Colorado Springs Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide
Most visitors arrive in Colorado by air, with two primary airports serving the Colorado Springs region. Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is the main airport directly serving the city, situated approximately 10 miles (16 km) southeast of downtown. It presents convenience for quickly reaching city attractions. Denver International Airport (DEN), located about 70 miles (112 km) north of Colorado Springs, stands as a major international hub. It frequently presents more direct flight options and more competitive prices, especially for international travelers. Many travelers choose to fly into DEN and then journey south to Colorado Springs. For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
COS features on-site car rental services, taxis, ride-share services (Uber/Lyft), and private shuttles. Mountain Metro Transit Route 20 provides bus service to downtown Colorado Springs, offering a budget-friendly option. For transfers from DEN to Colorado Springs, rental cars are at a consolidated facility. Several shuttle companies, like Groome Transportation, offer direct services. Bustang, Colorado's interregional bus service, connects Denver Union Station to Colorado Springs (reach Union Station via the RTD A-Line commuter train from DEN). While taxis/ride-shares are an option from DEN, the distance makes them quite costly (upwards of $100-$150).
Arrive 90 min - 2 hours before domestic departure.
Arrive 2-3 hours before international flight.
COS offers basic facilities. DEN provides extensive dining, shopping, lounges.
No specific exit fees or taxes for departing the United States beyond those included in airline ticket prices.
Domestic flights (COS): Arrive 90 minutes to 2 hours before departure. International flights (DEN): Arrive 2 to 3 hours before departure.
Standard Transportation Security Administration (TSA) procedures apply at all U.S. Airports.
Colorado Springs lacks an Amtrak station directly within the city; the closest major station is Denver Union Station, approximately 70 miles north. From Denver, travelers connect to national Amtrak routes. Bustang, Colorado's interregional bus service, provides regular, comfortable service connecting Colorado Springs to Denver (including a direct connection to DEN airport via the RTD A-Line train from Union Station), Pueblo, and other major Colorado cities. The Downtown Colorado Springs Terminal serves as a central hub for Bustang. Greyhound provides limited long-distance bus service from Colorado Springs to various U.S. Cities.
A valid driver's license from your home country is necessary for self-driving. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English. Proof of insurance, often purchased through the rental company, is also needed. The minimum age for renting a car in the U.S. is generally 21, with surcharges frequently applying for drivers under 25. Major highways like I-25 and US-24 are well-maintained. Mountain roads can be winding, steep, and narrow. In winter, snow tires or chains may be mandatory on some mountain passes. Always check CDOT for current road conditions. Parking is generally available, with paid options downtown and free parking elsewhere.
Major rental car agencies operate counters at both Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and Denver International Airport (DEN). These include Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo, and Thrifty.
Roads in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas are generally safe for driving. Be ready for winter driving conditions from late fall through spring. Black ice, compacted snow, and slush can make roads hazardous. Vehicles with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) are recommended for winter travel, especially for mountain ventures. Wildlife awareness is important: watch for deer and elk, notably at dawn, dusk, and nighttime, especially on roads outside city limits.
Ensure a smooth departure by adhering to recommended airport arrival times. For domestic flights from Colorado Springs Airport (COS), plan to arrive approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours before your scheduled departure. For international flights from Denver International Airport (DEN), allow 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled flight. During peak travel times, holidays, or if checking multiple bags, grant extra time for security screening (TSA). Standard Transportation Security Administration (TSA) procedures apply at all U.S. Airports; be ready to remove liquids, electronics, and shoes as directed.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) offers basic dining options, gift shops, and restrooms. It has a smaller, more manageable airport experience. Denver International Airport (DEN) provides extensive shopping, dining, and lounge options across its concourses. For international departures, duty-free shopping is available. DEN is designed to handle high volumes of travelers efficiently, with multiple concourses and ground transportation links. No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing the United States beyond those typically included in your airline ticket prices, factored into the fare upon booking.
Verify flight status online before departure.
Review airport security wait times online.
Adjust transportation to the airport based on latest information.
Checking your flight status and airport security wait times online before heading to the airport aids in adjusting your departure timing and lessens stress.
