by Garrett Polunci, staff writer

If you’re looking to spend time with friends this holiday season or finally take that special someone on a date, here are a few ideas for your next winter adventure. Whether you’re looking for a cozy night at home or to explore the festivities that Colorado Springs has to offer, we’ve got you covered in this ultimate guide to snowy adventures.

Hand holding hot cocoa

PC | Unsplash

Sip Your Way Through the Season

For the local coffee-shop lovers in the Springs, here is the perfect holiday-themed activity for you!  Going to explore your favorite drink spots and turning it into a Hot Cocoa Crawl (which is age-inclusive for our younger readers) is a perfect night out on the snowy town. There is a lot of room for flexibility in this activity.

Participants can go to the spots they consider their second home, or if they’re feeling adventurous, they can try new shops and cafes. Either way, this Hot Cocoa Crawl is our beverage-loving crowd’s best treat all season. Timberline Landscaping has a map of all the best places to get hot chocolate in the Springs, so be sure to use their guide when planning your Hot Cocoa Crawl.

Christmas Lights Guide

 

PC | Unsplash

Stay Cozy While Getting Crafty

 

For the sociable homebodies of the Springs, hosting a holiday craft night can be your dreamy and creative outlet. You can break out the big box of craft supplies from your childhood or pick up a gingerbread house kit from a store near you. The creative freedom is completely in your hands, so feel free to modify this evening to fit your needs. Gather your supplies, put on holiday music, and let your imagination run wild as you compete in a race to ice the roof of your gingerbread kingdom, or craft personalized ornaments with the people you love.

 

PC | Unsplash

 

 

Twinkling Lights for Romantic Nights

While touring local neighborhoods for Christmas lights is outstanding in its own way, it is an experience that can be taken to another level. Strolling through the Christmas light display at the Broadmoor is an elegant and romantic way to celebrate the season. This iconic resort is decked out with thousands of sparkling twinkle lights every year, creating a dazzling winter escape. Walk the beautifully lit pathways covered in a dusting of snow or enjoy the twinkling view from the comfort of your warm car. Whichever way you decide, the Broadmoor’s Christmas light show will have you feeling merry and bright. Also, Timberline Landscaping has an interactive map of where to see Christmas lights all over Colorado Springs. So, get out there and explore the city with the people you love using the link below.

Christmas Lights Guide

PC | Unsplash

Dates on Skates

For the classic Christmas movie lovers during this season, ice skating at Acacia Park’s outdoor rink is a classic winter activity perfect for an evening date or an afternoon on break with friends. There are festive lights strung all around, and paired with holiday music, it perfectly encapsulates the Hallmark movie feeling. You can skate hand-in-hand with a partner, or race around the rink with your buddies if that’s more your speed. It’s an affordable and cheerful way to embrace the holiday spirit right in downtown Colorado Springs.

 

PC | Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Climb to New Heights

To finish this guide and maximize your holiday experience with a magical event, we suggest riding the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. It is a magical winter activity that offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, rolling mountains, and flocked forests. Whether you’re riding it solo or making it a group-adventure the journey to the summit of Pikes Peak is cozy scenic with just the right amount of explorative energy. Book a ticket, bring your favorite warm drink along, and enjoy the crisp mountain air overlooking the snowcapped hills.