NOW CONNECTINGBACK 3H BEFORE INTERNATIONAL, 2H FOR DOMESTICOFFLINE MAPS AT THE GATEHUMAN CONCIERGE ON WHATSAPPTOURS SCORED AGAINST YOUR LAYOVER
NOW CONNECTINGBACK 3H BEFORE INTERNATIONAL, 2H FOR DOMESTICOFFLINE MAPS AT THE GATEHUMAN CONCIERGE ON WHATSAPPTOURS SCORED AGAINST YOUR LAYOVER
Colorado Springs Layover Guide: Making the Most of Your Stopover
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Colorado Springs Airport (COS) serves as a convenient and scenic gateway to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in the United States. Known for its smaller, more manageable scale compared to Denver International, C…
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) serves as a convenient and scenic gateway to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in the United States. Known for its smaller, more manageable scale compared to Denver International, COS offers travelers a stress-free environment to navigate during a stopover. Whether you are arriving for a short connection or a longer stay, the airport’s proximity to world-class attractions like the Garden of the Gods and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum makes it an ideal spot for exploration. Borderly users often track their journeys through this high-altitude hub by uploading their boarding passes to the platform, building a detailed map of their travels across the country. With efficient security lines and a layout that prioritizes ease of movement, Colorado Springs Airport allows for quick exits if you have several hours to spare. From the majestic views of Pikes Peak visible from the terminal to the historic charm of nearby Old Colorado City, a layover here provides a genuine taste of Colorado’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Even with no current direct international routes, its status as a major regional hub ensures a steady stream of visitors exploring the Rockies.
9 ways out of the terminal.
Top Things to Do Near Colorado Springs Airport. Tap a row for timings and the insider tip.
#STOPTIMEFROM COSWHY
01
National Museum of World War II Aviation
2 hours4 milesExplore over 28 restored aircraft and thousands of artifacts from the World War II era in this expansive museum near the runway.
Explore over 28 restored aircraft and thousands of artifacts from the World War II era in this expansive museum near the runway.
TIME 2 HOURS
02
Garden of the Gods Park
2 hours16 milesVisit these towering red sandstone rock formations. You can drive the loop or walk the Central Garden trail for iconic views of Pikes Peak.
Visit these towering red sandstone rock formations. You can drive the loop or walk the Central Garden trail for iconic views of Pikes Peak.
TIME 2 HOURS
03
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
2.5 hours11 milesExperience an interactive and highly accessible museum dedicated to the history and achievements of Team USA athletes.
Experience an interactive and highly accessible museum dedicated to the history and achievements of Team USA athletes.
TIME 2.5 HOURS
04
Old Colorado City
1.5 hours14 milesWalk through a historic 19th-century district filled with local art galleries, unique boutiques, and charming restaurants.
Walk through a historic 19th-century district filled with local art galleries, unique boutiques, and charming restaurants.
TIME 1.5 HOURS
05
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
3 hours13 milesVisit America's only mountain zoo to hand-feed giraffes and enjoy incredible views of the city from high elevation.
Visit America's only mountain zoo to hand-feed giraffes and enjoy incredible views of the city from high elevation.
TIME 3 HOURS
06
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
1.5 hours11 milesLocated in the historic 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, this museum showcases the cultural history of the Pikes Peak region.
Located in the historic 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, this museum showcases the cultural history of the Pikes Peak region.
TIME 1.5 HOURS
07
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
2 hours16 milesEnjoy hiking or biking through dramatic red rock canyons that offer a quieter alternative to the popular Garden of the Gods.
Enjoy hiking or biking through dramatic red rock canyons that offer a quieter alternative to the popular Garden of the Gods.
TIME 2 HOURS
08
The Broadmoor Seven Falls
2 hours14 milesView a series of seven cascading waterfalls located in a box canyon, accessible via a short hike or an in-mountain elevator.
View a series of seven cascading waterfalls located in a box canyon, accessible via a short hike or an in-mountain elevator.
TIME 2 HOURS
09
Pikes Peak Highway
3-4 hours25 milesDrive to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains.
Drive to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains.
Want to know what it's like Jet surf near the summit? Near the mountain of pike's peak, one of Colorados historical 14ers you can book a session on our state-of-the-art electric surfboards! We supply everything you need from lessons to life jackets. Our instructors are efficient and energetic, ready to make the most out of your adventure. In our 60-minute session you start off as a beginner and work your way to the top with our expert mode reaching up to 24mph! Be some of the first Jet surfers in the mile high state and feel the true hype of what it's like to altitude surf. We also offer ridding experiences on a variety of lakes throughout Colorado such as Chatfield, Pueblo, Horsetooth and many more. Let's start off this summer with a blast and a splash.
Duration
1 hour
+ 2h airport buffer
Layover fit
Good for 4–6 hour layovers
Needs 3h total
Admission
Check on Viator
Ready to book for your Colorado Springs layover
Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available
Self Guided Audio Driving Tour of Pikes Peak Highway
Download GuideAlong’s self-guided driving audio tour of Pikes Peak as you journey to the 14,115-foot summit of America's Mountain. Enjoy fishing or a picnic by the serene alpine waters of the Crystal Creek Reservoir, gaze out to distant mountain ranges from the Cascade Observation Site, hike the legendary Barr Trail, and marvel at panoramic views from the summit.
Along the way, hear stories of Old West towns and Route 66 lore, and stamp your Route 66 Passport for a souvenir to remember the ride.
Enjoy the freedom to explore offine at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t.
Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location
Travel at your own pace
Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed
Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use
No time limits or expiry, and free updates
Like having a tour guide along for the drive
Purchase one tour per vehicle.
Duration
1h 30m
+ 2h airport buffer
Layover fit
Good for 4–6 hour layovers
Needs 3.5h total
Admission
Check on Viator
What you'll see
1
Attraction stop (15 mins)
Pikes Peak Summit is the crown jewel of one of America’s most iconic mountains, soaring to 14,115 feet above sea level. From the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Colorado’s plains, peaks, and even into neighboring states on a clear day.
2
Attraction stop (30 mins)
Barr Trail is a legendary hiking path that winds its way up the slopes of Pikes Peak, offering sweeping views and a true test of endurance. Beginning in
the town of Manitou Springs, this 13- mile trail climbs over 7,000 feet through changing landscapes fromdense forests to alpine tundra.
3
Attraction stop (20 mins)
Crystal Creek Reservoir is a serene alpine lake nestled along the Pikes Peak Highway, offering a peaceful escape with stunning mountain views. Framed by tall pines and the towering presence of Pikes Peak itself, the reservoir is a favorite spot for fishing, picnicking, and photography.
4
Attraction stop (30 mins)
Cascade Observation Site offers a breathtaking overlook where forested valleys and distant mountain ranges stretch as far as the eye can see. Named after the nearby town of Cascade, this scenic stop invites travelers to pause and take in the dramatic elevation change as they climb higher into the Rockies. On clear days, the sweeping views highlight Colorado’s rugged terrain and natural beauty.
Ready to book for your Colorado Springs layover
Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available
Private Pikes Peak Region Backcountry Half Day Adventure Tour
Why stay on the beaten path when you can see Colorado up close?
Let us show you the real Rockies, where the spirit of adventure is alive and the landscapes inspire awe at every turn!
We’ll embark on an off-road adventure through the Pikes Peak region, navigating rugged terrains and historical trails. Journey through Pike National Forest, enjoying clear views of Pikes Peak as you explore paths that traverse historic railroad grades and scenic reservoirs.
Here are just a few of the things that set our Tours apart from all others:
- Our tours are 100% private for your group of six or less.
- Our tours range from mild to wild and, based on your preferences, are planned just for your group.
- Our owner personally drives every group.
- Our vehicle is a custom Toyota Land Cruiser with safety, comfort, and off-road capabilities that are unmatched by nearly any other vehicle.
Duration
3h 30m
+ 2h airport buffer
Layover fit
Good for 4–6 hour layovers
Needs 5.5h total
Admission
Check on Viator
What you'll see
1
Attraction stop (2h)
As we set off on an off-road adventure through the Pikes Peak region, the list below illustrates some of the sights and attractions we'll choose from for your unique tour depending on your interests:
• Eleven Mile Canyon
• Rita the Rock Planter
• Phantom Canyon Road
• Shelf Road
• Upper Gold Camp Road
• Rampart Range Road
We’ll make plenty of stops along the way to take photos, stretch our legs, and enjoy nature!
2
Attraction stop (15 mins)
Eleven Mile Canyon, nestled just south of Lake George, offers a serene escape into nature's beauty. Once the route of the historic Colorado Midland Railroad, the canyon now features a scenic dirt road passing through tunnels as it meanders alongside the South Platte River, framed by towering granite walls and lush pine forests. This is but one example of the many amazing places we might explore on your personalized adventure, tailored just for you and your group.
3
Attraction stop (15 mins)
Rita the Rock Planter is a captivating 21-foot-tall wooden troll sculpture located near Victor, just south of Cripple Creek. Created in August 2023 by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, Rita is crafted entirely from recycled wood and was constructed with the help of over 100 volunteers. She is depicted kneeling and carefully placing rocks, symbolizing the restoration of the land affected by historical mining activities in the area. This is but one example of the many amazing places we might explore on your personalized adventure, tailored just for you and your group.
4
Attraction stop (15 mins)
Phantom Canyon Road is a scenic and historic unpaved route that connects Cañon City to Victor. Originally the path of the Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad built in 1894, it served as a vital link to the goldfields of Cripple Creek and Victor during Colorado's gold rush era. Today, the road offers travelers a journey through rugged canyons, historic tunnels, and over elevated bridges providing diverse landscapes and opportunities to observe local wildlife. This is but one example of the many amazing places we might explore on your personalized adventure, tailored just for you and your group.
+3 more stops
Ready to book for your Colorado Springs layover
Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available
EBIKE Mountain Adventure in Colorado Springs: Gold Camp Road
Our rides have mentioned Rocke's rides as the highlight to their visit here in Colorado Springs. Our high quality eBikes provide riders the assistance to reach places you ordinarily would not see.
We also pride ourselves in the flexibility to help make your ride get you to the places you want to see. With our local knowledge, we can help curate a tour for places to bike and hike, bike as far as you can with a packed lunch or bike into town after your ride to places that are eBike friendly for a unique meal.
The possibilities are truly endless with our strive to give you the experience you are looking for in Colorado Springs.
Manitou Springs Morning Tasting Tour Flavors and Springs
Discover the culinary gems of Manitou Springs on this delightful morning tasting tour. With five unique culinary tastings and the chance to sample three ancient mineral springs, this tour offers a perfect blend of local flavors and rich history. As you stroll through the charming streets, you'll experience the artistic culture that defines this unique town at the base of Pikes Peak. Ideal for those seeking a leisurely start to their day, you’ll also enjoy exclusive discounts on any tempting souvenirs along the way. Our knowledgeable guides, affectionately known as "Taste Buds," can recommend lunch spots to round out your experience.
- Enjoy five culinary tastings and three ancient mineral springs
- Stroll through the historic streets of Manitou Springs
- Perfect for a relaxed morning experience before lunch
- Exclusive discounts available on souvenirs during the tour
Have you ever wondered what the city of Colorado Springs looks like from a thousand feet above? The Pikes Peak Bike Tours team will take your breath away by first transporting you up the historic and scenic Old Stage Road. From there, a gorgeous scenic bike ride will take you down Gold Camp Road. Locomotives once transported raw gold from Cripple Creek gold mine to a Colorado Springs gold refinery on this historic path. This experience offers vast panoramic views of the front range at a ride at your own pace speed. The tour is approximately 13 miles long with minimal exertion. Gold Camp Road is a leisurely descent at a 2% grade on gravel terrain with minimal obstacles and incredible tunnels blown by dynamite dating back to the late 1800s. Experience the beauty of Colorado in its entirety as you peer into the distance breathing in the crisp mountain air. Duration is expected to last 3 to 3 1/2 hours depending on the riders.
Getting around during a Colorado Springs layover is most efficient via rideshare or car rental, as the airport is located 11 miles from the city center. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are the most popular choices for travelers, typically costing between $25 and $40 for a one-way trip to downtown, with a travel time of 15 to 20 minutes. Taxis are also readily available outside the baggage claim area, with metered rates usually ranging from $30 to $45. For those on a budget, the Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT) bus system operates Route 37 from the airport to Hancock Plaza. From there, passengers must transfer to Route 1 or Route 27 to reach downtown, a process that takes between 60 and 75 minutes and costs approximately $1.75. Given the spread-out nature of Colorado Springs attractions, many travelers opt for a car rental from on-site providers like Avis, Hertz, or Enterprise. Having your own vehicle allows for easy access to Pikes Peak or the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo without relying on multiple ride bookings or waiting for transit transfers.
01Download Uber or Lyft before you land to ensure a quick exit from the terminal.
02Remember that there is no luggage storage at COS, so travel light if you plan to leave.
03Check the TSA wait times on the airport website, although they are usually very short.
04Visit the Premier Lounge near Gate 6 if you need a quiet place to work or relax.
05Pack a light jacket even in summer, as Colorado weather can change rapidly.
06Book timed-entry tickets for the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in advance to guarantee entry.
07Keep your boarding passes and upload them to Borderly to track your airport visits.
08Allow at least 4 hours of total layover time if you plan to visit Garden of the Gods.
Inside the terminal
Airports in Colorado Springs
COS
Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
Navigating COS is generally quick, but you must exit the secure area and re-clear TSA security if you leave the terminal. The airport does not offer luggage storage, so plan to carry your bags or check them through to your final destination. Security lines are typically short, usually under 15 minutes.
Shopping Opportunities
Old Colorado City Boutiques
14 miles
Find local jewelry, western wear, and fine art in this historic shopping district.
The Promenade Shops at Briargate
20 miles
An open-air shopping center featuring high-end national brands and beautiful mountain views.
Citadel Mall
8 miles
A large traditional indoor shopping mall featuring a wide range of department stores and specialty shops.
Airport Market
0 miles
A convenient spot within the terminal for Colorado-themed souvenirs, books, and travel essentials.
Chapel Hills Mall
18 miles
A major shopping destination on the north side of the city featuring over 100 different retailers.
Make every minute count
Layover Time Management Plans
Managing your time at Colorado Springs Airport depends heavily on the length of your connection and your interest in the local scenery. For a short layover of 2 to 4 hours, it is best to remain within the airport terminal or stay very close by. You can enjoy a meal at Colorado Craft or visit the National Museum of World War II Aviation, which is only a 10-minute drive away. If you have a 4 to 8 hour layover, you have enough time to venture into downtown Colorado Springs or visit the Garden of the Gods. A trip to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum takes about 20 minutes each way, leaving you several hours to explore the exhibits and grab lunch downtown. For an 8+ hour layover, you can consider a more ambitious itinerary, such as driving the Pikes Peak Highway or spending the afternoon at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Always account for the 20-minute return trip to the airport and the time needed to clear TSA security, which is generally faster than at larger hubs but still requires a buffer. Borderly users find that documenting these multi-stop days by uploading boarding passes helps keep a clear record of their mountain adventures.
Things people ask at the gate.
How much time do I need for a layover in Colorado Springs to leave the airport?
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You should have at least 4 to 5 hours if you plan to leave the airport. While Colorado Springs Airport is small and efficient, you must account for the 20-minute drive to most attractions and at least 60-90 minutes for re-clearing security upon your return.
Is there free Wi-Fi at Colorado Springs Airport?
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Yes, Colorado Springs Airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout the entire terminal for all passengers to use. This makes it incredibly easy to research local attractions, check your flight status, or upload your boarding passes to Borderly while you wait for your next flight to depart.
Can I see Pikes Peak from the airport?
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Yes, Pikes Peak is clearly visible from the terminal windows and the surrounding airport grounds on clear days. It provides a stunning mountain backdrop to the airfield, making it one of the most scenic and picturesque airports to visit in the United States during a layover.
What are the hours for the National Museum of World War II Aviation?
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The museum is typically open from 10:00 to 16:00, although these hours can vary depending on the season and specific holidays. Since it is located only 10 minutes from the terminal, it is the most convenient major attraction for travelers with a limited time schedule.
Do I need a visa to exit the airport during a layover?
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Yes, all international travelers must clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection to exit the airport during a stopover. This requires a valid visa, an approved ESTA for Visa Waiver Program participants, or a C-1 transit visa, depending on your nationality and the passport you hold.
Where do I catch an Uber or Lyft at COS?
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Rideshare pickups for services like Uber and Lyft are located at the commercial lane outside of the baggage claim area. Simply follow the terminal signs for Ground Transportation or App-Based Rides to find the designated zone where your driver will meet you for your trip.
Are there any 24-hour food options at the airport?
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No, most dining establishments in the Colorado Springs Airport close after the last scheduled flight departure or by late evening. If you have an overnight layover, you will likely need to visit nearby hotels or the Powers Boulevard corridor for late-night food and snacks.
Is there a dedicated pet relief area at COS?
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Yes, there are dedicated pet relief areas located both inside the secure concourse and outside the terminal building for passenger convenience. This is especially helpful for travelers flying with service animals or pets who need a quick break between their scheduled connecting flights through Colorado Springs.
SHORT ON TIME?
Hand the layover to a human.
Our concierge books the tour, the lunch and the ride back, then watches your connection so you don't have to.
Use our dedicated travel concierge service. Let us handle your trip details, itinerary, and exclusive bookings so you can just enjoy the journey. Enquire now.
TRACK YOUR TRAVELS
Log this layover. Climb the board.
Scan your boarding pass and every flight lands in your 3D flight log and on the leaderboard.
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