Locals Love This Quirky Town in Colorado—and It’s Still Underrated

Let’s be honest, most of us are curious about strange worlds that are far different from our everyday lives. When it comes to quirky towns in Colorado, I personally don’t mind diving in, to learn about the sacred temples in Crestone or the Frozen Dead Guys Days festival in Nederland. With that in mind, Manitou Springs has piqued my interest as well. From its strange parades and festivals, to its retro attractions, to its hippie vibe and eccentric residents, this Colorado mountain town isn’t afraid to show its mix of personalities. With Colorado Springs just five miles away, Manitou Springs doesn’t get the shine it deserves, but I am here to shed some light on why you should visit. 

Where Is Manitou Springs and Why Is It So Unique

Hiding in plain sight at the foot of Pike’s Peak, the Colorado small town is known for its eight mineral springs, where, on a walking tour, visitors can sample the crisp waters. If you guessed that’s how the town got its name, you are correct. From the Algonquian language, it means “great spirit.” Could it be something in the carbonated “healing” waters that adds to Mantou Springs quirkiness? Perhaps so.  

Although it’s a gateway town to the popular Garden of the Gods, the 750,000 yearly visitors is small compared to the more than 20 million that come to nearby Colorado Springs. So, Manitou Springs remains relatively unknown to many coming to the region. Locals, however, know how truly special the town is. With an official tagline of “Keep Manitou Weird,” it should be no surprise that this small town in Colorado is known for its unusual events and attractions. 

Festivals like the Emma Crawford Coffin Races and the Great Fruitcake Toss are filled with pure creative energy and small-town charm. Where else can you see people dressed up in costumes, racing coffins, or tossing fruitcakes, all in the same destination? The overall creative expressions of the residents are visible in the artsy corners with several art galleries showcasing local talent. But beyond all its quirks, the friendly locals will make you feel welcome here. 

The Quirky Attractions That Define This Town

Manitou Springs is not your ordinary mountain town in Colorado. In fact, you can find attractions here that are fun, entertaining, and nostalgic—all at the same time. Starting with the Iron Springs Chateau, a melodrama dinner theater, where the audience can sing along, boo, or cheer at the over-the-top characters. For more than 65 years, this exaggerated, comedic performance with its colorful cast of characters has been where families and friends come to laugh and eat with each other.  

For pure nostalgic fun, the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade is the place you want to visit. When you walk through the corridors of this open-air arcade, seeing the hundreds of retro games, skeeball, and old-fashioned rides, you’ll feel like a kid again. And yes, true to its name, you can bring your coins, including pennies, to play some of the games here. Don’t forget to treat yourself to something sweet at the long-standing Patsy’s after you’ve played your way through the arcade.

Feel posh as you stroll through the halls of the 19th-century Miramont Castle Museum and the Queen's Parlour Tea Room, and then enjoy a multi-course High Tea experience. A day at this 14,000-square-foot chateau will feel like you’ve crossed the seas, or better yet, you're on the set of a "Bridgerton" episode. And if you ask me, it perfectly passes the vibe check at Manitou Springs. 

Of course, there are popular attractions like the Manitou Incline, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, and the famous Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which you’ll want to experience, too. And be sure to make time to chat with the locals and check out the art galleries and specialty shops in town. 

Why It’s Still Flying Under the Radar

Although Manitou Springs gets busy during the summer, when you sit only minutes from popular tourist hotspots like Colorado Springs, of course, you’ll be overlooked. I mean, it's home to the Garden of the Gods park, which just landed as one of TripAdvisor's top 10 destinations for 2026, so it’s hard to compete with that. And there are more choices of modern hotels and amenities in Colorado Springs. 

But for the many who do find their way to this unusual side of the Pike’s Peak region, you’ll walk away feeling like you discovered a strange, but wonderfully colorful destination, with good people, good vibes, and a cool personality. You will never have a dull moment on your trip to this underrated mountain town in Colorado. Learn more by checking out the Visit Manitou Springs webpage.