Tucked at the base of Pikes Peak , Manitou Springs feels like a place that never quite rushes . The streets curve around historic buildings , mineral springs bubble quietly from roadside fountains or the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains is always within view . Travelers often pass through on their way to Colorado Springs but slowing down here reveals something more memorable .
Exploring the things to do Manitou Springs offers a mix of outdoor adventure, quirky local culture and small town charm . Whether you are hiking steep trails, tasting mineral water or browsing art galleries, the experience feels refreshingly different from larger Colorado destinations .
Walk the Manitou Avenue Strip
Manitou Avenue serves as the heart of town, where colorful storefronts and historic facades line the street . Walking here feels unhurried , with mountain views peeking between buildings and the occasional sound of live music drifting from a café patio .
Local shops range from handmade jewelry boutiques to old school candy stores . You will also find cozy restaurants serving everything from casual burgers to elevated mountain cuisine . Parking can be tight during weekends , so arriving early or using the free shuttle from nearby lots makes things easier .
Taste the Natural Mineral Springs
One of the most unique things to do Manitou Springs is sampling the town’s natural mineral springs . Scattered throughout the downtown area, each spring has its own flavor profile due to varying mineral content .
Some taste crisp and refreshing, while others carry a stronger, almost metallic note . Visitors often walk between fountains with a map in hand, comparing flavors along the way . It’s free, though bringing your own cup or bottle helps . Most first-time visitors don’t realize the springs aren’t all the same . Trying several is part of the experience .
Hike the Manitou Incline
Rising sharply above town, the Manitou Incline is one of Colorado’s most famous or demanding hikes . This former cable car track climbs nearly 2,000 feet in less than a mile .
The climb is intense , with over 2,700 steps stretching straight up the mountainside . Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds , which can make a big difference on such a steep ascent . Reservations are often required , so checking the official site ahead of time is essential . Reaching the top rewards you with sweeping views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding Front Range .
Explore Garden of the Gods
Just minutes from town, Garden of the Gods feels like stepping into another landscape entirely . Towering red rock formations rise dramatically against the sky, creating one of the most iconic scenes in Colorado .
Well maintained trails make it accessible for all skill levels . You can take a short walk among the formations or spend hours exploring longer paths . Entry is free , which makes it one of the best value experiences near Manitou Springs . Sunset casts a warm glow across the rocks , making it an especially memorable time to visit .
Visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings
For a glimpse into ancient history , the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a chance to walk through preserved Ancestral Puebloan structures . Unlike many historic sites , visitors can actually enter and explore the dwellings .
The site includes a museum that explains the history and culture behind these structures, adding context to the experience . It’s a relatively quick stop but gives a deeper sense of the region’s past. Families often find this stop especially engaging due to its interactive nature .
Discover Local Art and Culture
Manitou Springs has long attracted artists and that creative energy shows throughout town. Small galleries, street art and handmade goods give the area a distinct personality .
Events like the Commonwheel Arts Festival bring even more creativity into the streets. Even outside festival times, you’ll notice murals and sculptures tucked into unexpected corners. It’s worth wandering without a strict plan you’ll often stumble onto something interesting .
Relax at Sun Water Spa
After a day of hiking or exploring, SunWater Spa offers a quieter way to experience Manitou Springs . The spa features cedar soaking tubs filled with mineral water, set beside a peaceful creek .
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends . While it’s not the cheapest activity, many visitors find the setting and atmosphere worth the cost . Even an hour here feels like a reset after a busy day outdoors .
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall offers the best overall conditions . Summer brings warm days and lively streets, though it’s also the busiest season .
Fall adds cooler air and changing leaves, especially along nearby scenic drives . Winter is quieter, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, though some activities may be limited . Morning visits often feel more peaceful regardless of the season .
Sample 1-Day Itinerary
Morning:
Start with a walk along Manitou Avenue and sample a few mineral springs. Head early to the Manitou Incline if you’re up for the challenge .
Midday:
Explore Garden of the Gods or grab lunch in downtown Manitou Springs .
Afternoon:
Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway or visit the Cliff Dwellings .
Evening:
Relax at Sun Water Spa or enjoy dinner with mountain views.
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FAQ’s
How do I spend a day in Manitou Springs ?
I start early with things to do Manitou Springs, hike the Incline, explore downtown springs, then unwind at a spa before sunset .
Is Manitou Springs worth visiting ?
I found things to do Manitou Springs surprisingly diverse, from mineral springs to mountain hikes, making it an easy, memorable stop near Colorado Springs .
What is the #1 attraction in Colorado ?
From my trips, Garden of the Gods stands out most, with towering red rocks, free entry and incredible views that feel unforgettable in person .
What do people do for fun in Colorado Springs ?
I usually mix things to do Manitou Springs with Garden of the Gods hiking, scenic drives and local food spots, which keeps the day active and interesting .
Why is Colorado Springs called the city of millionaires ?
I learned wealthy residents once built large homes here for the climate and views, giving the city a reputation that still shapes its identity today .
Conclusion
Spending time exploring the things to do Manitou Springs reveals a destination that blends natural beauty with local character . It’s not just about the big attractions, the smaller moments, like tasting mineral water or walking a quiet street, often stand out the most .
With easy access to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods and Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs fits naturally into any Colorado itinerary while offering something distinctly its own .
