Colorado Springs travel Guide

Colorado Springs travel guide

National Airports

There are two national airports serving Colorado Springs and the surrounding area:

Colorado Springs Airport (COS): Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is the primary airport serving Colorado Springs and is located just six miles southeast of downtown. It is a small airport with a single terminal and offers flights from several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. The airport offers nonstop flights to several destinations, including Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O’Hare, and Phoenix.

Denver International Airport (DEN): Denver International Airport (DEN) is located about 90 miles north of Colorado Springs and is the largest airport in the region. It offers flights from nearly every major airline and is a hub for United Airlines. The airport offers nonstop flights to hundreds of destinations around the world, including major cities in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and South America.

While Colorado Springs Airport is the closest airport to the city, Denver International Airport may offer more flight options and lower fares. Many travelers choose to fly into Denver and then rent a car or take a shuttle to Colorado Springs.

Trains in Colorado Springs

There are several options for taking a train in Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Here are some of the most popular train experiences:

Pikes Peak Cog Railway: The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a historic train that takes passengers to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of the most iconic peaks in Colorado. The train has been in operation since 1891 and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness. The journey to the summit takes about three hours round-trip and includes time to explore the summit.

Royal Gorge Route Railroad: The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is a scenic train that runs through the Royal Gorge, a stunning canyon with towering rock formations and the Arkansas River. The train offers several classes of service, including a dome car with panoramic views, and serves gourmet meals on board. The journey takes about two hours round-trip and includes time to explore the canyon.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic train that runs through the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. The train has been in operation since 1882 and offers stunning views of the mountains, forests, and rivers. The journey takes about four hours each way and includes time to explore the historic mining town of Silverton.

Georgetown Loop Railroad: The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a scenic train that runs through the mountains west of Denver. The train follows a historic route that was used for mining in the late 1800s and offers stunning views of the mountains, forests, and rivers. The journey takes about an hour and a half round-trip and includes time to explore the historic town of Georgetown.

Amtrak: Amtrak offers train service to several cities in Colorado, including Denver, Fort Collins, and Grand Junction. The California Zephyr route runs through Colorado and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado River. The train also stops in several small towns and cities along the way, allowing travelers to explore the local area.

In conclusion, there are several train experiences to enjoy in Colorado Springs and the surrounding area, from historic trains that climb mountains to scenic trains that run through canyons and forests. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely journey or an adventure, there’s a train experience in Colorado for you.

Buses in Colorado Springs

There are several options for taking a bus in Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Here are some of the most popular bus services:

Mountain Metropolitan Transit: Mountain Metropolitan Transit is the local public transportation provider in Colorado Springs and operates several bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. The buses are modern and equipped with bike racks, wheelchair lifts, and free Wi-Fi. The fares are affordable and there are discounts available for seniors, students, and people with disabilities.

Greyhound: Greyhound is a national bus service that offers routes to and from Colorado Springs. The buses are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, and on-board restrooms. Greyhound offers several daily trips to Denver and other major cities in the region, as well as connections to other parts of the country.

Bustang: Bustang is a regional bus service that connects major cities in Colorado, including Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, and Glenwood Springs. The buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and comfortable seating. Bustang offers several daily trips to Denver and other cities, and there are discounts available for students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Colorado Springs Shuttle: The Colorado Springs Shuttle is a local shuttle service that provides transportation to and from Denver International Airport. The shuttle offers several trips per day and is a convenient and affordable option for travelers who don’t want to rent a car or take a taxi.

Colorado Mountain Express: The Colorado Mountain Express is a shuttle service that provides transportation to and from several ski resorts in the Colorado mountains, including Vail, Breckenridge, and Keystone. The shuttle offers several trips per day and is a convenient and affordable option for travelers who want to avoid driving in snowy and icy conditions.

In conclusion, there are several bus services to choose from in Colorado Springs and the surrounding area, including local public transportation, national bus services, and regional shuttles. Whether you’re commuting to work, traveling to another city, or exploring the mountains, there’s a bus service in Colorado for you.

How to get to Colorado Springs

There are several ways to get to Colorado Springs, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation. Here are some of the most popular options:

By Air: The Colorado Springs Airport is located just six miles southeast of downtown Colorado Springs and offers direct flights from several major cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Dallas. The airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

By Car: Colorado Springs is located at the intersection of Interstate 25 and US Highway 24, making it easily accessible by car from several major cities, including Denver, Albuquerque, and Kansas City. The drive from Denver to Colorado Springs takes about one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic.

By Bus: Several bus services, including Greyhound and Bustang, offer service to and from Colorado Springs. The Greyhound bus station is located in downtown Colorado Springs and offers connections to several major cities throughout the United States. The Bustang bus service provides regional service to several Colorado cities, including Denver, Fort Collins, and Glenwood Springs.

By Train: Amtrak offers train service to several cities in Colorado, including Denver, Fort Collins, and Grand Junction. The California Zephyr route runs through Colorado and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado River. The train also stops in several small towns and cities along the way, allowing travelers to explore the local area.

By Shuttle: Several shuttle services, including the Colorado Springs Shuttle and the Colorado Mountain Express, provide transportation to and from Colorado Springs. The Colorado Springs Shuttle offers transportation to and from Denver International Airport, while the Colorado Mountain Express provides transportation to several ski resorts in the Colorado mountains.

In conclusion, there are several options for getting to Colorado Springs, including by air, car, bus, train, and shuttle. Depending on your location and travel preferences, you can choose the option that works best for you.

What is the best time to travel to Colorado Springs

The best time to travel to Colorado Springs largely depends on your interests and what you want to do during your trip. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather: The weather in Colorado Springs can vary widely throughout the year, with hot summers and cold winters. If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the city, the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. If you prefer winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, then the winter months (December to February) are the best time to visit.

Peak tourist season: The peak tourist season in Colorado Springs is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This means that attractions and accommodations can be more crowded and expensive. If you prefer to avoid crowds and save money, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May and September to November) when the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer tourists.

Special events: Colorado Springs hosts several special events throughout the year, including the Colorado Balloon Classic in September, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in June, and the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off in September. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, plan your trip accordingly.

Fall foliage: The fall foliage in Colorado Springs is breathtaking, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow. If you’re interested in seeing the fall foliage, plan your trip for mid-September to mid-October.

In conclusion, the best time to travel to Colorado Springs largely depends on your interests and what you want to do during your trip. Consider the weather, peak tourist season, special events, and fall foliage when planning your trip.

How to get around Colorado Springs

There are several ways to get around Colorado Springs, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the most popular options:

Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular way to get around Colorado Springs, as it gives you the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. There are several car rental agencies located at the Colorado Springs Airport and throughout the city.

Public Transportation: Colorado Springs has a public transportation system called Mountain Metropolitan Transit, which operates several bus routes throughout the city. The buses are clean, safe, and affordable, making them a good option for budget-conscious travelers.

Ride-Sharing Services: Popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Colorado Springs and offer a convenient way to get around the city. You can download the app and request a ride from anywhere in the city.

Taxis: Taxis are available in Colorado Springs, although they can be more expensive than other options. You can hail a taxi on the street or call a local taxi company to arrange for a pickup.

Biking/Walking: Colorado Springs is a bike-friendly city, with several bike trails and lanes throughout the city. Walking is also a great way to explore the city’s downtown area, as many of the attractions and restaurants are within walking distance.

In conclusion, there are several ways to get around Colorado Springs, including rental cars, public transportation, ride-sharing services, taxis, biking, and walking. Consider your budget and transportation preferences when choosing the best option for your trip.

Accommodations in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the most popular options:

Hotels: There are several hotels in Colorado Springs, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Many of the hotels are located near the city’s downtown area and offer amenities like fitness centers, restaurants, and swimming pools.

Bed and Breakfasts: If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast in Colorado Springs. These quaint accommodations offer cozy rooms and homemade breakfasts, and many are located in historic homes.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals like Airbnb and VRBO are popular options in Colorado Springs, as they offer more space and privacy than traditional hotels. You can find everything from apartments to cottages and cabins in the city and surrounding areas.

Camping: Colorado Springs is surrounded by natural beauty, and camping is a popular way to experience it. There are several campgrounds in the area, ranging from primitive sites to RV parks with full hookups.

Hostels: For budget-conscious travelers, hostels offer affordable accommodations with shared amenities like kitchens and lounges. There are several hostels located in and around Colorado Springs.

In conclusion, Colorado Springs offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, camping, and hostels. Consider your budget and preferred level of comfort when choosing the best option for your trip.