Curing The Disney Blues In Colorado
It’s almost summertime! The sun is shining, laughter from children playing outside will soon be wafting through your open windows and everyone will be sharing photos of their adventures and vacations. I love summer, but if you don’t have a trip scheduled, watching everyone else can make you a little blue. Obviously, I adore Disney, so while I love following along through photos of castles, characters and attractions, they really make me miss “home.” Luckily, I live in beautiful Colorado where there are so many adventures and places to make magical memories, those Disney Blues don’t last for long.
Here is a fun list of Colorado experiences anyone will enjoy, but especially those with a love for all things Disney.
1. Be Our Guest
While they might not have talking candlesticks, clocks and feather dusters, there are some incredible castles around. Glen Eyrie’s summer tea schedule starts today, and while the teapot and cups may not sing, the experience is still quite enchanting.
The historic Miramont Castle, located in Manitou Springs, is another local favorite. It dates back to 1895 and self-guided tours are available daily throughout the summer.
2. Hakuna Matata
Love The Lion King? Is Dumbo one of your favorites? Perhaps you like enjoying a day on the African Savanna?
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo can provide a whole list of tie-ins to your favorite Disney movies and adventures all while enjoying a whole day of fun. Founded in 1926 the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is America’s only mountain-side zoo.
The African Rift Valley area has towering Baobab trees, giraffes, lions, zebras, okapi and even little meerkats. Sure, it may not be an actual safari, but the zoo experience offers you photo and educational opportunities that are much the same!
Our favorite adventure is feeding the giraffes. They’re adorable and the view is pretty amazing, too!
3. The Bear Necessities
Okay, you won’t find Baloo, but you will find Akela, and a few other Disney-themed names you might recognize at The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. Feel like Mowgli as you come face to face with these beautiful creatures and learn about their preservation.
4. Choo-Choo
Trains played an important part in Walt Disney’s life and no trip to Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland is complete without a trip around the park on one. We don’t have one amazing train trip here in Colorado, but three! The Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes visitors to the top of Pikes Peak, one of the most visited mountains in North America. You’ll also find the Royal Gorge Route Railroad nearby. Not only is the scenery incredible along this route, the train boasts fun events like the Murder Mystery Dinner, special wine & beer dinners and even a Santa Train in the winter. Last, the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad is a century old, steam locomotive that takes you back to the days when the area was booming with gold miners.
5. King Of The Jungle
Ever dreamed of swinging through tree tops just like Tarzan? The Broadmoor’s Soaring Adventure at Seven Falls lets you feel the freedom of the wind through your hair as you dangle and glide through 10 different zip lines.
Go ahead give a big “Tarzan yell” as you fly through the air!
6. Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho
Don’t worry, you won’t be working in the mines, but you can head into caves and caverns to check out all sorts of incredible formations and wonders at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park.
There are 3 tours to choose from offering spectacular sights and glimpses of what two brothers found while exploring in 1881. Feeling extra brave? Try one of the adventure activities including the Terror-Dactyl where visitors are launched 150 feet into the canyon below at almost 100 mph.
7. The Rabbit Hole
After all that adventure you are bound to be a little hungry and thirsty. Head into The Rabbit Hole, like dear Alice, for some drinks and delicious cuisine. Just make sure you save room for dessert!
Adventure Is Out There!
This is only a sampling of all the adventures right here in our own backyard. For more information on any of these or to see what other experiences Colorado Springs has to offer, visit the Colorado Springs Visitors Bureau. If you’re in the area, stop by in person to tell them hello at 515 S Cascade Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80903.
I hope these help hold you over until your next magical vacation. You can find a few more of my “Disney Blues” cures on this post: Top 10 Ways To Ease The Disney Vacation Blues. So, head on out into our beautiful Colorado sunshine (just don’t forget the sunscreen and to stay hydrated) for your next exploration.
Jan O
GREAT article! So glad to be reminded of these wonderful adventures right here in our own back yard!