32 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Colorado Springs is a vibrant city that offers endless fun activities with kids.

But as the most extensive city in Colorado, it’s pretty challenging to plan a trip to Colorado Springs.

I’ve been there.

As a seasoned travel writer and a full-time parent, I love exploring with my kids.

And that has led me to visit numerous attractions in Colorado Springs.

So, I know the challenges firsthand.

But don’t fret.

I’ll help you choose the best activities you can do based on our family adventures.

To save you some time, I’ve reviewed what I consider the most fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.

In this article, I’ll give you quick comparisons.

I also ranked the attractions based on their educational value, entertainment variety, accessibility, affordability, and age compatibility.

So, put your mind at ease and make the most of your travel by checking out my in-depth review and tips below.

Fun Things To Do In Colorado Springs With Kids Compared 

Colorado Springs has a lot of entertaining things to do, from museums to thrill rides. Here’s a quick reference guide to the best- family-friendly activities in Colorado Springs.

Here are fun activities in Colorado Springs with kids.

1. Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride (Editor’s Choice)

1760 E Cheyenne Mountain Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 368-3800
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Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride, located on East Cheyenne Mountain Boulevard, offers majestic views of the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak.

Ratings Criteria

• Age Compatibility: Young Children (6-9 years)
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Pros

• Scenic views
• Excellent pilot and ground crew

Cons

• Expensive rate

Why We Recommend This Activity

As your balloon gently floats through the sky, you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of colors painting the landscape below.

From the vibrant hues of red and orange to the serene blues of the sky, it is surely worth the experience. 

It’s a visual feast that will leave you speechless.

Lastly, the gentle breeze creates an atmosphere of tranquility, making it an ideal adventure for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Recommended Ages

This activity is suitable for adventurers of all ages. 

Families with children will find the balloon ride a captivating way to introduce young ones to the wonders of nature and the thrill of exploration.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cheyenne Mountain Resort Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort

2. Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour

6 Lake Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 471-6167
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Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour is a sports adventure that lets you experience a ziplining tour with nature.

Ratings Criteria

• Age Compatibility: Teenagers (13-17 years old)
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Pros

• Fun and entertaining guides
• Excellent views and courses

Cons

• Expensive rate

Why We Recommend This Activity

Get your adrenaline pumping as you rappel, climb, and zipline for three hours at Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour.

You’ll experience the exhilaration of Seven Falls with a high-flying adventure that propels you across “The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado.”

You’ll enjoy the adventure along with its exceptional guides.

Recommended Ages

Your kids must be at least eight years old and above and must meet the weight limit to be able to participate.

You can look through their website to learn more about which of its attractions your kids can enjoy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

Related: Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Related: Best Christmas Vacations for Families

3. Jeep Tour – Foothills & Garden of the Gods

925 S 8th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
(719) 578-0935
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Jeep Tour – Foothills & Garden of the Gods takes you to the popular landmarks of Colorado Springs with its open-air jeep.

Ratings Criteria

• Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years old)
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4.5/5
• Affordability: 4.5/5

Pros

• Breathtaking views
• Knowledgeable tour guides

Cons

• Limited time

Why We Recommend This Activity

Take in Colorado’s natural and exquisite landscape with Jeep Tour – Foothills & Garden of the Gods.

With an open-air jeep, your guide will take you to the Pikes Peak foothills’ key historic and scenic sites.

You’ll also learn about the history and geology of the area while enjoying a comfortable ride exploring the area.

Recommended Ages

Jeep Tour – Foothills & Garden of the Gods has no age restrictions.

Kids, even an infant, can enjoy the tour.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cliff House at Pikes Peak

4. U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

200 S Sierra Madre St,
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 497-1234
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U.S Olympic & Paralympic Museum is a historical and cultural sports museum in Colorado Springs.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The U.S Olympic & Paralympic Museum is an excellent alternative to Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride and Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour.

At this attraction, you and your kids will learn everything about the Olympics and its past and present Olympians and Paralympians.

You will be able to see the complete collection of Olympic torches.

Moreover, you can enjoy the film, highlighting the best moments of Team USA athletes.

Recommended Ages

The U.S Olympic & Paralympic Museum is perfect for kids and adults of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SCP Hotel Colorado Springs

5. Ghost Town Museum — Pikes Peak

400 S 21st St
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
(719) 634-0696
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Created in 1954, Ghost Town Museum was established to preserve Colorado’s Wild West era for generations to come.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Immerse yourselves in the Old American Wild West by visiting Ghost Town Museum.

The buildings and artifacts in the site were all rescued and preserved from the historical Pikes Peak region, the area where Colorado began.

The museum has some of the best family activities in Colorado Springs to relive its past.

Crank a butter churn, operate a nickelodeon, play antique arcade games, watch a short film about the era, try out your luck at the shooting gallery, or search for gold in their panning areas.

Recommended Ages

The Ghost Town Museum is open for all ages but is best enjoyed by children ages 7 and up.

This is especially interesting and fun for teens who are curious about retro games.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Antlers, A Wyndham Hotel

Also See:
Things to Do in Denver with Kids
Boulder Attractions for Kids

6. Penny Arcade — Manitou Springs

900 Block Manitou Ave
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
(719) 685-9815
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Penny Arcade is home to some of the oldest arcade games, dating back to the 1930s.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Kids today don’t have any idea what our fun was like.

Take them to Penny Arcade at Manitou Springs to give them a glimpse of our gaming past.

Some of the first arcade games can be found here!

You can play over 20 different pinball machines or 30 different racing games.

Teach them what skeeball, pool, DDR, and boxing machines are all about.

And most of these games cost the same price they did back then.

Recommended Ages

The games at Penny Arcade can be played by children of all ages as well as adults.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs

Related: Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs, CO

7. Cheyenne Mountain State Park

410 JL Ranch Heights Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80926
(719) 576-2016
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Cheyenne Mountain is a vast, scenic state park where you can do a lot of recreational activities.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is an excellent alternative to the Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour and Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride.

You and your kids can enjoy nature at Cheyenne Mountain State Park without spending more.

You can enjoy biking, hiking, having a picnic, and camping.

Recommended Ages

There are no age restrictions at this attraction.

All ages are welcome.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Century Casino & Hotel Cripple Creek

Related: Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs at Night

8. Manitou Cliff Dwellings — Manitou Springs

10 Cliff Dwellings Rd, US Hwy 24 West
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
(719) 685-5242
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These adobe cliff dwellings were home to the Anasazi for 800 to 1,000 years.

Originally located in McElmo Canyon, the founder of the Colorado Cliff Dwellers Association decided to relocate the dwellings in 1904 to protect them from looters, vandals, and pot hunters.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Explore the 800-to 1,000-year-old homes of Native Americans at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings.

Not only are you allowed to actually get inside, you can also touch the walls.

Below the cave dwellings is a pueblo-style structure that now functions as a museum and souvenir shop.

Check out their calendar for special events today or this weekend or next month, such as Native American dances and wolf encounters.

Recommended Ages

A trip to the Manitou Cliff Dwellings is fun for children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa

9. Starr Kempf’s Kinetic Sculptures

2057 Pine Grove Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 576-0450
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Starr Kempf’s Kinetic Sculptures is a tourist attraction showcasing art sculptures.

Why We Recommend This Activity

If you’re looking for an alternative to Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour and Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride, Starr Kempf’s Kinetic Sculptures is worth checking out.

You and your kids will enjoy the unique art sculptures at Starr Kempf’s Kinetic Sculptures.

It’s best when you and your kids are taking a walk on a windy day to see them in motion.

Recommended Ages

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to see this attraction.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SCP Hotel Colorado Springs

Also See:
Kid Friendly Things to Do in Breckenridge
Things for Kids to Do in Durango

10. Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center — Pikes Peak

1805 N 30th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 634-6666
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Colorado Springs founder Gen. William Jackson Palmer always urged his friend, Charles Elliott Perkins, the head of the Burlington Railroad, to establish a home in the Garden of the Gods and build a railroad from Chicago to Colorado Springs.

Perkins did purchase hundreds of acres of land but preferred to leave the land in its natural state.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Garden of the Gods Park spans 1,323 acres and boasts huge sandstone rock formations.

Because the park is open to the public, you’ll have lots of ideas for cheap family fun or free kid-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs right here.

Explore their interactive exhibits, ride a bike, jeep, Segway, or trolley around the park, go rock climbing or hiking, and join their fun and educational low-cost programs such as Toddler Tuesday, Geology Hikes, Nature Immersion Poetry Walk, and many others.

Recommended Ages

This scenic park and educational experience are best for children ages 2 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

11. Glen Eyrie Castle

3820 N 30th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
(719) 634-0808
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Glen Eyrie was built in 1871 by the founder of Colorado Springs, Gen. William Jackson Palmer.

Why We Recommend This Activity

What to do in Colorado Springs with kids?

Take them to a real castle where they can hike, play boardgames, enjoy outdoor games, or try a rope course.

There are castle tours and educational tours you can book as well.

Even better, you can also stay in the castle overnight as there are 17 guest rooms available!

Recommended Ages

Children of all ages will love the castle and the activities they can do indoors and outdoors.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Colorado Springs Garden Of The Gods

Related: Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs

12. Old Colorado City

West Colorado Ave & 24th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
(719) 344-8537
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Old Colorado City is the site of the founding of Colorado in 1859, where the miners, ranchers, farmers, freighters, and saloon owners of the Wild West lived and thrived.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Today, Old Colorado City has over 100 unique businesses lined along its historic streets, such as fine galleries, specialty shops, boutiques, famous restaurants, and other services.

There are live music and performances to enjoy in the evenings, as well as special celebrations throughout the year where people dress up and have fun.

Recommended Ages

Old Colorado City can be explored and experienced with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Antlers, A Wyndham Hotel

Related: Things to Do Near Colorado Springs

13. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site — Pikes Peak

3105 Gateway Rd, Garden of the Gods
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
(719) 578-6777
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Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living museum that depicts four different time periods of Colorado.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is one of the most popular places to take kids in Colorado Springs.

The living museum features restored buildings, museum guides in costume, culture and traditions of Native Americans, and reenactments from the Homestead Act of 1862 and of the Chambers Family from 1874, a blacksmith shop from 1890, and an orchard house from 1907.

Experience history with all your five senses and join important events to witness it in all its splendor.

Recommended Ages

Families with a baby, toddler, older children, and teens will enjoy the spectacle from the costumed performers and the activities anyone can participate in.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Executive Residency Fillmore Inn

Also See:
Things to Do in Estes Park for Kids
Kids Activities: Fort Collins

14. Paint Mines Interpretive Park — Calhan

29950 Paint Mine Rd
Calhan, CO 80808
(719) 520-7529
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The ancient Paint Mines are famous for their odd colors, which are actually caused by oxidized iron compounds found in varying amounts throughout the layers of clay in them.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Hike the meandering four-mile trail through the colorful labyrinth of hoodoos and spires or watch wildlife wandering about in the plains they call home.

The park boasts diverse ecosystems, showcasing prairies and wetlands where you may see coyotes, mule deer, different birds, toads, and rabbits.

There are also picnic tables to dine on before or after you explore this geological wonder.

Recommended Ages

Children ages 5 and up will enjoy exploring this natural marvel.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta ES Suites Colorado Springs

15. Manitou Springs

354 Manitou Avenue
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
(719) 685-5089
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Yet another historic town in the Wild West that is Colorado, Manitou Springs is famous for its natural mineral springs, for which it was founded in 1872.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Tourists come to Manitou Springs for the relaxation and healing brought by its natural mineral springs.

The Native Americans considered the bubbles coming from the mineral waters the breath of the Great Spirit named Manitou.

Have a drink or bathe in it, you choose.

Manitou Springs also offers hiking trails and spectacular views at the top of their famous 2,744-step Manitou Incline.

Recommended Ages

Parents will find fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids of every age right here in this historic town.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Magnuson Grand Pikes Peak

16. Play Street Museum

7075 Austin Bluffs Pkwy
Colorado Springs, CO 80923
(719) 377-9779
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The Play Street Museum is a highly acclaimed children’s museum located at the Norwood Shopping Center.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Spend a couple of hours indoors by enjoying a fun and educational experience with your kids at the Play Street Museum.

It has an educational play space, a treehouse, a shop where you can buy different toys for your children, STEM-related activities, and art workshops.

It also offers several packages for a fabulous birthday party for your little one.

Recommended Ages

The Play Street Museum is perfect for families with children ages ten and below.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: MCM Elegante Suites

17. National Museum of World War II Aviation

775 Aviation Way
Colorado Springs, CO 80916
(719) 637-7559
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The National Museum of World War II Aviation, which opened in 2012, is an aviation museum at the Colorado Springs Airport.

Why We Recommend This Activity

This spectacular museum chronicles the involvement of the United States in World War II.

It has awe-striking exhibits featuring artifacts, audio-visual systems, World War II-era aircraft, archival material, maps, and interpretive narratives.

It offers guided tours for a more educational experience, galleries with fully restored and operational vehicles, and STEM programs for K-12.

Recommended Ages

The National Museum of World War II Aviation is open for all ages but might be more interesting for school-aged children.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Springs Airport Suites

18. Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
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The Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a park within Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs.

It encompasses roughly 1,474 acres.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Go on the ultimate nature retreat with your loved ones by exploring the Red Rock Canyon Open Space.

It boasts picturesque trails of varying difficulties, lush greenery, sparkling lakes, and colossal rock formations.

Enjoy activities like nature photography, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, horseback riding, and more.

Recommended Ages

There are no age restrictions when visiting this park.

However, it is better for your older kids.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cliff House at Pikes Peak

19. U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center

1 Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
(719) 866-4618
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The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center are two campuses that serve as training facilities for Paralympic and Olympic athletes.

It is the only facility in the Olympic training world open to the public for tourism.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Learn about the rigorous training of athletes by touring this training facility with your loved ones.

Explore places like an indoor shooting range, gymnasiums, a sports science laboratory, an Olympic-size swimming pool, weight rooms, dormitories, an athlete center, and a visitors center.

Recommended Ages

The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center gladly welcomes visitors of every age.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa

20. North Cheyenne Cañon Park

2120 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 385-6086
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The North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a regional park spanning roughly 147 acres.

It is also known as Cheyenne Park and Colorado College Park.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Go on the ultimate nature escape by heading to the North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

Enjoy activities like hiking, biking, picnicking, and taking numerous pictures backed by the gorgeous scenery.

Learn more about the area by visiting the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center.

It features engaging nature programs, hands-on exhibits, and informative displays about the park.

Recommended Ages

This regional park has no age restrictions but better caters to your older children.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Downtown, CO

21. Seven Bridges Trail

N Cheyenne Canyon Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 685-5089
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The Seven Bridges Trail is a moderately-difficult hiking trail encompassing roughly 5.78 miles.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Go on an outdoor adventure with your teens by enjoying a hike through the Seven Bridges Trail.

It is a scenic hike featuring sloping terrain, towering trees, cascading streams, and lush greenery.

It’s a dog-friendly trail, ideal if you want to bring your four-legged family members along for the trip.

Recommended Ages

The Seven Bridges Trail is better suited for your teens and older kids.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

22. The Broadmoor Seven Falls

1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
(855) 923-7272
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The Broadmoor Seven Falls is a series of seven majestic waterfalls within South Cheyenne Creek.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the great outdoors by going on a hiking trip with your family at the Broadmoor Seven Falls.

Make your way through a trail backed by breathtaking nature views.

It offers spectacular views featuring towering trees, sparkling streams, towering falls, and stunning rock formations.

Recommended Ages

The Broadmoor Seven Falls is the ideal hiking spot for older kids and their parents.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Colorado Springs

23. Helen Hunt Falls

Helen Hunt Falls
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 633-5701
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The Helen Hunt Falls is a stunning waterfall standing at roughly 35 feet.

You can find it at the North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature by heading to the Helen Hunt Falls with your loved ones.

It has a moderately steep trail to enjoy a picturesque hike through beautiful scenery.

It is also home to the Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center, offering interpretive exhibits about the area and scheduled guided hikes and walks.

It has a gift shop selling items like history books, videos, drinks maps, and various souvenir items.

Recommended Ages

This magnificent waterfall offers the perfect escape for you and your older children.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Magnuson Grand Pikes Peak

24. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

215 S Tejon St
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 385-5990
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The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a history museum that opened in its current location in 1979.

It is located in a historic building that was once the El Paso County Courthouse from 1903 to 1973.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Go back in time as you enjoy an educational tour with your family at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum.

Explore its exhibits featuring more than 60,000 objects, including Native American artifacts, cultural items, and galleries about the city’s military installations, history, mining industry, and more.

Depending on their schedule, you can also get the chance to listen to a fascinating lecture or go on family-friendly scavenger hunts.

It also offers events for your youngsters, like the Little Learners.

It allows your children to participate in history challenges, sing-a-longs, games, and crafts.

Recommended Ages

This museum offers something fun for all ages.

The Little Learners program is strictly for preschool-aged children.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Colorado Springs Downtown

25. Penrose Heritage Museum

11 Lake Cir
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 577-7065
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The Penrose Heritage Museum offers various exhibits about the heritage and history of Pikes Peak.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Spend an hour or two indoors as you explore the Penrose Heritage Museum with your family.

Learn about Pike Peaks as you view its impressive galleries featuring at least 30 historic carriages, 15 race cars, and various Western artifacts.

For a more immersive and educational experience, you can book a guided tour of the museum.

Recommended Ages

Children of every age and their parents are welcome at this heritage museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Colorado Springs/I-25 South

26. Palmer Park

3344-3376 Paseo Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
(719) 385-5940
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Palmer Park is a regional park in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Palmer Park is an excellent alternative to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum and Jeep Tour – Foothills – Garden of the Gods.

Palmer Park is a beautiful place for hiking and other recreational activities.

It also offers a great view with plenty of places for picture-taking with your kids.

Your kids can enjoy playing at the large playground.

Moreover, this is the perfect place for quiet and peaceful relaxation.

Recommended Ages

Palmer Park is open to all ages.

You can visit their website for more information.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Colorado Springs Downtown Central, an IHG Hotel

27. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

100 Cave of the Winds Rd
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
(719) 685-5444
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The Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is a complex of caves in Manitou Springs in the Pikes Peak region.

Why We Recommend This Activity

After enjoying countless fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids, head to the neighboring Manitou Springs to continue the adventure at the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park.

Have a blast with your family as you go cave exploring and other activities like making your way through a ropes course, going on a 1200-foot aerial ride, heading up a climbing wall, ax throwing, panning for gemstones, and sliding down a colossal slide.

Recommended Ages

This well-known tourist hotspot does not have specific age restrictions, but it does enforce strict height regulations.

Look through their website to learn more about which of its attractions your kids can enjoy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs

28. United States Air Force Academy

Air Force Academy, CO 80840
(719) 333-2025
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The US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs is a family-friendly destination that combines education and adventure.

The campus features the striking Cadet Chapel, a B-52 bomber, and a football stadium.

Why We Recommend This Activity

If you’re searching for unforgettable things to do with kids, Colorado Springs is here to give them to you.

Your family will be all ears at the interactive exhibits at the US Air Force Academy’s Visitor Center, offering a fascinating look into cadet life.

Planetarium shows are a crowd-pleaser, making science accessible and fun.

Time your visit right and witness an airplane fly-over or a cadet formation—an adrenaline kick for sure.

Plus, you can print out a scavenger hunt to keep the little ones engaged as you explore.

Don’t miss the free planetarium shows on weekdays.

Recommended Ages

A visit to the US Air Force Academy is ideal for kids aged 6 and up.

The Visitor Center and Planetarium are great for younger kids, while older ones will enjoy learning about the military and aviation aspects.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Colorado Springs

29. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 633-9925
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From feeding elephants to snapping pics with giraffes, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers the little ones a hands-on experience they won’t forget.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Searching for fascinating Colorado Springs kids activities?

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo should be at the top of your list.

It lets your family get up close and personal with a diverse range of animals.

They can feed not just goats but also elephants, giraffes, and even rhinos.

It’s a fantastic way to learn about animals while having a blast.

Parents, keep those cameras ready because the photo ops are endless.

Recommended Ages

The zoo is great for all ages but is especially engaging for kids between 3 to 12 years.

The feeding experiences are a hit with younger kids.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Colorado Springs South, CO

30. The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop

5050 Pikes Peak Hwy
Cascade, CO 80809
(719) 684-9432
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The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop is a Christmas-themed amusement park at the base of Pikes Peak.

With nearly 30 rides and a Santa’s Village, it’s holiday magic all year round.

Why We Recommend This Activity

If you’re in the Cascade area and searching for magical “things to do with kids near me”, head to this amusement park.

From the Candy Cane Coaster to meeting Santa himself, this place is a kiddo’s dream.

The sky ride and Ferris wheel offer fun for parents, too.

Special shows and a glass-blowing demo add unique touches.

It’s festive, and guess what?

Entry is free in summer and fall, so you only pay if you ride.

Recommended Ages

The park offers a variety of rides, activities, and more fun things to do in Colorado Springs for kids of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Outlook Lodge

31. Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center

4425 Arrowswest Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
(719) 576-8000
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The Space Foundation Discovery Center is a one-of-a-kind space and science center in the Pikes Peak region.

Why We Recommend This Activity

If you’re looking for educational indoor kids activities, Colorado Springs, Colorado has a lot in store for you.

The Space Foundation Discovery Center is one of them.

Here, kids can program robotic rovers, view the universe in a unique way, and participate in STEM activities.

From spacecraft to a dynamic spherical projection system, it’s a cosmic playground.

Family events like stargazing nights add to the fun.

Parents will enjoy the educational aspect and the chance to geek out on space tech.

Recommended Ages

The center is great for kids 5 and up.

It also offers workshops for tweens and teens, making it a hit with older kids, too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

32. Edward J. Peterson Air and Space Museum

150 Ent Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80914
(719) 556-4915
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Located on Peterson Space Force Base, this is Colorado’s oldest aviation museum.

It’s free to visit and features a range of aircraft and aviation exhibits.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Kids will be wowed by the aircraft and missiles on display.

The museum is interactive and educational, offering a unique look into aviation history.

Parents will appreciate the historical significance, with buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you’re looking for the best kid friendly things to do in Colorado Springs, this museum is a must-visit.

Recommended Ages

The museum’s historical and technical aspects will be more appreciated by older children.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Colorado Springs-Airport

Activity Guide

Comparing Attractions: Which One Is Right For You?

When comparing Colorado Springs attractions, consider entertainment variety, interactive experience, educational value, budget, and age compatibility.

For comparison, Jeep Tour Foothills & Garden of Gods offers scenic views much cheaper than Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride and Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour.

On the other hand, Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour is suited for those who love thrill and adventure.

I saw how happy my family was on our vacation.

My kids conquered their fear of heights at the Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour and wanted to return.

Moreover, the Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride and Jeep Tour – Foothills & Garden of the Gods are better options for something more scenic and educational.

My family had the best of their life, taking pictures of the beautiful views while listening to the guides.

My kids enjoyed watching and feeding the animals during our visit to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

They also enjoy the ski lift rides and carousels.

How I Picked The Activities

When it comes to planning a trip to Colorado Springs with kids, I understand the challenges firsthand. 

That’s why I went the extra mile to ensure that the activities I recommend are truly worth your time and money.

To provide you with the best insights, I personally visited numerous attractions in Colorado Springs with my kids. 

I immersed myself in the experiences, taking note of the educational value, entertainment variety, accessibility, affordability, and age compatibility of each activity.

But I didn’t stop there. 

I delved deeper by reading online reviews and seeking out the opinions of locals and other families. 

This allowed me to gather unbiased perspectives and ensure that my recommendations align with the diverse needs and preferences of families like yours.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colorado Springs Good For Families?

Colorado Springs is a fantastic choice for families. With a wealth of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Garden of the Gods, and the Pikes Peak region, it provides the perfect blend of adventure, education, and fun for all ages.

What Is Colorado Springs Popular For?

Colorado Springs is renowned for its awe-inspiring natural wonders, most notably Pikes Peak, one of the most visited mountains in North America, and the stunning Garden of the Gods, a park featuring towering sandstone formations. Additionally, it’s well known as the home of the U.S. Air Force Academy and the Olympic & Paralympic Training Center.

Conclusion 

These activities are the best fun things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.

Aside from its fun, educational, and accessible, you’ll create lasting memories with your family.

My family connected to nature during our Jeep Tour Foothills & Garden of the Gods visits.

My kids conquered their fear of heights and had fun enjoying the Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour.

And you can’t go wrong with our top Pick: Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride/ 

Let me tell you, the Colorado Springs Sunrise Balloon Ride is an absolute must-do for families seeking a truly magical experience. 

Picture this: soaring above the stunning landscapes of Colorado Springs, surrounded by breathtaking views as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues. 

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you and your kids in awe. 

Trust me, this exhilarating ride is worth every penny for the memories you’ll create together.