Garden of the Gods Trading Post
An adobe-style gallery and shop offering unique regional art, Native American crafts, and delicious food in the heart of Garden of the Gods.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful sunset light
Garden of the Gods Trading Post
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful sunset light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An adobe-style gallery and shop offering unique regional art, Native American crafts, and delicious food in the heart of Garden of the Gods.
"A great mix of culture, views, good food, and shopping. A+ stop while exploring Garden of the Gods."
🚗 Drive or Hike It
You can drive through the park or enjoy easy hikes like the Scotsman Trail. Pets are welcome on leash!
💰 It's Free to Enter!
Admission to Garden of the Gods Park is free, though you might be tempted by the delicious food and unique finds at the Trading Post.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Native American Art & Crafts
Discover unique, handmade pieces by local artists, offering a genuine cultural experience beyond typical souvenirs.
Delicious Bison Burgers
Savor juicy, flavorful bison burgers and other tasty treats at the Trading Post cafe after exploring the park.
Family-Friendly Trails
Explore easy loops like the Scotsman Trail, perfect for kids and offering breathtaking views of Pikes Peak.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Capture the Magic
More Than Just Souvenirs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Hike It
You can drive through the park or enjoy easy hikes like the Scotsman Trail. Pets are welcome on leash!
💰 It's Free to Enter!
Admission to Garden of the Gods Park is free, though you might be tempted by the delicious food and unique finds at the Trading Post.
🍦 Ice Cream Break
Don't miss the ice cream at the Trading Post – a perfect treat after a day of exploring the stunning rock formations.
🖼️ Art Gallery Inside
Explore the art gallery within the Trading Post for a dose of local culture and unique artistic creations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Hike It
You can drive through the park or enjoy easy hikes like the Scotsman Trail. Pets are welcome on leash!
💰 It's Free to Enter!
Admission to Garden of the Gods Park is free, though you might be tempted by the delicious food and unique finds at the Trading Post.
🍦 Ice Cream Break
Don't miss the ice cream at the Trading Post – a perfect treat after a day of exploring the stunning rock formations.
🖼️ Art Gallery Inside
Explore the art gallery within the Trading Post for a dose of local culture and unique artistic creations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Garden of the Gods Trading Post as a fantastic stop with a great mix of culture, food, and shopping. The authentic Native American crafts and delicious bison burgers are frequently highlighted as standout features. While some find it a bit touristy, most agree it offers unique finds and a pleasant experience after exploring the park.
"Garden of the Gods Trading Post is such a cool spot, definitely worth a stop if you’re in Colorado Springs. It’s part gift shop, part cafe, part “I wasn’t planning to buy anything but left with a few things" kinda place.
Tons of fun souvenirs, but what really stood out were the handmade pieces by Native American artists, super unique and meaningful. Not your average touristy stuff, which we loved.
We grabbed lunch here and the bison burger slapped. So good. They’ve also got ice cream and other food options if you’re just looking to snack.
Also, shoutout to the hat my wife found . 10/10, perfect for travel and totally her vibe.
Great mix of culture, views, good food, and shopping. A+ stop while exploring Garden of the Gods"
Candy Nakajima
"The Garden of the Gods Trading Post is a fantastic rest stop nestled in one of Colorado Springs’ most scenic locations. The burgers here are absolutely delicious juicy, flavorful, and just what you need after exploring the nearby trails. The place is clean and well-kept, especially the bathrooms, which are spotless and much appreciated during a day of outdoor adventures. It’s the perfect spot to rehydrate, grab a bite to eat, and relax for a bit before heading back out to take in more of the stunning natural beauty that Garden of the Gods has to offer. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area!"
Avie Avie
"This is a new area to shop at the bottom of the Garden of the Gods. There is a restaurant and an ice cream shop here. Clean restrooms. It's open until 8:30. It's a great place to stop after the visitor center closes. There are a few different shops in the trading post. There is something for everyone. There is also an art gallery. The trading post is a great addition to the area."
Jennifer Quintana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Garden of the Gods Trading Post is located at the southern entrance of Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs. You can drive directly to it. Many visitors stop here before or after exploring the main park area.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post, making it a convenient stop for shoppers and diners.
While public transportation options directly to the Trading Post might be limited, ride-sharing services are a viable option if you're staying in Colorado Springs.
The Trading Post is situated within the Garden of the Gods Park itself, offering easy access to the park's famous rock formations and hiking trails. It's also a short drive from downtown Colorado Springs.
The scenic drive through Garden of the Gods Park is a must-do, with stunning vistas and no guardrails in some areas. Motorcyclists particularly enjoy this route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Garden of the Gods Trading Post itself. Admission to the surrounding Garden of the Gods Park is also free.
The Garden of the Gods Trading Post is typically open until 8:30 PM, making it a great option for visiting after the main park visitor center closes. It's advisable to check their specific hours before your visit.
Garden of the Gods Park is a public park and is completely free to enter. You can explore the trails and admire the rock formations without any admission cost.
While specific tours might not always highlight the Trading Post, many general Garden of the Gods tours will pass by or allow for stops. For those not keen on hiking, guided tours are a good option.
There are no age restrictions for entering the Garden of the Gods Trading Post or the park. It's a family-friendly destination for all ages.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Trading Post offers a wide variety of items, including regional art, Native American crafts, unique souvenirs, clothing, and specialty foods. It's known for its authentic pieces and avoids generic tourist trinkets.
You can enjoy delicious bison burgers, other cafe fare, and ice cream at the Trading Post. It's a popular spot for a satisfying meal or a sweet treat after exploring. +1
Yes, pets are allowed in Garden of the Gods Park on a leash. Visitors are reminded to clean up after their pets.
The Scotsman Trail Loop is highly recommended for families with children. It's an easy loop that offers fantastic views of Pikes Peak.
Iconic formations include Balanced Rock, Siamese Twins, Kissing Camels, and the Three Graces. Many are accessible via short hikes or scenic drives.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Balanced Rock is an Instagram favorite. For a unique shot, hike up to the Siamese Twins for a framed view of Pikes Peak. The Three Graces also offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Sunset offers magical lighting and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the red rocks. Early mornings are also great for softer light and fewer visitors.
Yes, you can take photos inside the Trading Post, especially of the unique art and crafts. Some areas might have restrictions, so be mindful of signage.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and protected areas like Garden of the Gods to preserve the natural environment and visitor experience. Check local regulations.
From the Siamese Twins formation, you can get a great framed shot of Pikes Peak. Many viewpoints throughout the park offer glimpses of the majestic mountain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The Trading Post is a hit with kids, not only for its unique souvenirs but also for the delicious ice cream and kid-friendly food options like burgers. +1 Remember to bring water and sunscreen, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. Pets are welcome on leash, so the whole family can enjoy the adventure. 🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
🏍️ Motorcyclists & Scenic Drivers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Garden of the Gods Park
+1For those who prefer not to hike, the park's main road provides stunning vistas from the comfort of your vehicle. Many visitors recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park's beauty for future generations.
Beyond the iconic rock formations, the park also offers opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding, and even jeep tours. The Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center provides educational exhibits about the park's geology, flora, and fauna, offering a deeper understanding of this unique landscape.
The Garden of the Gods Trading Post Experience
Food is a significant draw, with the Trading Post serving up highly-rated bison burgers and other cafe favorites. It's a perfect spot to refuel after a hike or a scenic drive through the park. They also offer ice cream, making it a delightful stop for families. The restrooms are noted for being clean and well-maintained, a welcome amenity for park visitors.
The Trading Post also houses an art gallery and provides a relaxed atmosphere to browse and shop. Its convenient location at the park's entrance makes it an ideal first or last stop for visitors. Many reviewers highlight it as a 'must-stop' for its unique offerings and pleasant ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit