Colorado Springs proves that the best things in life really are free. With the stunning Rocky Mountains as our backdrop and a community that values outdoor recreation and cultural enrichment, our city offers an incredible array of activities that won’t cost you a penny. Whether you’re a budget-conscious family, a college student, or simply someone who believes experiences matter more than expenses, Colorado Springs delivers world-class adventures without the world-class price tag.
From iconic natural landmarks that rival any paid attraction to hidden local gems that even longtime residents are still discovering, here’s your comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Colorado Springs without opening your wallet.
Free Outdoor Adventures
Garden of the Gods (Free Forever)
Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Hours: Open 24/7, Visitor Center 8 AM-8 PM (summer), 9 AM-5 PM (winter) Parking: Free
Perhaps the most famous free attraction in Colorado, Garden of the Gods offers otherworldly red rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The park was donated to the city in 1909 with the stipulation that it remain “free to the public forever.”
Must-Do Activities:
- Central Garden Trail: Easy 1.5-mile paved loop perfect for all ages
- Perkins Central Garden Trail: Wheelchair accessible with stunning views
- Photography opportunities: Iconic Balanced Rock and Three Graces formations
- Rock climbing: Free climbing with proper equipment and experience
- Visitor Center: Free exhibits, gift shop, and restrooms
Pro Tips:
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting
- Parking fills up quickly on weekends—arrive early
- Dogs are welcome on leash
- Free guided nature walks offered seasonally
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Address: 3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Hours: Open dawn to dusk Parking: Free
A local favorite that offers similar red rock beauty to Garden of the Gods but with fewer crowds and more hiking opportunities.
Trail Highlights:
- Sand Canyon Trail: 1.2 miles through dramatic sandstone formations
- Intemann Trail connection: Links to a longer trail system
- Mesa Trail: Moderate hike with panoramic city views
- Dog-friendly trails: Popular with local pet owners
What Makes It Special:
- Less crowded than Garden of the Gods
- Better for serious hiking
- Mountain biking allowed on designated trails
- Free rock climbing opportunities
Cheyenne Mountain State Park (Free Days)
Address: 410 JL Ranch Heights Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80926 Regular Admission: $7 per vehicle Free Days: Several throughout the year (check Colorado Parks & Wildlife website)
When the state offers free entrance days, this park becomes an incredible value for hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountain scenery.
Free Day Activities:
- Talon Trail: Easy 1.5-mile nature walk
- Medicine Wheel Trail: Moderate 3-mile hike with views
- Wildlife viewing: Deer, elk, and wild turkeys common
- Visitor center: Educational exhibits when open
Pikes Peak Greenway Trail
Access Points: Multiple locations throughout the city Length: 16 miles total Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat Parking: Free at most access points
A paved trail system that connects parks, neighborhoods, and attractions throughout Colorado Springs.
Popular Sections:
- Monument Creek Trail: Downtown to Garden of the Gods
- Fountain Creek Trail: South through Security and Fountain
- Bear Creek Trail: West side connection to Red Rock Canyon
- New Santa Fe Regional Trail: Connects to Monument
Perfect For:
- Walking, jogging, cycling
- Family outings with strollers
- Dog walking
- Commuting between attractions
Free Hiking Trails
Easy Trails (Under 2 Miles)
Palmer Park Trails
- Location: 3650 Maizeland Rd
- Distance: Various short loops
- Features: City views, red rock formations, minimal elevation gain
Ute Valley Park
- Location: 1705 Vindicator Dr
- Distance: 1-3 mile options
- Features: Open meadows, Pikes Peak views, dog-friendly
North Cheyenne Cañon Park – Columbine Trail
- Location: 2120 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd
- Distance: 1.5 miles
- Features: Creek access, shade, family-friendly
Moderate Trails (2-5 Miles)
Section 16 Trail
- Location: Gold Camp Road area
- Distance: 4 miles round trip
- Features: Abandoned railroad tunnels, mountain views
Intemann Trail
- Location: Multiple access points from Manitou Springs to Iron Mountain
- Distance: 5.5 miles total
- Features: Connects Manitou Springs to Crystal Park, moderate elevation gain
Bear Creek Regional Park Trails
- Location: 245 Bear Creek Rd
- Distance: Various loops up to 5 miles
- Features: Creek access, picnic areas, nature center
Challenging Trails (5+ Miles)
Cheyenne Mountain Trail (Seven Bridges)
- Location: North Cheyenne Cañon Park
- Distance: 5.8 miles round trip
- Features: Waterfalls, bridges, significant elevation gain
Mount Cutler Trail
- Location: North Cheyenne Cañon Park
- Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
- Features: Steep climb, panoramic views, rock scrambling
Waldo Canyon Trail (when open)
- Location: US Highway 24 west
- Distance: 7 miles round trip
- Features: Loop trail, mountain views (check current status)
Free Cultural Attractions
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
Address: 30 W Dale St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Free Admission: First Friday of each month, 5-8 PM Regular Hours: Tue-Sat 10 AM-5 PM, Sun 12-5 PM
On First Friday, enjoy free access to rotating exhibitions, permanent collections, and often live performances.
What You’ll See:
- Contemporary and traditional art exhibitions
- Regional and international artists
- Sculpture gardens
- Live music or performance art during First Friday
Olympic Museum Park
Address: 200 S Sierra Madre St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Hours: Always open Parking: Free
While the Olympic Museum itself requires admission, the outdoor park features free exhibits and sculptures celebrating Olympic history.
Free Features:
- Olympic sculpture garden
- Outdoor exhibits about Olympic history
- Perfect for photos and quick visits
- Walking paths and benches
Colorado College Campus
Address: 902 N Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Hours: Open during daylight hours Parking: Limited free street parking
The beautiful Colorado College campus offers stunning architecture and mountain views, making it perfect for a leisurely walk.
Highlights:
- Historic buildings and modern architecture
- Shove Chapel (beautiful interior when open)
- Campus quads and green spaces
- Mountain views from upper campus
First Friday Art Walk (Downtown)
Location: Throughout downtown Colorado Springs Time: First Friday of each month, 5-9 PM Parking: Street parking (free after 5 PM)
Downtown galleries, studios, and businesses open their doors for an evening of art, culture, and community.
Participating Venues:
- Local art galleries
- Artist studios
- Some restaurants and cafes
- Street performers and musicians
Free Family Activities
Playground Paradise
Memorial Park
- Address: 1605 E Pikes Peak Ave
- Features: Large playground, sports fields, picnic areas, duck pond
Cottonwood Creek Park
- Address: 4045 Morning Sun Ave
- Features: Modern playground equipment, walking trails, open space
Hillside Community Center
- Address: 925 S Institute St
- Features: Playground, basketball courts, community events
Splash Pads and Water Play
Memorial Park Splash Pad
- Season: May through September
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Features: Multiple water features, toddler-friendly area
Cottonwood Creek Park Splash Pad
- Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day
- Hours: 10 AM-8 PM
- Features: Interactive water features, shade structures
Free Library Programs
Pikes Peak Library District offers free programs at multiple locations:
Children’s Programs:
- Story times for various age groups
- Summer reading programs with prizes
- Craft activities and educational programs
- Teen gaming and homework help
Adult Programs:
- Book clubs and author readings
- Computer classes and job search help
- Cultural presentations and lectures
- Language learning groups
Seasonal Family Events
Summer:
- Outdoor movies in parks
- Farmers market entertainment
- Free concerts in Acacia Park
- Nature programs at various parks
Winter:
- Holiday light displays
- Ice skating when weather permits
- Winter festival activities
- Indoor library and community center programs
Free Fitness and Recreation
Outdoor Workout Spots
Palmer Park
- Outdoor fitness equipment stations
- Wide open spaces for group fitness
- Multiple trail options for running
Memorial Park
- Fitness trail with exercise stations
- Open fields for sports and activities
- Paved paths for walking and jogging
Bear Creek Regional Park
- Extensive trail system
- Open meadows for activities
- Creek access for cooling off
Free Yoga and Fitness Classes
Summer Outdoor Classes:
- Yoga in the parks (seasonal)
- Boot camp classes in various locations
- Group fitness meetups (check Meetup.com)
Community Centers:
- Some offer free introductory classes
- Senior fitness programs
- Youth sports and activities
Winter Activities
Ice Skating:
- World Arena occasionally offers free skating
- Outdoor ice when weather creates natural rinks
- Sled hills throughout the city parks
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing:
- Free on public lands when snow permits
- Equipment rental available but not free
- Multiple trail options in nearby areas
Free Entertainment and Events
Live Music
Summer Concert Series:
- Acacia Park: Lunchtime concerts during summer
- Memorial Park: Evening concerts in amphitheater
- Various parks: Seasonal music programming
Year-Round Venues:
- Coffee shops: Open mic nights and acoustic performances
- Bookstores: Author readings with musical interludes
- Galleries: Live music during First Friday events
Festivals and Community Events
Annual Free Events:
- Labor Day Lift Off: Hot air balloon festival (some paid activities, but viewing is free)
- Festival of Lights Parade: Holiday parade in downtown
- Pikes Peak International Hill Climb: Free viewing areas
- Various neighborhood festivals: Throughout the year
Seasonal Celebrations:
- Fourth of July: Fireworks and community celebrations
- Halloween: Safe trick-or-treating events in parks
- Holiday celebrations: Various community gatherings
Educational Events
Museums:
- Free days at various museums throughout the year
- Educational lectures and presentations
- Community science and history programs
Colorado College:
- Free lectures and presentations open to public
- Musical and theatrical performances (some free)
- Academic conferences and symposiums
Free Photography Spots
Iconic Locations
Garden of the Gods:
- Balanced Rock
- Three Graces formation
- Cathedral Spires
- Kissing Camels rock formation
Red Rock Canyon Open Space:
- Sandstone formations
- Panoramic city views
- Dramatic lighting opportunities
Downtown Colorado Springs:
- Historic buildings and architecture
- Pikes Peak Avenue views
- Antlers Hotel and surrounding area
Hidden Gems
Palmer Park:
- Red rock formations with city views
- Sunrise and sunset opportunities
- Less crowded than major attractions
Ute Valley Park:
- Open meadows with Pikes Peak backdrop
- Wildflower displays in spring and summer
- Rolling hills and rock outcroppings
Gold Camp Road:
- Mountain vistas and forest scenes
- Historic tunnels and bridges
- Seasonal wildflowers and fall colors
Seasonal Photography
Spring:
- Wildflower displays in various parks
- Fresh green foliage against red rocks
- Snow-capped peaks with blooming trees
Summer:
- Thunderstorm photography opportunities
- Golden hour lighting on rock formations
- Outdoor events and festivals
Fall:
- Aspen color changes at higher elevations
- Dramatic sky contrasts
- Harvest and festival scenes
Winter:
- Snow-covered red rocks
- Dramatic winter skies
- Holiday decorations and lighting
Free Senior Activities
Senior Centers
Hillside Community Center:
- Address: 925 S Institute St
- Free programs for seniors including fitness classes, social activities, and educational programs
Sand Creek Regional Greenway:
- Easy walking trails perfect for senior exercise
- Benches and rest areas throughout
- Bird watching opportunities
Senior-Specific Programs
Library Services:
- Large print books and audiobooks
- Computer training specifically for seniors
- Book delivery services for homebound individuals
Parks and Recreation:
- Senior hiking groups
- Gentle fitness programs
- Social activities and clubs
Free Activities by Season
Spring (March-May)
- Wildflower viewing in parks and open spaces
- Bird watching during migration season
- Garden planning workshops at community gardens
- Hiking as trails become accessible again
Summer (June-August)
- Outdoor concerts and festivals
- Farmers market browsing and entertainment
- Swimming at natural areas (when permitted)
- Camping in free dispersed camping areas nearby
Fall (September-November)
- Leaf peeping at higher elevations
- Harvest festivals in surrounding communities
- Photography of autumn colors
- Apple picking at some local orchards (picking fee applies, but visiting is often free)
Winter (December-February)
- Holiday light displays throughout the city
- Ice skating when natural ice forms
- Snowshoeing on public lands
- Winter photography of snow-covered landscapes
Money-Saving Tips for Almost-Free Activities
Student Discounts
Many attractions offer significant student discounts with valid ID:
- Museums: Often 50% off regular admission
- Entertainment venues: Discounted tickets for students
- Recreation facilities: Reduced fees for classes and activities
Military Discounts
Colorado Springs’ large military presence means many businesses offer military discounts:
- Free admission to some attractions for active duty
- Discounted recreation at military facilities
- Special military appreciation events throughout the year
Resident Discounts
- Colorado resident days at state parks
- Local appreciation discounts at various attractions
- Membership deals for frequent visitors
Group Discounts
- Family passes often cost less per person
- Group rates for organizations and clubs
- Carpooling to reduce transportation costs
Free Parking Guide
Downtown Areas
- Street parking: Free after 5 PM and weekends
- Two-hour limits: Most downtown street parking
- Parking structures: Some offer first hour free
Attraction Parking
- Garden of the Gods: Free parking but fills up quickly
- Red Rock Canyon: Free parking with good availability
- Most city parks: Free parking at designated areas
Parking Apps and Tips
- ParkColoradoSprings app: Real-time parking availability downtown
- Arrive early: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially weekends
- Walk a bit: Parking a few blocks away often means free parking
Safety Tips for Free Activities
Outdoor Safety
- Weather awareness: Colorado weather changes quickly
- Sun protection: High altitude means intense UV exposure
- Water and snacks: Always carry extra, even on short hikes
- Emergency contacts: Let someone know your plans
Trail Safety
- Stay on marked trails to protect environment and ensure safety
- Wildlife awareness: Know how to respond to mountain wildlife
- Proper footwear: Many trails have loose rock and uneven surfaces
- Cell coverage: Many areas have limited or no cell service
Urban Safety
- Well-lit areas: Stick to well-lit areas after dark
- Valuables: Don’t leave items visible in cars
- Emergency numbers: Know local emergency contacts
- Travel in groups: Especially during evening events
Volunteering: Free Activities That Give Back
Parks and Recreation Volunteer Opportunities
- Trail maintenance: Help maintain the trails you love to use
- Park cleanup: Community service that improves everyone’s experience
- Event assistance: Help with festivals and community events
- Youth programs: Assist with children’s activities and education
Cultural Organizations
- Fine Arts Center: Volunteer opportunities during events
- Local theaters: Ushering and backstage help
- Festivals: Setup, cleanup, and event assistance
- Historical societies: Help preserve local history
Benefits of Volunteering
- Meet like-minded people and build community connections
- Gain new skills and experience
- Give back to the community that provides these free amenities
- Sometimes includes perks like free event tickets or meals
Planning Your Free Adventure Day
Sample Full-Day Itinerary
Morning (8 AM-12 PM):
- Garden of the Gods hike and photography
- Visitor center exploration
- Coffee break at a local café (minimal cost)
Afternoon (12 PM-5 PM):
- Picnic lunch in Memorial Park (bring your own food)
- Playground time for families or fitness trail for adults
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space exploration
Evening (5 PM-8 PM):
- Downtown First Friday Art Walk (first Friday of month)
- Or evening walk on Pikes Peak Greenway Trail
- Free concert if available seasonally
Budget-Conscious Day Tips
- Pack meals and snacks to avoid restaurant costs
- Bring water bottles instead of buying drinks
- Carpool or use public transit when possible
- Check event calendars for free activities on your visit day
Multi-Day Adventure Planning
Day 1: Focus on Garden of the Gods and surrounding red rock areas Day 2: Explore downtown culture and Pikes Peak Greenway Day 3: Venture to North Cheyenne Cañon and hiking trails Day 4: Discover neighborhood parks and hidden gems
Resources for Finding More Free Activities
Websites and Apps
- City of Colorado Springs website: Official event calendar
- Pikes Peak Library District: Program schedules and events
- Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation: Activity calendars
- Meetup.com: Free group activities and social events
Social Media
- Facebook: Local community groups and event pages
- Instagram: Follow local businesses and organizations for event announcements
- Nextdoor: Neighborhood-specific free activities and recommendations
Local Publications
- The Gazette: Weekend event listings
- Colorado Springs Independent: Alternative weekly with event listings
- Campus publications: Colorado College and UCCS event calendars
Your Free Colorado Springs Adventure Starts Now
Colorado Springs proves that you don’t need a big budget to have big adventures. From world-renowned natural landmarks to hidden neighborhood gems, from cultural enrichment to outdoor thrills, our city offers an incredible array of experiences that are completely free.
The key to making the most of free activities is planning ahead, staying flexible, and embracing the spirit of exploration that makes Colorado Springs special. Whether you’re a visitor trying to stretch your travel budget or a local looking to rediscover your hometown, these free activities offer countless hours of entertainment, education, and inspiration.
Remember that while these activities are free, they’re possible because of community support, volunteer efforts, and thoughtful city planning. Take care of these spaces, follow Leave No Trace principles, and consider giving back through volunteering or donations when possible.
Never miss a free event again by subscribing to our Colorado Springs activities newsletter—includes weekly free event roundups, seasonal activity guides, and insider tips for budget-friendly fun.
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