20 EPIC Things to Do in Colorado Springs at Night (2025 Guide)

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Colorado Springs after dark isn’t what most people expect. While tourists fill the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak during daylight hours, the city transforms into something magical once the sun sets. On my recent visit, I uncovered a world that rarely makes it into typical travel guides, from tucked-away jazz bars to spectacular nighttime viewpoints that make you forget you’re anywhere near civilization.

I’ve spent hours researching and experiencing the best things to do in Colorado Springs at night, connecting with locals and testing each spot to separate the tourist traps from the genuine gems. Whether you’re a night owl or just want to make the most of your evening in the Springs, these are the after-dark adventures that truly stand out!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this guided walking ghost and history tour in Colorado Springs. They take you to the city’s most haunted buildings, historic saloons, and spooky hotels to hunt for restless spirits, capture EVP readings, and hear chilling local legends. You also learn what makes Colorado Springs a paranormal hotspot. This tour is absolutely a must-do on a Colorado Springs itinerary in my opinion.

Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs at Night

Looking for the best ways to spend your nights in Colorado Springs? Whether you’re after family fun, great food, or unique sights, here’s a quick guide to the top activities for every vibe:

• Best for Families: Stroll Through Old Colorado City
• Best for Foodies: Dine at The Rabbit Hole
• Best for Partying: Experience Downtown Nightlife
• Best Skyline View: Visit the Garden of the Gods
• Best for a Fun Night Out: Enjoy Arcade Games at Supernova
• Best Iconic Attraction: Tour the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

Here are the best things to do in Colorado Springs at night that you shouldn’t miss!

1. Visit the Garden of the Gods

The iconic red rock formations take on an otherworldly quality under moonlight. This famous park transforms into something that feels almost mystical. Standing among these ancient sandstone giants at midnight completely changed my perspective on why this place draws millions of visitors. The silence and shadows create an intimacy impossible during busy daylight hours.

The park stays open 24/7 and costs absolutely nothing to explore. This makes it one of Colorado’s best free nighttime adventures. Bring a powerful flashlight and stick to the main paved trails like the Perkins Central Garden Trail for safety. The Visitor Center closes at sunset, but self-guided exploration works perfectly with a downloaded trail map.

Photography enthusiasts should plan around the lunar calendar. Full moon nights provide natural illumination that brings out the rock textures beautifully. Wildlife becomes more active after dark, with mule deer, foxes, and even the occasional black bear making appearances. The elevated Gateway Rock viewpoint offers spectacular city lights contrasting against the dark mountain silhouettes.

2. Laugh Until You Cry at Loonees Comedy Corner

Loonees Comedy Corner puts on shows that are way better than you’d expect from a strip mall location. I’ve been here twice now, and honestly, for $8 tickets (seriously, that’s not a typo), you can’t beat the value. Most comedy clubs charge at least $25, so this place is a steal.

The club hosts both national touring comedians and local talent, with shows typically running at 7pm and 9:30pm on Friday and Saturday nights. You’ll need to meet a two-drink minimum, but their specialty cocktails run about $7, and the staff actually knows how to make them. The building itself isn’t fancy, but the comedy is legit – I caught Tim Gaither and Sam Butler here and they had me laughing until my sides hurt.

Loonees Comedy Corner sits right off Academy Boulevard near Palmer Park, so parking is free and easy. The crowds are a good mix of regulars and first-timers, creating that perfect comedy club atmosphere where everyone’s just there to laugh. It’s definitely one of those hidden gems that locals know about but tourists often miss.

3. Stroll Through Old Colorado City

This historic district transforms into a charming small-town escape. Gas-lit streets and 1800s architecture create the perfect backdrop for evening wandering. I’ve spent countless evenings getting lost among the antique shops and art galleries that stay open late. This is especially true during First Friday art walks when the entire district buzzes with creative energy.

The preserved buildings house everything from quirky gift shops to craft breweries. Many stay open until 9 PM or later on weekends. Street parking is free after 6 PM, and the compact six-block area makes everything easily walkable. Local restaurants like The Rabbit Hole and Jack Quinn Irish Pub serve late dinners. Their outdoor patios are perfect for people-watching.

Monthly events like ghost walks and live music performances happen year-round. These turn casual strolls into mini-festivals. The historic Manitou Springs borders this area, adding natural hot springs and additional dining options within walking distance. Cold mountain air means bringing layers, even in summer.

4. Test Your Aim at Bad Axe Throwing

Throwing axes at wooden targets is way more fun than it sounds, and Bad Axe Throwing Colorado Springs makes it ridiculously easy for beginners. I was skeptical at first, but their coaches are actually members of the World Axe Throwing League and they’ll have you sticking axes within 15 minutes.

The venue has 12 targets, so groups from 2 to over 100 people can throw at the same time. They serve local craft beers, which honestly makes the whole experience even better. You can book everything from casual friend hangouts to full corporate events, and they’re open late enough to make it a proper night out.

Located right next to Palmer Park, it’s super convenient to downtown and only 15 minutes from Garden of the Gods. I went with a group of six friends on a Saturday night, and we stayed for almost two hours just trying different games and challenges. The staff keeps things safe but fun – no stuffy rules, just good vibes and sharp axes.

5. Enjoy Downtown Nightlife

Downtown Colorado Springs surprises visitors with its diverse after-dark scene. You’ll find everything from sophisticated cocktail lounges to dive bars that locals have kept secret for decades. The Mining Exchange hotel’s rooftop bar became my regular spot during my week-long stay. The 360-degree mountain views paired with craft cocktails make it impossible to leave before last call.

The entertainment district centers around Tejon Street. Venues like The Rabbit Hole serve creative cocktails in an underground speakeasy setting and stay open until 2 AM. Lumen8 Rooftop Social offers panoramic views and surprisingly good late-night tapas. First Friday art walks happen monthly, transforming downtown galleries into party venues with wine and live music.

Parking meters go free after 6 PM, and ride-share services operate reliably throughout the area. Many venues feature live DJs on weekends, while weeknight crowds tend toward locals unwinding after work. The altitude affects alcohol tolerance, so pace yourself. Colorado’s thin air amplifies everything.

3. Solve Puzzles at Colorado Springs’ Best Escape Rooms

Escaped in Time creates custom-built escape rooms that actually make you think, not just hunt for random clues. I’ve done their “Sweet Dreams” room (which is completely upside down – seriously, the whole thing), and it’s unlike anything I’ve experienced at other escape room places.

These aren’t franchise setups with generic themes. Everything is built from scratch by the owners, who are clearly obsessed with creating unique challenges. The pricing runs $30-36 per person depending on the room, and they offer military, teacher, and first responder discounts. Each game accommodates 2-8 players in completely private rooms, so you’re not stuck with random strangers.

What sets them apart is how they customize each experience for your group. The Game Masters actually pay attention to how you solve puzzles and adjust hints accordingly. I brought my family here for my daughter’s birthday, and they made the whole experience feel personal. Pro tip: book their “Birds Aren’t Real” room if you want something totally bizarre and hilarious.

7. Attend a Show at the Pikes Peak Center

This downtown performing arts venue attracts world-class touring productions. These rival anything you’d find in major metropolitan areas. Watching a Broadway musical in this intimate 2,000-seat theater completely exceeded my expectations. The acoustics and sightlines make every seat feel premium, and ticket prices remain refreshingly reasonable compared to Denver venues.

The schedule rotates between touring Broadway shows, classical concerts, comedy acts, and local performances. Tickets range from $25-75 depending on the production and seating level. The box office opens two hours before showtime for last-minute purchases, though popular shows sell out weeks in advance.

Pre-show dining options within walking distance include The Rabbit Hole, Over Easy, and Shuga’s for different price points and cuisines. The venue offers wine and cocktails during intermission, though outside food and drinks aren’t permitted. Parking costs $5 in the adjacent garage, or try street parking on surrounding blocks for free.

4. Sip Craft Cocktails on a Rooftop at Lumen8

Lumen8 Rooftop Social gives you the best mountain and city views in Colorado Springs, hands down. Sitting on the 8th floor of the Element and SpringHill Suites downtown, this place looks incredible at night with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop.

The craft cocktail menu is actually creative, not just the same old drinks with fancy names. Their seasonal menu highlights Colorado ingredients, and the bartenders know what they’re doing. I ordered three different whiskey cocktails here, and each one was perfectly balanced. The truffle fries and steak skewers are solid too if you’re hungry.

The rooftop has both indoor seating and an outdoor area with fire pits and water features. Live music happens regularly, including their Lumen8 Jazz Brunch series with the Todd Williams Trio. Weekend brunch runs 10am-2pm on Saturdays and Sundays, but honestly, the evening atmosphere is where this place really shines. Just make sure to grab a table outside for sunset if weather permits.

9. Relax at a Local Brewery

Colorado Springs’ craft beer scene rivals any mountain town. Local breweries occupy repurposed historic buildings that add character to every pint. Bristol Brewing Company inside the converted Ivywild School became my weekly ritual. Sipping their flagship Laughing Lab Scottish Ale while surrounded by original 1920s classroom chalkboards creates an atmosphere you can’t replicate anywhere else.

Each brewery cultivates its own personality. Trinity Brewing focuses on creative flavors and live music, while Red Leg serves traditional styles in a welcoming neighborhood setting. Most stay open until 10 PM on weekends, 9 PM on weekdays. Growlers and crowlers let you take favorites home.

Food trucks often park outside, or many breweries serve their own pub grub. Happy hour specials typically run 3-6 PM with $1 off pints. Local beer festivals happen monthly during warmer seasons. The 6,000+ foot elevation means beer hits harder than at sea level. Drink water between pints.

5. Glide on Ice at Sertich Ice Center

Ice skating at Sertich Ice Center brings back all those childhood memories, except now you can actually afford the drinks afterward. This NHL regulation-size rink has been around since 1975 and offers public skating sessions most nights of the week.

The facility seats up to 2,000 people, but during regular public skate times, it’s usually pretty chill. They rent skates on-site, and pricing is totally reasonable – you can even get unlimited monthly passes if you’re planning to become a regular. The ice is always well-maintained, and they have sessions for different skill levels.

I love coming here on weeknight evenings when it’s less crowded. The rink offers everything from learn-to-skate classes to drop-in hockey, so there’s always something happening. Plus, it’s conveniently located in Memorial Park, making it easy to grab dinner downtown before or after. Fair warning: if you haven’t skated in years, your legs will remind you the next day.

11. Explore the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

This cultural gem stays open late on First Friday nights. It transforms typical museum browsing into wine-fueled art appreciation with live jazz performances echoing through the galleries. Wandering their contemporary collection while sipping local wine and chatting with artists creates the kind of sophisticated evening that makes you forget you’re in a mountain town rather than a major cultural center.

The permanent collection emphasizes Southwestern and Native American art, plus rotating exhibitions featuring international artists. Late-night events (6-9 PM monthly) include artist talks, wine tastings, and live performances. Regular admission costs $15 for adults, but First Friday events are often free.

The adjacent Colorado College campus adds young energy to evening events. Student performances and exhibitions are frequently featured. The museum shop stays open during evening events, offering unique locally-made jewelry and art books. The building itself, designed by notable architect John Gaw Meem, deserves appreciation for its pueblo revival style.

12. Bowl and Drink at Multiple Alleys

Colorado Springs has some surprisingly good bowling options that go way beyond just rolling balls at pins. Main Event Colorado Springs combines bowling with laser tag, arcade games, and a full bar – it’s basically adult Chuck E. Cheese done right.

Their Monday Night Madness deal gets you all-you-can-play activities for $10.95 from 4pm to close, which is honestly ridiculous value. AMF Colorado Springs Lanes offers 32 lanes and their Night Strike special for unlimited bowling at $15.99. The nachos there are actually really good, and they have beer towers if you’re with a group.

For something more upscale, Play at The Broadmoor combines bowling with their signature restaurant experience. You’ll pay more, but the atmosphere is completely different – think craft cocktails and elevated pub food while you bowl. I went there for a date night and loved how they balanced the casual bowling vibe with Broadmoor’s usual elegance. Reservations are required for both dining and bowling, so plan ahead.

13. Go for a Night Hike

Hiking Colorado Springs’ trails under starlight reveals a completely different wilderness experience. City lights twinkle below while mountain silhouettes stretch endlessly above. Red Rock Canyon Open Space became my favorite after-dark adventure. The well-maintained trails and strategic lighting make nighttime navigation safe, while the acoustics amplify every coyote call and owl hoot across the valley.

The 1.4-mile Red Rock Canyon Trail offers the best night hiking experience with minimal elevation gain and clear trail markers. Palmer Park’s Templeton Trail provides city views but requires more advanced navigation skills. Both parks remain open 24/7 with free parking.

Essential gear includes headlamps (handheld flashlights aren’t sufficient), extra batteries, and warm layers. Temperatures drop 20+ degrees after sunset. Wildlife becomes more active at night – mountain lions exist but rarely encounter humans. Stick to main trails and hike with companions for safety.

14. Get Your Heart Racing with Outdoor Ice Skating

When winter hits, Skate in the Park at Acacia Park transforms downtown Colorado Springs into something magical. This seasonal outdoor rink runs mid-December through February and costs almost nothing compared to what you’d pay at most tourist spots.

The rink offers “Bobby the Seal” skate aids for beginners, which is genius because nobody wants to spend their night clinging to the wall. They also host special themed nights, live music, and even ice bumper cars throughout the season. I brought my nephews here last winter, and honestly, the adults had just as much fun as the kids.

The whole setup is beautifully lit with holiday music playing, creating that perfect winter evening atmosphere. Children under four skate free with a paying adult, and they regularly host adult pond hockey if you’re feeling competitive. Green Mountain Falls also offers natural pond skating when conditions allow – it’s a romantic spot with the gazebo lit up, though you’ll need to bring your own skates and check ice conditions first.

15. Visit the Broadmoor

This legendary resort epitomizes Colorado luxury. Evening drinks on the lakeside terrace feel like stepping into a 1920s movie scene complete with dramatic mountain backdrops. Even though I wasn’t staying here, spending an evening at their Tavern restaurant and walking the illuminated grounds made me understand why this place has hosted presidents and celebrities for over a century.

Multiple dining options cater to different budgets and moods. The Tavern offers casual elegance, Penrose Room provides fine dining, and the Golf Club maintains a relaxed atmosphere. Cocktails range $12-18, but the lakeside setting and mountain views justify the cost. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially weekends.

The Broadmoor‘s grounds become magical after dark with strategically placed lighting highlighting gardens, water features, and architecture. Live music happens regularly in the Tavern bar area. Even if you’re not staying here, the property welcomes evening visitors to restaurants and bars. Valet parking costs $8, self-parking is free.

16. Explore Underground at The Rabbit Hole

The Rabbit Hole lives up to its Alice in Wonderland theme in the best possible way. You literally walk down subway steps to enter this underground restaurant and bar that feels like stepping into another world entirely.

The gothic atmosphere might sound gimmicky, but they pull it off perfectly with haunting artwork and Wonderland-inspired decor. More importantly, the cocktails are legitimately creative – some of them literally come on fire. The New American small plates menu changes seasonally, and everything I’ve tried has been solid.

What makes this place special is how committed they are to the experience. It’s not just themed drinks and decorations – the whole vibe transports you somewhere else. I’ve brought friends here who were skeptical about the concept, and they all left planning their next visit. Open 4pm to 11pm seven days a week, it’s perfect for end-of-shift drinks or that “something different” you’ve been looking for. Just make sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends.

17. Catch a Movie

Kimball’s Peak Three Theater elevates movie-watching into a sophisticated cultural experience. Independent films pair with local wine and craft beer service. Discovering this intimate downtown theater completely changed my perspective on cinema nights. Watching foreign films while sipping Colorado wine in oversized leather chairs beats any multiplex experience by miles.

This boutique theater specializes in independent, foreign, and documentary films typically unavailable elsewhere in the region. Tickets cost $10-12, with wine and beer available for purchase during screenings. The 80-seat venue creates an intimate atmosphere where every seat offers excellent sightlines and sound quality.

Located in downtown’s core, the theater sits within walking distance of numerous restaurants perfect for pre-show dinners. Showtimes typically start at 7 PM and 9 PM, with matinee options on weekends. The concession selection focuses on quality over quantity – local chocolates, wine, and craft beer rather than typical movie theater fare.

18. Take a Ghost Tour

Colorado Springs’ paranormal history comes alive through expertly guided tours that blend genuine historical research with spine-tingling entertainment. Blue Moon Haunted History Tours showed me a side of the city I never would have discovered independently. Walking through moonlit historic districts while learning about reported hauntings and unsolved mysteries created an evening that was both educational and genuinely creepy.

Tours operate year-round with different themes: historic downtown ghosts, Manitou Springs hauntings, and seasonal special events. Standard tours cost $20-25 per person and last 90 minutes. The guides combine historical facts with local legends, making these experiences informative rather than purely theatrical.

Popular stops include the historic Antlers Hotel, Gold Room, and various Manitou Springs buildings with documented paranormal activity. Tours accommodate all ages but work best for participants comfortable walking several blocks in varying weather. Private group bookings are available for special occasions. Evening tours start at 7 PM and 9 PM depending on season.

19. Play Games at a Local Arcade Bar

SuperNova Bar & Arcade creates the perfect blend of nostalgic gaming and craft cocktails. Pinball wizards and casual players compete alongside each other in a neon-lit wonderland. Spending hours here rediscovering classic arcade games while sampling locally-distilled spirits reminded me why simple pleasures often create the most memorable nights. No phones, just pure analog fun.

The venue features 30+ vintage arcade games, pinball machines, and modern gaming consoles. Games cost quarters (change machine available), while drinks range $6-12 for craft cocktails and local beers. The atmosphere skews more upscale than typical arcade bars, attracting a diverse crowd from college students to professionals.

Located in downtown’s core, SuperNova stays open until 1:30 AM on weekends, midnight on weekdays. Food trucks often park outside, or nearby restaurants deliver. Tournament nights happen monthly for popular games like Street Fighter and pinball. The venue’s two-story layout includes quieter upstairs seating areas for conversation between gaming sessions.

20. Enjoy Live Music Performances

The local music scene delivers surprising variety and quality. You’ll find everything from intimate acoustic sets in coffee shops to full-scale concerts at dedicated venues. The Black Sheep became my regular haunt for discovering both local talent and touring acts. The small space creates an energy where every performance feels like a private concert, and the sound system rivals venues twice its size.

Venues range from The Black Sheep’s intimate rock club atmosphere to Stargazers Theatre’s larger concert hall with its distinctive dome architecture and excellent acoustics. Cover charges typically run $10-25 depending on the act. Local breweries also host acoustic nights and smaller performances.

Music genres span everything from indie rock and folk to jazz and electronic. Many venues offer all-ages shows earlier in the evening, with 21+ performances later. The Colorado Springs Philharmonic performs at Pikes Peak Center for classical music lovers. Check local publications like The Independent for weekly music listings and venue schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Things to Do in Colorado Springs at Night:

Are you keen to expand your knowledge of the best things to do in Colorado Springs at night? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the best nighttime activities in Colorado Springs.

Does Colorado Springs have nightlife?

Absolutely! Colorado Springs has a diverse and vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re into cozy pubs, lively bars, or cultural events like theater and live music, there’s something for everyone. Downtown is particularly bustling, with spots like The Rabbit Hole and The Mining Exchange offering unique experiences. For a more laid-back evening, local breweries like Bristol Brewing Company are great for relaxing with a craft beer.

What is the best time of year to visit Colorado Springs?

In my opinion, the best time to visit Colorado Springs is during the late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy outdoor activities comfortably. Plus, the fall foliage is stunning, and the spring brings beautiful blooms. Summer is also popular, but it can be busier with tourists.

Can you stargaze in Colorado Springs?

Yes, you can enjoy stargazing in Colorado Springs. While the city lights might limit visibility, driving a short distance out of town to places like Garden of the Gods or Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers clearer views of the night sky. For an enhanced experience, consider joining a guided stargazing event or using a telescope.

Does it get cold in Colorado Springs at night?

It can get quite chilly in Colorado Springs at night, especially outside the summer months. Temperatures often drop significantly after sunset, even in spring and fall. I recommend bringing a jacket or sweater if you plan to be out in the evening, regardless of the season.

Where do people go out in Colorado Springs at night?

People in Colorado Springs enjoy a variety of nighttime activities. Downtown is a hotspot with its array of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. For a unique experience, places like The Broadmoor offer upscale dining and drinks. The local brewery scene is also popular for a more relaxed night out. And for those interested in arts and culture, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center and Pikes Peak Center are fantastic choices. With all these amenities and attractions, it’s easy to see why Colorado Springs is a top city in Colorado to live in, offering a lifestyle that’s as enriching as it is exciting.

Recap: Things to Do in Colorado Springs at Night

In conclusion, Colorado Springs offers a night scene that’s as varied and vibrant as its stunning natural surroundings. From my own experiences, each visit here brings something new and exciting. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be the night hikes in places like Red Rock Canyon Open Space. There’s something magical about experiencing the natural beauty of Colorado Springs under the starlit sky, feeling a refreshing connection to nature.

For those who enjoy urban adventures, the downtown area’s lively bars and cultural venues provide endless entertainment. And let’s not forget the unique experiences like ghost tours and arcade bars, adding a fun twist to your typical night out.

If you’re a local or a visitor, Colorado Springs at night has something to offer for every taste and interest. My biggest tip? Don’t hesitate to explore both the well-known spots and the hidden gems of this city. Each corner of Colorado Springs has its own charm, waiting to be discovered in the glow of the night.