One area of Colorado that truly thrives in the warmer months of the year is Colorado Springs. Colorado Springs is located south of Denver right near Pikes Peak which is one of the Rocky Mountain’s most famous and historic peaks. The infamous song, “America the Beautiful” was written by Katherine Lee Bates and was inspired by her mule ride up Pikes Peak in 1893. With views towering over the Rocky Mountains you’re privileged with the miles of red rocks that make up Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon; home to the infamous Red Rocks Amphitheatre which was just named by Rolling Stone’s as the “Best Amphitheater in the United States.” With claims like this it’s no wonder the peak is so famous, it truly exemplifies “America the Beautiful” and embodies the words “Colorful Colorado.”
Getting to the top of Pikes Peak may not be as difficult as you think! The Cog Railway is a train ride that will take you directly to the top of Pikes Peak in just about an hour; you can also drive to the top. Of course, you can also
hike up Pikes Peak. Doing so is one of the easier 14’ers (peaks reaching over 14,000 ft in elevation) in Colorado..unless you take the stairs (literally). When approaching the Pikes Peak trailhead, you’ll notice you have two options; take the trail or the renowned Manitou Incline. The Manitou Incline is sought out by exercise enthusiasts all over the world as it’s the world’s largest stair set. For a long time it was illegal to hike the stairs and was considered trespassing, but this did not stop the masses of people from accomplishing this incredible physical feat. It’s now legal to hike and is enjoyed by hundreds of people every day; very few people make it to the top without stopping if at all—this is no joke.
Aside from Pikes Peak you can enjoy hiking in the Garden of the Gods or Red Rocks Park. Garden of the Gods gets its name from its spectacular scenery. It’s flooded with massive red rocks and provides a colorful landscape that is unique to this area. Red Rocks Park is very similar and acts as host to the Rolling Stones recently named, “Best Amphitheater in the United States,” Red Rocks Amphitheater. If you enjoy live music (even if you don’t) this is a must-see location before you die. The venue and stage are carved into the side of a mountain creating spectacular natural acoustics that will blow you away. The sound at this amphitheater is unlike anything you’ll ever hear in your life. This is a unique experience that can’t be duplicated. Aside from the sound you get to enjoy the incredible light show and surrounding Red Rocks that create a visual unlike anything else.
If you’re not a music fan, they also feature several other events that help you enjoy this incredibly unique venue. Once or twice a month they feature Film on the Rocks which, “includes 10 events throughout the summer featuring cult-classic films, including several past Film on the 
Rocks fan-favorites.” Another popular event held here is called Yoga on the Rocks. Exercise enthusiasts visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre on a regular basis to hike up and down the stairs of the seating area. When they’re done they enjoy a group Yoga session held on the stage of the amphitheatre. There’s no better place to enjoy some exercise, yoga and fresh air than while enjoying the spectacular views of Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Red Rocks Park.
With so much history and activities in the area, it only makes sense to spend your stay in a historic location. The Holden House 1902 B&B provides, “The romance of the past, with the comforts of today.” This historic bed and breakfast has been in operation since 1902. “Imagine two storybook Victorian homes and an original carriage house filled with antiques and family heirlooms.” While it maintains its historic and Victorian style, its modern amenities make it the perfect getaway. This little escape is centrally located on a quiet tree-lined residential street, convenient to downtown, near historic “Old Colorado City” and just a few minutes from quaint Manitou Springs.
“My wife and I enjoyed our stay beyond words, the atmosphere was much more than we ever expected and the staff were the friendliest we’ve encountered in a long time. We have already agreed that a return visit is a must. Thank you for your warmth and hospitality”. Dan and Monika – Colorado
Colorado Hotel and Lodging Association Blog 