Downtown Colorado Springs - Friends Downtown
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Downtown Colorado Springs

4.6
·491k reviews·Colorado Springs, United States

Discover the vibrant heart of Colorado Springs with its charming shops, diverse eateries, and lively atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Downtown Colorado Springs - Friends Downtown

Downtown Colorado Springs

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the vibrant heart of Colorado Springs with its charming shops, diverse eateries, and lively atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A charming downtown with great shops and restaurants, perfect for exploring."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Explore

Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

☕ Grab a Coffee

Start your day with a delicious brew from a local coffee shop. :coffee:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Acacia Park

Acacia Park

Downtown Colorado Springs

A vibrant urban oasis perfect for picnics, people-watching, and enjoying the city's pulse.

Shops & Boutiques

Shops & Boutiques

Downtown Colorado Springs

Discover unique treasures and local crafts in the charming shops and boutiques lining the streets.

Local Eateries & Cafes

Local Eateries & Cafes

Downtown Colorado Springs

Savor diverse culinary delights, from cozy cafes to upscale dining, in the heart of the city.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting Downtown Colorado Springs during weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and evenings can get busy, especially during events. Consider the weather; spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the downtown area.

Parking & Getting Around

Parking in Downtown Colorado Springs can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Look for public garages and street parking. Many attractions are walkable, but consider ride-sharing or local transit for longer distances within the downtown area.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late weekday afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather, before evening rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall
Why
Crisp air, beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Epic colorado itinerary- eith lots of national parks!!! I suggest renting a car for this itinerary! We stayed in an rv but there sre lots of accessible hotels along the way. #colorado #usaroadtrip #roadtrip #travelitinerary #itinerary #tiktoktravel #traveltok #usatravel #summertravel
@heleneinbetween
161.8K likes • 3.1M views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Explore

Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

☕ Grab a Coffee

Start your day with a delicious brew from a local coffee shop. :coffee:

If you don't like custom 1970's mountain homes, then you should definitely NOT watch this video #realestate #rockrimmon #coloradohomes #homesweethome #coloradosprings #realtortips #housetour #dreamhome #realestateexpert #buyahome #realestateagent #homeforsale #propertytour #homebuying #coloradospringsrealestate #investmentproperty #homesearch #househunters #luxuryhomes #openhouse #findyourhome #co...
@realkylepetitt
121.4K likes • 1.3M views
📌Save for your next trip to📍Colorado Springs Some of my favorite places that I frequent in Colorado Springs are: - @ephemeradinners- great multi course dinners or a la carte - Uwe’s German Restaurant- traditional German cuisine - @503wco - great dinner + cocktails near downtown 🍸 - @switchbackroasters- for coffee + breakfast ☕️ - @corkandcask- for glass of wine, small bites and sitting outs...
coloradomountaintowns
2K likes • 70.2K views

🛍️ Shop Local

Support local businesses by browsing the unique shops and boutiques. :shopping_bags:

🍽️ Dine Out

Experience the diverse culinary scene with plenty of great restaurants. :forkandknifewithplate:

A budget-friendly itinerary in Colorado Springs, CO (save this for later!) ☕️ start your morning with a coffee from Story Coffee Co and then wander around downtown • sit in Acacia Park to enjoy some shade • browse or window shop the many cute stores and boutiques downtown 🥾 enjoy time at Red Rock Canyon Open Space • 11 officially marked trails • off-leash fenced-in dog area (feels like you’r...
stumblinguponserendipity
1.2K likes • 51.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Explore

Wander through the charming streets, discover hidden gems, and soak in the local atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

☕ Grab a Coffee

Start your day with a delicious brew from a local coffee shop. :coffee:

🛍️ Shop Local

Support local businesses by browsing the unique shops and boutiques. :shopping_bags:

🍽️ Dine Out

Experience the diverse culinary scene with plenty of great restaurants. :forkandknifewithplate:

🚗 Parking Tips

Utilize parking garages for convenience, especially during busy times. :parking:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise Downtown Colorado Springs for its charming atmosphere, diverse shopping, and excellent dining options. The walkability and accessibility to nearby natural attractions are also frequently highlighted. Some find parking can be a hassle during peak times, and certain areas might feel quieter than expected outside of event hours.

What People Like

Charming downtown atmosphere
Great local shops
Diverse dining scene

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Downtown Colorado Springs is accessible by car, with major highways leading into the city. If flying in, Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is the closest. Public transportation options are available, but renting a car is often recommended for exploring the wider region. TikTok

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during events. Look for public parking garages and metered street parking. Some hotels, like the Marriott Colorado Springs Downtown, offer convenient parking for guests. Reddit

Yes, Downtown Colorado Springs is very walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and parks within easy reach of each other. Instagram

Mountain Metro Transit operates bus routes throughout Colorado Springs, including services that connect to the downtown area. TikTok

For a comprehensive experience, combining walking with occasional use of ride-sharing services or local buses is ideal for exploring the downtown area and its surroundings. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Downtown Colorado Springs itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. However, individual attractions, shops, and restaurants within the downtown area will have their own pricing. Instagram

Shop hours in Downtown Colorado Springs can vary. Most boutiques and stores are typically open from mid-morning to early evening, with some staying open later on weekends. It's best to check individual store hours online. Instagram

For general exploration of Downtown Colorado Springs, no advance booking is needed. However, if you plan to visit specific ticketed attractions or popular restaurants, booking ahead is recommended. Instagram

Absolutely! Strolling through Acacia Park, window shopping, and enjoying the street art are all free activities in Downtown Colorado Springs. Instagram

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekends and evenings, especially during events, tend to be busier. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Downtown Colorado Springs offers a diverse range of shops, including unique boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, and souvenir shops. You can find everything from local crafts to fashion. Instagram+1

The downtown area boasts a vibrant food scene with options ranging from casual cafes and breweries to upscale dining. Popular spots include Ephemeral Dinners and Uwe's German Restaurant. Instagram+1

Yes, Downtown Colorado Springs has several excellent coffee shops, such as Switchback Roasters and Story Coffee Co., perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a relaxing break. Instagram+1

For a date night, consider spots like 503wco for dinner and cocktails, or explore the vibey options highlighted by locals for a romantic evening. Instagram

Definitely! The numerous boutiques and specialty shops in Downtown Colorado Springs are great places to find unique souvenirs and local artisan goods. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Spots

Capture the charm of Downtown Colorado Springs by photographing its historic architecture, vibrant street art, and the lively atmosphere of Acacia Park. The unique shops also offer great visual appeal. Instagram

While not directly in the downtown core, nearby attractions like Garden of the Gods and Seven Falls offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints that are easily accessible from Downtown Colorado Springs. TikTok+1

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for photography in Downtown Colorado Springs. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities for capturing vibrant street scenes. Instagram

Yes, keep an eye out for murals and public art installations scattered throughout the downtown area, providing excellent subjects for photography. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for wider shots of parks and streetscapes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Downtown Colorado Springs offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Acacia Park is a great spot for kids to run around and play. The downtown area also features various shops with unique toys and souvenirs. Instagram

When hunger strikes, look for casual eateries and cafes that offer kid-friendly menus. Many restaurants are accustomed to families and provide a welcoming environment. Consider packing snacks and drinks, especially if you plan on spending a significant amount of time exploring the shops and parks. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Exploring Downtown Colorado Springs can be budget-friendly. Focus on free activities like strolling through Acacia Park and window shopping. Many local coffee shops offer affordable breakfast and lunch options. Instagram

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to potentially find better deals on parking or dining. While there are no entrance fees for the downtown area itself, be mindful of costs for specific attractions or tours if you choose to partake. Reddit

💖 Couples & Date Nights

Downtown Colorado Springs offers a romantic backdrop for couples. Enjoy a leisurely walk hand-in-hand, browse charming boutiques, and savor a delightful meal at one of the many restaurants. Instagram

For a memorable date night, explore the vibrant dining scene, perhaps enjoying cocktails at a trendy spot like 503wco or seeking out a cozy restaurant with a great ambiance. The historic charm of the area adds to the romantic appeal. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Old Colorado City

Just a short distance west of Downtown Colorado Springs lies Old Colorado City, a historic district brimming with charm and character. This area was Colorado Springs' first downtown and retains much of its late 19th-century Victorian architecture. Visitors can wander along Colorado Avenue, browsing a delightful array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. It's a fantastic place to find unique gifts and soak in a piece of local history. Instagram

The atmosphere in Old Colorado City is distinctly more laid-back than the main downtown area, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. You'll find cozy cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, often with outdoor seating perfect for enjoying the Colorado sunshine. Don't miss exploring some of the side streets for hidden gems and picturesque scenes. Instagram

For those interested in the area's past, Old Colorado City offers a glimpse into the gold rush era. The architecture itself tells a story, and many businesses are housed in buildings that have stood for over a century. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the historic heart of Colorado Springs. Instagram

Culinary Delights in Downtown

Downtown Colorado Springs is a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse culinary landscape that caters to every palate. From traditional German fare at Uwe's German Restaurant to innovative multi-course dinners at Ephemeral Dinners, the options are plentiful. Many establishments focus on locally sourced ingredients, providing a true taste of Colorado. Instagram

For a more casual experience, the downtown area is dotted with charming cafes and bistros. Switchback Roasters and Story Coffee Co. are popular spots for coffee enthusiasts, offering expertly brewed beverages and light bites. These cafes are perfect for a morning start or an afternoon break while exploring the shops. Instagram+1

When the sun sets, Downtown Colorado Springs truly comes alive with its nightlife and dining scene. 503wco is frequently recommended for its dinner and cocktails, making it a great choice for a date night or a relaxed evening out. The variety ensures that whether you're seeking a quick bite or a fine dining experience, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings. Instagram+1

The Allure of Nearby Natural Wonders

While Downtown Colorado Springs offers urban charm, its proximity to stunning natural attractions is a major draw. Garden of the Gods, a public park known for its towering red rock formations, is just a short drive away and offers incredible hiking and photography opportunities. TikTok

Another iconic nearby site is Seven Falls, a series of seven cascading waterfalls nestled in a natural box canyon. Visitors can climb the 185 stairs to the Eagle's Nest for panoramic views, making it an adventurous outing. TikTok

For the truly adventurous, the Manitou Incline in nearby Manitou Springs presents a challenging but rewarding hike up a steep former funicular railway track. The views from the top are spectacular, and the sense of accomplishment is immense. Instagram+1 These natural wonders are easily accessible from Downtown Colorado Springs, offering a perfect blend of city exploration and outdoor adventure. TikTok

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