Colorado Springs City Guide

Food options range from local Colorado dishes like green chili to diverse international cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are available but late-night food is limited.

The nightlife includes breweries, pubs, and bars with live music. It’s more relaxed than big cities.

A budding coffee scene with local specialty shops and roasters focused on quality and community.

Tipping is expected in most service industries: 15–20% in restaurants, same for rideshares, and a few dollars for hotel housekeeping.

SIM cards are easy to get at carrier shops (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) and electronics stores like Best Buy. eSIM is supported for compatible phones and no ID is required for prepaid SIMs.

City streets and public areas are kept clean with regular waste and recycling services.

Some 24-hour pharmacies and convenience stores exist. Emergency rooms are always open but other services often close earlier.

Major supermarkets like King Soopers, Safeway, and Sprouts stock a good range of international products. Stores open early and close late, including Sundays and many holidays.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for day-to-day spending.

ATMs are easy to find in banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Using out-of-network ATMs may cost $2.50 to $5.00 per transaction.

The city has public and private schools mostly teaching in English. No major international schools cater to expats. Admission details vary by school.

Growing but small nomad scene. Some coworking spaces and tech meetups exist, but few dedicated nomad events.

Excellent green spaces and parks with shaded walking paths and trails suitable for running.

Safe running trails like Pikes Peak Greenway and Garden of the Gods. Multiple running clubs and annual races available.

Several gyms and fitness centers are available for different workout styles.

Many public and private hard courts with coaching and some equipment rentals.

Padel courts are rare and mostly at private clubs.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in and membership options. All instructors speak English.

Several schools teach styles like BJJ, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, and Karate with English-speaking instructors.

Close to top ski resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone, about 1.5–2.5 hours away by car. Resorts offer terrain for all levels and equipment rentals.

Nearby reservoirs offer kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing during warmer months with rentals and tours.

No surfing; the city is landlocked.

Not available; no natural diving spots around.

High-quality private hospitals like Penrose-St. Francis and UCHealth Memorial serve the city. English-speaking staff are common. Pharmacies are widely available, often inside grocery stores.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Many parks with playgrounds, family-friendly cafes, and places like Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Garden of the Gods attract families.

Generally welcoming with legal protections and events like PrideFest. Some conservative attitudes remain.

Very pet-friendly with parks, dog parks, pet stores, and many pet-welcoming businesses.