Pencils down. School's out.
3 epic days in Manitou Springs
Is it just us, or does planning for Spring Break usually involve a herculean combination of pro-con lists, online travel reviews and at least 20 open tabs in your browser? It doesn’t have to. Like an all-you-can-eat buffet, Manitou Springs really does have something for everyone. So, pencils down and browsers closed because we’ve planned the perfect 3-day family vacay in Manitou.
Day 01
Find adventure outdoors
Toto, we’re not in the classroom anymore! Get outside on your first day in Manitou with 300+ days of sunshine.
- Get hands-on with history at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings & Museum
- Take a drive through Garden of the Gods and make a pit stop for lunch at the Trading Post
- Explore below and traverse above the canyon at Cave of the Winds Adventure Park (Reservations required)
Day 02
Explore the heart of Manitou
Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou’s quaint downtown is a National Historic District overflowing with character.
- Start the day with beignets creekside at Rocky Mountain Beignets
- Channel your inner artist at the Naturally Eclectic Show at the Commonwheel Artists Co-op
- Sample 8 effervescent mineral springs on a self-guided walking tour
- Sit back and relax while you climb aboard The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Reservations required)
A Night with Poe: If you're visiting March 31st or April 1st, have we got an evening of macabre fun for you! Enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar while you explore Miramont Castle by oil lamp before settling in for a dramatic reading of Edgar Allen Poe's "The Tell-Tale Heart" in the Chapel. Call (719) 685-1011 to make reservations. Tickets are $55/person.
Day 03
Capture the memories
All good things must come to an end—so make the most of your last day in Manitou by exploring the locally-owned shops downtown.
- Hunt for the most unique souvenirs at shops like Flowers…and the Moon, Theo’s Toys, and The Glassblowers of Manitou
- Treat the family to a 4-course High Tea at Miramont Castle
- Preserve your memories in pictures at Olde Tyme Photography
april showers bring may flowers
Travel tips for Manitou in the spring
Dress in layers
As the Boy Scouts say, "be prepared." Dress in layers—springtime in Colorado can be unpredictable.
Fly COS
Start your adventure sooner! Colorado Springs Airport is only a 20-minute drive to Manitou.
Don't forget SPF
Even overcast days have a high UV index. Be sure to apply sunscreen even if you don't think you need it.
