Best of Colorado Springs

Dec 10, 2020 | Domestic Travel, Travel, West Coast

SunWater Spa was by far one of the coolest experiences I’ve had to date. Not only in the midst of a pandemic did I feel incredibly safe, but I felt like I was in a whole other world. 

The staff was fantastic, the amenities were clean, and we truly had the best time. They don’t allow you inside the vicinity without A reservation and filling out a waiver, which felt very safe during these times.  As we walked in we were able to check in and be escorted to the showers to rinse, and then brought directly to our tub. 

The tubs are spread out from one another to give you your own space, and they overlook the most beautiful view of the mountains. When coming to Colorado, we usually spend most of our time hiking, which can get quite exhausting, so this was the perfect way to relax in between it all.  

The tubs are filled with mineral water from the famous Seven Minute Spring. This is the same water which flows from Manitou Karst aquifer. They call it health-giving waters because it is filtered through deep underground cracks and crevasses infusing the water with the health granting minerals.It was so incredibly relaxing. You also have a small area that allows you to place your stuff for safety

Manitou Springs Brewing Co.

With COVID precautions, the line was quite long to be seated, however it was worth the wait. We started with their pretzel bites and cheese and –  holy incredible – I’m still craving them. Keaton did a flight and really enjoyed it, while I tried a Blood Orange Seltzer which was a 6/10. Keaton went with their shrimp tacos and I went with the pulled pork, and everything was absolutely wonderful. Our server was so kind and so quick.  We felt very safe and can’t wait to go back. Check them out here.

Pancake Rocks

Whenever in the springs we try something new.  This time it was Pancake Rocks. This was quite a vigorous hike for us, or may have had to do with coming from a weekend of drinking in Denver.

The hike has so many different kinds of terrain, and so many places to stop and take in the views. At one point we actually thought we were at the top and sat to hang out when we checked the map and realized we were only halfway there. 

Another really cool experience was the wildlife. We truly felt straight out of a Disney movie with how friendly the animals were. Here are some shots we got with the animals coming close to us.

Another fun hike we experienced during our last trip was seven bridges hike. It was full of incredible views, we even pushed it a little bit at the top for one of the most spectacular views I’ve seen in a while. It’s funny how no matter what hike you do in Colorado, every view is so unique and exquisite in its own way. 

My biggest tip when it comes to any of these hikes is to bring snacks and lots of water.

The Rabbit Hole

Another fantastic and very unique experience in the Springs! The Rabbit Hole is a wonderful restaurant that is located underground and you enter through an old subway entrance. It is AWESOME! Take a look Here. The theme is, as you can imagine, Alice in Wonderland. I ordered their signature martini, The White Rabbit, and it was served with a flaming marshmallow and was absolutely fantastic. Everything we ordered truly was fantastic as well.  We started with brussel sprouts and side winders followed by dinner. We each ordered something different, I choose the Chicken Truffle Mac, Keaton ordered the Cherry Braised Short Rib, Kayla had the Seabass and Jake had the Lamb Rack. Couldn’t recommend this experience more!

BOXING BROTHERS!

This is in caps because you just can’t miss it. Boxing Brothers is the only cidery in the area and very special to me. We visited last time in town and as odd as it sounds I felt my papa was there with me. Between the Dean Martin quote on the wall, my papas favorite song playing and the fact that the family who owns it is from Sicily where my family is from. It not only feels great being there but the cidery is incredible. They have so many flavors and seasonal flavors that rotate. The salted watermelon was my favorite from the summer and this time I really enjoyed the Chai.

Notable Mentions

Shame & Regret – Very cool speakeasy hidden in an alley with great deals and when in stock they have malort shots for purchase and allow your photo to be taken for the wall!

503W – Fantastic Asian-inspired Gastropub. The food and drinks were all great, I would definitely like to go again!

Wild Blue Yonder Brewing – Great food, great drinks, great atmosphere.  Server messed up a few things but overall we enjoyed it!