Manitou Springs is the perfect place to explore as a family. Nestled between Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs offers fun attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious food and affordable lodging.
Looking for more Colorado fun? Be sure to check out Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs: Getaways, Outdoor Recreation Bites and Brews and scroll down for our summer activity guide with 200+ Denver activities.
Here are some fun things you can do as a family in Manitou Springs:
Manitou Springs Family Activities
- Explore Manitou Cliff Dwellings: Visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a unique archaeological site featuring ancient Native American cliff dwellings. You can explore the preserved structures, climb ladders, and learn about the history and culture of the Anasazi people.
- Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Take a scenic train ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s most famous mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as you ascend to over 14,000 feet.
- Visit the Manitou Springs Arcade: Located in the heart of downtown Manitou Springs, the arcade offers a collection of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and other interactive activities. It’s a great place for some old-school family fun.
- Explore the Manitou Springs Heritage Center: Learn about the rich history of Manitou Springs and the Pikes Peak region at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center. The center features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that tell the story of the area’s past.
- Hike or Bike in Garden of the Gods: Located nearby in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods offers stunning natural rock formations and scenic trails. Take a family hike or rent bikes to explore this beautiful park and enjoy the outdoors. Be sure to check out the Trading Post for a large art gallery and gift shop.
- Enjoy Manitou Springs’ Mineral Springs: Manitou Springs is known for its mineral springs, and you can find several fountains throughout the town where you can taste the different mineral waters. Take a leisurely walk, try the various springs, and enjoy the refreshing experience.
- Have a Picnic in Memorial Park: Memorial Park in Manitou Springs provides a great spot for a family picnic. The park offers picnic tables, playgrounds, and open green spaces where you can relax, play games, and enjoy some quality time together.
- Experience Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Just a short drive away from Manitou Springs, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park offers guided cave tours, thrilling rides, and outdoor activities. Explore the underground caverns or enjoy attractions like the Wind Walker Challenge Course and the Bat-a-Pult.
- Attend Manitou Springs’ Festivals and Events: Manitou Springs hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Emma Crawford Coffin Races and the Manitou Springs Wine Festival. Check the local event calendar to see if there are any family-friendly festivities happening during your visit.
- Explore the Dinosaur Resource Center. Located in beautiful downtown Woodland Park, only 15 miles west of Manitou Springs, the Dinosaur Resource Center will bring you back to a Prehistoric Paradise.
- SBR MotorSports Park. SBR MotorSports have the fastest go-kart rentals in Colorado Springs. We accommodate groups, birthday parties, or friends out for an afternoon of fun.
- Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole. Christmas-themed family amusement park with rides, shows, gift shops, and Santa himself! Come visit the fun attraction in Cascade, Colorado at the foot of Pikes Peak.
- Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. Take a wonderful trip on the exciting Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. You will see scenic wonders around every curve as this century-old attraction.
- The Manitou Incline. For athletic families, get your blood pumping with 2,744 steps of elevation. That’s right! Climb over 2,000 vertical feet in less than a mile with sections as steep as 68% grade. Reservations are now needed to hike the popular incline.
Remember to check the specific opening hours, admission fees, and any age restrictions for each attraction or activity before planning your visit.
Denver Summer Activities 2023
The Ultimate Denver Summer Activity Guide (250+ ideas)
Denver Playgrounds & Parks: A guide to the best play areas
Guide to Denver’s Splash Parks and Spray Fountains
Cool Off This Summer at Colorado’s Best Beaches
25 great fishing ponds in Denver
South Platte River Trail’s 25+ best parks, trails, restaurants and museums
Borrow a Colorado State Parks Pass from Your Library
Photo: Manitou Springs. Disclaimer: While clicking these links won’t cost you extra money, they help us keep this site up and running. See our disclosure policy.
Author: Mile High Mamas
