Ultimate Guide: Things to Do in Colorado Springs for Thanksgiving 2025

Thanksgiving in Colorado Springs offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, family-friendly activities, and traditional holiday celebrations. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or you’re a local looking for something special to do this holiday season, the Pikes Peak region delivers unforgettable experiences. From scenic hikes among towering red rocks to festive brunches at historic hotels, here’s your complete guide to making the most of Thanksgiving 2025 in Colorado Springs.

Traditional Thanksgiving Dining Experiences

The Broadmoor Thanksgiving Day Brunch

One of Colorado Springs’ most prestigious Thanksgiving traditions takes place at The Broadmoor, an iconic five-star resort that’s been welcoming guests since 1918. This year’s Thanksgiving Day Brunch at Broadmoor Hall promises to be spectacular.

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Location: Broadmoor Hall, 1 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Cost: $125+ per adult, $50+ per child (ages 10 and under)

The brunch features an impressive buffet spread with everything from fresh-baked pastries and artisan cheeses to premium seafood, multiple egg preparations, carved meats, and gorgeous desserts. Broadmoor Hall, located across the street from the main building, provides a festive and elegant atmosphere perfect for creating lasting family memories. Given The Broadmoor’s reputation and the popularity of this event, reservations are highly recommended and tend to fill up quickly.

Pamela’s Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch at Hotel Polaris

For a more contemporary Thanksgiving experience with stunning views, head to Hotel Polaris in northern Colorado Springs.

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Pamela’s at Hotel Polaris, 8989 North Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs
Cost: $75 per adult | $37.50 per child (ages 6-10) | Free for ages 5 and under

The chefs at Pamela’s prepare an abundant buffet featuring seasonal creations that capture the essence of Thanksgiving. The restaurant offers panoramic views, making your meal even more memorable. After your feast, you can continue the celebration at The Aviator Lounge (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM), where you’ll enjoy views of the Air Force Academy and the Rocky Mountains. Seasonal craft cocktails and decadent holiday desserts are available à la carte, making it the perfect spot to unwind with family.

Briarhurst Manor

Located just outside Manitou Springs, Briarhurst Manor is known for its lavish Thanksgiving buffet in a cozy, refined Victorian setting. While specific 2025 pricing wasn’t available at publication time, the manor typically offers an extensive spread featuring not just turkey and traditional fixings, but also prime rib, ham, lamb, seafood, hot waffles, charcuterie, omelets, and salads. After your meal, you can take a post-dinner stroll through charming Manitou Springs to check out the holiday decorations or sample the natural mineral springs the town is famous for.

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak

The Cliff House in Manitou Springs has earned a stellar reputation for exceptional holiday menus, and Thanksgiving is no exception. This historic hotel and restaurant consistently delivers top-tier dining experiences. Due to its popularity, reservations should be made as early as possible. The Cliff House offers an upscale Thanksgiving experience in one of Colorado’s most charming mountain towns.

Active Thanksgiving Morning Activities

YMCA Turkey Trot 5K

One of the most beloved Thanksgiving traditions in the Pikes Peak region is the annual Turkey Trot, organized by the YMCA. This event has become a cherished way for families to start Thanksgiving Day with exercise and community spirit.

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Time: 8:15 AM for Kids’ Tiny Trot | 9:00 AM for Turkey Trot 5K
Location: Briargate YMCA, 4025 Family Place, Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Cost: $48.95 for ages 20 and over | $38.35 for ages 19 and under

This fundraiser supports YMCA scholarships for local families in need, providing them access to YMCA programs throughout the year. It’s a feel-good way to burn some calories before the big feast while supporting a worthy cause. The event is family-friendly and welcomes runners and walkers of all skill levels. Registration is currently open at ymcappr.org.

Turkey Rock Trot (Castle Rock)

If you’re in northern Colorado Springs or willing to make a short drive, the Turkey Rock Trot in nearby Castle Rock is another excellent option.

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Time: 7:30 AM
Location: Douglas County Event Center, 500 Fairgrounds Drive, Castle Rock
Cost: Varies (check website for current pricing)

This race benefits the Help & Hope Center, making it another opportunity to give back while getting active on Thanksgiving morning. Learn more and register at runtochangelives.org/turkeyrocktrot.

Free Outdoor Adventures

Garden of the Gods

No trip to Colorado Springs is complete without visiting the world-famous Garden of the Gods, and the good news is that both the park and admission are completely free—just as founder Charles Perkins intended when he gifted the land to the city in 1909.

Park Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Visitor & Nature Center Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Cost: FREE (though there’s a $6 fee for adults/$4 for children to see the educational film at the Visitor Center)

While the Visitor & Nature Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, the park itself remains open, offering 1,367 acres of stunning red rock formations against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak. With 21 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging, there’s something for every fitness level. The 1.5-mile Perkins Central Garden Trail is paved and wheelchair accessible, making it perfect for families with young children or visitors with mobility concerns.

Thanksgiving Day at Garden of the Gods offers a peaceful escape from cooking and indoor festivities. Consider taking a post-dinner hike to work off your meal, or arrive early in the morning to catch the sunrise illuminating the red rocks—it’s truly magical. Biking is also popular here, with wide, rider-friendly lanes along the roads. You can even rent a PikeRide e-bike if you want electric assistance for those steeper climbs.

Pro Tip: The Garden of the Gods Trading Post won’t open until Black Friday, but the park’s natural beauty is always accessible. Arrive early on Thanksgiving to avoid crowds and secure good parking.

Pikes Peak

America’s Mountain stands ready to welcome visitors who want to experience breathtaking alpine scenery on Thanksgiving Day. While weather conditions in late November can be unpredictable at 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak offers an unforgettable experience for those prepared for mountain conditions.

The Pikes Peak Highway remains one of Colorado’s most scenic drives. Check current conditions and hours before your visit, as winter weather can affect accessibility. If road conditions permit, the drive to the summit takes you through multiple ecosystems and offers panoramic views of Colorado’s Front Range. Dress in layers and bring warm clothing—temperatures at the summit can be 30-40 degrees colder than in Colorado Springs.

Family Attractions Open on Thanksgiving

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

America’s only mountain zoo is open 365 days a year, including Thanksgiving, making it an excellent option for families looking to escape cabin fever.

Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last admission at 3:00 PM)
Location: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Cost: Variable pricing based on date/time (check cmzoo.org for current rates; typically ranges from $24-$30 for adults with discounts for seniors, military, and children)

Located at 6,714 feet above sea level, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers breathtaking views along with close encounters with over 750 animals representing more than 150 species. The zoo is famous for its giraffe herd—one of the largest in the world—which visitors can hand-feed. Other highlights include the Water’s Edge: Africa exhibit featuring hippos and penguins, grizzly bears, African lions, and mountain lions in Rocky Mountain habitats.

The zoo’s mountainside setting makes it a unique experience, though visitors should be prepared for hills and elevation. The Mountaineer Sky Ride offers an easier way to reach the summit of the zoo while enjoying spectacular views. On-site dining is available at the Grizzly Grill, and there’s also an antique carousel that children love.

Important Note: Advance tickets are required and can sell out, especially during holidays. Purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry. The Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, located near the zoo, is closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

For those willing to drive about 50 miles southwest of Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park offers one of Colorado’s most dramatic attractions. This destination is open 365 days a year, weather permitting.

Location: Cañon City, CO (approximately 1 hour from Colorado Springs)
Hours: Visitor Center opens at 9:00 AM; rides and attractions start at 10:00 AM
Cost: $32 for adults, $26 for children (ages 3-11) when purchased online (save $3-4 per ticket by buying online in advance)

The Royal Gorge Bridge, built in 1929, is America’s highest suspension bridge, standing 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Walking across this engineering marvel is an unforgettable experience—on a clear day, you can see rafters and the historic railroad far below. General admission includes unlimited rides on the Aerial Gondola, access to the Plaza Theater, the Tommy Knocker Playland, and the gift shop.

For thrill-seekers, additional experiences are available for extra fees:

Cloudscraper Zip Line: Rated as the Travel Channel’s #1 Colorado Bucket List experience, this hands-free zip line takes you rim to rim across the Royal Gorge
Royal Rush Skycoaster: Swing 1,200 feet over the Arkansas River at speeds up to 50 mph
Via Ferrata: Guided rock climbing on the granite walls of the gorge (beginner to advanced routes available)

The park is largely wheelchair accessible, though some areas present challenges. The visitor center, gondolas, plaza theater, and bridge are all accessible. On-site dining is available, though visitors note that food and beverages can be pricey.

Money-Saving Tip: Online tickets are valid for one year from purchase date and include free re-entry the next day. Military members receive a $4 discount with valid ID. Children 2 and under are always free.

Unique Thanksgiving Week Events

Gratitude Sound Bath

For a more mindful and meditative Thanksgiving experience, consider the Gratitude Sound Bath on Thanksgiving Eve.

Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Singing Bowls of the Rockies, 76 S Sierra Madre St, Suite C, Colorado Springs
Cost: $39 per person

This 90-minute session offers a soundscape journey with crystal bowls, chimes, and gentle rhythms designed to help participants reflect on gratitude and abundance. It’s a beautiful way to center yourself before the holiday rush and embrace the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Holiday Break: Baking & Cooking Mini-Camp

If you have children ages 7-14 who love to cook, Chefs’ Kitchen offers a three-day camp perfect for the Thanksgiving break.

Dates: November 24-26, 2025
Location: Chefs’ Kitchen, 1753 S. 8th St., Colorado Springs
Cost: $235

This hands-on camp teaches kids culinary skills while keeping them engaged during the holiday week. It’s an excellent option for working parents or for children who want to learn cooking techniques that might help with future Thanksgiving preparations. Register at chefskitchencos.com/events.

Buffalo Lodge Thanksgiving Potluck

For a more casual, community-oriented Thanksgiving experience, the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort hosts a potluck that’s open to all.

Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024 (check for 2025 dates)
Time: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort, 2 El Paso Blvd, Colorado Springs
Cost: FREE (bring a dish to share)

This laid-back gathering in the historic lodge lobby welcomes locals and visitors alike. After the meal, the Colorado Springs All Star Jam performs, and guests are encouraged to bring desserts or pies to share. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Thanksgiving with a diverse, welcoming community.

Take a Turkey to Work Day

Even before Thanksgiving arrives, you can participate in charitable giving through Care and Share Food Bank’s annual turkey drive.

Date: Thursday, November 21, 2025
Time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Participating King Soopers locations throughout Colorado Springs

This event helps provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need throughout Southern Colorado. Drop off a frozen turkey at any participating location to support your neighbors this holiday season. Learn more at careandshare.org/events/turkey.

Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl

For adults looking to kick off the holiday weekend with some socializing, the Colorado Springs Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl offers a festive night out.

Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM onward
Location: Starts at COATI, Colorado Springs

This organized bar crawl takes participants to multiple venues throughout downtown Colorado Springs. It’s become a popular tradition for those who grew up in Colorado Springs and return home for the holidays, as well as visitors looking to experience the local nightlife scene.

Extended Thanksgiving Weekend Activities

Magic of Lights at Pikes Peak International Raceway

Once Thanksgiving dinner is over, extend your holiday celebrations with this spectacular drive-through light display in nearby Fountain.

Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Hours: 5:30-9:00 PM (Sunday-Thursday), 5:30-10:00 PM (Friday-Saturday)
Location: Pikes Peak International Raceway, 16650 Midway Ranch Road, Fountain
Cost: Varies by vehicle type (check magicoflights.com for current pricing)

This family-friendly event features millions of LED lights creating animated scenes and holiday displays that you can enjoy from the comfort of your car. It’s a perfect activity for the evening after Thanksgiving dinner when everyone’s feeling full and wants a leisurely outing.

Small Business Saturday (November 29, 2025)

Support local Colorado Springs businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, Manitou Springs, and other districts throughout the city offer unique shopping experiences. Many local retailers offer special promotions and events for Small Business Saturday.

Old Colorado City is particularly charming during the holidays, with its collection of art galleries, antique shops, and locally-owned boutiques. Manitou Springs offers quirky shops, the famous Penny Arcade, and numerous art galleries. The Garden of the Gods Trading Post reopens on Black Friday and offers a unique selection of Native American art, Colorado gifts, and souvenirs.

Outdoor Adventure Tours and Activities

Guided Jeep Tours

Several companies offer guided Jeep tours through the Pikes Peak region, providing historical insights and access to scenic areas. While specific Thanksgiving Day availability varies by company, many operate year-round, weather permitting.

These typically 2.5-hour tours take you through Garden of the Gods and other scenic locations with knowledgeable cowboy guides sharing Colorado history and geology. Check with local tour operators like Adventures Out West or Pikes Peak Jeep Tours for holiday availability.

Zip Line Adventures

Multiple operators offer zip line tours in the Colorado Springs area. The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure features seven zip lines covering nearly two miles, with runs over canyons, creeks, and through Ponderosa pine forests. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and operate year-round (weather dependent).

For the ultimate zip line experience, the Cloudscraper Zip Line at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park sends you flying rim-to-rim across the gorge itself—an unforgettable adrenaline rush with spectacular views.

E-Bike Tours

Amp’d Adventures offers guided electric bike tours through Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs. The electric assist makes climbing hills easier, allowing riders of varying fitness levels to enjoy the scenery together. These tours combine natural beauty with historical storytelling and local culture.

Weather Considerations for Thanksgiving

Late November in Colorado Springs typically features mild days and cold nights, but mountain weather can be unpredictable. Average high temperatures range from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, with overnight lows often dipping into the 20s.

What to Pack:

Layers: Mornings start cold but afternoons can warm up significantly
Warm jacket for evening activities
Comfortable walking shoes with good traction (trails may have ice in shaded areas)
Sunscreen and lip balm (Colorado’s high altitude means intense sun exposure even in winter)
Hat and gloves for early morning activities like the Turkey Trot
Water bottle (altitude dehydration is real, even in cooler weather)

Snow is possible but not guaranteed in late November. Colorado Springs itself typically sees less snow than the mountains, but Pikes Peak and higher elevations may have significant snow and ice. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading to mountain attractions.

Practical Tips for Thanksgiving in Colorado Springs

Altitude Awareness

Colorado Springs sits at 6,035 feet above sea level, with attractions like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo even higher. Visitors from lower elevations may experience altitude effects including shortness of breath, fatigue, and mild headaches.

Tips for altitude adjustment:

Drink extra water throughout your visit
Take it easy the first day, especially with physical activities
Limit alcohol consumption, which amplifies altitude effects
Allow time to rest and adjust, especially before strenuous hikes

Getting Around

While Colorado Springs has some public transportation, having a car is highly recommended for visiting various attractions, especially on Thanksgiving when public transit operates on a limited schedule. Most attractions have ample parking, though popular spots like Garden of the Gods can fill up on nice weather days.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Colorado Springs and can be good options if you plan to enjoy the Thanksgiving Eve bar crawl or holiday cocktails at various restaurants.

Reservations

For Thanksgiving dining, reservations are essential. Popular venues like The Broadmoor, The Cliff House, and Briarhurst Manor typically book up weeks in advance. If you haven’t made reservations yet, call immediately—some restaurants may have last-minute cancellations.

For activities requiring tickets (Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Royal Gorge), purchasing online in advance not only saves money but also guarantees entry, as some attractions enforce capacity limits.

Family-Friendly Planning

When planning a Thanksgiving Day itinerary with children:

Start with the Turkey Trot or a morning activity to burn energy
Break up the day with a mix of indoor and outdoor activities
Build in downtime between activities (altitude and excitement can exhaust kids quickly)
Pack snacks and water, especially for outdoor adventures
Have backup indoor options in case weather doesn’t cooperate

Pet-Friendly Options

Many Colorado Springs attractions welcome leashed dogs, including:

Garden of the Gods (on trails and throughout the park)
Most outdoor hiking areas
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (outdoor walkways; not permitted on rides or in indoor dining)
Many restaurant patios (weather permitting)

Always bring waste bags, water, and be mindful of altitude effects on pets too.

Community and Charitable Opportunities

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and giving back. In addition to the Turkey Trot benefiting the YMCA and Take a Turkey to Work Day supporting Care and Share Food Bank, consider these ways to support the community:

FREE Thanksgiving Food Basket Giveaway
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM onward
Location: 4360 Bradley Rd, Colorado Springs

Various organizations throughout Colorado Springs host food drives, volunteer opportunities at soup kitchens, and coat drives during the Thanksgiving season. Check with the Care and Share Food Bank or Westside Cares for volunteer opportunities.

Making the Most of Your Thanksgiving Weekend

With so many options available, here’s a sample itinerary to maximize your Thanksgiving experience in Colorado Springs:

Wednesday, November 26:

Morning: Arrive in Colorado Springs, check into accommodation, explore downtown
Afternoon: Visit Garden of the Gods before it gets busy on Thanksgiving Day
Evening: Gratitude Sound Bath or Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl

Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving Day):

Early morning: Turkey Trot 5K at Briargate YMCA
Late morning: Thanksgiving brunch at The Broadmoor or Pamela’s at Hotel Polaris
Afternoon: Visit Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (advance tickets required) or leisurely drive on Pikes Peak Highway (weather permitting)
Evening: Magic of Lights drive-through experience

Friday, November 28:

Morning: Breakfast at a local favorite like The Omelette Parlor or Mountain Shadows Restaurant
Day trip: Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (allow 4-5 hours with drive time)
Evening: Explore Manitou Springs, dinner at The Cliff House

Saturday, November 29:

Morning: Small Business Saturday shopping in Old Colorado City or Manitou Springs
Afternoon: Zip line tour or guided Jeep tour
Evening: Dinner at one of Colorado Springs’ excellent restaurants

Why Thanksgiving in Colorado Springs is Special

Colorado Springs offers something unique for Thanksgiving—a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and traditional holiday celebrations. Unlike beach destinations where the weather might not feel quite right for Thanksgiving, or urban centers that can feel overwhelming, Colorado Springs maintains that cozy mountain town vibe while offering world-class attractions.

The city’s 300 days of sunshine mean there’s a good chance your Thanksgiving will feature beautiful weather, and the mild temperatures make outdoor activities comfortable with proper layering. The stunning backdrop of Pikes Peak and the red rocks of Garden of the Gods creates an unforgettable setting for holiday photos and memories.

Moreover, Colorado Springs maintains its small-town hospitality even as it offers big-city amenities. The community spirit is evident in events like the Turkey Trot and various charitable initiatives. Whether you’re watching the sunrise illuminate the red rocks at Garden of the Gods, hand-feeding giraffes at the mountain zoo, or enjoying an elegant Thanksgiving brunch with views of the Rocky Mountains, you’ll find that Colorado Springs offers a Thanksgiving experience unlike anywhere else.

The city also serves as an excellent base for exploring other Colorado attractions. Rocky Mountain National Park is about two hours north, the Great Sand Dunes National Park is roughly two hours south, and Denver’s museums and attractions are just an hour away if you want to extend your Colorado adventure beyond the Thanksgiving weekend.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving 2025 in Colorado Springs promises to be memorable whether you prefer active outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, fine dining, or a combination of everything. The key to an excellent Thanksgiving here is planning ahead—make those restaurant reservations, book attraction tickets online, and check weather forecasts as your trip approaches.

Remember that while many attractions are open on Thanksgiving Day, some visitor centers and services operate on reduced hours. Having a car gives you maximum flexibility, and building in some unscheduled time allows for spontaneous discoveries—maybe you’ll stumble upon a hidden coffee shop in Manitou Springs or find the perfect sunset viewing spot at Garden of the Gods.

Most importantly, embrace the Colorado lifestyle: get outside, breathe the mountain air, and find time to reflect on gratitude amidst some of America’s most spectacular scenery. Whether you’re walking across America’s highest suspension bridge, feeding giraffes at the mountain zoo, or simply hiking among ancient red rocks with Pikes Peak as your backdrop, Thanksgiving in Colorado Springs offers the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and holiday tradition.

Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy your Colorado Springs adventure!

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Note: All prices, hours, and event details are subject to change. Always verify directly with venues before visiting. Some events and activities may require advance reservations, especially during the busy Thanksgiving holiday.