We had the amazing opportunity to go to Colorado Springs this summer and there were amazing things to do with toddlers. Our 3-year-old was in heaven with the old west, nature, bear hunts, trains, and dinosaurs. It couldn’t have been better! Are you headed to Colorado Springs on holiday? Check out these 5 super toddler-friendly activities.
Trains – Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
A short drive up the mountain to the Cripple Creek and you embark on the cutest little town that was almost the capital of Colorado! This town transports you back to the gold mining days of Cripple Creek & Victor. The train and it’s old fashioned depot reveals scenic wonders around every curve on a century-old steam locomotive. It’s a special treat for any train-loving toddler and the whole family. It is only 45-minutes which we found was just about the perfect attention span for our active toddlers.
- Website: http://cripplecreekrailroad.com/
- Cost: Adults – $15 / Children 3-12 years – $10 / 3 and Under – Free / Seniors (65+) – $14
Geo-Trekker – Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods was a must-see from everyone we spoke to about Colorado Springs. The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is the most visited attraction in the Pikes Peak region. It is free with iconic views, interactive museum exhibits, and a great gift shop. They also have an amazing and exciting Geo-Trekker Theater movie experience that was a favorite for our 3-year-old along with the large multigenerational group with us.
- Website: https://www.gardenofgods.com
- Admission: FREE
Horseback Riding – Tarryall Buckaroo Ride
Big boy has been into everything cowboy, old west, and horses ever since his fascination with Sheriff Callie! I looked far and wide for how we could do a horseback ride in the area. Every ranch I found had an age limit of usually 6 or 7. I finally found the Tarryall Buckaroo Ride! A ride for littles starting at 2 years old at the Tarryall River Ranch.
Tarryall River Ranch is a full dude ranch and resort. They have several activities for their overnight guests. For the general public, they offer horseback riding options. The Tarryall Buckaroo Ride is an experience developed to help young, or tentative, riders become comfortable around a horse. Buckaroos will be taught the basics of horse etiquette and enjoy a gentle ride, led by a wrangler, around the ranch, and up the trail. This ride is open to children ages 2-10. It was by far our favorite experience on vacation and one that big boy still talks about.
- Website: https://www.tarryallranch.com/
- Cost: $40 / hour
- Ages: 2 – 10
Dinosaurs in Colorado
Remember our dinosaur pool party? Both boys are in love with dinosaurs. The Dinosaur Resource Center, although targeted towards older kiddos, was a great adventure for our dino loving boys. There are lots of dinosaurs that have been discovered in the Colorado Springs area. This resource center knows about it all. They have more than 30 full-size skeletons and life restorations. They are truly awe-inspiring displays. They also have a great dinosaur gift shop!
- Website: http://www.rmdrc.com
- Admission: Seniors (65+) – $10.50 / Adults – $11.50 / Children 5-12 years – $7.50 / 4 and under – FREE
Nature Adventure
A trip to Colorado would not be complete without a hike in one of the amazing state and national parks. The Mueller state park has scenic wildlife viewing of elk, bighorn sheep, and birds on 5,511 acres of land with 55 miles of hiking & biking trails. We had a picnic lunch and were impressed by their picnic areas and their Visitor Center has some great exhibits and a great gift shop!
- Website: http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/Parks/Mueller
- Fees: Daily Pass – $8.00
BY TECHIE MAMMA