Well, I decided to write about the great state of Colorado and how much fun it is to vacation there. But there are so many great places to visit in Colorado that it was difficult to narrow down an area to visit. But eventually I settled on the Colorado Springs area.

Colorado Springs and the surrounding area have so much to offer, and of course the beauty of the mountains makes you want to visit again and again. There is something about just being in the mountains that is relaxing and peaceful. I have spent many vacations in Colorado and never tire of the beauty of the mountains, I even had the opportunity to live there for a short period of time and never tire of the scenery. Every time I go to the Rockies there is always something new to see or do.

I have been to Colorado Springs many times and for any of you readers who might be interested in going there, I thought I would tell you a little about what the area has to offer.

Of course there is the Royal Gorge, the views down below are stunning and inspiring. You can walk or drive across the bridge, take a tram to the river, and even tour the area by train. A must see if you are in the area.

After you’ve looked down you’ll want to experience Pikes Peak Highway, it truly is one of the most beautiful areas in the Rockies. You might see darlings, brats, moose, bighorn sheep, and of course there are always the chipmunks. Be sure to bring snacks and maybe a picnic lunch because you’re sure to be staying longer than you thought. Have some rooms available for when you get to the top for your binoculars or better yet, bring your own to use and enjoy throughout your trip. You can even take the cogwheel train to the top if you prefer instead of driving.

If you like or want to experience a bit of rafting, Echo Canyon is the place to go. If you like the gentler family version, they have it available and for thrill seekers, go rafting in Royal Gorge.

Manitou Springs is noted for its carbonated mineral water springs. You’ll also find wonderful shopping at many specialty stores and boutiques. A wonderful place for window shopping and serious shoppers alike. For chocolate lovers, fudge is out of this world.

If you like waterfalls, Seven Falls should be on your itinerary. You can go up quite high to see the falls, or take the mountain lift if that’s more to your liking. You may even be able to feed peanuts to the squirrels, which is great fun for young and old alike. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to really enjoy the area and you might consider staying there until sunset and enjoying all the colored lights. The falls are beautiful with the lights at night.

You can’t forget the North Pole and Santa’s Workshop if you have small children. You’ll find Santa, a petting zoo, carnival rides, magic shows, and a ton of fun stuff there. I have been there many times and it is still a magical place that is fun for the whole family.

There is also the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo which is amazing. Be sure to bring your walking shoes as the zoo is located in the mountains so there will be some hills to climb but the hike will be well worth it.

Other places you might want to visit would be the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, if you go in the summer you can see some live Pueblo Indian dancing. For family fun, be sure to check out the Buckskin Joe Frontier Town and Railway. You can travel by train and see some spectacular scenery and enjoy all the action the Wild West has to offer.

Of course, there is the Garden of the Gods, where you can find wonderful art exhibits that represent the culture and history of the area. And of course there is the Cueva de los Vientos. There are many different tours available and they are all worthwhile. If you time it right when you go, you can also see a wonderful show more relaxed at night. It’s quite dramatic and worth staying up for.

Well, these are just a few of my favorite places to go in the Colorado Springs area, I’m sure I’ve forgotten a few, but this will give you a head start on what you want to do and see when you get there.