experience Is REALLY Like
- Royal Gorge Bridge and Park: A Thrilling Experience
- Experience the Scenic Royal Gorge Route Railroad
- Pikes Peak Cog Railway: The Ultimate Visitor Guide
Also, check out our YouTube video covering this incredible weekend and other travel videos in Colorado and beyond!
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