Downtown Colorado Springs
Discover the vibrant heart of Colorado Springs with its charming shops, diverse eateries, and lively atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Downtown Colorado Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant heart of Colorado Springs with its charming shops, diverse eateries, and lively atmosphere.
"A charming downtown with great shops and restaurants, perfect for exploring."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Grab a Coffee
Start your day with a delicious brew from a local coffee shop. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Acacia Park
Downtown Colorado Springs
A vibrant urban oasis perfect for picnics, people-watching, and enjoying the city's pulse.

Shops & Boutiques
Downtown Colorado Springs
Discover unique treasures and local crafts in the charming shops and boutiques lining the streets.

Local Eateries & Cafes
Downtown Colorado Springs
Savor diverse culinary delights, from cozy cafes to upscale dining, in the heart of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Grab a Coffee
Start your day with a delicious brew from a local coffee shop. :coffee:
🛍️ Shop Local
Support local businesses by browsing the unique shops and boutiques. :shopping_bags:
🍽️ Dine Out
Experience the diverse culinary scene with plenty of great restaurants. :forkandknifewithplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Grab a Coffee
Start your day with a delicious brew from a local coffee shop. :coffee:
🛍️ Shop Local
Support local businesses by browsing the unique shops and boutiques. :shopping_bags:
🍽️ Dine Out
Experience the diverse culinary scene with plenty of great restaurants. :forkandknifewithplate:
🚗 Parking Tips
Utilize parking garages for convenience, especially during busy times. :parking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Downtown Colorado Springs for its charming atmosphere, diverse shopping, and excellent dining options. The walkability and accessibility to nearby natural attractions are also frequently highlighted. Some find parking can be a hassle during peak times, and certain areas might feel quieter than expected outside of event hours.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Downtown Colorado Springs is accessible by car, with major highways leading into the city. If flying in, Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is the closest. Public transportation options are available, but renting a car is often recommended for exploring the wider region.
Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during events. Look for public parking garages and metered street parking. Some hotels, like the Marriott Colorado Springs Downtown, offer convenient parking for guests.
Yes, Downtown Colorado Springs is very walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and parks within easy reach of each other.
Mountain Metro Transit operates bus routes throughout Colorado Springs, including services that connect to the downtown area.
For a comprehensive experience, combining walking with occasional use of ride-sharing services or local buses is ideal for exploring the downtown area and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Downtown Colorado Springs itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. However, individual attractions, shops, and restaurants within the downtown area will have their own pricing.
Shop hours in Downtown Colorado Springs can vary. Most boutiques and stores are typically open from mid-morning to early evening, with some staying open later on weekends. It's best to check individual store hours online.
For general exploration of Downtown Colorado Springs, no advance booking is needed. However, if you plan to visit specific ticketed attractions or popular restaurants, booking ahead is recommended.
Absolutely! Strolling through Acacia Park, window shopping, and enjoying the street art are all free activities in Downtown Colorado Springs.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekends and evenings, especially during events, tend to be busier.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Downtown Colorado Springs offers a diverse range of shops, including unique boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, and souvenir shops. You can find everything from local crafts to fashion.
The downtown area boasts a vibrant food scene with options ranging from casual cafes and breweries to upscale dining. Popular spots include Ephemeral Dinners and Uwe's German Restaurant.
Yes, Downtown Colorado Springs has several excellent coffee shops, such as Switchback Roasters and Story Coffee Co., perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a relaxing break.
For a date night, consider spots like 503wco for dinner and cocktails, or explore the vibey options highlighted by locals for a romantic evening.
Definitely! The numerous boutiques and specialty shops in Downtown Colorado Springs are great places to find unique souvenirs and local artisan goods.
📸 📸 Photography Spots
Capture the charm of Downtown Colorado Springs by photographing its historic architecture, vibrant street art, and the lively atmosphere of Acacia Park. The unique shops also offer great visual appeal.
While not directly in the downtown core, nearby attractions like Garden of the Gods and Seven Falls offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints that are easily accessible from Downtown Colorado Springs.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for photography in Downtown Colorado Springs. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities for capturing vibrant street scenes.
Yes, keep an eye out for murals and public art installations scattered throughout the downtown area, providing excellent subjects for photography.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for wider shots of parks and streetscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When hunger strikes, look for casual eateries and cafes that offer kid-friendly menus. Many restaurants are accustomed to families and provide a welcoming environment. Consider packing snacks and drinks, especially if you plan on spending a significant amount of time exploring the shops and parks.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to potentially find better deals on parking or dining. While there are no entrance fees for the downtown area itself, be mindful of costs for specific attractions or tours if you choose to partake.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
For a memorable date night, explore the vibrant dining scene, perhaps enjoying cocktails at a trendy spot like 503wco or seeking out a cozy restaurant with a great ambiance. The historic charm of the area adds to the romantic appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Old Colorado City
The atmosphere in Old Colorado City is distinctly more laid-back than the main downtown area, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. You'll find cozy cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, often with outdoor seating perfect for enjoying the Colorado sunshine. Don't miss exploring some of the side streets for hidden gems and picturesque scenes.
For those interested in the area's past, Old Colorado City offers a glimpse into the gold rush era. The architecture itself tells a story, and many businesses are housed in buildings that have stood for over a century. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the historic heart of Colorado Springs.
Culinary Delights in Downtown
For a more casual experience, the downtown area is dotted with charming cafes and bistros. Switchback Roasters and Story Coffee Co. are popular spots for coffee enthusiasts, offering expertly brewed beverages and light bites. These cafes are perfect for a morning start or an afternoon break while exploring the shops.
When the sun sets, Downtown Colorado Springs truly comes alive with its nightlife and dining scene. 503wco is frequently recommended for its dinner and cocktails, making it a great choice for a date night or a relaxed evening out. The variety ensures that whether you're seeking a quick bite or a fine dining experience, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings.
The Allure of Nearby Natural Wonders
Another iconic nearby site is Seven Falls, a series of seven cascading waterfalls nestled in a natural box canyon. Visitors can climb the 185 stairs to the Eagle's Nest for panoramic views, making it an adventurous outing.
For the truly adventurous, the Manitou Incline in nearby Manitou Springs presents a challenging but rewarding hike up a steep former funicular railway track. The views from the top are spectacular, and the sense of accomplishment is immense. These natural wonders are easily accessible from Downtown Colorado Springs, offering a perfect blend of city exploration and outdoor adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit