Located near the center of the state, Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in Colorado, with half a million people living in the metro area. Under the snow-capped majesty of Pike's Peak at the edge of the Rockies, Colorado Springs provides a less-crowded alternative to Denver with the same level of services.
A number of natural wonders are only minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. The unique sandstone formations at Garden of the Gods are free to explore and within the city limits. A cog railroad takes visitors to the top of Pike's Peak for spectacular views of Colorado in every direction. The Manitou cliff dwellings, Cave of the Winds, and Florissant Fossil Beds are among the other nearby attractions.
Colorado Springs is in central Colorado, between Denver and Pueblo along I-25.
