The Pikes Peak region and Colorado Springs offer a wealth of activities for children of all ages. From outdoor adventures like Parks and Playgrounds to indoor activities such as trampoline parks and bowling, there is something for everyone.
The Pikes Peak Region is home to various family-friendly festivals and events throughout the year, including the Colorado Springs Balloon Classic, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center’s Summer Family Festival, and the Garden of the Gods 10K. In addition to organized activities, there are many family-friendly hiking trails and outdoor activities to enjoy. With such a wide variety of activities, the Pikes Peak region and Colorado Springs have a lot to offer the entire family.
Table of Content
| Parks and Playgrounds | Museums, Zoos, and Nature Centers | Indoor Fun |
| Fun in the Water | Indoor Rock Climbing | Golf and Mini Golf |
Parks and Playgrounds
1. John Venezia Park
John Venezia Park is located in the heart of Briargate at the intersection of Briargate Parkway and Union Boulevard in northeast Colorado Springs. There is something for everyone: a playground, basketball court, spray park, soccer fields, in-line hockey/basketball court, and four pickleball courts.
Kids can run around and play on the playground, while adults can challenge each other on the court. The spray park is great for cooling off during hot summer days, and plenty of pavilions and shelters are available for personal use.
2. Pikes Peak BMX Park
The Pikes Peak BMX Park is located in Rampart Park in Northeast Colorado Springs. This is one of Colorado’s premier BMX tracks on the front range. Races are held every Saturday, but don’t forget to take advantage of Tuesday and Thursday evenings for Gate practice sessions! This track features concrete bowl turns, paved jump faces, and a technical rhythm section.
3. America the Beautiful Park
America the Beautiful Park, located on the western edge of Downtown Colorado Springs, is a great destination for anyone looking to get outside and play while taking in an amazing view. With its interactive art installation entitled Quirks, hammocks, spinner bowls, and turntables, there’s something for everyone. Kids can explore their creativity at the art installation, and adults can relax in the hammocks.
The spinner bowls and turntables offer exciting entertainment, and the park is a great spot for a picnic or a family outing with its scenic location and fun activities.
4. Paint Mines Interpretive Park
The Paint Mines Interpretive Park is an idyllic open space in Eastern El Paso County in the Town of Calhan, with an enchanting sense of natural beauty. This amazing park is situated along the open prairie and has a unique and mesmerizing natural beauty. It is the perfect location to explore and have a great time! With its stunning and colorful layers of clay, you’ll be able to take pictures and make memories that will last a lifetime!
5. Bear Creek Park
Bear Creek Regional Park is the perfect playground for kids! Located in Southwest Colorado Springs, this park is 545 acres of fun and adventure. Enjoy an afternoon of playing on the fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and basketball and volleyball courts.
You can even show off your archery skills on the archery range and your horseshoe pitching techniques on the horseshoe pit. But don’t forget the ten miles of multi-purpose, non-motorized trails where you can explore nature and get back to the great outdoors.
6. Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Red Rock Canyon Open Space is perfect for a family day out! Located in Colorado Springs and just south of Highway 24, this nearly 1,500-acre park boasts an extensive network of trails perfect for hiking, jogging, and biking. Kids will love exploring the picturesque rock formations, and the connected Intemann trail in Manitou Springs and Section 16 conservation area south of town provide even more exciting opportunities for exploration.
7. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The park offers awesome educational opportunities, such as guided wildflower excursions, family mystery hikes, and animal education visits. Or, explore the park’s 9-hole disc golf course and trails with fun geo-caching missions. Kids will love the playgrounds and picnic areas, while parents can relax knowing they can stay in one of the 51 full-service campsites or 10 basic walk-in tent sites.
Park Hours: Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Entrance Fees: (Daily Vehicle Pass) $10
8. North Pole-Santa’s Workshop
Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole in Cascade, Colorado, is a magical place for kids to explore and create lasting memories. From the giant Christmas tree to the gingerbread houses, the park is full of holiday cheer and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Kids can explore Santa’s post office, write letters to Santa, go ice skating, ride on Santa’s sleigh or shop at the gift shop. Kids can also meet Santa and take a picture with him!
There is also a petting zoo, a Christmas train, and a reindeer barn, making it a perfect place to spend the holidays.
Opening Hours: Seasonal; generally open mid-May through December, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission: Peak Days: Weekends (Nov-Dec) and Holiday Weeks
Other Days: No reservations needed, free entry to park ; Ride Wristband: 2025 Price pending per person (Age 3-59)
Museums, Zoos, and Nature Centers
9. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the landmark attractions for all ages here in the Pike’s Peak region. But, when it comes to kids, the zoo is remarkable. The zoo is consistently ranked among the top zoos nationally. In 2022, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo was honored as being ranked #3 nationally for best zoos. The Rocky Mountain Wild exhibit took 2nd place in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards – a prestigious recognition that speaks volumes about its exemplary exhibits!
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Admission: $29.75 for adults, $19.75 for children (ages 3–11). Check their 2025 pricing calendar for more details.
10. US Olympic & Paralympic Museum
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is the ultimate destination for future Olympians and fans! With its interactive exhibits, you and your children can explore the storied past of Team USA’s Olympic and Paralympic Games and imagine what the future will bring.
There are plenty of activities to keep your little ones entertained, such as hands-on displays, educational videos, and interactive games. Plus, the museum offers a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily ; closed on Tuesday and Wednesday
Admission: View ticket pricing here (2025) including peak days and value days.
11. Bear Creek Nature Center
The Bear Creek Nature Center is great for children and adults to learn about our local ecosystem. The center offers a wide range of programs, selected special events, and tours, both self-guided and led by a docent. Just outside the center are two miles of self-guiding nature trails that take you through the unique plants, grasses, and environment we have here in the Pike’s Peak region.
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
12. The United States Air Force Academy
The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs is an awesome destination for visitors of all ages. The academy offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours of the grounds. Visitors can explore the campus and learn about the history of the academy and its traditions.
They can also visit the Cadet Chapel and the Air Force Academy Cemetery with its interactive activities and educational programs.
Admission: Free. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
13. Garden of the Gods Park
Garden of the Gods Park is an iconic Colorado Springs destination. The park offers a variety of fun activities for kids of all ages. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails and spot wildlife and the iconic red rock formations. Kids can also explore the interactive exhibits and educational programs at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center.
Park Hours: 5 am – 9 pm
Visitor & Nature Center: 9 am – 5 pm (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
14. Playstreet Museum
Playstreet Museum offers an imaginative indoor play space where children ages 8 and under can explore, create, and learn through hands-on exhibits. With themed play areas designed for interactive discovery, this intimate children’s museum provides a safe, clean environment for little ones to develop social skills and spark creativity through purposeful play.
Hours: Varies. Browse the details here.
Admission: Admission is $14. Admission is charged for children ages 1-8.
15. Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
The Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center offers an unforgettable learning experience for visitors of all ages. Located in Woodland Park, just a short drive from Colorado Springs, the resource center features interactive exhibits and educational displays like fossilized dinosaur bones and life-like dinosaur models, and the center offers a unique spin on paleontology.
Visitors can explore the center’s interactive exhibits to learn about the diverse prehistoric creatures that once roamed the area.
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm & Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm
Admission: Seniors (65+): $12.00, Adults: $13.00
Children 5-12: $9.00, Children 4 and under: FREE
16. Starsmore Visitor & Nature Center
The Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center has been a beloved landmark in Colorado Springs for years. Located at the entrance to Cheyenne Cañon Park, the center was originally the home of the Starsmore family until the city purchased it in 1992. Inside the stone building, visitors can explore the wonders of nature and discover the area’s rich history. From the fun interactive exhibits to the tranquil nature trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn.
Hours: Summer: Daily, 8am – 4pm ; Spring, Fall, Winter: Tuesday-Sunday, 9am – 3pm
17. Numismatic Museum (The Money Museum)
The “Money Museum” features three main galleries, each showcasing exhibits of historical rarities and sharing knowledge about our nation’s heritage and the world through financial perspectives. Helping children understand money in an engaging format – by encouraging experimentation and play. Children can explore concepts like making change and monetary systems through captivating activities, immersive exhibits, and free classes and learn about geography, trade, and world cultures.
Museum Hours: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30am to 5pm.
Admission: General Admission – $8, Seniors (55+) – $6, Groups of 8 or more – $5 per person, Kids 12 and under – Free, ANA Members – Free and Colorado College Students, Faculty & Staff (with ID) – Free.
18. The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is perfect for kids to explore our city’s unique cultural heritage! From interactive galleries to a collection of artifacts from the city’s original settlers, kids of all ages will be captivated by the museum’s fascinating exhibits.
With various educational programs and interactive activities, kids can learn about the city’s growth, explore the timeline of its history, and discover the artifacts collected from across the state.
Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10 am – 5 pm. Free Admission.
19. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, learn about the early pioneers who settled in the area, and see how food was prepared in the 1800s.
Hours: Seasonal; generally open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for children (ages 6–17). Children 2 and under are free.
20. Fountain Creek Nature Center
The Fountain Creek Nature Center offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Pikes Peak region’s natural beauty. The nature center features a variety of trails and activities, including bird watching and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore the museum, which includes exhibits about the area’s animals and plants, as well as learn about the history of the local Native American tribes. The nature center also offers a unique educational experience for children, with interactive exhibits, activities, and programs that invite them to explore nature and discover the beauty of their local environment.
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
21. Manitou Cliff Dwellings
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a fascinating and unique attraction in Colorado Springs. Visitors can explore the ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the native Puebloan people who once lived there. Inside the dwellings, visitors will find ancient artifacts, pottery, tools, and information about the people who once called the area home.
Opening Hours: Seasonal; generally open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission: $12.75 for adults, $8 for children.
22. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park in Manitou Springs is an exciting destination for visitors of all ages. The park offers a variety of fun activities for kids and adults alike. On guided tours, visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails and spot wildlife and caves. For thrill-seekers, the park offers the Terror-dactyl, the Wind Walker Challenge Course, the Bat-A-Pult, the Cliffhanger Climbing Wall, and Geronimos Leap.
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Admission: Varies. Browse 2025 ticket prices here.
23. The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a great way for families to explore and experience the majestic beauty of Pikes Peak. This historic railway takes visitors on a scenic journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, where they can admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Along the way, families can learn about the history of the railway, take in the breathtaking views, and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Opening Hours: Varies; generally early morning to late afternoon.
Admission: When booked online, $59.50 for adults, $49.50 for children (ages 3–12).
24. The Ghost Town Museum
The Ghost Town Museum in Colorado Springs is a fascinating place for kids. They will be transported back in time to explore a historic mining town. Kids will have the chance to explore the old town and its buildings, which are filled with artifacts and displays from the past. They can also pan for gold in the mine.
Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Admission: $8.50 for adults, $5.50 for children (ages 6–16), Children under 6 (with adult) – free
Indoor Fun
25. Springs Adventure Park
Springs Adventure Park has various activities, including trampolines, an American Ninja Warrior course, inflatable bounce houses, and an arcade, there’s something for everyone! Kids will love the trampoline basketball court, dodgeball, and tumble tracks. Those looking for a challenge can test their skills on the American Ninja Warrior course, complete with three levels of difficulty and three warped walls. For a more relaxed experience, play classic games like air hockey and Pac-Man in the arcade.
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 3:00pm-8:00pm, Friday: 1:00PM – 9:00PM, Saturday: 10:00AM – 10:00PM, Sunday: 11:00AM – 8:00PM & Toddler Time is Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 10:00AM – 12:00PM
Admission: Ranges from $10 – $18 depending on minutes.
26. Sky Zone
Sky Zone Colorado Springs has over 10,000 square feet of trampolines, a foam pit, and various activities, kids can jump and flip to their heart’s content. They can challenge themselves with various sports and activities, such as dodgeball, basketball, and a rock-climbing wall. Kids can also get competitive in a game of laser tag or take a break and relax in the SkySlam court.
Opening Hours: Varies by day; typically 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Admission: $25.99–$36.99 per person (depending on activity duration).
27. The Summit Interquest
The Summit Interquest is located in the rapidly growing Northgate part of Colorado Springs; The Summit offers some great activities and diversions to visitors of all ages. This expansive 50,000 square foot facility offers visitors 36 lanes of high-tech family bowling, two levels featuring exhilarating laser tag action with 5,000 square-foot gaming space with redemption arcade games; along with ample entertainment options such as Crossroads Tavern & Grille boasting 120 seats for dining and socializing plus 2 billiard tables for any get-togethers.
28. iFly Sky Diving
iFLY Skydiving is the perfect way for kids to experience the thrill of skydiving without the risk! At iFLY, kids can experience the adrenaline rush of a real skydiving experience without ever having to leave the ground. In a safe and controlled environment, kids can soar through the air with wind speeds of up to 120 mph! With instructors guiding them every step of the way, kids will learn how to fly in a fun and safe environment. Plus, after the flight, kids can watch their video to show friends and family how much fun they had.
29. Little Monkey Bizness
Little Monkey Bizness in Colorado Springs is the perfect place to have a birthday party for your little ones! With its large indoor play area, various activities, and party packages, kids will have a blast celebrating their special day. Kids can run, jump, and climb in the three-story indoor play area and explore the various slides and obstacle courses. They can also take a break, play arcade games, or challenge their friends in laser tag. Little Monkey Bizness also offers customized party packages with pizza, drinks, decorations, and goodie bags.
Open Play Hours: Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: $16 for walkers aged 8 and under, $8 for crawlers
30. Manitou Penny Arcade
Manitou Springs Penny Arcade is located in the historic downtown area of Manitou Springs, and has been providing entertainment for kids since the late 1800s.
With hundreds of vintage arcade games, kids can play classic pinball machines, skeeball, and other retro games. They can also explore the unique shops and boutiques in the area or take a break and grab a bite to eat.
Hours: Open daily, hours vary by season (typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Admission: Free entry, games cost $0.01–$1.00 per play
31. Pikes Peak Library
The Pikes Peak Library has a wide range of programs and activities, kids can explore their creativity and learn something new. There are story times, board game nights, puppet shows, after-school programs, and summer reading clubs. Kids can also explore the library’s collection of books, magazines, and movies. Plus, the Pikes Peak Library also offers a variety of digital programs, like coding classes and virtual reality experiences.
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Friday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Sundays.
Admission: Free
32. Poor Richard’s Bookstore
Poor Richards in Downtown Colorado Springs has something for everyone, from the toy store to the books and games. Kids can explore the toy store and marvel at the wide selection of toys and stuffed animals. They can also explore the book section, pick out new stories, or find a game with friends. Poor Richards also offers a variety of puzzles and board games so kids can challenge themselves or their friends.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday : 9am – 8pm
Admission: Free entry, costs vary by purchases
33. Focus on the Family Visitor’s Center
The Focus on the Family Welcome Center is a fun spot for kids to explore the interactive exhibits illustrating family and relationships’ importance. They can also participate in hands-on activities such as the family tree game, where they can trace their family history. Kids can also participate in workshops and seminars covering parenting, relationships, and communication.
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Sunday
Admission: Free
Fun in the Water
34. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park has waterslides, a lazy river, a wave pool, a kiddie pool, tube slides, and family raft rides. Kids can splash and slide down the slides, relax in the river, or explore the interactive tree-house water fort. After a long day of fun, they can even stay the night and do it again the next day. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park is ideal for a day of fun and relaxation!
Hours: 10:00 to 8:00 pm daily.
35. Deerfield Hills Sprayground
The Deerfield Hills Sprayground has an array of fun features, like a multi-level spray pad, a wading pool, and a three-story tipping bucket, kids can cool off and have hours of fun. There are also a variety of slides and play structures to explore, as well as a concession stand offering snacks and refreshments.
36. Aga Park
Aga Park in Fountain, Colorado, has a large splash pad, playground, and open spaces. Kids can cool off in the splash pad, explore the playground, and run around in the large open spaces. There are also plenty of picnic tables for a fun family picnic and a concession stand offering snacks and refreshments.
37. First & Main Town Center
First & Main Town Center offers a variety of activities, from the interactive “Town Center Fountain” to the movie theater and even an ice cream parlor. Kids can splash around and cool off in the fountain, watch the latest movie releases at the theater, or enjoy a sweet treat at the ice cream parlor.
38. Manitou Springs Pool & Fitness Center
The Manitou Springs Pool & Fitness Center is fun for kids! With two large splash pads and a baby pool, kids can cool off and have hours of fun. And for those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are fitness classes for kids and parents to enjoy.
Hours: Monday thru Thursday: 6am-8pm , Friday: 6am-6pm, Saturday: 7am-5pm, Sunday: Closed
39. Banning Lewis Ranch Vista Water Park
Banning Lewis Ranch Vista Water Park is located at the Banning Lewis Ranch Recreation Center, the water park offers a variety of activities for kids to enjoy. From the two-story water slide and the 25-foot drop slide to the zero-entry pool and lazy river, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the YMCA runs a variety of programs for families to participate in, such as swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, and even a summer camp.
Hours: 10:00 pm to 8:00 pm daily.
40. The Julie Penrose Fountain at America the Beautiful Park
The “Julie Penrose Fountain” at “America the Beautiful Park”, has interactive water features and colorful lights, and the fountain is an excellent spot for kids to splash around and cool off. Parents can relax and watch their kids have a blast in the fountain or join in on the fun. There are also plenty of picnic tables for a fun family picnic and walking and biking trails for those who want to explore the park.
Hours: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
41. Uncle Wilber Fountain
The Uncle Wilber Fountain in Acacia Park has interactive water features, playful water jets, and the fountain is a great spot for kids to play while their parents watch nearby. Kids can run through the spray and splash around in the shallow water, and parents can relax and watch their kids have a great time. The Uncle Wilber Fountain is an excellent place for families to gather and enjoy the warm weather during the summer.
Indoor Rock Climbing
42. City Rock
City Rock in Colorado Springs is the perfect place for kids to challenge themselves and have a great time with its unique indoor rock climbing walls. City Rock also features an Aerie space, a specially designed area for children. The Aerie space offers a variety of climbing walls, training equipment, and activities for kids to enjoy.
Hours and Admission: View details here.
43. Gripstone Climbing & Fitness
Gripstone Climbing & Fitness in Colorado Springs is the perfect destination for all rock climbers. With its variety of climbing walls, bouldering areas, and training equipment, Gripstone offers something for every level of climber. Gripstone also offers youth programs for kids, including climbing classes and camps. With their knowledgeable staff and safe environment, Gripstone is the perfect place for kids to learn and have fun. Kids will enjoy the challenge of climbing and the thrill of reaching the top.
44. Springs Climbing Center
Springs Climbing Center has a special area for kids, with a selection of climbing walls and bouldering areas specifically designed for younger climbers. Springs Climbing Center also features an auto-belay system for kids just starting, allowing them to climb without a partner.
45. Pure Bouldering Gym
The Pure Bouldering Gym in Colorado Springs is the perfect spot for climbers of all ages and levels. Although they do not have any programs specifically for kids, they do offer private lessons and passes for children. They also host weekly climbing competitions and offer birthday parties and memberships for kids. With its variety of climbing walls and bouldering areas, Pure Bouldering Gym is the perfect spot for climbers of all ages and levels.
Golf and Mini Golf
46. Top Golf
Top Golf in Colorado Springs is a golf-focused entertainment complex featuring a driving range with fun and entertaining golf games. There is a full-service restaurant and bar as well for your enjoyment. Kids will love the challenge of hitting golf balls in the state-of-the-art driving range, while parents can join in or kick back and enjoy some food and drink.
47. Lost Island Mini Golf
Lost Island Mini Golf in Colorado Springs has a 24,000-square-foot outdoor Ninja Warrior Course, Outdoor Inflatable Park, and an indoor play area. Kids can practice their golf skills on the 18-hole mini golf course or take on the challenge of the Ninja Warrior Course.
The Meltdown inflatable is also a great way for kids to have a blast, with its spinning arms and obstacle course.
48. Adventure Mini Golf
Adventure Mini Golf in Colorado Springs is family-owned since its inception in 1993. There are four different courses that are sure to be fun for kids and adults alike. Their courses include Around The World, Old West, Journey Thru Time, and Story Land. Each course is packed with exciting themes, fun surprises, and challenging obstacles.
49. Legends Mini Golf
Legends Mini Golf offers a variety of themed courses, including Old West, Pirate Cove, and Lost City. Kids will love the challenge of the 18-hole course and the fun surprises and obstacles on each course. In addition to mini golf, Legends Mini Golf also offers batting cages, sure to be a hit with kids.
50. Glowgolf at Chapel Hills Mall
Glow Golf at Chapel Hills Mall is the perfect destination if the weather is keeping you indoors. This family-friendly spot offers 36 holes of glow-in-the-dark mini golf, 3Kick, where you hit, kick, slap or tap several fast-moving, padded lit targets, and the Laser Maze, where players must avoid a web of lasers at every twist and turn. Kids will love the challenge of mini golf and the thrill of the 3Kick and Laser Maze.
In Conclusion
The entire Pikes Peak area of Colorado has something for everyone. From mini golf courses and batting cages to golf driving ranges and inflatable parks, there are plenty of fun activities for families to explore and enjoy. This guide provides families with a comprehensive list of some of the best things to do, making it easy to plan a fun-filled day in the area. With its variety of activities, the Pikes Peak region is the perfect place for families to have an exciting adventure.