Colorado Springs is a longstanding popular tourist and retreat destination for both visitors and Colorado residents. Located south of Denver, it's a great getaway from the hectic city life. Most people think of the springs the city gets its name from, but there's a lot more to see and do in Colorado Springs, especially if you're interested in outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or just want to relax on a sunny day, you're sure to find plenty to do here.

Here are some of our favorite things to do outside in Colorado Springs.

Go Whitewater Rafting

Echo Canyon River Expeditions Amenities

• Three rafting areas
• Family-friendly and advanced routes
• Glamping and lodging available
• 8-Mile Bar and Grill

Residents of Colorado Springs, those planning to move to the city, and visitors who want to enhance their vacation time with recreational water activities will find a diverse selection of fun, exciting, and challenging opportunities in and around town. Whether it's enjoying above-water excursions such as canoeing, kayaking tours, paddleboarding, or whitewater rafting, or scuba diving and delving into the beauty and secrets of the underwater terrain, each activity provides a memorable experience. When participating in water recreational activities is on the agenda, these popular water activities in Colorado Springs have a plan in place for all seasons.

Dragonfly Paddle Yoga

Dragonfly Paddle Yoga Amenities

• Classes supply GLIDE Lotus SUP

For those who don't enjoy working out indoors, the area around Colorado Springs offers some of the most scenic outdoor environments in the country. There are plenty of parks and trails at every level that are great for regular walking or jogging. Some have extremely level trails without much elevation, offering an easy trek. Others have a greater amount of elevation, allowing joggers and walkers to challenge themselves. Each of the following best trails in Colorado Springs rewards visitors with natural vistas, opportunities to see wildlife, and more.

Palmer Loop Trail

Palmer Loop Trail Amenities

• 5.7 miles
• Slight elevation
• Views of Red Rock and Garden of the Gods

Palmer Trail takes visitors past fields of wildflowers, rocky

Over the years, Colorado Springs has been recognized by numerous publications and websites for being a super dog-friendly city. Forbes, for example, named it "America's Most Pet-Friendly City," and Men's Health included it on its list of "Best Cities for Dogs". So, what makes Colorado Springs such a great place for dogs? The city boasts a lot of the things dogs love best: open spaces to run in, dog parks to frolic at, as well as restaurants and bars that welcome furry little faces. The following are just a few of the dog-friendly places you can visit in Colorado Springs.

Dog-Friendly Activities in Colorado Springs

The canines of Colorado Springs are truly fortunate, as they can enjoy these amazing dog-friendly spots:

• Palmer Park Dog Park

Colorado Springs is an epicenter of fine arts, and there is no shortage of live music venues. This list will cue you in on the best live music spots in Colorado Springs to enjoy a great show!

Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts

• Address: Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts, 190 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
• Hours: Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Closed Sun
• Phone: (719) 477-2100

Classical music, modern artists, Broadway shows, and dance performances are plentiful at the Pikes Peak Center. However, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic shows take the top spot here. Seating is limited to 2,000 attendees, so it's a cozy environment for a sophisticated night on the town.

The Philharmonic team ups its

Aside from the beautiful mountain air, spacious views, and various outdoor activities, Colorado Springs offers residents and visitors alike an unmatched shopping experience. Whether someone needs some retail therapy or a few new items for around their new construction home or condo, the shopping malls and outlets in Colorado Springs bring together the nation's favorite stores in one area. Colorado Springs has numerous shopping opportunities to visit in every cardinal direction. Those who aren't sure where to begin can consider the following best shopping locations in Colorado Springs.

The Promenade Shops at Briargate

The Promenade Shops at Briargate Amenities

• Open-air mall
• Most shops are dog-friendly
• Ample parking
• Free Wi-Fi

According to Smithsonian Magazine, the first dog park was founded in 1979 in San Francisco. Since then, thousands of these canine playgrounds have popped up around the country, including in Colorado Springs.

It's not surprising that these canine playgrounds become so popular. Dogs owners love to see their pets get a little off-leash freedom. Oftentimes, the owners are doing just as much socializing. In fact, dog parks are often an important social hub for canines and their owners alike. The following five puppy playgrounds are some of the best dog parks in Colorado Springs.

Bear Creek Dog Park

Bear Creek Dog Park Amenities

• Completely fenced
• Different terrain types
• Bear Creek
• Agility training equipment
• Separate area for

Located in east central Colorado, Colorado Springs is a popular destination among tourists with all types of hobbies and interests. Whether someone is traveling on their own or in a group, Colorado Springs is the perfect destination. When someone visits Colorado Springs, they will have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of exciting attractions. With so many options, both tourists and locals alike will be able to find plenty of ways to enjoy themselves and make lasting memories. Residents of Colorado Springs and travelers to this city should consider adding the following popular Colorado Springs attractions to their itinerary.

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods Park is a public park that has been designated as a National Natural

It's no secret that Colorado as a whole is a hub for outdoor adventures and active lifestyles. That's true of Colorado Springs, a Front Range city renowned for being nestled at the base of Pike's Peak and having mild year-round weather. The city is also well known for its ties to the Olympics and the military.

Colorado Springs is also a wonderful place for children, with seemingly endless activities. The best part is that many of them are interactive and educational, incorporating Colorado's unique history and climate. Here are some fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs.

Garden of the Gods Park

Garden of the Gods Park Amenities

• Visitor center
• Educational programs for visitors
• Guided tours
• Toddler Time
• Junior

While it might not be an everyday routine, getting out on the town to enjoy some nightlife in Colorado Springs can be a special treat. However, those looking for the best spots for evening outings will not want to miss these top-rated locations that locals recommend.

The Jazz-Funk Connection

• Address: The Jazz-Funk Connection, 2355 Platte Pl, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
• Phone: (719) 632-4541
• Hours: Mon–Thurs Noon–6 p.m. (10 p.m. Wednesdays), Fri–Sat Noon–midnight, Closed Sunday

As a live music venue that has been designed and established by musicians for musicians, The Jazz-Funk Connection offers some of the finest performances in town. While a small venue, the acoustics here are praised by pros and amateurs and, most importantly, by