Cheyenne-Mountain-Resort

Experience the Glow of the Season in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs knows how to celebrate each season—from summer hikes to fall snow—and the holidays are no exception. Chilly nights spent strolling the downtown pop-up shops and holiday markets with a cup of hot chocolate in hand are the epitome of the season. But above all else, Colorado Springs knows how to light up the city around the holidays. Experience the glow of the season from the annual Festival of Lights Parade, celebrating its 35th year with a "Home for the Holidays" theme, to the first annual Tour de Lights, hosted by Trails End Taproom and complete with prizes for the best decorated bike and helmet, special holiday drinks, and a holiday sing-a-long. For something a little different, see the lights from the sky on a Christmas Light Helicopter Tour. Or, go big at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Electric Safari, where 85 light sculptures, visits with Santa, and special animal encounters truly bring the holiday to life!

Top Reasons to See Colorado Springs in the Fall

Fall’s changing colors are coming and the best way to experience the thrill of the season is to channel your inner adrenaline junkie. Colorado Springs’ highlights only become more breathtaking as the leaves change, making for a whole new experience, even if you’ve done it before. Hop on two wheels and cycle down Pikes Peak — the inspiration behind "America the Beautiful" — to see the deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and vegetation as you pass through five unique life zones. Colorado is gorgeous as seen from the ground, but take your perspective to the sky on a Royal Gorge Helicopter Tour and watch the earth below come alive. Or, for a ride as breathtaking as the view, take it in on a sunrise hot air balloon flight complete with champagne, breakfast, and the best pilots in the west. If staying closer to the ground is more your style, rock climbing among the autumn aspen trees at Garden of the Gods and exploring Pike National Forest on a horseback ride rank among the top ways to experience the Colorado Springs area.