Known for its underground springs bubbling around town, Manitou is a free spirited area. Up the canyon to the west of Colorado Springs, it sits steeply along the mountainside. Its locale produces quirky properties with stellar views. Manitou showcases numerous artists and galleries along its main avenue and locally owned shops. A popular spot year-round and especially busy in summer, Manitou hosts access to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and the Manitou Incline.

Food & Drink

Adams Mountain Cafe — Wholesome and creative eatery focused on slow food and meeting the needs of many restricted eaters. You’ll find breakfast, lunch, dinner, and house-made desserts including unique vegan Senegalese Vegetables served over udon and Harvest Crepes smothered in red chili, alongside classics like Chicken Marsala and Flourless Chocolate Cake. 

Crystal Park Cantina — Offering fresh takes on traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and chili rellenos with housemade margaritas and sangrias. Try anything; you won’t be disappointed. (And they’ve got a sister location in Park City, Utah.)

Mona Lisa Fondue — Housed in a former gold rush hotel from the 1890s, you’ll find a 4-course menu designed to provide a luxuriant evening for you and your date or larger party. A la carte is also available if you’re looking to treat yourself.  

Nights Out 

Manitou Brewing Company — Located in the historic Manitou Burro Line barn, the brewery is producing a huge range of beers that vary seasonally: lagers, wheats, ales, stouts, porters just to name a few. Get ‘em in the glass or Crowlered. They also carry guest beers on tap, hard ciders and kombuchas, and more.  

Swirl — Vibrant, eclectic locally-owned wine bar with outdoor patio and extensive drinks list catering to a variety of budgets. Soak up your drinks with freshly made noshes and daily in-house desserts.

Play Outside

Manitou Incline — An infamous approach to Pikes Peak of over 2700 steps, covering more than 2000 feet of elevation gain in less than a mile. Take the Barr Trail down for a scenic and less aggressive 3 mile hike back to the car. A popular tourist destination, ensure you’re prepared by acclimating to the local elevation and taking lots of water and energizing snacks with you.  

Rainbow Falls — A short trail of just a tenth of a mile will give you views of the restored falls and nearby historic bridge.  

Sightsee

The Penny Arcade — This classic Main Street business has numerous buildings for you to get lost in as you feed coins to old timey arcade games. They’re ranging from penny and dime antique machines to all the pinball, skeeball and Pac-Man you could want, plus a huge variety of quarter machine merry-go-rounds, spaceships, and horsies outside for the littles to ride. 

Pikes Peak Cog Railway — The world’s highest cog railroad climbs stunning Pikes Peak. You can choose your challenge: hike up/ride down, ride up/bike down, ride both ways, pick something else. Whichever way you go, you’ll find stunning views and state-of-the-art Pikes Peak Visitor Center at the top. You will be above 14,000’ so drink that water and rest as needed.

Sunwater Spa — With a great aspect overlooking the surrounding valley, you can relax and recuperate in the peaceful mineral soaking tubs and sauna. Choose from multiple spa services for a rejuvenating facial or cleansing massage. Yoga classes take place throughout the week if you’re looking to go deeper.