Escaping Los Angeles, CA and exploring Manitou Springs felt like stepping into a Hallmark movie. It’s colorful, eccentric, cozy, and full of history. The streets are lined with art galleries, vintage shops, mineral springs, and mountain views that honestly make you stop mid-walk just to stare around in disbelief.
My friend Melissa and I spent the afternoon wandering through town, popping into small boutiques, admiring the historic buildings, and soaking up the laid-back mountain-town energy. We eventually ended our afternoon at Swirl, a cozy restaurant that served one of the best Fall White Sangrias I’ve ever had.
If you love charming downtown areas, quirky shops, mountain scenery, and hidden gems that feel straight out of a movie set, Manitou Springs absolutely deserves a spot on your Colorado bucket list.
Cozy Food Stops
Melissa and I stopped at Swirl after wandering around town, and the atmosphere was perfect after a chilly afternoon exploring.
The Fall White Sangria was easily one of the highlights of the day.
Sometimes travel memories aren’t about giant attractions. Sometimes it’s:
mountain air, a good drink, cute streets, and feeling relaxed for once.
Where It’s Located
Manitou Springs is located just outside of Colorado Springs at the base of Pikes Peak.
It’s about:
-1.5 hours south of Denver-Minutes away from Garden of the Gods
-Surrounded by mountain views and hiking trails
The town itself feels tucked away in its own little world. Once you arrive, the energy completely shifts from busy city life into slower, cozy mountain-town vibes.
Highlights of Manitou Springs
Charming Downtown Streets
One of my favorite things about Manitou Springs was simply walking around downtown. Every corner felt photogenic. The area is filled with:
-Colorful historic buildings-Independent shops
-Art galleries
-Cafés
-Candy stores
-Local boutiques
-Street art and quirky décor
It genuinely feels like the kind of town where every storefront has a story.
Mineral Springs Throughout Town
Manitou Springs is famous for its naturally occurring mineral springs. You’ll find several spring fountains scattered throughout downtown, each with different mineral compositions and tastes.
Some taste refreshing.
Some taste… aggressively like pennies. 😭
But trying them is part of the experience.
History of Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs has a rich history tied to both Native American heritage and Colorado tourism.
The name “Manitou” comes from a Native American word associated with “great spirit,” referencing the area’s naturally occurring mineral springs, which were considered sacred.
In the late 1800s, the town became a popular health and wellness destination because visitors believed the mineral waters had healing properties. Wealthy travelers and tuberculosis patients alike traveled to the area hoping the fresh mountain air and mineral springs would improve their health.
Today, the town still maintains much of its historic charm with preserved architecture and a unique artistic personality.
Fun Facts About Manitou Springs
Fun Fact #1: The mineral water all tastes different
Each spring has its own mineral makeup, meaning every fountain tastes slightly different. Some are naturally carbonated.
Fun Fact #2: It’s home to the Manitou Incline
Manitou Incline is one of Colorado’s most intense hiking attractions with over 2,700 steps straight up the mountain.
My legs hurt just thinking about it.
Fun Fact #3: The town is considered one of Colorado’s quirkiest destinations
Between the colorful shops, artistic vibe, healing spring history, and mountain setting, Manitou Springs has a personality that feels very different from larger Colorado cities.
Fun Fact #4: It’s incredibly photogenic year-round
Whether you visit during:
- snowy winter months
- fall foliage season
- spring blooms
- or summer hiking weather
…the town looks like a postcard.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about Manitou Springs. It feels nostalgic, artistic, peaceful, and just a little magical.
For a moment, it didn’t feel like real life. It felt like being dropped into a cozy mountain movie set where everyone drinks cider, owns a vintage bookstore, and somehow has perfect mountain views from every window.
And honestly?
That’s exactly why I loved it.
Trip Resources
If you’re planning a road trip, here are some helpful sites that I use. Note, below are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission for every booking, with no extra cost to you. Thanks so much, in advance!
Hey, I'm Christy Buena, a Filipina-American Los Angeles native and travel enthusiast. I love visiting new places and trying new food. Welcome to my adventure blog where I capture both State & National Park visits, family excursions, and road trips, while sharing my travel photos and recaps. My goal is to visit as many National Parks using my “America the Beautiful” annual pass. 
0 Comments
Leave a comment. Don't be a jerk. Thanks!