25 Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs This Spring (April & May 2026)

6 Apr 2026 2 min read No comments Things to Do
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Spring in the Springs is something else. The snow starts melting off Pikes Peak, wildflowers pop up at Garden of the Gods, and suddenly every patio in town is packed again.

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Hit the Iconic Outdoor Spots

Garden of the Gods

There is a reason this is the most visited free attraction in the country. But spring is when Garden of the Gods really shines. Daytime temps hover in the 50s and 60s, the red rock formations pop against blue skies, and wildflowers start blooming along the trails by late April. Pro tip: Go early morning on weekdays.

Cost: Free. Always.
Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Pikes Peak

The Pikes Peak Highway typically reopens for the season in May. The drive to 14,115 feet is one of those bucket-list experiences. Spring means snow at the summit while it is T-shirt weather at the base.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

While tourists flock to Garden of the Gods, locals head to Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Same stunning red rock geology, a fraction of the crowds.

Cost: Free.
Address: 3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

North Cheyenne Canon Park and Seven Falls

Spring snowmelt means the creek runs strong and the waterfalls are at their best. Hike the Mount Cutler Trail for panoramic city views. Seven Falls reopens late April or early May ($16-$18 for adults).

Explore the Towns and Culture

Old Colorado City Art Walks

The First Friday Art Walks run monthly from spring through fall, with galleries staying open late.

Manitou Springs

  • The Manitou Incline — 2,768 steps gaining 2,000 feet of elevation
  • Manitou Cliff Dwellings — great for families
  • Downtown Manitou — quirky shops, penny arcade, mineral springs

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

The only mountain zoo in the country. The giraffe feeding experience alone is worth the trip. Spring means baby animals and smaller crowds.

Cost: ~$30 adults, $20 kids.
Address: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Seasonal Spring Events

Farmers Markets

The Colorado Springs Farmers Market at Acacia Park kicks off late April or early May.

Brewery Patios Reopen

Patios at Bristol Brewing, Cerberus Brewing, Metric Brewing, and Brass Brewing fill up as soon as temps hit 60.

Spring Festivals (April-May 2026)

  • Earth Day celebrations (late April)
  • Territory Days (Memorial Day weekend) — OCC biggest street festival
  • Pikes Peak Hill Climb prep events (May-June)
  • Cinco de Mayo — first weekend of May

Practical Tips

Layer Up: Temps range from low 50s to mid-70s, but it can snow in April.

Hydrate: Colorado Springs sits at 6,035 feet. Dehydration sneaks up fast.

Arrive Early: Popular spots get crowded by mid-morning on weekends. Aim for 7-8 AM.


Spring is arguably the best time to visit Colorado Springs. This is Colorado at its best.

Springs Local Guide — your neighbor is guide to everything Colorado Springs.

Dominic
Author: Dominic

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