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Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

General Lodging Spectrum

  • Hostels

    Limited options, communal atmosphere, dormitory or private rooms.

  • Budget Motels/Hotels

    Chains like Super 8, Motel 6; basic amenities, lower price points.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn; more amenities like pools, breakfast.

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    The Broadmoor, The Lodge at Flying Horse; premium experiences.

Unique Local Stays

  • Historic Inns/Bed & Breakfasts

    Prevalent in Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs; unique charm, personalized service.

  • Ranch Stays/Cabin Rentals

    Rustic experiences outside city limits or in mountain areas; peaceful escape.

  • Vacation Rentals & Homestays

    Platforms like Vrbo feature private homes and apartments. Airbnb offers similar options for local interaction.

  • Camping & RV Parks

    Well-equipped parks near Colorado Springs; dispersed camping in surrounding national forests.

Neighborhood Guide

A detailed breakdown of areas and their character.

Downtown Colorado Springs

Pros
  • Central location, walkable to restaurants, bars, shops.
  • Good access to public transit.
  • Lively, urban atmosphere, art, and culture.
Cons
  • Can be pricier for accommodations.
  • Some areas quieter at night.

Old Colorado City

Pros
  • Historic charm, picturesque streets, very walkable.
  • Close proximity to Garden of the Gods.
  • Unique shopping and dining experience.
Cons
  • Can become busy, especially on weekends.
  • Nightlife options more limited.

Manitou Springs

Pros
  • Eclectic, artistic mountain town.
  • Proximity to Pikes Peak and Cave of the Winds.
  • Access to natural mineral springs.
Cons
  • Can be very crowded in summer.
  • Parking often a challenge.
  • Town's layout can be hilly.

Other Considerations

Safety and Proximity

All listed areas are generally safe for tourists. Standard precautions against petty crime apply. Proximity to attractions and transportation varies significantly by neighborhood.

Noise and Ambiance

Downtown can experience typical urban noise. Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs display a lively street ambiance. Broadmoor and North Colorado Springs are generally quieter and more residential.

Booking Strategies

Strategic booking assists in securing your preferred lodging and navigating seasonal fluctuations.

Advance Booking and Policies

  • High Season (June-August): Book 3-6 months in advance. Popular lodging fills quickly with higher prices.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): 1-2 months in advance is generally sufficient. More availability and potentially better deals.
  • Low Season (November-March): Booking a few weeks out, or even last minute, is often feasible. Popular options may still fill around winter holidays.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: These vary by property and booking platform. Always review before confirming. Many hotels offer flexible cancellation.

Booking Platforms and Pricing

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, Kayak, and Trivago present a broad selection of hotels and prices.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are the main platforms for booking private homes, apartments, and cabins.
  • Direct Booking: Booking directly with hotels (IHG Hotels) can sometimes yield better rates, loyalty points, or perks.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices for accommodations increase significantly during summer peak season and around major holidays. They typically drop in low season.

Booking Reminders

Peak Season Strategy
  • For high season (June-August), reserve 3-6 months in advance.
  • Popular properties fill quickly and command higher rates.
  • Secure prime locations early, essential for specific resorts like The Broadmoor.
Off-Peak Benefits
  • During low season (November-March), booking a few weeks out is often feasible.
  • Expect more availability and potentially better deals.
  • Greater flexibility for last-minute changes, fewer crowds at attractions.

Important Booking Notes

Global Platforms

Utilize Booking.com and Agoda for broad selections and comparative pricing.

Specialized Rentals

For unique vacation rentals, consider Vrbo for family and group accommodations.

Budget Stays

Solo and budget travelers can find suitable options through Hostelworld for hostels.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for diverse traveler types and budgets.

Alternative Stays

Vacation Rentals

Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo present numerous private homes, apartments, and cabins for short-term rental.

  • Suitable for families or groups.
  • Often include kitchens.
  • More living space than hotels.
  • Good for longer stays.
Homestays

Formal homestay programs are less structured. Renting a private room through platforms like Airbnb can offer a similar, local interaction experience.

  • Community-based tourism potential.
  • Interact with locals.
  • Often more affordable.
  • Unique cultural insights.

Unique Local Stays

Historic Inns & B&Bs

Prevalent in Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs. They boast unique charm, personalized service, and a glimpse into history.

  • Often include homemade breakfasts.
  • Unique architecture and decor.
  • Personalized service.
  • Quaint experience.
Ranch & Cabin Rentals

Properties outside city limits or in mountain areas present rustic ranch or private cabin experiences for peaceful escapes.

  • Closer connection to nature.
  • Secluded environments.
  • Rustic charm.
  • Outdoor activities nearby.

Camping & RV Parks

  • RV Parks/Campgrounds

    Well-equipped parks like Garden of the Gods RV Resort. Feature hookups for RVs and tent sites.

  • Dispersed Camping

    Allowed in designated areas within surrounding national forests (e.g., Pike National Forest). Practice Leave No Trace and check for permits.

  • Benefits

    Budget-friendly lodging option for nature lovers.

  • Considerations

    Requires own equipment or rental; check seasonal availability.

Booking Best Practices

  • Advance Reservations

    Highly recommended during peak season (June-August) for popular hotels and vacation rentals.

  • Direct Booking Perks

    Booking directly with properties (like IHG Hotels) can sometimes yield exclusive loyalty points or benefits.

  • Cancellation Policies

    Always review cancellation policies, as they vary widely between platforms and properties, especially for vacation rentals.

  • Price Awareness

    Prices fluctuate significantly by season; shoulder seasons often offer better value.

Booking Reminders

Peak Season Strategy

For high season (June-August), book accommodations 3-6 months in advance. Popular properties fill quickly and command higher rates.

  • Limited availability for last-minute bookings.
  • Higher demand drives up prices.
  • Secure prime locations early.
  • Essential for specific resorts like The Broadmoor.
Off-Peak Benefits

During low season (November-March), booking a few weeks out is often feasible. Expect more availability and potentially better deals.

  • Greater flexibility for last-minute changes.
  • Reduced rates for many properties.
  • Fewer crowds at attractions.
  • Consider winter activities like skiing nearby.

Digital Booking Resources

Booking Platforms

Utilize Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com for a wide range of options.

Specialized Rentals

For private homes and unique stays, Vrbo is a strong choice. Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique exchanges.

Budget & Hostels

For economical options and a communal atmosphere, Hostelworld specializes in budget accommodations.