Activities

• Pikes Peak Cog Railway - Take a ride on the world's highest cog railway, for an unforgettable experience. Since 1891, it has offered incredible views of Pikes Peak, recently enhanced by a $100 million renovation. The 3-hour round trip begins at the updated Manitou Depot and ascends through Pike National Forest, offering glimpses of ancient Bristlecone pines and wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep. At the summit, explore the new visitor center and enjoy panoramic views before returing to the Depot. 

• Manitou Cliff Dwellings - Preserved under a red sandstone overhang, the cliff dwellings feature 800-year old structures from an ancient American Indian culture. Open to the public since 1907, visitors can explore these fascinating dwellings through self-guided tours. Below, a Pueblo-style building houses a museum and gift shop, originally built in 1904 and inhabited until 1984. Located at the foot of Pikes Peak, the dwellings overlook Manitou Springs, Colorado.

• Penny Arcade - These vintage machines, from skeeball to pinball, are maintained in excellent condition. The arcade is surronded by unique gift shops and a taffy store. Not into playing? You could easily spend hours simply admiring all the classsic games.

Restaurants

• The Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant - Situated in downtown Manitou Springs, The Mona Lisa has been voted one of Colorado Springs' "Best Of" and "Most Romantic" restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely evening in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere, dipping fresh breads, fruits, and vegetables into melted cheese. Delight in the delectable entree platters grilled right at your table.

• Adam's Mountain Cafe - A beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Adhering to slow food principles, all of the dishes are made from scratch, including chai tea, coffee syrups, desserts, soups, saucess, and dressings. They offer vegan and vegetarian options, along with dishes featuring house-roasted turkey, Gulf White shirmp, chicken, turkey breakfast sausage, and house-smoked salmon. 

• The Loop - Built in 1903, The Loop originally served wild game, including bear, elk, and deer, barbecued on-site for patrons. In its early days, many gold and silver barons dined here. The restaurant's name comes from the trolley that looped around the building to return to Colorado Springs. Today, The Loop is one of Colorado's most renowned restuarants, winning over 30 awards for its margaritas, wait staff, food and decor. It's also famous for serving the world's largest margarita. ENJOY!