Schedule time in your Colorado Springs summer vacation to enjoy one of the “Best Weekend Getaway” destinations in the country, and be among the first guests to enjoy The Broadmoor Estate House.
In 2016, no fewer than 12 prominent publications such as U.S. News & World Reports, Money Magazine, and Trip Advisor ranked Colorado Springs as a “best city” within their top 10 lists. And for good reason: visitors consistently rave about the restaurants and attractions within the city as well as the inspiring Rocky Mountains nearby. Here are a few of the events and celebrations to look forward to:
Art & Music
April – December – Old Colorado City ArtWalk – In its 11th year, Old Colorado City Art Walk offers hundreds of authentic art pieces to be viewed or purchased in dozens of art galleries and studios.
July 29 – Blues Under the Bridge – Featuring live performances by Carolyn Wonderland, Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens, Mulebone, Mr. Sipp “The Mississippi Blues Child”, BJ Estares and Route 61.
Holiday Celebrations
July 4 – Manitou Springs Fireworks Display – Celebrate the birth of the nation at a fireworks displayed by the Fire Department in downtown Manitou Springs. The fireworks will be shot off from Higginbotham Flats at 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
September 2 – 4 – Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off – Enjoy the experience of a lifetime at the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off at Memorial Park! The event will feature up to 75 hot air balloons including special-shaped balloons, live entertainment including bands and dance troupes, a children’s play area and specialty food trucks. Hot air balloon rides are available.
Sporting Events
June 23 – Pikes Peak International Hill Climb – The “Race to the Clouds” is the second oldest motor sports race in America. The race is run on a 12.42 mile course that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,115 foot summit of Pikes Peak!
July 21-23 & 28-30 – Rocky Mountain State Games – Cheer at Colorado’s largest sports festival featuring 40+ sports. The event is a heart-warming event open to athletes of all ages and athletic abilities including those with physical disabilities or visual impairment.
Food & Drink
April 30: Taste of OCC – A festival of food, drinks, music and art celebrating the Westside in Bancroft Park. Taste the unique flavors of the Westside restaurants, the libations of local breweries and the best in regional wine.
June 3: Manitou Springs Colorado Wine Festival – 25 Colorado Wineries pour tastings of their wines and many retail booths sell wine-related wares. Food booths and entertainment throughout the event!
Health & Wellness
June 11: Garden of the Gods 10 Mile Run – The awe-inspiring beauty of the course stuns the eyes and brings a smile to the face while the hills and altitude test the legs and lungs.
August 19-20: Pikes Peak Ascent & Marathon – Experience the heart-pounding race and the breathtaking vistas of the mountain which inspired “America the Beautiful!”
Hikes & Horseback Riding
Seven Falls – Seven Falls is a great hike for the entire family. Seven cascading falls link together in a magnificent box canyon. Along the hike, take self-guided audio tours, view wildlife, and have the kids take a scavenger hunt! An in-mountain elevator provides access for those with limited ability to the a gorgeous view!
Old Stage Riding Stables – An authentic western horseback riding experience for riders of all skill levels. Experience the timeless allure of the American West as your professional guide escorts you through scenic trails where you may even spy an old mining claim as well as elk, buffalo, or other indigenous animals among the stunning mountain views.
*Originally published in Cuvee Magazine
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