- Dec 15, 2015
- 2 min read

Dog-Friendly Destination: Colorado Springs

Source: Jacqueline Poggi

In this edition of Dog Friendly Destinations we’re trekking a bit further west than we have in the past to the charming city of Colorado Springs. While it certainly isn’t a quick weekend getaway, Colorado Springs is totally worth the 16 hour drive or 2 ½ hour flight from Chicago.

If you’re trying to orient yourself geographically, Colorado Springs lies at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains near glacier-carved Pikes Peak, a landmark in Pike National Forest with hiking trails and a cog railway leading to its 14,114-foot summit. If you’re not up for a strenuous adventure, Colorado Springs also boasts more than 10,000 acres of public park space and seven off-leash dog parks. Unsurprisingly, Colorado Springs has consistently been ranked as one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the country.

With winter weather on its way, there’s no better time to pack up your furry family and make a trip to one of the most scenic cities west of the Mississippi. Here’s where to stay, what to see, and how to have fun in Colorado Springs.

Dog-Friendly Lodging Visitors to Colorado Springs have over a dozen choices for pet-friendly lodging! We listed a few of our favorites below. Check out the rest on visitcos.com.

The Broadmoor 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs (855) 634-7711

Cheyenne Mountain Resort 3225 Broadmoor Valley Rd, Colorado Springs (719) 538-4000

El Colorado Lodge 23 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs (719) 685-5485

Grey Wolf Ranch 2631 County Rd 86, Victor (719) 302-5906

Dog-Friendly Restaurants The following restaurants allow dogs to dine with their human companions outdoors when the weather permits. Check out the full list of dog-friendly restaurants on visitcos.com.

PJ’s Stagecoach Inn 702 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs (719) 685-9114

Pizzeria Rustica 2527 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs (719) 632-8121

Sonterra Grill 28B S. Tejon St, Colorado Springs (719) 471-9222

Salsa Brava 802 Village Center Dr, Colorado Springs (719) 266-9244

Dog-Friendly Attractions Dogs love exploring the exciting sights and smells of Colorado Springs. The following dog-friendly attractions are favored by locals and visitors alike.

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Cheyenne Meadows Dog Park

Stratton Open Space

Memorial Park

Dog-Friendly Retail The following shopping centers allow Colorado Springs visitors to shop at their favorite stores with their favorite pets.

Outlets at Castle Rock 5050 Factory Shops Blvd, Castle Rock (303) 688-4495

Promenade Shops at Briargate 1885 Briargate Pkwy, Colorado Springs (719) 265-6264