What to See and Wear in Colorado Springs, CO

I had no idea how glorious Colorado can be in the Fall. After living in Texas for over a decade, it’s easy to forget that hot and humid weather doesn’t always continue on into mid-November and there are sights out there other than the Hill Country. I love my state, but sometimes you just have to broaden your horizons.

Last week, I spent 6 days in Colorado Springs, CO with my family, where we took full advantage of everything the Rocky Mountain State had to offer. Late September was absolutely the perfect time to get that Fall weather we were hoping for and see some pretty colors. Check out where we went and what I packed for our trip!

The Broadmoore

 Described as one of the most unique resorts in the world, the Broadmoore is must-see. We stopped in for a drink on the patio while taking in the stunning Rocky Mountain view and it was an absolutely picture-perfect evening.

Unless you’re planning on dining in one of their restaurants, a casual outfit is totally acceptable here despite the upscale vibes of the resort. I’d recommend layers if you’re planning on coming during the day because the temperature changes, also.

Academy Riding Stables

I used to barrel race when I was younger, so I love any excuse to get on a horse, and I couldn’t have imagined a better place to do it than Academy Riding Stables. Our guide, Jericho, took my dad and I on a private tour of the Garden of the Gods and it was so fun to hear all the history and significance of the park. We had seen the view from a lookout, but there was nothing like being immersed in it.

I’d recommend heeled boots (heels like on cowboy or riding boots, not high-heels), jeans, and a warm jacket for a trail ride in Colorado. It was pretty cold out there for an hour ride, and I also wish I would have packed a pair of gloves because my hands got pretty cold. If you have one, a cowboy hat was also great because we got rained on a little.

Garden of the Gods

Just one look and you’ll fall in love. You can hike the park, check out the beauty from various lookout spots, take a jeep tour, or shop for authentic Native American-made jewelry in their visitor center. It’s one of the most beautiful views in Colorado Springs if you ask me.

On a sunny day, all you need is a sweater, but if clouds are in the forecast, I’d bring a jacket. I found myself constantly taking off and putting back on my light jacket as the weather changed, which is definitely not something this Texas girl is used to!

The Golden Bee

If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner, don’t go to the Golden Bee at 9:30pm. This English pub transfers nightly into a Ragtime piano sing-along with song books included, and my family and I had an absolute blast enjoying the lively atmosphere and joining in on the fun! When you sit down for dinner, your server greets you by flicking a sticky bee decal on you (even very impressively from across the table) which is a fun little souvenir for the sentimental traveler like myself. The food also couldn’t have been more delicious! I’d recommend the cheese plate, a local draft beer (in a yard glass if you’re up for the challenge!) and the shepherd’s pie.

While this is technically a pub, which sounds very casual, I’d dress up slightly for a dinner at the Golden Bee. I wore a pair of over-the-knee heeled boots and a poncho over a long sleeved blouse and I fit right in with the atmosphere. There’s also plenty of close parking, so I wouldn’t worry about wearing a coat just for the walk from the car.

Seven Falls

If you’re deathly afraid of heights, maybe sit this one out, but if you’re looking for gorgeous views of the Rockies, Seven Falls is a must-see. Hop on the shuttle that picks up in front of the Golden Bee and it’s only $14 a person to see the beautiful waterfall and sweeping mountain views from a few different high lookouts. After you’ve seen the sights, you can stop in for a bite or a drink at Restaurant 1858.

Comfy shoes are a must for this venture. I wouldn’t recommend these heeled booties I wore (like a noob), but instead would have gone with flat boots or booties.