Manitou Springs’s 6 Best Tours & Things To Do (With Prices & Reviews)

Manitou Springs is a treasure trove for travelers looking to explore Colorado’s natural beauty and charming mountain town atmosphere. What sets it apart from other destinations is its mix of outdoor adventures, historic sites, and unique experiences. Whether you’re after a luxurious ride through iconic scenery or an adrenaline-fueled zipline, Manitou Springs offers something memorable for everyone.

We’re particularly fond of the Garden of the Gods Luxury Jeep Tour, which combines comfort with breathtaking views—perfect for those who prefer a relaxed yet immersive experience.

We also appreciate the variety, including high-energy adventures like ziplining and self-guided explorations via e-bike, making this list a well-rounded guide for all preferences. Ready to see which tours stand out? Scroll down for detailed descriptions and insights into each.

1. Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods Luxury Jeep Tour

This luxury jeep tour offers a private, upscale way to experience the world-famous Garden of the Gods. For $129 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour ride aboard fully enclosed Jeeps equipped with A/C, heat, leather seats, and even a convertible roof. It’s a perfect option if you want to relax while absorbing the stunning red sandstone formations and sweeping canyon vistas.

During the tour, you’ll get close-up views of towering 300-foot red rocks and the chance to walk some of the park’s hiking trails for a more personal encounter with nature.

The guide provides insightful commentary about the geological forces shaping the landscape, plus interesting stories about the area’s past. The included snacks and drinks make this a comfortable way to explore without sacrificing scenery.

Bottom Line: This tour is best for travelers who want a high-end, intimate experience with the iconic Garden of the Gods and prefer comfort over ruggedness. It’s especially suitable for those short on time but eager to see the highlights in style.

2. Zipline Tour: Colo-Rad

For adrenaline junkies, the Zipline Tour: Colo-Rad offers an exhilarating 1.5-hour experience soaring 150 feet above Manitou Springs. With five ziplines ranging from 225 to 650 feet, you’ll zip across cliffs, through forests, and over rugged terrain. Each line delivers a different perspective, and the experience is designed to get your heart pounding.

This adventure is ideal if you’re looking for a quick, thrilling activity that captures the essence of Colorado’s rugged landscape. The tour’s reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the safe, well-maintained equipment. The views from the ziplines are spectacular, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding mountains and town.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who thrive on speed and altitude, this tour packs an adrenaline punch without being overly long or complex. It’s a great choice for active travelers or anyone wanting a memorable rush.

3. Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods Guided Jeep Tour

At number 3, the guided jeep tour combines the awe of Garden of the Gods with the charm of a small-group experience. For $115 per person and lasting three hours, it takes you beyond the main park to explore the scenic Old Stage Road and the nearby mountain town of Manitou Springs. Your guide, an expert in local lore and geology, shares stories and insights that bring the landscape to life.

This tour is a good mix of scenery, education, and local flavor. You’ll admire stunning views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding foothills, while also visiting some of the area’s most interesting historic sites.

The drive up Old Stage Road offers a nostalgic glimpse into the area’s past, and the guide’s storytelling makes it feel like a local friend showing you around. Visitors often comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the scenic variety packed into the tour.

Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want a deeper understanding of the landscape and history, with enough time to relax and absorb the sights.

4. Manitou Springs: E-Bike Rental

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, renting an e-bike offers great flexibility. For $75 per person, you can enjoy a 2- to 4-hour ride, with a map and helmet included. The electric assist makes it easy to cover more ground than a traditional bike, whether you want to cruise along the scenic streets of Manitou Springs or venture into the nearby Garden of the Gods.

The rental shop also offers a quick test ride on a RAD Power-Bike for just $25, which is ideal if you’re new to e-biking. The surroundings lend themselves well to self-guided exploration, with plenty of scenic spots, mineral springs, and historic landmarks to discover. It’s a cost-effective way to spend a day, especially for active travelers comfortable with biking.

Bottom Line: Best suited for independent explorers who want to set their own pace, this option offers freedom and a personal connection to the landscape, all while being easy to manage for most fitness levels.

5. Manitou Springs: Garden of the Gods E-Bike Tour

For a guided experience, the Garden of the Gods E-Bike Tour provides a three-hour, in-depth look at the park’s highlights. For $110 per person, you’ll glide through the landscape, learning about the rocks’ formation and history from your guide while enjoying the ease of e-biking. You’ll also get a view of the historic train that runs through the park, adding a nostalgic element to the ride.

This tour is praised for its relaxed pace and rich commentary, making it ideal for those interested in geology, history, or simply enjoying a scenic ride with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample waters from mineral springs and visit Miramont Castle for a glimpse into local architecture and past residents.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a guided, educational experience that combines scenic beauty with historical context, perfect for families or history buffs.

6. Manitou Springs: Pike’s Peak Historic Tour by E-Golf Cart

For a relaxed, rundown of Manitou Springs, consider the Pike’s Peak Historic Tour. At $75 per person for two hours, this tour uses an electric golf cart to show you the town’s key sites, architecture, and stories. Highlights include the Penny Arcade, Miramont Castle, and the tales of Emma Crawford.

This tour is ideal for those who want to learn about the town’s history without much walking, especially if mobility is a concern. The guide shares engaging stories about the area’s springs and historic buildings, making it both entertaining and educational.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers or visitors looking for an easy, informative way to see the town’s main attractions, all in a comfortable, eco-friendly ride.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

When deciding which activity suits you best, consider your budget, interests, and physical energy. If you want a luxurious, low-effort experience, the Garden of the Gods Luxury Jeep Tour is hard to beat. For thrill-seekers, the ziplining option delivers excitement and stunning views fast. Those who prefer to explore independently will love the e-bike rentals, letting you set your own pace.

If you’re interested in a more educational or historical experience, the guided jeep tour and Pike’s Peak e-golf cart tour provide stories and sights with minimal effort. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and tour.

Manitou Springs offers a diverse set of activities that suit a variety of interests and activity levels. From the luxe comfort of jeep tours to the adrenaline rush of ziplining, and the flexibility of e-biking, you’ll find plenty to fill your time.

If you’re planning your trip, consider what kind of experience will make your visit most memorable—then book early and get ready for a Colorado adventure to remember.