Transportation options into Colorado Springs, and throughout town, are numerous and can be selected according to budget and desired level of flexibility. Though travel routes are well-maintained and modern, wintertime visitors should be aware that mountain weather in the winter can be both fickle and furious, causing accidents and delays.
GETTING INTO COLORADO SPRINGS:
By Air
The Colorado Springs Airport (airport code: COS), in the southeastern part of the city, offers nearly 100 flights every day. Airlines include Allegiant, American, Continental, Delta, Mesa, Northwest, and United. The Denver International Airport, the sixth busiest airport in the U.S., has 6 runways and 94 gates. It is located 85 miles northeast of Colorado Springs (about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car). Ground transportation from DIA includes shuttles, buses and rental cars.
By Car
Interstate 25 runs north and south, dividing Colorado Springs down the middle. U.S. Highway 24 is the main route from east to west. Denver is 70 miles north of Colorado Springs, and Pueblo, CO, is 42 miles south.
GETTING AROUND TOWN:
Public Transportation
The Colorado Springs Transit has routes all over town, Monday through Friday from 5:20 a.m. to 10:40 p.m. and Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (except on holidays). Bus schedules can be picked up at bus terminals, city libraries, and the Colorado Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau. Manitou Springs maintains a free trolley service.
Rental Cars
Though Colorado Springs has public transportation, many visitors prefer to rent a car. Roads are well-maintained and parking is plentiful. The American Automobile Association (AAA) has an office at 3525 North Carefree Circle (800-283-5222). Car rental agencies are located around downtown, as well as at the Colorado Springs Airport.
Parking
Downtown Colorado Springs has plenty of parking meters, as well as city-run parking lots featuring all-day rates. Outside of downtown, parking around Colorado Springs is free.
On Foot
While transportation is necessary between neighborhoods and sections of town, each area is highly walkable. Strolling through Manitou Springs or Old Colorado City on foot provides the best way to see all the shops, galleries, historic buildings and markers, and parks.
