The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Colorado Springs, Colorado (CO)

Located at the base of Pikes Peak, this National Natural Landmark and popular park features stunning geological formations, rock climbing, nature trails and the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center.

(Reservations Required) Penrose Heritage Museum showcases the history and heritage of the Pikes Peak region through the personal artifact collection of Colorado Springs’ philanthropists Spencer and Julie Penrose. The museum exhibits 30 carriages, western cultural artifacts, and 15 race cars that competed in the infamous Race to the Clouds, one of the oldest motorsport events in the U.S., second only to the Indianapolis 500. Whether you are interested in the Penrose legacy, regional history, transportation, or motor sports, Penrose Heritage Museum is a cultural institution you will not want to miss when visiting Colorado.

The Museum's new 40,000 sq ft hangar is now open at 775 Aviation Way on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 4;30 PM. Face masks are requirement and reservation should be made ahead of time at worldwariiaviation.org. Visitors can walk around the museum on their own and hosts are available to answer questions .Tours for WestPac, a private WWII aircraft restoration company will be offered hourly.

The Museum preserves and portrays the rich aviation and space history of Colorado Springs and Peterson Air Force Base. From our barnstormer beginnings in the Roaring Twenties, through the daring exploits of our World War II pilots and into the modern space era, our exhibits are sure to capture your attention. The museum is open to the public even though the museum is on an active Air Force installation. All that is required is for non-military ID card holders and groups to call us or submit a request on our web site a minimum of one day in advance of your visit (before noon MDT) to arrange for a pass and detailed instructions (https://petemuseum.org/visitor-information/). A State or federal issued Photo ID is required for all Non-DoD visitors over 18. Drivers will need to have proof of insurance and registration for their vehicles. Non-US Visitors: allow an additional day.

Visitors can tour this modern sprawling campus that includes the Academy, Falcon Stadium, a chapel and Arnold Hall, a museum honoring Air Force personnel.

The museum features artifacts and research involving the region's early mining and industrial activities.

Colorado Springs is home to America’s mountain zoo. Located at 6,714 feet above sea level, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers breathtaking views of the city and of its 750 animals. The unique design of the Zoo’s animal exhibits gets guests closer than ever before. Hand-feed one of the largest reticulated giraffe herds in the world, watch grizzlies swim with trout, hop next to red-necked wallabies and get hands on with some of the Zoo’s smaller residents in The Loft. Have a WILD adventure at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – see the animals, ride an antique carousel, eat a gourmet lunch at the Grizzly Grill and ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride to the Zoo’s summit. Visit 365 days a year for family fun at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

The Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center is home to Olympic hopefuls in various sport disciplines. Take the guided walking tour and see the facilities in which athletes train as the aspire to be part of Team USA in the upcoming Olympic Games!

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy exists to educate the public about rodeo, its history, and its impact on Western American culture. The Hall of Fame will also provide recognition to rodeo notables of the past, present, and serve as an inspiration for the future.