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Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center: Gateway to Geological Wonders

Discover the wonders of Garden of the Gods! Interactive exhibits, stunning views, and free park info await at the Visitor & Nature Center.

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The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs. Offering interactive exhibits, a compelling movie about the park's formation, and stunning views of the iconic red rock formations and Pikes Peak, the center enhances the visitor experience.

A brief summary to Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Start your visit at the Visitor & Nature Center to get oriented and learn about the park's history and geology.
  • Take advantage of the free maps, information, and guided nature walks offered at the center.
  • Enjoy the panoramic views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak from the center's terrace.
  • Visit the Bean Sprouts Cafe for a meal or snack with a view.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center parking lot, access the park via a paved trail. The trail leads directly into the heart of the park, providing easy access to the Central Garden area and its iconic rock formations. The walk is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Colorado Springs, take the Mountain Metropolitan Transit Line 3 bus towards Manitou Springs. The bus stops at Manitou/Beckers, which is a short walk or ride to the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. A one-way fare is $2.

  • Driving

    From I-25, take Exit 141 for US-24 W/Cimarron St toward Manitou Springs. Continue on US-24 W to 30th Street. Turn north onto N 30th St, and the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center will be on your left. Parking at the Visitor Center is free, but the lot can fill up quickly during peak season. An overflow lot is available across the street on Gateway Road, with a free shuttle service to the Visitor Center.

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Discover more about Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

Begin your adventure at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, the gateway to the geological wonderland that is Garden of the Gods Park. This world-class center provides a comprehensive introduction to the park's history, geology, and ecology. Explore over 30 state-of-the-art interactive exhibits that delve into the fascinating story of the Garden of the Gods. Discover the unique flora and fauna that call this park home and learn about the geological processes that shaped the dramatic red rock formations millions of years ago. Don't miss the opportunity to view the captivating film, “How Did Those Red Rocks Get There?”, which unravels the mysteries behind the park's creation. The Garden of the Gods Park has a rich history, dating back millions of years. The red rock formations were created during a geological upheaval event called the Laramide Orogeny. The area has been visited by prehistoric people as early as 1330 BC. In 1879, Charles Elliott Perkins purchased a large portion of the land, and later his family donated it to the City of Colorado Springs in 1909, ensuring it would remain a free public park. Today, the park spans 1,341.3 acres and is a National Natural Landmark. Before heading into the park, take advantage of the free maps and information available at the Visitor & Nature Center. Knowledgeable staff can provide guidance on hiking trails, activities, and points of interest. Join a guided nature walk to gain deeper insights into the park's natural wonders. The center also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, catering to diverse interests. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Garden of the Gods Park from the Visitor & Nature Center's terrace. This vantage point offers an iconic perspective of Pikes Peak framed by the foothills and the striking red sandstone formations. Relax and savor the scenery while enjoying a meal or snack at the Bean Sprouts Cafe. The Visitor & Nature Center is committed to preserving and protecting the park's natural beauty.

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