Holiday-Inspired Itineraries to the Pikes Peak Region
24 hours in Colorado Springs: two easy 1-night getaways at our favorite North-end resort
Whether you’re craving a cozy, culture-filled mini-break or a close-to-home adventure with winter thrills, here are two ready-to-go itineraries built around a one-night stay at the resort in Colorado Springs’ Flying Horse community. Pick your vibe, pack a weekender, and make the most of 24 hours. Book your lodge reservation and save 15% on the best available room rate with code WINTERPROMO when you book direct.
Option 1: 1 Night Stay — Short, Sweet & Cozy Ideal for: couples, culture lovers, festive spirits
Late morning/early afternoon: Dive into Olympic Inspiration
Visit the US Olympic Museum “Refreshed” Winter Games Gallery (U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum). Expect immersive exhibits that spotlight Winter Games legends and tech. https://usopm.org/
Tip: Buy tickets in advance; plan 90–120 minutes. Downtown Colorado Springs, ~25–30 minutes from the resort.
Early afternoon: Taste your way through downtown
Join a Rocky Mountain Food Tour for a curated stroll of local flavors and stories. Several tour styles run on weekends; reserve ahead. https://www.rockymountainfoodtours.com/
Not touring? Grab a casual bite downtown at one of the many breweries, local favorites, or dog-friendly restaurants, then head north.
4:00 pm: Check-in
Arrive, drop your bags, and exhale. Enjoy a quick freshen-up before the evening glow.
4:30–6:30 pm: Relax & unwind at Fortezza for happy hour and dinner
Settle into Fortezza’s cozy ambiance for craft cocktails, wine, and shareable plates. Take your time—this is your unhurried moment.
6:45–8:00 pm: Holiday lights cruise through Flying Horse
Jump in the car to explore the Christmas lights throughout the Flying Horse neighborhood villages. Wind through tree-lined streets and cul-de-sacs for twinkling displays and Pikes Peak views.
Tip: Lights are generally best from late November through early January.
Nightcap and rest
Return to your room for a slow wind-down. Stargazing on a clear night is a Front Range bonus.
Morning: Easy start and checkout
Sleep in, grab coffee and a light bite, and enjoy a slow goodbye before heading out.
Option 2: 1 Night Stay — Close to Home Ideal for: locals, families, and anyone who wants max fun with minimal drive time
Midday: North-end playtime (choose one or mix-and-match)
iFLY Indoor Skydiving: Float in a wind tunnel—fun for most ages with advance reservations.
Speedway thrills: Test your reflexes on an indoor track at a local raceway.
Movie theaters: Catch a new release in the InterQuest/North Gate corridor.
All of the above are typically 5–10 minutes from the resort.
4:00 pm: Check-in
Settle in and enjoy a quick stroll around the grounds.
Evening: Dinner your way
Stay on-property for an easy, delicious meal at the award-winning Steakhouse.
Optional: After dinner, do a quick lights loop through the Flying Horse neighborhood villages if it’s the holiday season.
Morning: Winter Hike — Black Forest Section 16
Drive ~10 minutes to Black Forest Section 16 for a serene, pine-scented square-shaped loop. Mostly gentle terrain with peaceful winter quiet.
Tips: Start early, bring layers and water, and pack microspikes if it’s icy. Dogs on leash are welcome; parking fills on sunny weekends.
Practical Tips
Reservations: Book museum tickets and food tours ahead (peak weekends fill fast).
US Olympic Museum “Refreshed” Winter Games Gallery: https://usopm.org/
Rocky Mountain Food Tours: https://www.rockymountainfoodtours.com/
Timing: Holiday light displays are most reliable from late Nov–early Jan; check local neighborhood pages/visitcos.com for any special events.
What to pack: Cozy layers, a warm coat, hat/gloves, comfortable walking shoes (or traction for trails), a reusable water bottle, and a small flashlight for evening strolls.
Drive times from the resort (approximate):
USOPM (Downtown): 25–30 minutes
North-end activities (iFLY, speedway, movie theaters): 5–10 minutes
Black Forest Section 16: 10 minutes
Ready to make it happen? Choose your itinerary, check availability for your preferred weekend, and snag any activity reservations. With check-in at 4 pm and everything you want within easy reach, a one-night escape is all you need to feel refreshed.
Save 15% on your lodge room rate at Flying Horse with code WINTERPROMO