As we compile our annual Things to Do for Summer in Colorado Springs 2022 guide, there are plenty of things going on, but as always it is prudent to call ahead and verify that your favorite event is still on schedule.
Last summer, we decided to focus on family-centric, COVID-19-friendly, Colorado-based activities so that we can all be safe, follow the recommendations on gatherings, enjoy our families and really appreciate our beautiful summers in Colorado Springs.
This year is no different. We feel that getting in the outdoors is one of the best things you can do in the area during the summer.
When is the last time that you went bug hunting? This is a great activity that can be done anywhere; in your backyard, at the neighborhood park, or even in the closet you haven't cleaned in a while. We use the generic term "bugs", but really mean all types of insects such as:
(Hopefully, the entomologist in the group will forgive us for leaving off the cockroaches and sucking lice).
Download and print the attached worksheet to find native bugs around Colorado Springs! Leave the bugs be, don’t harm them, just mark them on the list when you find one! Don’t forget your magnifying glass!
Did you know that Colorado has over 500 species of birds? If entomology doesn't excite you, maybe ornithology is your thing. Like bug hunting, bird hunting is easily done in your backyard, in an open field, or at the park down the street. Other great locations include:
Also check out this resource: https://www.visitcos.com/blog/pikes-peak-birding-trail/
Download and print the attached worksheet to find native birds around Colorado Springs! Don’t forget your binoculars!
Use pinecones, flowers, sticks, rocks, etc to create a mandala at your local park (don’t destroy plants to get what you want, use what’s already laying around!)
Use items you may have around your house to create an obstacle course for the whole family. Examples: hula hoops, skateboards, any kind of ball, nets, hoops, racquets, boards, string/rope, sticks, etc.
Make a goal of trying a new park/trail each week - https://coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/parks-trails-open-spaces
Get one from Poor Richards https://store-poorrichardsdowntown.com/product-tag/kite/
Are you familiar with geocaching? Letterboxing is a similar activity, but it is more easily done with families. Instead of a GPS, users use clues to find hidden stashes which contain a stamp that is used to document their success. Two great resources for this fun family-friendly activity are https://www.letterboxing.org/ and https://www.atlasquest.com/.
Here is where your creativity can run wild!
Download and print the attached kid-friendly Nature Scavenger Hunt list to find the listed items around your favorite park! Make sure you take a small bucket or Tupperware to gather your things!
Shops near Colorado Springs to get supplies:
Anglers Covey - https://www.anglerscovey.com/
Peak Fly Shop - https://thepeakflyshop.com/
Where to fish within a reasonable distance:
https://www.visitcos.com/things-to-do/outdoors/fishing/fishing-guide/
Check the Farmer's Market’s website and info as they are very individual due to COVID-19. Some Markets will not start until July, some have online ordering, and some are on their regular schedule.
Some other great resources for fresh produce: https://www.ahavahfarm.com/, https://www.localharvest.org/colorado-springs-co, https://farmtoforkcolorado.com/
More on Colorado Springs Farmer's Markets
Invite a small group of friends or neighbors over for a yard game tournament! Play a few games, then create a bracket so you can declare the supreme winner. Use the yard games you already own to create the playing field or ask every family to bring one game to add to the fun! For more fun, pick up a silly used trophy at the resale shop to offer as the prize.
Purchase yard games: Garage Sales, Facebook Marketplace, Big Box Stores, or even the Dollar Store
Whatever it is your family enjoys this summer, we hope it is wonderful!