MileHacker Logo
Colorado Springs Travel Tips

Colorado Springs Travel Tips

Colorado Springs Colorado, USA Travel Guide

Communication

Staying connected remains straightforward in The Springs, an English-speaking city with good infrastructure.

Connectivity Details

Language & Services

English is the official language. Language barriers are generally minimal for tourists.

Service Details

  • Spanish is the second most common language; Spanish speakers are found in many service industries. Rosetta Stone assists with language learning.
  • Postal Services: USPS post offices are located throughout the city for mail and all-inclusive packages.
  • Private Couriers: FedEx and UPS also maintain offices for faster shipping.

Business Hours

Typical operating hours for various businesses.

Operating Schedules

  • Retail Shops: Generally open 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM.
  • Restaurants: Lunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM.
  • Grocery Stores: Typically open 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM, some 24 hours.

Banking & Holidays

Understand bank hours and holiday impacts on services.

Financial & Seasonal Notes

  • Banks: Typically open Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, some Saturday mornings.
  • ATMs: Widely available at banks, convenience stores, plus large food stores.
  • Public Holidays: Banks and government offices may close or operate with reduced hours.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Social Interactions

  • Greeting: A simple "hello" or "hi" is common; handshakes standard for introductions.
  • Eye Contact: Generally considered polite.
  • Attire: Casual attire is acceptable in most settings; smart casual for nicer venues.
  • Tipping: Anticipated for most service industries (see Dining for details).

Considerate Practices

  • Photography: Permit for photographing individuals; mindful of privacy.
  • Taboos: Avoid overly sensitive political topics; give people space.
  • Giving: Donate to established local charities rather than directly to panhandlers.
  • LGBTQ+ Information: Colorado is generally liberal. LGBTQ+ travelers will feel welcome.

Accessibility Information

Colorado Springs strives to be an easy-to-reach destination. ADA compliance mandates accessibility standards for most up-to-date facilities. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is designed with universal accessibility. Many attractions offer audio guides or large-print materials. Service animals are generally permitted in public places. Priority Pass offers airport lounge access. Compensair assists with flight disruption compensation.

Traveler Comforts & Beyond

Beyond the standard, Colorado Springs offers amenities that elevate your travel experience.

Accessible Infrastructure

Most modern facilities are ADA compliant. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, though older areas may have uneven surfaces.

Accessible Transport

Mountain Metro Transit buses are wheelchair accessible. The Pikes Peak Summit House and viewing areas are also accessible.

Sensory Support

Many attractions present audio guides, large-print materials, or tactile exhibits for visual or hearing impairments.

Seasonal Closures

Some attractions adjust schedules or close during certain times of the year.

Winter Adjustments

  • High-elevation attractions, like upper Pikes Peak Highway, may close owing to snowfall.
  • Certain mountain hiking routes could become inaccessible in winter.
  • Attractions generally present shorter operating hours during the off-season (winter).

Holiday Planning

Major holidays may impact service availability and operating hours.

Holiday Notes

  • Check specific attraction websites for current hours, especially around holidays.
  • Christmas/Thanksgiving: Many restaurants and shops will be closed or have very limited hours.
  • Planning meals and activities for these times is wise.

Resources for Travelers

General Information

  • Visit Colorado Springs website (www.visitcos.com) offers guides.
  • Contact individual attractions directly for detailed accessibility features.
  • Organizations like Mobility International USA also present resources.

Planning Digital Tools

  • Google Translate or similar apps are beneficial for fast translations.
  • Downloading offline maps is advisable for remote mountain areas.
  • ATMs are widespread for cash withdrawals.

Always Verify Information

Operating hours and accessibility features may vary. Check the details directly with venues or services, especially when planning for specific needs or during holidays.

Airport Services & Connections

From airport lounges to flight delay compensation, these services add ease to your journey.

Lounge Access

Relax before your flight with airport lounge amenities.

Priority Pass

Flight Compensation

Claim compensation for flight disruptions with specialized services.

Compensair

Ground Transportation

Options for travel to and from the airport.

Local Transit

  • Taxis and ride-share services are simple to get at Colorado Springs Airport (COS).
  • Mountain Metro Transit offers public bus routes connecting to the airport.
  • Car rental agencies operate at the airport for convenient pick-up.

Connecting to Denver

Travel options to Denver International Airport (DEN) or downtown Denver.

Intercity Travel

  • Airport shuttles operate between Colorado Springs and Denver International Airport.
  • Bustang provides intercity bus service connecting The City of millionaires to Denver.
  • Driving on I-25 North is a common route, about 1-1.5 hours to Denver.

Flight Changes & Issues

Unexpected Disruptions

  • Be aware that weather conditions, especially snow in winter, may lead to flight delays or cancellations.
  • Always check your flight status before heading to the airport.
  • Contact your airline directly for rebooking or assistance.

Travel Insurance

  • Consider travel insurance to cover unexpected issues like flight changes, lost luggage, or medical emergencies.
  • Review policy details to ensure it meets your specific travel needs.
  • Medical coverage can be especially valuable for outdoor activities.

Rental Car Tips

Winter Driving

  • In winter, rent a vehicle with 4WD or AWD if traveling to mountainous zones.
  • Ensure your rental has all-season or snow tires for better traction.
  • Check road conditions before driving into the mountains during winter months.

Summer Considerations

  • Gas stations are abundant in Colorado Springs but may be sparse in remote mountain areas.
  • Download offline maps, as cell service can drop in national forests.
  • Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water on long drives.

Smooth Departures

Arrive at Colorado Springs Airport (COS) or Denver International Airport (DEN) with ample time before your flight, especially during peak travel seasons or if checking luggage.