The 12 Best Kid Friendly Things to Do in Colorado Springs

A family walking together on top of a mountain in Colorado Springs. Captured by Michelle, a family photographer.

Hey there! I am excited to share with you the top 12 kid-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs. I have been a local family photographer in Colorado Springs for years. With having littles myself, I have scoped out the best attractions unique to this beautiful city. Whether you’re into exploring nature, riding scenic trains, or discovering dinosaurs, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep the whole family happy.

Consider hiring a family photographer (like me, Michelle! 😉 ) while you are in town. You will not regret having gorgeous mountain family photos to put up in the walls of your home. Reach out by clicking (HERE) and lets get your family photoshoot on the schedule!

A family photoshoot with 6 kids holding hands. They are smiling at the camera. Surrounded by Colorado Springs mountains.

Table of Contents

The Best 12 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Colorado Springs:

1. Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Hop aboard the highest cog railway in the world and take a breathtaking ride up to Pikes Peak. Kids will love the excitement of climbing over 14,000 feet, and the views at the top? Absolutely unreal!

A family portrait with the parents and two older kids. They are sitting on the ground, smiling at the camera. Captured by Colorado Springs family photographer, Michelle Betz

2. Step Back in Time at the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade

This hidden gem in Manitou Springs is an absolute blast from the past. Your kids (and let’s be honest, YOU) will have a ball playing vintage pinball, skee ball, and classic arcade games—many for just a few cents.

3. Explore the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

Got a dino lover in the family? Then you HAVE to visit the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center. It’s packed with fossils, life-sized dinosaur replicas, and interactive exhibits that make learning fun.

A little girl in her dance outfit, holding her hands up like a ballerina. Surrounded by red rocks and mountains.

4. Have Tea at Glen Eyrie Castle

For a totally unique experience, take your kids to a real castle for tea! Glen Eyrie Castle is a magical spot where you can enjoy a fancy tea service while soaking in the fairytale vibes. It’s such a great, fun, and beautiful experience.

5. Meet the Animals at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is hands-down one of the best zoos in the country! Not only can your kids see giraffes, lions, and elephants, but they can also feed the giraffes right from their hands. Plus, the zoo sits on the mountainside, so the views are just as incredible as the animals.

Grandparents with thier three young grandchildren. Smiling at the camera. Captured at Garden of the Gods by Michelle Betz Phototgraphy

6. Take a Kid-Friendly Hike

Colorado Springs is an outdoor playground, and there are plenty of easy hikes for little legs. Try Red Rock Canyon Open Space or the Siamese Twins Trail in Garden of the Gods. Both offer short, scenic trails with minimal elevation gain—amazing for tiny explorers!

7. Wander Through Garden of the Gods

Speaking of Garden of the Gods, this place is a must-visit! The stunning red rock formations will make your kids feel like they’re on another planet. You can drive through, take a stroller-friendly walk, or let your kiddos climb on the big boulders (safely, of course!).

A dad and son portrait. The son is sitting on his dads shoulders and laughing. In the fall, in Colorado Springs.

8. Splash at Great Wolf Lodge

With thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and even a wave pool, it’s an incredible spot to let them burn off some energy. Plus, the indoor setting makes it a great option year-round.

9. Experience the Magic at The North Pole (Winter Only)

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop. It’s a charming Christmas-themed amusement park with rides, holiday treats, and of course, Santa himself. The ride are actually really fun, and littles can get on them. It’s like stepping into a real-life snow globe. Make sure to book those tickets early, as they sell out.

A family holding hands and smiling at each other. Wintertime with snow on the ground, at sunset. Captured by Michelle, a family photographer

10. Go Sledding

Winter in Colorado Springs means one thing: sledding! Fox Run Regional Park and Bear Creek Park are two fantastic spots to grab a sled and let your kids race down the hills. It’s simple, free, and guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip.

11. Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge

For thrill-seekers, a trip to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is a must. The suspension bridge is one of the highest in the world, and the views of the canyon below are jaw-dropping. If your kids are up for it, take the gondola across for an even more thrilling experience.

colorado family photoshoot. Surrounded by beautiful green grass and mountains.

12. Ride the Royal Gorge Train

For an amazing adventure, hop aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This scenic train ride follows the Arkansas River through breathtaking canyons, giving your family a front-row seat to some of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes. Bonus: the train has a kid-friendly menu and an open-air car for the best views. Make sure to book your tickets months in advance, because it sells out.

Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Colorado Springs

From mountain adventures to hands-on fun, these kid-friendly things to do in Colorado Springs will make your trip one to remember. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable family getaway.

Have you visited any of these spots? Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to send me a message, I would love to be your family photographer while you are in town!

A mother and daughter photo. The mom is kneeling facing her child, they are holding their hands and touching foreheads. Captured by Michelle Betz Photography