Jessica’s Guide to Visiting Colorado Springs | Peña Picks: Summer Edition

by The Pena Team

One of the best parts about Colorado Springs is that it offers something for everyone. Mountain views, incredible hiking, family-friendly attractions, and great local restaurants all come together in one place.

Welcome back to Peña Picks: Summer Edition, where The Peña Team shares favorite ways to experience summer in and around Colorado Springs. Throughout this series, each team member is highlighting local recommendations that make this area such a special place to spend the season.

Jessica lives outside of Colorado, which gives her a unique perspective on what makes Colorado Springs such a memorable destination for visitors. If you are planning a trip here this summer, these are the places she recommends adding to your list.

Start with the Iconic Colorado Springs Experience

No trip to Colorado Springs feels complete without visiting Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center.

The towering red rock formations, mountain views, and scenic walking paths are one of the most recognizable landscapes in Colorado. The park is free to visit and offers trails for all experience levels.

What Makes It Special

Incredible views of Pikes Peak
Easy walking trails for visitors of all ages
Great photo opportunities throughout the park
A perfect introduction to Colorado scenery

Jessica’s Tips

Visit early in the morning or near sunset for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Stop inside the visitor center before exploring for maps and trail suggestions
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes

The Central Garden Trail is a great starting point if you want an easy and scenic walk without committing to a long hike.

Take on the Seven Bridges Hike

If you want a true Colorado Springs outdoor experience, the Seven Bridges Trail is one of the best local hikes to try. The trail follows North Cheyenne Creek through a shaded canyon and crosses seven wooden bridges along the route.

What Makes It Special

Creek crossings and forest scenery
Cooler temperatures thanks to tree cover
Beautiful canyon views
A more local feel compared to busier tourist spots

Jessica’s Tips

Wear hiking shoes with good traction
Start earlier in the day to find parking
Expect moderate elevation gain
Bring snacks and plenty of water

This trail is especially great during summer because the shaded sections help keep temperatures comfortable even on warmer afternoons.

Spend an Afternoon at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Colorado Springs is home to one of the most unique zoos in the country. Built into the side of Cheyenne Mountain, this zoo combines incredible mountain views with interactive animal experiences.

It is consistently one of the most popular attractions in the area for both visitors and locals.

What Makes It Special

Mountain views throughout the zoo
Opportunities to feed giraffes
Family-friendly atmosphere
Unique hillside layout unlike most zoos

Jessica’s Tips

Buy tickets in advance during summer
Wear comfortable shoes because of the hills
Visit in the morning when animals are more active

For families visiting Colorado Springs, this is one of the easiest recommendations to make.

Grab Dinner at ViewHouse Colorado Springs

After a day of hiking and sightseeing, Jessica recommends ending the evening with dinner and views at ViewHouse Colorado Springs.

Known for its energetic atmosphere, rooftop seating, and mountain views, it is a fun place to relax after exploring the city.

What Makes It Special

Outdoor seating with Front Range views
Great summer atmosphere
Casual and social environment
Convenient location for visitors staying on the north side of town

Jessica’s Tips

Go around sunset for the best views
Weekends can get busy during summer
Great option for groups and visitors

Why Colorado Springs Stands Out

Colorado Springs offers a mix of outdoor adventure and city convenience that is hard to find elsewhere. Visitors can spend the morning hiking through canyons, the afternoon exploring local attractions, and the evening enjoying restaurants with mountain views.

For people visiting from out of state, it is easy to understand why so many choose to relocate here after experiencing the lifestyle firsthand.

Whether you are staying for a weekend or planning a longer trip, Colorado Springs delivers the kind of summer experiences people remember long after vacation ends.

One of the best things about visiting Colorado Springs is how much variety is packed into one destination. Scenic parks, mountain hikes, family attractions, and great local food are all within a short drive.

This is just one part of Peña Picks: Summer Edition, where The Peña Team is sharing favorite ways to experience summer across Colorado Springs and beyond.