18 May Day Trip to Manitou Springs
Just west of Colorado Springs lies the charming mountain town of Manitou Springs. With views of Pike’s Peak, a rich western-expansion history, and lots of outdoor activities, this nearby city makes for the perfect weekend getaway. Avoid the traffic on I-70 and head south to Manitou Springs to enjoy the following activities.
Hike the Incline
The infamous Manitou Incline definitely tests the mettle of even the toughest of hikers. For a quick and challenging hike, start your day trip by hiking the incline. This steep hike gains 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile. With 2,768 steps, this is no walk in the park and is used by Olympic athletes, marathon runners, climbers, and the military for training purposes. However, weekend warriors will still have an awesome time and get to celebrate with stunning views and a hearty lunch in downtown Manitou afterwards.
Grab a Bite in Historic Downtown
After climbing the notorious Incline, you and your traveling companions will want to head to historic downtown Manitou. Adam’s Mountain Café cooks up a bevy of international cuisine and down-home diner fare. From rural Italian lasagna to vegan cauliflower tacos, this restaurant remains a local favorite because of its consistency and variety. Prefer something to-go? Manitou is home to numerous bakeries and coffee shops with great on-the-go, healthy fare.
Tour the Miramont Castle Museum
In the late 70’s the Manitou Springs Historical Society started preservation work on the Miramont Castle. Now, this architectural gem invites visitors to experience life in Colorado as it would have been during the Victorian Era. Wander through the mansion’s 30 rooms on a guided tour before enjoying afternoon tea in the castle’s charming parlor.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Just outside of town sits this natural cave with a rich spelunking history. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park boasts a zipline, two underground cave systems to explore, and its own via ferrata. Thrill seekers should definitely book a tour on the Via Ferrata, or iron road. No experience is necessary to walk along iron rods drilled into the mountain side and adrenaline junkies will definitely get their fix.
Dinner at The Cliff House at Pike’s Peak
This historic hotel is older than the state itself and has hosted famous dignitaries throughout the world. Reserve a table at its award-winning restaurant, The Dining Room, or keep it laid back at the hotel’s classic, homey Red Mountain Bar and Grill. Want to turn your day trip to Manitou into a weekend getaway? Book a room at this sophisticated hotel and enjoy a stay in luxurious, stately rooms with sweeping mountain views.
Manitou Springs is one of Colorado’s lesser-known mountain towns but its place off the beaten path has served the city well. The historic downtown remains locked in time with iconic architectural buildings and long-tenured family businesses. Just a short drive down I-25 gets you to this awesome mountain hideaway. ARISTA Broomfield’s planned community places residents close by the main thoroughfares to the Rockies and southern Colorado. Learn more about ARISTA’s apartments by contacting us today.