A public park that has paved and unpaved trails through natural rock formations. Minutes from the wedding venue and easily accessible. One of our favorite spots! We often bike here from our home. Free and open every day, we recommend coming in the morning if possible (fewer crowds and better lighting for photos)...let us know if you see any bighorn sheep!
Ranked as the 4th Best Zoo in the US by USA today (but #1 by us), Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is built into the side of a mountain which allows for a more natural and engaging exhibit design. Bring some cash to feed the giraffes - it's worth it!
For those of you who traveled to Colorado to get high, the Manitou Incline climbs over 2,000 vertical feet in less than a mile and has sections as steep as 68% grade. (Confession: my Strava time is falsely low because I was moving so slow my watch thought I had stopped.) Take your time, and it is very doable. You'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Springs and beyond at the top! Reservations are required but free. We recommend an early morning or evening start time to avoid the heat.