Today, we’ll be listing the 20 best things to do in Monument, CO. Maybe you have some ideas, maybe you don’t, and if you’re not new on here, maybe you can guess a few of the things that I will suggest —like taking a stroll, or having a lovely picnic.
One way or the other, I can guarantee that you’ll find something that catches your eye. Whether it is the beautiful waters of Palmer Lake Reservoir or the stunning Ice Cave Creek Trail, there is something for every kind of traveler.
But let’s not jump the gun. Assuming you don’t know all about Monument, let’s briefly overview the wonderful town.
Monument is located in El Paso County, Colorado, United States, at the northern end of El Paso County, between the cities of Colorado Springs and Denver. The town is considered a big one with a population of over 10,000 people. (Speaking of El Paso County, there is in one in Texas, check out the best romantic things to do In El Paso Texas)
The town is nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, so you can be sure that rocks are some of the top sights in Monument. The town even got its name back in 1879 from the rock formation that is situated on the west side of town.
One of the main things this peaceful town is known for is that it offers stunning views and access to various outdoor activities, which makes hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and camping some of the best Monument Colorado activities.
Monument is one of the three communities that make up the Tri-Lakes area, along with Palmer Lake and Woodmoor. It is a wonderful place to tour if you are looking forward to a date with nature while leaving open the opportunity to mingle with locals and experience camaraderie like you’re not used to.
And with the overview out of the way, we can jump right into the adventure. Let’s explore the top sights in Monument!
1. Explore the stunning rock formations at Garden of the Gods.
From daring horseback rides to adventurous rock climbing to an ultra-immersive experience at the Geo-Trekker theater, Gardens of the Gods offers some of the most exciting things to do in Monument Co.
You can also check their calendar for upcoming events so that you can plan your trip to match the fun.
2. Go fishing or kayaking at Palmer Lake Reservoir.
Of course, since we’re talking about a nature-filled town, one of the most popular things to do in Monument, CO, is enjoy a lake experience.
Whether you choose to go fishing or kayaking, or you’ll rather just relax at the bank and watch the serenity, Palmer Lake Reservoir is the perfect place for a peaceful retreat.
3. Relax and enjoy the amenities at Limbach Park.
Any park that has a gazebo is already a great park to me, but with the properly maintained grasses, the beautiful flower garden, and the extensive playground for children, Limbach Park is one of the best public parks in the area.
The park is in the heart of downtown Monument and has a venue for community events, so it gets really lively there from time to time.
4. Play a round of golf at Monument Hill Country Club.
Golfing at the prestigious Monument Hill Country Club is one of the best Monument Colorado activities.
It is located at Woodmoor, which is on the south side of town, and it offers an 18-hole championship golf course, indoor tennis courts, pickleball courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a full-service bar and grill.
5. Hike the scenic Monument Rock Trail.
Though hiking is common here, hiking the Monument Rock trail is even more popular. The Monument Rocok Trail is one of the top sights in Monument.
Accessible from the northeast part of town, Monument Rock Trail invites you to experience diverse geological wonders, including some of the most impressive rock formations you’ve ever seen.
6. Learn about mining history at Western Museum of Mining & Industry.
Sure, you may want something other than a history lesson, but believe it or not, this museum is also one of the top sights in Monument. It showcases an intriguing journey into the region’s rich mining heritage and tells quite a fascinating story.
From captivating exhibits that offer insight into the tools and techniques used by miners in the past to guided tours that provide an engaging experience and a chance to delve deeper into history (yes, a history lesson) you’ll be having too much fun before you know it.
7. Bike or hike along the Santa Fe Regional Trail.
If you’re into biking, then you don’t need much convincing. This trail is the perfect place to throw out all your BMX tricks and have an epic time.
Of course, it is also good for taking a stroll with its serene views of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
8. Visit 300 Days of Shine.
300 Days of Shine is a unique distillery that offers a taste of Colorado’s local spirits. It is family-owned, and it specializes in handcrafted moonshine, vodka, and whiskey, showcasing the region’s best flavors.
If spirits are your thing, then you’ve got to get your shine on!
9. Engage in water activities at Monument Lake.
One of the most widely appreciated things to do in Monument CO is to engage in various water activities at the wonderful Monument Lake.
From fishing to boating to kayaking and swimming, there are a lot of water activities you can engage in. Also, the facility offers various lodging should you decide to camp there.
10. Enjoy Monument Ice Rinks.
One of the best things to do in Monument, CO, is to explore the rinks at the Monument Ice Rinks. Whether you’re looking for an indoor or outdoor rink, they’ve got you covered. Come summer, spring, and autumn, you can still have a nice time skating or enjoy a fantastic hockey game.
And during the winter months, you can enjoy the magic of gliding on the ice overlooking a picturesque winter setting.
11. Drive or hike up to the summit of Pikes Peak for breathtaking views.
Pikes Peak stands as the highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in North America at 14,115 feet, and it provides awe-inspiring views that extend for miles. It is definitely one of the top sights in Monument.
Hiking there is an adventure of its own, but of course, if that is too challenging for you, you can join a tour and ride there to enjoy the breathtaking views.
12. Visit Kings Deer Golf Club.
You can enjoy a round of golf at the well-maintained course that Kings Deer offers. They also host various events there throughout the year, and you can book a space for your own private event.
13. Enjoy Bluegrass Music at Pickin’ on the Divide.
A music festival is my idea of a good time, and it does not get better than “Pickin’ on the Divide”. “Pickin’ on the Divide” is a vibrant annual event that celebrates the soulful sounds of bluegrass music.
This lively music festival brings together talented musicians and enthusiastic audiences for a memorable day filled with foot-tapping melodies and toe-tapping rhythms.
14. Shop at Blueink Studios.
You can’t complete your trip to a new city without indulging in unique souvenirs to seal the memory of your adventure in place, and Blueink Studios is your best bet. From gift-giving stationery goods to storage boxes and notepads, you can snag yourself an exciting souvenir.
15. Explore Dirty Woman Creek Park.
For a park named after a dirty woman who lived in a hut on the creek banks bank in 1861, it is ironically very clean.
Of course, it’s been over a hundred and fifty years, and technically it was the woman that was dirty and not the park, but the park has become quite popular, providing tourists with a wide variety of free recreational activities, including a nice playground for baseball and softball.
16. Visit Monument Hills farmer’s market.
One of the top things to do in Monument CO is to visit Monument Hill’s farmers market.
Apart from the fresh produce and high-quality handcrafted goods, the Monument Hill Farmers Market is also a vibrant and inviting community gathering.
From engaging with friendly vendors to savoring samples of artisanal products to discovering unique treasures to take home, this market is part market, part festival.
17. Take an evening walk around Lavelett Park.
Nothing beats a serene walk around a scanty park with the breeze on your face and the wonderful smell of leaves greeting your nose. I think it is one of the most romantic things to do in Monument CO, especially when you time it with a nice evening sunset.
18. Visit Air City 360.
If you’re traveling with Kids, then this amusement park is a must-stop. Whether you are defying gravity by soaring through the airspace or testing your climbing skills on the one-of-a-kind vertical climbing obstacle course, the adventure doesn’t end!
19. Attend free concerts during the Limbach Park Summer Concert Series.
One of the most fun things to do in Monument CO is to attend a free concert in Limbach Park. The already lively park comes even more alive during the summer months with its renowned Summer Concert Series.
It offers a fantastic lineup of free concerts, showcasing a diverse range of musical genres and talented performers so gather with your friends on the lawn, spread your blankets, and enjoy the open-air performances under the beautiful Colorado skies.
20. Hike to the fascinating Ice Cave Creek Trail.
The highlight of the trail is the enchanting Ice Cave, a unique geological wonder formed by natural ice formations, even during warm months.
You can explore the cave’s mystical beauty and enjoy a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Monument, Colorado, is a beautiful and enchanting destination that captivates both locals and tourists alike with its diverse array of attractions and activities.
From the awe-inspiring red rock formations of Garden of the Gods to the tranquil waters of Monument Lake, the town offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
