• Garden of the Gods is a must while in Colorado Springs. It is a quick drive or a leisurely walk on a paved path, but either way, don’t miss this beautiful natural wonder. It is only 20 minutes from Great Wolf. The park is free to drive through and has a visitor’s center with lots of information about the hiking paths and the park’s history. https://gardenofgods.com/
  • Pikes Peak is one of the 14’ers of Colorado. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes you on a ride to the top of the mountain, where there is a visitor’s center with incredible views (and WIND). Reserve well in advance since the fall leaves make this a popular attraction. https://www.cograilway.com/ride/purchase-tickets/
  • If you have a car, it’s also a beautiful drive that doesn’t require a reservation, only the paid entrance to the road leading up to the top. Plan to spend at least half the day. If you’d like to hike to the top of Pikes Peak, you can also climb the infamous Incline, a set of stairs built into the side of the mountain. This way to the top is not for the faint of heart, and if it gets too much, you can jump onto Barr Trail for an easier hike. You need to register a time and day for this online. https://cityofcoloradosprings.aluvii.com/store/shop/productdetails?id=1&productId=1
  • If in the vicinity of Manitou Springs, about 30 minutes from Great Wolf, consider checking out 7 Falls, Cave of the Winds, and Michael Gorman’s Studio. Manitou and Colorado City have quaint shops to walk through, music at night, and restaurants. We also recommend you check out Glen Eyrie Castle. https://gleneyrie.org/
  • The Royal Gorge is full of beauty and adventure and highly recommended if you are extending your stay before or after the convention. Zipline, rock climb, raft the gorge, or simply walk through the park and over America’s highest suspension bridge. It’s about a 1 ½ hour drive from Great Wolf. https://royalgorgebridge.com/
  • The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is unlike any other zoo. Nestled on the side of a mountain, it ranked #3 best Zoo in North America. The views are incredible, but the highlight is feeding the giraffes. Due to this zoo’s popularity and small footprint, reservations are suggested. There are a limited number of walk-up tickets each day. https://www.cmzoo.org
  • Not to be forgotten, Colorado Springs is home to the US Olympic Training Center, complete with an inspiring museum The Olympic & Paralympic Museum https://usopm.org/.
  • The Broadmoor Hotel and resort is a sight to see in Colorado Springs. It’s a luxury property sprawling over 3000 acres. It has championship golf courses, landscaped gardens and fine dining. On the premises, there is a piano bar called the Golden Bee. You’ll know you left there after you become covered in bees – literally. There is also an ice cream shop, a movie theatre, and a bar with a fantastic fire pit overlooking the lake. It’s a place where you could walk around the hotel and the grounds for a good bit of time enjoying the sights. https://www.broadmoor.com/

A Wonderful map of a variety of eateries and other things to do. Just zoom in on a specific area and see what’s available. MAP