Colorado Springs

Welcome to the Springs: Where the Air is Thin and the Views Are Obnoxiously Good

So, you’ve decided to visit Colorado Springs, where the mountains don’t just loom—they show off. Welcome to a city that’s basically nature’s theme park, with fewer lines and significantly more oxygen-deprived tourists trying to act casual. Don’t worry, we’ll get you through it with your dignity (mostly) intact.

Fun Facts That’ll Make You Sound Smart at a Brewery

1. Olympic City, USA: This isn't just a catchy nickname. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee is headquartered here, and the U.S. Olympic Training Center is a real facility. You might see future medalists training, which is both inspiring and a brutal reminder that your fitness routine is lacking.
2. Garden of the Gods is a Geological Troll: Those stunning red rock formations? They were formed millions of years ago. The story goes that two surveyors in 1859 said it was a fit place “for the gods to assemble.” Understatement of the century. It’s basically Earth showing off its abstract sculpture phase.
3. Pikes Peak Or Bust (Literally): The famous “Pikes Peak or Bust” gold rush slogan put this place on the map. The mountain itself is a 14,115-foot giant that inspired the song “America the Beautiful.” Driving or taking the cog railway up it is a must, but be prepared for your ears to pop and your ego to shrink at the view.

Food: It’s Not All Granola (But There’s Good Granola)

Forget boring trail mix. You need to try:

• A Colorado-style Burger: This means it’s topped with a smothered green chile, a flavorful, often spicy stew that is the state’s culinary pride and joy. It’s messy, delicious, and will require extra napkins.
• Rocky Mountain Oysters: Ah, the classic tourist trap. I’ll just say they’re not seafood. They’re… bull parts. Brave it if you must for the bragging rights, but maybe have that green chile burger as a backup plan.
• Craft Beer: Colorado Springs is swimming in exceptional breweries. From hazy IPAs to rich stouts, consider it your hydration duty.

The “I Only Have One Day” Itinerary (The Sprint Through the Springs)

• Morning (8 AM - 12 PM): Go directly to Garden of the Gods. Hike the easy Perkins Central Garden Trail before the crowds hit. The red rocks against a blue sky will blow your mind. Don’t forget water.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4 PM): Head downtown to Tejon Street for lunch (get that green chile!). Then, drive or take the Cog Railway to the summit of Pikes Peak. Feel on top of the world (because you are).
• Evening (5 PM onwards): Explore the Broadmoor area or the historic Manitou Springs for dinner. Manitou is quirky, charming, and home to natural mineral springs you can taste (some are… interesting). Finish your day at a local brewery.

Expectation vs. Reality: A Little Truth Bomb

• Expectation: A serene, solitary hike in pristine wilderness.
• Reality: Carefully navigating a trail while a fleet of spandex-clad power-walkers zooms past you, and you’re quietly gasping for air because you forgot you’re a mile above sea level.
• Expectation: The weather app shows a sunny, perfect day.
• Reality: You experience all four seasons between breakfast and lunch. Sun, then hail, then sun again. Layers are not a suggestion; they are a survival tactic.

The Local’s Cheat Sheet: Don’t Be That Tourist

• Transport: Rent a car. Public transit exists but won’t get you to the best spots efficiently. Everything is spread out.
• Etiquette: Don’t block the trail for that perfect Instagram photo. Step aside. Also, be uber-polite to servers and staff—tourism is hard work.
• Hidden Gem: Skip the crowded downtown chain coffee and find Switchback Coffee Roasters or Loyal Coffee. For a short, stunning hike with fewer people, try Red Rock Canyon Open Space (Garden of the Gods’ cool, less-crowded cousin).

Parting Words: Go Forth and Conquer (But Hydrate)

Colorado Springs is a blend of jaw-dropping nature and quirky town charm. It’s okay to be a tourist here—everyone is at some point. Just remember to look up from your phone, breathe the (thin) air, and let the mountains humble you in the best way possible. Now go get some green chile. You’ve earned it.