# 48 Hours in Manitou Springs: A Local's Itinerary

Tucked at the foot of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is one of Colorado's most charming mountain towns — a walkable mix of natural mineral springs, historic architecture, quirky shops, and outdoor adventure. If you've got a weekend, here's how to make the most of it.

## Day 1: Springs, strolls, and small-town charm

### Morning

Start with coffee and a pastry on Manitou Avenue, then set out to find the town's namesake mineral springs. There are several free public fountains scattered through downtown, each with its own distinct mineral taste — grab a cup and try a few. Pick up a springs map locally to turn it into a self-guided walking tour.

### Afternoon

Spend the afternoon wandering downtown. The shops along Manitou Avenue lean artsy and independent — galleries, oddities, handmade goods, and old-fashioned candy. When you're hungry, the avenue has everything from casual cafés to sit-down spots with patios made for people-watching.

If you're traveling with kids (or just young at heart), the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade is a beloved stop — rows of vintage and modern games, many still playable for pocket change.

### Evening

Settle in for dinner downtown, then take an easy evening walk. The mountain air cools quickly once the sun dips behind Pikes Peak, so bring a layer.

## Day 2: Up the mountain

### Morning

This is the day for the area's marquee attractions. A few options depending on your energy:

- The Manitou Incline — a famously steep former cable car route turned staircase climbing roughly 2,000 feet. It's a serious workout and requires a free reservation, so plan ahead.

- Pikes Peak — drive the highway, or take the cog railway to the 14,115-foot summit for unforgettable views. Reserve in advance, especially in peak season.

- Garden of the Gods — just minutes away, this free park's towering red rock formations are stunning and far more accessible, with easy paved trails.

### Afternoon

Refuel back in town, then explore something off the main drag. The Cave of the Winds offers guided cave tours and above-ground adventure activities with canyon views. History buffs can visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings for a look at Ancestral Puebloan-style architecture.

### Evening

Cap your trip with a relaxed dinner and one last stroll along the creek. If you timed your visit for a weekend, check whether any local festivals or markets are happening — Manitou's events calendar stays busy through the warmer months.

## Tips for a smooth visit

- Parking fills fast downtown on weekends. Arrive early or use the town's shuttle when it's running.

- Reserve ahead for the Incline, Pikes Peak, and the cog railway — walk-up availability is unreliable in season.

- Layer up. Mountain weather shifts quickly; mornings and evenings are cool even in summer.

- Stay hydrated. You're at altitude, and it sneaks up on you.

## Make it your home base

Manitou Springs is the kind of place that's best enjoyed at an unhurried pace — which is exactly why a comfortable, well-located rental beats a generic hotel room. Settle in, sleep well, and let the mountain town do the rest.

Planning a Manitou Springs getaway? [Browse our local properties](#) and find your perfect home base at the foot of Pikes Peak.