Colorado Springs, CO

Nestled at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains in El Paso County, Colorado, Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in the state, with a population of roughly 478,000 residents. It carries the relaxed, outdoorsy character typical of the Front Range while still offering the cultural amenities, dining options, and infrastructure of a mid-sized city. Long associated with the U.S. military, it is home to the United States Air Force Academy and several major installations, and it serves as a gateway to the southern Rockies, including the towering Pikes Peak that rises just west of town. Denver, the nearest major city, sits about 70 miles to the north along the I-25 corridor, roughly an hour's drive in normal traffic.

One of the area's marquee draws is Garden of the Gods, a registered National Natural Landmark just minutes from the city center. The free public park features towering red sandstone formations set against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak, with paved and unpaved trails suitable for hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and scenic drives. Because of its proximity and accessibility, it draws visitors year-round.

Just west of town lies Pikes Peak, the 14,115-foot summit that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful." Visitors can reach the summit via the Pikes Peak Highway, a winding 19-mile toll road that climbs from the Cascade area, or aboard the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which departs from the adjacent town of Manitou Springs, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Colorado Springs. Both offer sweeping alpine views, and the cog railway is one of the few of its kind in the world.

Also within the city limits, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo sits on the side of Cheyenne Mountain in the southwest part of town. Founded in 1926, it is one of the few zoos in the country built into a mountainside, and it is well known for its giraffe herd, hands-on feeding experiences, and elevated views over the city. About 15 minutes west of the city center, the small town of Manitou Springs offers a walkable main street lined with galleries, boutiques, and several natural mineral springs whose carbonated water flows freely from public fountains.

Colorado Springs appeals to short-term-rental investors because it blends a robust year-round visitor economy with steady leisure demand. Outdoor recreation, family-friendly attractions, and a major military and athletic presence all bring consistent traveler flow, while the city's proximity to Denver and the broader Rocky Mountain region gives guests a launching point for longer Front Range and mountain itineraries.