We found the 10 best small towns near Colorado Springs if you’re looking to explore some charming small towns nearby that offer beauty, history, and adventure. We also made sure to find towns that are within an hour’s drive, making them perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

We also added a short list of towns that are a bit further away in case you have more time available.

The 10 Best Small Towns near Colorado Springs

10. Woodland Park

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 30 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Woodland Park, also known as “The City Above the Clouds,” is located about 30 minutes from Colorado Springs. Nestled in the Pikes Peak region, this small town offers stunning views of the famous mountain. Popular spots include the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, where you can learn all about prehistoric creatures. With hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities nearby, Woodland Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s mountain scenery and relaxed vibe make it one of the best small towns near Colorado Springs.

9. Monument

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 25 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Monument is a quiet town just 25 minutes north of Colorado Springs. It has a quaint downtown filled with local shops, cafes, and art galleries. Monument Lake is a peaceful spot for fishing and picnicking, and the nearby Mount Herman Trail offers a great hike with stunning views. Monument’s small-town feel combined with its proximity to nature makes it a quick getaway for a laid-back escape.

8. Green Mountain Falls

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 20 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Green Mountain Falls, only 20 minutes from Colorado Springs, is a hidden gem. This small town is known for its picturesque lake and charming waterfall. The Catamount Trail is a popular hike that leads to beautiful views of the area. With its quaint charm, beautiful scenery, and the sound of rushing water, Green Mountain Falls is a peaceful retreat. It’s a top choice for anyone looking to relax in nature.

7. Palmer Lake

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 30 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Palmer Lake, situated just 30 minutes from Colorado Springs, is a charming town named after the lake at its center. The lake is great for paddleboarding, fishing, and picnics. For a scenic hike, the Palmer Lake Reservoir Trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and lakeside charm make it great for those seeking serenity and natural beauty.

6. Manitou Springs

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 15 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Manitou Springs is a quirky and historic town just 15 minutes from Colorado Springs. Known for its mineral springs, visitors can sample the naturally carbonated water at several fountains around town. The Manitou Incline, a challenging hike, offers sweeping views of the area. With its eclectic shops, unique art galleries, and fun events like the Emma Crawford Coffin Races, Manitou Springs has a quirky charm that makes it one of the best places to visit or live in near Colorado Springs.

5. Fountain

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 20 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Located 20 minutes south of Colorado Springs, Fountain is a small town with a rich history. The Fountain Creek Nature Center offers beautiful trails and bird watching opportunities. Fountain is also home to Metcalfe Park, a great spot for a family picnic. This town’s small, welcoming community and scenic nature spots make it a peaceful place for a relaxing day trip or a cool place to relocate to as well.

4. Florissant

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 40 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Florissant is located about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs and is best known for the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Here, you can explore ancient fossils and petrified redwood stumps that date back millions of years. The town’s rich geological history and tranquil surroundings make it perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

3. Cripple Creek

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 60 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Cripple Creek, located about an hour from Colorado Springs, is a historic gold mining town. You can explore the town’s history at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center and even take a tour of a real gold mine. The town is also known for its casinos and the scenic Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. Cripple Creek’s Old West charm and fascinating history make it one of the best small towns near Colorado Springs for both adventure and entertainment.

2. Calhan

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 35 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Calhan is a small town located about 35 minutes northeast of Colorado Springs. One of its main attractions is the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, where you can explore colorful rock formations and hike through unique landscapes. Calhan is also known for its wide-open spaces and beautiful views of the plains. This town’s quiet charm and natural beauty make it a great choice for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

1. Victor

Minutes from Colorado Springs: 60 Minutes
Location: Check on Google Maps

Victor is a small mining town located about an hour from Colorado Springs, often paired with nearby Cripple Creek. It’s a quieter and less touristy option than Cripple Creek, but still full of history. The Victor Lowell Thomas Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s gold mining past, and there are several old mines you can tour in the area. Victor’s old-fashioned buildings and historic charm make it the best small towns near Colorado Springs for those seeking a trip back in time.

Summary

These are just some of the top small towns near Colorado Springs, each with its own charm and attractions. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or simply enjoying small-town vibes, there’s a perfect place waiting for you just a short drive away.

If you have a bit more time and are willing to venture beyond a one-hour drive from Colorado Springs, there are even more charming small towns worth exploring. Here’s a list of small towns that are slightly further away but still offer great experiences.

Salida
Hours from Colorado Springs: 2 hours
Location: Check on Google Maps

Nestled in the Arkansas River Valley, Salida is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic downtown, and access to outdoor activities like whitewater rafting and mountain biking. Its scenic surroundings and welcoming community make it a great destination.

Buena Vista
Hours from Colorado Springs: 1.5 hours
Location: Check on Google Maps

This town offers stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks and is a hotspot for outdoor adventures. Buena Vista is famous for hot springs, whitewater rafting, and hiking trails. Don’t miss Cottonwood Hot Springs for a relaxing soak!

Leadville
Hours from Colorado Springs: 1.5 hours
Location: Check on Google Maps
As one of the highest cities in the U.S., Leadville is a historic mining town with plenty of charm. Visit the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, or ride the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad for amazing mountain views.

Fairplay
Hours from Colorado Springs: 1.5 hours
Location: Check on Google Maps
Fairplay is known for its Old West charm and South Park City Museum, which recreates a 19th-century mining town. It’s also close to the scenic Mosquito Range, making it a great stop for history buffs and nature lovers.

Canon City
Hours from Colorado Springs: 1 hour
Location: Check on Google Maps

Canon City is home to the famous Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, where you can experience breathtaking views of the gorge. The town also offers historic train rides and rafting opportunities along the Arkansas River.