From Fort Collins to Loveland to Greeley and beyond, every Northern Colorado resident knows there's no shortage of things to do along the Front Range.

But on the off chance that you're sick of hanging out at Horsetooth Reservoir or hitting up the downtown bars, it doesn't hurt to see what else the Centennial State has to offer.

Colorado Springs is one city that has lots to explore ⁠— and it's only about two hours away from Northern Colorado. Read on to see some of the best things to do during your daytrip down south.

Garden of the Gods

You can't visit Colorado Springs without visiting its most famous landmark. Head to 1805 N 30th Street to enjoy stunning natural rock formations and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak.

Melanie Magdalena // Unsplash
Melanie Magdalena // Unsplash
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According to the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, you can experience the park through hiking, biking, horseback riding, offroading, and more.

Pikes Peak

Speaking of Pikes Peak, summiting this renowned 14er is a must when visiting Colorado Springs.

Alexis Gethin // Unsplash
Alexis Gethin // Unsplash
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According to ColoradoSprings.gov, you can get to the top of the mountain via the Barr and Crags hiking trails, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, or the Pikes Peak Highway. Don't forget to grab a doughnut at the Summit Visitor Center.

Cave of the Winds

Travel inside the mountains of Colorado Springs by touring Cave of the Winds. According to Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, you can try a traditional or spooky haunted lantern tour.

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park // Unsplash
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park // Facebook
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If you're feeling adventurous, you can test out the amusement park rides over Williams Canyon.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

See animals from all over the world right in Colorado Springs by taking a trip to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Sean Foster // Unsplash
Sean Foster // Unsplash
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According to the zoo, you can make your visit extra special by feeding giraffes, rhinoceroses, elephants, and more.

The Broadmoor and Seven Falls

Experience luxurious living by stopping by The Broadmoor, a historical hotel in Colorado Springs that has hosted celebrities and presidents.

Priscilla Gyamfi // Unsplash
Priscilla Gyamfi // Unsplash
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According to the resort, you can also hike the nearby Seven Falls to see the "Grandest Mile of Scenery" in Colorado.

United States Air Force Academy

Visit the United States Air Force Academy to learn about cadet life and check out the academy's extensive campus.

Spring Fed Images // Unsplash
Spring Fed Images // Unsplash
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According to the academy, you can also catch a movie at the planetarium and explore the Cadet Chapel when it reopens in 2023.


Once you've visited Colorado Springs, try heading up north. See 30 attractions you can visit in Wyoming in the gallery below.

30 Wyoming Attractions To Visit

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